The Economic Times

Since Nicolas Maduro's ouster, Maria Corina Machado has heaped praise on Trump, and has offered to give him her Nobel Peace Prize, an award the US president has long publicly coveted.

A new app named Are You Dead? has topped China's paid app charts, addressing the growing fear of dying alone and unnoticed. This safety companion prompts users to check in every two days, alerting an emergency contact if they fail to respond, reflecting anxieties of modern urban living.

In 2026, retirees may save money on taxes with President Trump's new OBBBA law. Seniors 65 or older can claim extra deductions, lowering how much Social Security gets taxed. Married couples may save even more. Savings depend on income and eligibility. Some retirees could get up to $450 back, helping with healthcare and living costs.

In early 2023, IgniteTech CEO Eric Vaughan recognized AI as an existential shift and encountered a workforce unprepared for quick adoption. Over 2023-2024, he replaced almost 80% of staff, bringing initiatives such as AI Mondays to focus all staff exclusively on AI projects. Resistance was more among technical staff, yet the bold strategy paid off.

Strategy buys Bitcoin: Strategy stock saw a significant jump on Monday. The company announced a substantial purchase of Bitcoin, amounting to approximately $1.25 billion. This acquisition adds to Strategy's existing Bitcoin holdings, which are now valued at around $62 billion. The move comes amid growing institutional interest in Bitcoin and related investment products.

President Trump is considering air strikes on Iran amid reports of a crackdown on protesters, with the White House stating people are being killed on the streets. However, diplomacy remains an option, as private discussions with Iran's envoy reveal a far different tone than public statements. Trump indicated a potential need for action before any meeting with Iranian leaders.

Frisco ISD campuses were briefly placed under secure status Monday morning following the receipt of threatening emails. Police and district officials responded quickly, deeming all schools safe after thorough checks. The threats were determined to be non-credible, and normal operations resumed, though an investigation into the email's origin is ongoing.

Vervet monkeys are native to sub-Saharan Africa, where they are widespread. Weighing in at 7 to 17 pounds (3.18 to 7.71 kilograms), they are sometimes called green monkeys because of the tint of their fur.

The Supreme Court has ruled that reclaimed land along the Mumbai Coastal Road must remain open to the public. Residential or commercial development on this land is strictly prohibited. This decision addresses concerns raised in a Public Interest Litigation. The court emphasized that the area should be accessible to citizens, with exceptions only for necessary development and maintenance work.

Eight states cut income tax rates on Jan.1, 2026. Nebraskas top rate drops to 4.55%. Indiana falls to 2.95%, Ohio simplifies to 2.75%. North Carolina reaches 3.99%, Kentucky 3.5%, and Montana 5.65%. Oklahoma and Mississippi also lower rates. Residents keep more earnings. States aim to boost growth, attract workers, and investments.

India is set to become a global hub for AI applications. The country will foster its own AI infrastructure, including large language models and data centers. This initiative aligns with the goal of democratizing AI resources. India's role as a trusted partner in value chains is recognized. Discussions on global AI policy will take place at an upcoming summit.

Cody Johnson has announced an extensive 2026 tour, fueling excitement after canceling his remaining 2025 dates due to a ruptured eardrum. The Grammy-winning singer will play over 30 shows across the United States and Canada from February through September, supported by rotating guest artists appearing on select nights. The reveal builds upon Johnsons earlier comeback plans and after a successful recovery period.

Venezuela claims to have freed over a hundred political prisoners following US pressure after Nicolas Maduro's ouster. However, rights groups and families question the numbers, with many still awaiting loved ones' release. Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado urged the Pope to intercede, highlighting the ongoing struggle for democracy amidst international negotiations.

In a strategic move to enhance national security, the US government is channeling $150 million into a partnership with Atlantic Alumina Co., a firm with a rich history of bauxite processing near New Orleans since the 1950s. This investment aims to increase domestic production of gallium, a critical mineral essential for advanced satellite systems and military radar technology.

Donald Trump was questioned about his plan to give Americans $2,000 checks from tariff money. During an interview, he seemed confused about the promise. Trump later said the payments could come later in the year. Experts said Congress must approve any checks. Many Americans are still waiting for other promised payments.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlights a shifting global order and rising protectionism. He stresses the need for India and Germany to reduce unilateral supply chain dependencies. Merz also calls for increased defense cooperation between the two nations to lessen India's reliance on Russia. He strongly condemns the violence against peaceful protestors in Iran, urging the government to protect its citizens.

