The Economic Times

BJP's C Sadanandan Master initiated the debate on the President's Address by accusing Kerala's Left of violence and intolerance, recounting his own leg amputation. The Opposition countered, alleging a societal rift, attacks on minorities, and rising economic disparity, questioning the government's development claims and inclusive growth.

MSTR stock today: Strategy's stock tumbled as Bitcoin dipped below the company's average purchase price of $76,052, sparking concerns about its crypto strategy. Despite holding over 713,000 Bitcoin, the firm's equity premium has vanished, impacting its ability to fund further acquisitions. The company recently bought more Bitcoin, even as its holdings' value decreased.

India has reported two Nipah virus cases, with both infected nurses in Kolkata having recovered. While rare, Nipah is a dangerous virus with a high mortality rate, spreading from animals to humans. Health experts emphasize awareness and simple precautions, stating it's unlikely to cause a pandemic due to its transmission method.

IRS tax relief helps people lower taxes, penalties, or interest, but the amount depends on income, credits, deductions, and eligibility. Refundable credits can give extra money, while deductions reduce taxable income. Payment plans spread payments, and Offers in Compromise can settle debt for less if eligible. Tax relief varies for everyone, so professional help can guide the process.

Melania Trump, known for her fashionable choices and deep thoughts, is the second lady of the United States and the wife of Donald Trump. In one of her quotes, Melania Trump says 'Sometimes, in order to succeed, you must be willing to take risks and make tough decisions. You need to trust yourself and your abilities, and never settle for anything less than what you deserve'.

President Donald Trump spoke with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This comes as Trump stated India will purchase oil from Venezuela instead of Iran. Trump made these remarks while speaking to reporters. The US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, shared the news on X. Further details are expected soon.

Will a partial government shutdown delay your IRS tax refund? Approximately 164 million taxpayers began filing on January 26, 2026, just days before the partial government shutdown. The IRS activated a contingency plan using Inflation Reduction Act reserves to keep operations fully staffed through February 7. Electronic filers with error-free returns can still expect 21-day direct deposits. However, paper returns face indefinite delays as manual processing remains frozen. All federal tax deadlin

Cardi B has publicly made clear boundaries with NFL icon Stefon Diggs, highlighting loyalty and transparency in their relationship. Completely aware of Diggs past and multiple children with different women, she entered the connection informed and concentrated on present behavior. Cardi supports Diggs as a loving father while maintaining strict rules for the future, cautioning him that any infidelity or secret child would end the bond.

US President Donald Trump shared a photo of India Gate, envisioning a grand arch in Washington. He also claimed India will now buy oil from Venezuela instead of Iran, a move he welcomed. This comes as the US maintains sanctions on both Iran and Venezuela, urging other nations to comply.

Fans of Stranger Things can rejoice as a new spinoff, Tales From '85, is set to premiere on Netflix on April 23. The series, set between seasons 2 and 3, follows the beloved characters in the winter of 1985 as they protect Eleven from a lingering threat.

Fans of Stranger Things can rejoice as a new spinoff, Tales From '85, is set to premiere on Netflix on April 23. The series, set between seasons 2 and 3, follows the beloved characters in the winter of 1985 as they protect Eleven from a lingering threat.

February 2026 calendar: February 2026 packs a punch with events like the Super Bowl, Valentine's Day, and Mardi Gras. Presidents Day, on February 16th, is the sole federal holiday offering a day off. The month also celebrates Black History Month, features a celestial planetary parade, and kicks off the Winter Olympics in Italy.

A new study shows most Americans earn more money than in 2020 but can buy less because prices increased faster than pay. Only nine U.S. states saw real financial improvement. The report explains how inflation, rising living costs, and location changed peoples standard of living across the country.

Top general of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Gen Zhang Youxia was detained along with another senior general Liu Zhenli on Jan 24 to probe a host of allegations, including corruption, sending shockwaves in the rank and file of the world's largest military with over two million serving personnel.

Delhi's Public Works Department is seeking financial aid from the World Bank for its ambitious drainage master plan. The project, estimated at Rs 57,000 crore, aims to upgrade the city's drainage system over the next 30 years. Officials presented detailed project reports to World Bank representatives. The plan seeks to significantly reduce waterlogging and flood-related accidents across Delhi.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has requested a judicial inquiry into the death of Confident Group founder CJ Roy. Roy died during an income tax search in Bengaluru. Vijayan highlighted procedural lapses by tax officials. The state government has formed a special investigation team to probe the incident.

US stock market on the move today: Dow and S&P 500 climb as Nasdaq slips. The Dow Jones surged 190.32 points to 49,082.79 today as the market weathered a massive rotation. Investors are shifting capital out of high-growth tech and into Old Economy value stocks. The S&P 500 rose slightly to 6,944.28, but the Nasdaq fell 0.08%. Risk assets stabilized as gold rebounded above $4,800, silver surged nearly 5%, and bitcoin climbed back toward $79,000.

Did Phil see his shadow 2026: In 2026, Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, indicating six more weeks of winter. Tens of thousands gathered in near-freezing temperatures at Gobblers Knob to witness the custom. The tradition, tracing back to 1887 and inspired by Candlemas, combines folklore with community celebration. Phil selects a scroll confirming the forecast, with a shadow indicating extended winter. Though Phils forecasts have just 35% accuracy, he remains iconic.

The team, established in 2005, comprises five indigenously designed and manufactured Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) helicopters.

The BJP Parliamentary Board has appointed Tarun Chugh as the central observer for the election of the legislature party leader in Manipur. This move signals the potential formation of a new government in the northeastern state. NDA MLAs from Manipur have arrived in the national capital for discussions. President's rule in Manipur is set to expire next week.

