The Times of India

Indian stock markets traded mostly lower on Wednesday, with benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty experiencing significant early declines due to geopolitical tensions and foreign fund outflows. While both indices pared some losses by midday, they remained in the red. Global markets also showed weakness, with Asian equities mostly down and US markets closing sharply lower overnight.

The central question before the Supreme Court was whether a wifes failure to cohabit with her husband and comply with a decree for restitution of conjugal rights, without sufficient reason, by itself attracts the disqualification under Section 125(4) CrPC, denying her maintenance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura on their Statehood Days, celebrating their rich cultures, scenic beauty, and developmental contributions. He lauded Manipur's passion for sports and nature, Meghalaya's vibrant culture, and Tripura's blend of tradition and progress, wishing them continued growth and prosperity.

Spanish foreign minister Jose Manuel Albares announced President Pedro Snchez's upcoming visit to India, aiming to elevate bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. Both nations are keen on strengthening cooperation across various sectors, including trade, technology, and culture, with Albares expressing optimism for an EU-India Free Trade Agreement and highlighting successful collaborations like Airbus-Tata.

AU Small Finance Bank posted a robust Rs 667.66 crore net profit for the December 2025 quarter, a 26.3% jump year-on-year. This growth was fueled by strong core earnings and reduced credit costs, despite higher operating expenses. The bank also announced key leadership changes, including new director appointments and a deputy CEO continuation.

A tourist from Haryana has ignited public fury after defacing a Border Roads Organisation milestone at Ladakh's Fotu La Pass by pasting a caste sticker. The act, captured on video, has been widely condemned as vandalism and irresponsible behaviour in a sensitive border region, prompting calls for strict action against the individual.

The Supreme Court has permitted Punjab Kesari to resume operations at one of its printing presses, which had been shut down by the state pollution control board. The court expressed less concern for a hotel run by the group but emphasized that the printing press should not be closed, despite allegations of liquor bottles being found there.

The Congress party has sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi following US President Donald Trump's repeated claims of single-handedly resolving the India-Pakistan conflict last year. Trump asserted he prevented a nuclear escalation, saving millions of lives, a claim India has consistently refuted, stating no third-party mediation was involved.

Gold price prediction today: Maneesh Sharma of Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers is of the view that while gold prices may continue to rise in the near term, silver prices are expected to see some volatility.

Asian markets tumbled Wednesday, mirroring a sharp US sell-off and escalating geopolitical tensions. Investors grew anxious as US foreign policy concerns and a Danish pension fund's exit from Treasuries unsettled global bond markets. Gold, however, reached an all-time high amid the growing unease and potential for further market disruptions.

Mark Carney's net worth: The Canadian PM's wealth stems from his extensive career in global finance and central banking. His financial standing is modest compared to global elites. Carney's transition to Prime Minister of Canada highlights a shift towards public service. Discussions around his wealth focus on transparency and his qualifications.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has directed district magistrates to prevent voter inconvenience during electoral roll revisions, emphasizing adherence to Supreme Court orders. She stressed accepting all valid documents and making alternative arrangements for hearings. The Chief Minister also highlighted that state development programs must not be disrupted during this process.

Indian Oil Corporation is ready to process Venezuelan crude if supplies resume, recalling past imports. The company's robust refineries can handle the oil, according to its chairman. This comes amid geopolitical shifts and India's strong economic growth, which attracts global business interest. IOCL continues to invest in the energy sector.

The Indian rupee hit a new low of 91.20 against the US dollar on Wednesday, extending its downward trend. This depreciation is attributed to strong dollar demand from metal importers, continued foreign fund outflows, and geopolitical uncertainties. The domestic stock market's sluggish performance also contributed to the rupee's decline.

Stock market today: Weighed down by weak global cues, Indian equity benchmarks Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, opened in red on Wednesday after over 1% declines in the Tuesday session. While Nifty50 was below 25,200, BSE Sensex dropped over 200 points.

India's first Vande Bharat sleeper train, designed for faster overnight travel, faced immediate criticism after a video emerged showing litter scattered across a coach shortly after its inaugural run. The incident sparked widespread social media commentary on the lack of civic sense among some passengers.