Job search hacks after layoff: A professional found a new job with better pay just six weeks after being laid off. This success came amid a tough job market. The user shared a disciplined strategy on Reddit. This involved applying to fewer, well-matched roles and using AI tools. Protecting mental well-being was also key to their swift re-employment.

Tamil Nadu gears up for assembly elections with the ruling DMK facing incumbency. The AIADMK, allied with the BJP, seeks power. Actor Vijay's new party, TVK, adds a dynamic element. Alliances are forming, and voter sentiment is being closely watched. The electoral landscape is set for an engaging contest.

The State Election Commission has halted the Maharashtra government's advance payment of 1,500 under the Ladki Bahin scheme to women beneficiaries due to the model code of conduct for municipal elections. This decision followed a Congress complaint alleging BJP's attempt to influence polls by disbursing the January payment early, though the December payment can proceed.

Money Quote of the Day by Milton Friedman: Inflation is taxation without legislation. Milton Friedman warned that inflation is a hidden tax on your savings. Today, global tensions and new tariffs are driving prices higher. US inflation sits near 3.2%, squeezing every household budget. Geopolitical shifts in the Middle East further threaten energy stability. Friedman was an American economist, a leader of the Chicago School, and the 1976 Nobel laureate in economics. He changed modern macroeconomi

Tamil actor Vijay was questioned by the CBI regarding the Karur stampede. The investigation focused on a delay in his arrival at a rally. Meanwhile, the producer of Vijay's film 'Jana Nayagan' has approached the Supreme Court. This move challenges a High Court order that stayed the film's certification. The movie faced issues with the CBFC.

In a historic leap, India and Germany have established new alliances by signing 19 groundbreaking agreements. These partnerships cover key areas such as defence, trade, critical minerals, and advanced technology. A notable benefit for Indian travellers is the new visa-free airport transit through Germany. The nations also committed to collaborating on semiconductor ecosystems and essential minerals.

A six-member Communist Party of China delegation met with senior BJP leaders in New Delhi to discuss advancing inter-party communications. The Chinese team also extended an invitation for BJP leaders to visit China. The delegation is scheduled to visit the RSS office later this week.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stated that maintaining Parliament's dignity is non-negotiable and did not rule out exemplary punishment for the alleged use of an e-cigarette in the House. He emphasized that no one has the right to undermine the sanctity of the House, and action will be taken according to rules and procedures after an investigation.

With the Union budget on the horizon, the Congress party is advocating for a comprehensive approach to remedy the nation's economic troubles. They specifically urge attention to stagnant private investments, dwindling household savings, and increasing income inequalities. The opposition emphasizes that neglecting these areas will hinder lasting GDP growth necessary for job creation.

New global research reveals India's Social Security payments do not stretch as far as those in many other nations. The U.S. ranks thirteenth globally, with benefits covering about 163% of basic living costs. Countries like Kuwait and Bahrain offer significantly stronger pension coverage for retirees. This highlights a wide gap in retirement security worldwide.

The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Election Commission of India. This follows a plea by Trinamool Congress MPs. They are challenging the process of revising electoral rolls in West Bengal. Instructions are reportedly being sent via WhatsApp. This has raised concerns about accountability and fairness. The court will hear the matter next week.

Unidentified drones were sighted traversing the international border and Line of Control in the Samba, Rajouri, and Poonch districts. Responding swiftly, Indian Army personnel engaged with these drones, compelling them to withdraw. Ongoing search operations are in place to ascertain if any illegal cargo was released. With a notable rise in drone activity recently, security protocols have been notably intensified.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written to the Chief Election Commissioner regarding issues in the special intensive revision of voter lists. She highlighted errors in voter particulars due to AI tool usage and the non-issuance of acknowledgement receipts. Banerjee seeks the CEC's intervention to address citizen harassment and protect democratic rights during the ongoing process.

As Kerala approaches its pivotal assembly elections, the ruling LDF is vying for an unprecedented third consecutive term amidst rising concerns over incumbency. For the UDF, this election represents a last chance to reclaim lost ground after a decade out of power.

Former Real Madrid, Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, who was handed a three-year contract in May after an impressive stint with Bayer Leverkusen, saw his tenure at the Santiago Bernabeu quickly unravel.

