The Economic Times
Elections 2026Science/Tech / The Economic Times
Unitree shares have plunged 45% since their blockbuster Shanghai debut, raising concerns over speculative excess and retail investor risks. The humanoid robot makers stock surged 460% above its IPO price on listing day, briefly valuing it at $66 billion. The sharp reversal has intensified questions over IPO pricing and technology valuations.
Milad Un Nabi 2026 Date in India Holiday: Milad un Nabi 2026 will be observed in India on Wednesday, August 26. While the festival is a holiday in several states and government institutions, school, college, bank and office closures may vary by state, city and organisation. Students, employees and customers should check their local holiday calendar before making plans.
Anil Rego, Managing Director & Chief Investment Officer at Right Horizons PMS, believes the worst of the valuation-led correction may be behind us, while a broadening earnings recovery could provide the catalyst for the next leg of the market.
The government has extended the processing window for duty-free raw sugar imports. This move aims to increase domestic sugar availability before the festive season. Domestic sugar prices have risen sharply due to tighter supplies and increased demand. The government is also curbing hoarding by reducing stockholding limits for bulk consumers. These measures seek to stabilize sugar prices and ensure adequate supply for consumers.
Sigma Advanced Systems secured a new 125 million contract with Rolls-Royce. This agreement expands their existing partnership and builds on a prior 300 million deal. The new contract will see Bromford manufacture critical aero-engine components for Rolls-Royce. Sigma's acquisition of Bromford Precision Solutions strengthened its manufacturing capabilities. This collaboration enhances India's precision engineering and defence-aerospace manufacturing base.
Indian stock markets have disappointed investors with negative returns over two years. The Sensex has shown its worst two-year performance since 2012. Indices have not struck a new all-time high for 697 days. This extended period marks a significant downturn for market performance. Investors are facing a challenging and prolonged market slump.
India's weight in major global emerging-market ETFs has begun to recover recently. This rise follows a steady decline over the past year, showing improved performance. India's stable market has increased its weight in underlying indices compared to others. South Korea and Taiwan have seen declines amid valuation concerns and market pressures. This shift reflects relative country performance within these broad investment funds.
IPO activity remained particularly strong, garnering more than 40% of the funds raised. So far this month, 20 companies have collected more than
Singtel plans to enter Indias emerging satellite communications (satcom) market, targeting public and private enterprises through its Indian subsidiary Singapore Telecom India.
Quote of the day by Bruce Lee: Bruce Lee's enduring philosophy encourages personal research and adaptation of knowledge. He advised absorbing useful lessons and rejecting what is useless for growth. True mastery comes from combining learned skills with one's own unique personality. Lee's journey from Hong Kong to global icon inspired many performers. His message of critical thinking and personal development remains highly relevant today.
Kitepower is testing an unconventional approach to renewable energy at a designated airborne wind-energy site in County Mayo, Ireland. Instead of using a traditional tower and rotating blades, the system sends a lightweight fabric wing into the sky while a tether connects it to ground-based generation equipment. The wing flies repeated figure-eight patterns, creating pulling force that turns a generator as the tether unwinds.
Quote of the Day by Rock Hudson: Rock Hudson's quote, I had to learn to live with myself. That was the hardest thing of all... reveals the quiet tension between public expectations and personal truth. Having spent decades under Hollywoods intense media scrutiny, Hudson understood that genuine peace requires letting go of the need for external approval. The quote highlights how modern life frequently pressures people to perform for an audience, whereas true strength rests in making peace with one
Japanese proverb of the day: Modern life encourages multitasking and pursuing multiple opportunities simultaneously. This proverb highlights how divided attention hinders meaningful progress on any single goal. Numerous distractions today further challenge sustained focus and commitment. Choosing one path can feel like forfeiting other possibilities and opportunities. Focused effort on what matters most yields better results than scattered attention.
A proposed American nuclear reactor, EAGL-1, will use liquid lead-bismuth coolant. China currently dominates global refined bismuth production, creating supply chain concerns. First American Nuclear is also developing a facility for uranium fuel fabrication. This fuel plant will convert high-assay low-enriched uranium gas into solid pellets.
Quote of the day by Jean-Jacques Rousseau explains how freedom can exist with duties, rules and commitments. The statement, Freedom is the power to choose our own chains, focuses on personal choice, responsibility and self-mastery. Rousseau argued that people cannot live without limits. The key is to choose the responsibilities and values that guide life.
Citizens can book parcels, check their savings and get insurance services under a single interface without visiting a post office. Communications minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said India Post is being modernised for the needs of the 21st century.
India has mobilised $73 billion in foreign exchange inflows in less than 11 weeks, surpassing the scale and pace of the RBIs 2013 FCNR(B) swap scheme, the finance ministry said.
Lufthansa Group executive says tronger passenger and premium demand makes India an attractive market. India is now Lufthansa's second-largest intercontinental market after the United States. The airline is expanding capacity and adding premium services to India. A partnership with Air India could further shape Lufthansa's India strategy.