Global markets experienced a significant downturn Tuesday, with US indices suffering their worst day in three months following President Trump's new tariff threats against Europe. This sparked a broad sell-off, pushing gold higher and impacting Bitcoin. Indian markets also mirrored the global decline, with both Nifty and Sensex falling over 1%.

Budget 2026 expectations: India does not need a larger financial system. It needs a system where liquidity is deeper.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw clarified that the World Economic Forum in Davos serves as a platform for idea exchange, not formal trade negotiations. India is actively engaged with global economies on various fronts, and its economic growth and renewable energy initiatives are key discussion points at the event.

Stock market recommendations: Mehul Kothari of Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers recommends buying Bajaj Auto, Balkrishna Industries, and Tata Elxsi as top stock picks for today:

Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams, a record-holder for spacewalking, shared her experiences at the American Center in Delhi. She spoke about her recent extended stay on the ISS, the challenges faced, and the growing commercialization of space. Williams also highlighted the importance of international cooperation in space exploration and inspired Indian students to pursue careers in the sector.

The Enforcement Directorate has urged the Tamil Nadu government to file an FIR against Minister KN Nehru, alleging Rs 366 crore in money laundering linked to corruption in official transfers within the Municipal Administration department. This marks the third such communication from the ED in three months, citing evidence of bribery and tender rigging.

The Central Administrative Tribunal has cleared IRS officer Sameer Wankhede of disciplinary charges. The tribunal found the charges framed by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs to be retaliatory. It observed that the action appeared to be an attempt to stall Wankhede's promotion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's use of the term 'urban Naxals' has drawn sharp criticism from the Congress party. The Congress pointed out that the Home Ministry itself does not use this phrase. They questioned if the Prime Minister considers anyone opposing him an 'urban Naxal'.

Lok Sabha MPs must now mark attendance from their designated seats during functioning hours, a change effective from the upcoming Budget session. Speaker Om Birla announced this reform to ensure attendance reflects active participation, not just presence within Parliament. This move aims to boost discipline and productivity in legislative proceedings.

Nitin Nabin, in his first address as BJP national president, urged party workers to defend Sanatan faith and its legacy, stating that parties opposing traditions like 'deepam' in Madurai or Ram Setu have no place in politics. He also encouraged youth to actively participate in politics, viewing it as a long-term commitment.

Political parties have strongly criticized police actions against Kashmiri journalists. They describe the summoning of reporters and demands for bonds as a ew low and an attempt to intimidate and silence independent voices. This comes amid reports of journalists being questioned for their coverage of sensitive issues in the region. The actions are seen as a threat to press freedom.

In response to escalating anti-India protests and potential violence in Bangladesh, India has advised families of its diplomats and officials stationed there to return home. This precautionary measure aims to ensure safety, though all Indian missions and posts in Bangladesh remain fully operational. The situation is temporary and will be reassessed.

A groundbreaking genetic study in Kerala has identified a more aggressive Mpox variant, Clade Ib, linked to international travel and ongoing human-to-human spread. Researchers found distinct mutations indicating the virus is evolving and adapting, suggesting faster transmission than older strains. This discovery underscores the urgent need for heightened surveillance and public health preparedness across India.

Gold and silver prices surged to record highs on Tuesday, both domestically and internationally. This surge was attributed to an uncertain political and economic climate, a weaker dollar, and increasing industrial demand for silver. Analysts suggest that potential interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve could further fuel this upward trend in bullion prices.

The Indian rupee dipped to a one-month low against the dollar on Tuesday, closing at 90.98. This marks the fifth consecutive session of weakening, fueled by escalating geopolitical tensions and a downturn in domestic equity markets. Despite efforts to prevent a record low, persistent dollar demand and global uncertainty continue to pressure the currency.

Inspira Global, owner of Chinese Wok, is acquiring Restaurant Brands Asia (RBA), the operator of Burger King India. This significant deal sees Everstone Capital exiting RBA with a Rs 460 crore stake sale. Inspira plans substantial capital infusion, aiming to bolster its presence in the fast-growing quick-service restaurant sector and expand its brand portfolio.

Operation Trashi-I in Kishtwar's Chatroo region enters its third day, with security forces intensifying searches and aerial surveillance. A terrorist hideout was discovered, and locals were detained for questioning. The operation follows the death of Army Special Forces Commando Havildar Gajendra Singh during an earlier gun battle.