Paramount Skydance is escalating its bid for Warner Bros Discovery. The company is suing Warner Bros Discovery for more details on a competing offer from Netflix. Paramount Skydance also plans to nominate directors to Warner Bros Discovery's board. This move aims to convince shareholders that Paramount's offer is superior. The battle for the storied Hollywood studio continues.

The Trump administration is finalizing a trade deal with Taiwan that will lower tariffs on island exports and secure significant new investments from TSMC in U.S. semiconductor facilities. This agreement, expected to be announced soon, aims to bolster U.S. national security by increasing domestic chip production amid geopolitical risks.

Alphabet (GOOGL) stock is up today: Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL) shares jumped over 1% on Monday, January 12, 2026, as the tech giant officially joined the elite $4 trillion market cap club. This historic rally follows a landmark multi-year AI partnership with Apple. Googles Gemini will now power the next generation of Siri. This deal cements Alphabet's lead in the global AI race, pushing the companys valuation past Apple for the first time since 2019.

Harry Styles has sparked widespread speculation after fans discovered a mysterious website linked to his name, alongside coordinated imagery appearing in several cities globally. The site showcases concert visuals and prompts interaction that results in limited automated responses, providing no clear explanation. Around the same time, posters with similar phrases were captured internationally, strengthening theories of a promotional rollout.

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, guitarist and co-founder of Black Midi, has died at 26 after struggling with mental health. He played on the bands first album, Schlagenheim, and helped shape the London experimental rock scene. He left the band in 2021 but continued making music in London. His family urged people to check on loved ones to prevent tragedies.

Hamas is gearing up for internal elections to select new leaders. The group's leadership was significantly impacted by Israeli actions during the Gaza war. These elections are expected in early 2026. The process involves forming a new Shura Council and then electing a political bureau chief. Khalil al-Hayya and Khaled Meshaal are seen as frontrunners for the top position.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a dominant nine-wicket victory against UP Warriorz. Grace Harris smashed a rapid 85, including the season's fastest fifty. Smriti Mandhana provided solid support with an unbeaten 47. UP Warriorz recovered from a collapse thanks to Deandra Dottin and Deepti Sharma. RCB chased the target comfortably, boosting their net run rate.

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that a wifes education or professional qualifications cannot be used to deny her maintenance. The court stressed that the potential to earn is not the same as having an actual income, particularly for women who have spent years managing household duties and caring for children. By setting aside the family courts order, the High Court underlined the need to take social realities into account while deciding such cases.

Elon Musk intends to pursue full custody of his one-year-old son. This decision follows comments made by his baby mama, Ashley St. Clair, regarding transgenderism. St. Clair recently apologized for past remarks and expressed a desire to learn and advocate for the trans community. Musk's move comes after a social media user urged him to seek custody, citing St.

The subpoenas apply to the cost of renovating Fed buildings, including its marble-clad headquarters in Washington, DC, but they are more fundamentally about the fate of the Fed's independence, how power is distributed within the federal government, and how it will effect the US economy.

Social Security replaces about 40% of pre-retirement income, but coverage varies widely by state. Kansas tops the list, covering 45% of expenses, while Hawaii covers just 21%. Costs, taxes, and healthcare drive differences. High living costs shrink benefits. Experts advise planning retirement around expenses, location, and lifestyle for maximum Social Security impact.

Sheinelle Jones made a deeply emotional debut as co-host on Today with Jenna & Sheinelle, honoring her late husband, Uche Ojeh. During the launch, she shared a touching text from him urging her to pursue her career goals when Hoda Kotb announced her departure. Jones reflected on her personal journey of loss, which includes her husbands death from brain cancer in 2025 and the recent death of her grandmother.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis launched a sharp attack on Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, stating the BMC election is a battle for their survival, not for Marathi people. He asserted Mumbai's inseparable connection to Maharashtra and emphasized Marathi as the compulsory language in the state. Fadnavis expressed confidence that the Mahayuti alliance will win the Mumbai municipal corporation elections.

Apple is working with Google to make its AI smarter using Googles Gemini models and cloud. This partnership will help Siri and other Apple products get better AI features. Apple delayed its Siri upgrade to 2026 but is excited about new AI experiences. Googles AI progress and market value growth show the company is leading in AI technology.