IRS partial shutdown 2026: The IRS has implemented an emergency plan to maintain operations during a partial federal government shutdown that began on January 30, 2026. Funding from the Inflation Reduction Act will keep the agency operational through February 7, while the AICPA warns of potential disruptions to the 2026 tax filing season due to furloughs and reduced services.

Former US President Donald Trump has strongly criticized Grammy Awards host Trevor Noah. Trump called the ceremony he worst and virtually unwatchable. He was particularly angered by a joke Noah made linking him to Jeffrey Epstein's island. Trump threatened legal action against Noah, calling him pathetic and alentless.

During Sunday night's Grammys 2026, host Trevor Noah took a swipe at Donald Trump and his one-time friendship with Jeffrey Epstein.

Donald Trump has talked about replacing income tax with tariff money. This idea has started a new debate among experts. Some US states depend a lot on income tax to run their budgets. If the system changes, these states could face financial pressure. Economists say big changes would not be easy and need approval.

The Rookie Season 8 Episode 5 release time, schedule and how to watch details the episode titled The Network, its story focus, air time, platform availability, cast details, schedule change, and full season plan. The episode airs on ABC and streams later on Hulu and Moviesphere+.

Kim Kardashian reportedly traveled to the UK to spend a private weekend with Lewis Hamilton, igniting dating speculations. The 45-year-old reality icon arrived by private jet and stayed at the luxurious Estelle Manor in the Cotswolds, popular for privacy and exclusivity. Hamilton joined her an hour later, and the duo reportedly shared a room, enjoyed a private spa session, and had dinner away from other guests.

Passengers on the SambalpurNanded Nagavali Superfast Express were left bewildered when a reserved coach was missing upon arrival at Sambalpur. The train departed without the coach, causing confusion and scattering passengers with confirmed tickets. This incident, attributed to a technical snag, highlights recurring logistical lapses in India's railway network, with similar events reported previously.

The Social Security Administration confirmed a 2.8% Social Security COLA for 2026, lifting the average retiree benefit by about $56 a month. But net payments may disappoint. Medicare Part B premiums jump to $202.90, up from $185. Higher IRMAA surcharges, Part D premiums, and federal tax withholding further cut deposits. The COLA is real. Deductions reduce what retirees actually receive.

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara accused Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot of deliberately sending the state's hate speech bill to the President to delay its implementation. The bill, passed in December, aims to prevent hate speech and maintain social harmony, with penalties including jail time and fines. The Governor's action followed a plea from the opposition BJP.

A bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and P V Varale was told by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that Wangchuk even referred to 'Arab Springs' like agitation which has led to the overthrow of multiple governments in countries of the Arab world.

America is set to launch a significant critical minerals stockpile. This initiative, backed by $12 billion, aims to counter China's influence on vital mineral prices. The project, named Project Vault, will involve private funding and a substantial loan from the U.S. Export-Import Bank. Major companies like General Motors and Boeing are participating.

OPPO has launched the Reno 15c in India. This new smartphone is the most affordable in the Reno 15 series. Pre-orders are now open on Flipkart and OPPO's website. Customers can enjoy discounts and EMI options. The device features a 6.57-inch AMOLED display and a 7,000mAh battery. It will go on sale on February 5.

The government is exploring a merger of Power Finance Corporation and REC Ltd. This move is part of a broader restructuring effort for public sector financial institutions. The Power Ministry will work out the details. A similar merger was considered in 2019 but did not materialize. Shares of both companies saw a rise following earlier announcements.

New Delhi. The Union Budget 2026-27 offers significant boosts to agriculture and allied sectors. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a comprehensive package aimed at enhancing farmers' incomes and strengthening the cooperative movement. The animal husbandry sector sees a substantial increase in allocation. A key proposal extends tax benefits to cattle feed, reducing the burden on primary cooperatives.

US Dollar decline impact on Americans: The US dollar has hit a four-year low, potentially increasing costs for Americans. Imported goods and fuel prices may rise. Borrowing could become more expensive. Travel abroad will also be costlier. These shifts are influenced by Federal Reserve rate cuts and global economic uncertainties. Investors are moving towards gold as a safe haven.

The Staff Selection Commission is set to release admit cards for the MTS and Havaldar Examination 2025 on ssc.gov.in. The computer-based exam, held nationwide on February 4, 2026, requires this mandatory document for entry. Candidates can download their hall tickets using registered credentials, with the admit card containing vital exam details.

In a bid to alleviate the pressures of fluctuating global trade, Special Economic Zone units now have the chance to tap into the domestic market. This initiative, designed as a limited-time opportunity, will enable SEZ manufacturers to sell their goods directly within the local tariff area.

Nancy Guthrie,84, mother of NBC Today host Savannah Guthrie, was reported missing Sunday after last being seen Saturday night at her Catalina Foothills residence in Tucson. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed search and rescue teams are actively looking for her, and homicide detectives are investigating the scene.

Ohio is holding nearly $4 billion in unclaimed money. Many residents may have forgotten cash in their name. The state allows people to search and apply online. Some funds may later be used for public projects if not claimed. Officials say checking early is important so people do not miss money that belongs to them.

Up to $2,000 per child is now on the table. Newborns born from 2025 to 2028 qualify for a $1,000 federal deposit under Trump Accounts created by Donald Trump. Major employers including JPMorgan and Bank of America are matching that $1,000. Parents can open accounts starting July.

Government shutdown 2026: This is the second time in a matter of months that federal operations have been disrupted as Congress digs in, using the annual funding process as leverage to extract policy changes.