Content creator Disha Desai sparked online debate after urging people to stop complaining about their 9-to-5 jobs while relying on the salary to fund their lifestyle. In a viral Instagram video, she argued that those unhappy with corporate life should work toward building an alternative income source instead. The video drew mixed reactions, with some agreeing and others citing burnout and toxic work cultures as valid concerns.
Trong Duc Cocoa Co. Ltd. in southern Vietnam has developed a way to reuse approximately 5,000 tons of discarded cocoa pods generated each year. Supported by the European Union-funded SWITCH Asia program, the project feeds shredded and dried pods into a Torch Updraft Gasifier, where they are converted into biochar while producing usable gas and heat. The heat is used to assist cocoa-bean drying, particularly during the rainy season, when humidity can extend drying times and increase mold risks.
After losing to the Netherlands in their previous match, India were almost out of the race for the last four from Pool E. However, Argentina's victory over England had technically kept their qualification hopes alive. India needed to win by at least three goals to advance, but conceded twice in the opening six minutes and struggled to recover. Poor passing, frequent loss of possession and a leaky defence compounded their problems.
India requires insulation to manage global geopolitical uncertainty and unpredictable shocks. Reforms and institutional changes have strengthened India's ability to withstand these challenges. Measures like GST and digital payments build resilience for bumpy roads ahead. India's economic rise and a new EU trade pact show its opening. The nation is simultaneously opening up and building its resilience.
Pant's batting was best encapsulated by a falling pull off Lahiru Kumara in the 90th over. The contact with the ball was so clean that it disappeared in the gap between the Col. FC de Saram Pavilion and the Members' Enclosure and landed onto Gregory's Road. The shot was identical to the one he attempted on Sunday when he was hit on the wrist and forced to retire hurt.
Dubai seeks to become a hub for Indian AI talent to access wider markets. An AI corridor between Dubai and Bengaluru is being developed. This initiative aims to boost productivity and profitability across various industries. Dubai's regulatory approach supports new technology adoption and business growth. The number of Indian businesses operating in Dubai continues to increase significantly.
The India-UAE growth corridor presents substantial trade and investment opportunities for both nations. UAE executives highlighted India's need for improved dispute resolution and infrastructure. India received over $25 billion in UAE investments during the past decade. Experts noted talent and technology exchange is increasing between the two countries. Energy, urban growth, and AI make India an attractive investment destination.
The approaching Blood Moon invites a deep dive into our emotional history, shedding light on past influences that shape our current selves. It acts as a mirror for personal truths we often find hard to confront. This cosmic event encourages us to acknowledge our desires while recognizing how our past may dictate present choices, ultimately guiding us towards a more fulfilling future by creating the space necessary for growth.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. He conveyed a personal communication from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Discussions focused on boosting economic and defense cooperation between the two nations. Both leaders anticipate upcoming meetings at SCO and BRICS summits. Further annual summits are planned later in the year.
When Apollo 13 Went Dark, a Mechanical Wrist watch Saved the Mission. After an explosion crippled their spacecraft, the crew powered down their guidance computer to preserve remaining electricity and cooling water. Astronaut Jack Swigert relied on his wrist chronograph to time a critical fourteen-second engine burn while watching Earth's horizon. That single manual maneuver guided the disabled capsule into a safe trajectory home, turning an analog backup into NASA's legendary survival feat.
An UPSC aspirant's emotional post about selling years of preparation material for Rs 464, after failing three consecutive Mains attempts and missing Prelims this year, has gone viral online. The post detailed personal sacrifices, including a declined job offer and a lost relationship, and drew empathetic responses from fellow aspirants sharing similar struggles, highlighting the untold toll faced by UPSC's unsuccessful majority.
An employee's experience has sparked a workplace debate after he said years of positive reviews and extra responsibilities were followed by a sudden PIP after he asked for a salary raise. The Reddit user said he had accepted a promotion without a pay hike, hoping to prove his value first, but months after requesting higher pay, management cited anonymous complaints and questioned his performance.
Marriott International expects India to become its second-largest global market within three to four years, overtaking China and Mexico, CEO Anthony Capuano told ET.
Boris Johnson lauded India's strong leadership and predicted an incredible future for the nation. He expressed deep dissatisfaction over the US not consulting the UK on the Iran war. Johnson believes the UK could have prevented the US from entering an obvious trap. He also highlighted progress on the India-UK free trade agreement negotiations. The former Prime Minister preferred American global hegemony over that of China.
Indias near-term AI advantage lies in using AI to transform businesses rather than competing immediately with the US and China on computing power and foundation models, Publicis Sapient CEO Nigel Vaz said.
India can benefit from global shifts driven by AI, geopolitical tensions, tariffs, energy security and changing capital flows, but it must build the ability to adapt quickly as industries are disrupted, Bain & Company chairman Manny Maceda said.
A Bengaluru techies experience shows how a high monthly income and regular investments can create a strong sense of financial security, while an unexpected family crisis can reveal gaps that are easy to overlook. His story led to a discussion among young earners about saving, investing, emergency preparedness and what being financially secure actually means.
The US plans to impose a 7.5% tariff on Chinese goods soon. This move aims to restore previous duties to around 20% before a summit. Beijing previously stated this level aligns with its trade truce with Washington. The administration is also considering suspending part of a higher duty rate. Both nations are looking to extend their current trade pact truce.
India is becoming a priority market for Silicon Valley AI companies, which are increasingly building products specifically for Indian users, especially in multilingual and affordable applications. However, the country still faces shortages of frontier AI talent and risk capital, limiting its ability to build foundational AI models.
Mexican Proverb of the Day: Even if the monkey dresses in silk, it stays a monkey explores the difference between outward appearance and underlying character. The proverb uses the contrast between an ordinary monkey and luxurious silk to suggest that external changes do not necessarily create genuine transformation. Its broader lesson encourages people to look beyond polished appearances and consider substance, behaviour and character.
Italian Proverb of the Day: Dont sell the bears skin before killing it warns against assuming success before an outcome has been secured. Using the image of a hunter and an unattained reward, the proverb encourages patience, caution and realistic planning. Its message closely parallels the English proverb Dont count your chickens before they hatch, reminding people that expected results are not guaranteed.
Quote of the day by Robert Frost, The best way out is always through, explains why facing hardship can be necessary for moving forward. The line comes from his 1914 poem A Servant to Servants. It explores avoidance, fear, pain, patience, courage and inner strength. Robert Frosts life and poetry also show how struggle shaped his work and public reputation.
Two spiders, Arabella and Anita, flew on Skylab 3 to test web-building in space. Initially disoriented, the spiders eventually adapted to the weightless environment. Their webs in space differed from those constructed on Earth. Astronauts provided additional food and water, and even altered Arabella's web. A student's curiosity led to this significant experiment about biological adaptation.
Sugar prices have significantly increased due to production shortfalls and rising demand. Government data shows a substantial decline in expected sugar production for the season. International market trends and domestic supply issues also contribute to the current price situation. Ethanol diversion is a factor, but not the sole cause of the sugar price surge. Policymakers are addressing broader supply and inventory concerns with import decisions.
Kunchacko Boban and Lijomol Joses Malayalam psychological crime thriller Unmadham is set to make its digital debut after its theatrical release earlier this year. Directed by Kiran Das and written by Shahi Kabir, the film follows a police officer who comes across an old and mysterious case involving the death of a young woman. What starts as a routine investigation soon takes a disturbing turn as the officer begins experiencing strange visions and struggles to separate reality from his own thoug
An Indian family is leaving Australia for India after two decades abroad, choosing to make the move despite the uncertainty that comes with uprooting an established life. Loveleen and Courtney Vats said the return is driven by a wish to be closer to ageing parents and help their children experience Indian culture firsthand, while social media users debated the family's decision.
US-India ties have improved at the working level, particularly in defence, with a new 10-year framework and Javelin missile sales, while Indian exports to the US rose 5.5% to nearly $60 billion in the first nine months of FY26. However, uncertainty remains over Washingtons broader India policy.
Scientists began measuring the oceans global productivity in 1988, revealing a hidden force behind Earths oxygen cycle. Nearly four decades later, microscopic phytoplankton and photosynthetic bacteria are understood to produce roughly half of the oxygen generated each year. Drifting through sunlit waters, they turn sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. Yet much of that oxygen is consumed again by marine life and decomposition, making the oceans role far more complex than a simple forest-v
During the Apollo 10 mission, astronauts soared just nine miles above the Moon's surface, meticulously testing lunar module systems and landing procedures. This vital rehearsal paved the way for the legendary Apollo 11 mission. Capturing stunning images of the Sea of Tranquility, the prospective landing site, the mission confirmed the reliability of the equipment necessary for a successful lunar touchdown.
Quote of the Day by Janet Jackson: Janet Jacksons quote, A lot of people who start work at a very young age never grow up because they never got that opportunity to be a child, so they hold on to that and still do a lot of childish, silly things, explores the importance of childhood, emotional development, and the experience of growing up. The quote suggests that people who take on adult responsibilities too early may miss important childhood experiences and later hold on to playful or immature
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal asked Japanese companies to source steel from India. He questioned trade protection for firms not supporting Indian domestic producers. India has imposed a safeguard duty only on lower grades of steel. This measure aims to protect domestic manufacturers from dumping. Goyal highlighted India's ongoing need to expand its steel capacity.
The IMD has forecast rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds across several parts of India from August 24 to 30, with isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall likely in multiple states. Delhi is expected to have generally cloudy skies with moderate rain, while no warning has been issued. Gusty winds could reach up to 60 kmph in some regions during the period.

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