The Economic Times

Singapore recorded 4,800 retrenchments in the third quarter of 2026, the highest level since late 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic. The rise, driven by business reorganisations, came despite overall employment growth of 27,700 during the quarter. The Ministry of Manpower flagged emerging weaknesses in parts of the labour market, with more companies indicating plans to retrench employees over the next three months.

The European Parliament anticipates that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement will be signed by mid-December 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the signing ceremony in Brussels. The agreement seeks to deepen investments and reduce supply-chain dependencies between India and the EU. Closer collaboration on defense and cybersecurity is also a priority for both parties.

Mausam Weather Forecast: Widespread rainfall across several parts of India has triggered a noticeable change in weather, with temperatures falling sharply in North India, particularly Delhi-NCR. The sudden chill has raised questions about whether winter is arriving earlier than usual this year and whether people should start taking out their winter clothes. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast further rainfall and thunderstorms in several states, while Delhi and neighbouring ar

The CBI has registered an FIR against Chandra Proteco Limited and its directors over an alleged bank fraud of Rs 210.13 crore involving five banks. The case follows a complaint by Indian Bank, which alleged that the company obtained loans and letters of credit worth Rs 541.46 crore from a consortium of six banks and diverted funds through associate companies. The agency also conducted searches at premises linked to the directors in Prayagraj.

Weather Today Delhi: Delhi-NCR region has experienced an early winter-like spell after overnight heavy rainfall triggered a sharp fall in temperatures, with the national capital recording its lowest maximum temperature in four years. The sudden weather change brought cooler conditions across Delhi-NCR and also improved air quality, with the AQI falling to 133 in the Moderate category on Friday morning. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast further light rainfall in the capital b

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a two-day visit to Gujarat, during which he will inaugurate and dedicate development projects worth Rs 14,000 crore, release the 24th instalment of PM-KISAN payments worth Rs 19,000 crore and flag off two trains. His itinerary includes laying the foundation stone for Ahmedabad Metro extensions and road upgrades, inaugurating child-friendly Anganwadi centres and participating in the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations at Ekta Nagar.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, in her first public remarks since returning from 10 months in exile, said the country is moving irreversibly towards presidential elections in 2027. She called for the dismantling of the repressive system and the release of political prisoners, while denying any contact with interim President Delcy Rodriguez or Washington over a possible meeting.

A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) has been reported at Lemthang in Bhutan, triggering a high alert across North Bengal as water flows downstream towards the Sankosh River. Authorities have urged residents along the river and its tributaries to move to safer locations. Around 4,000-5,000 people have been moved to shelters, while disaster response teams remain on alert amid concerns over possible flooding in the Darjeeling hills, Terai and Dooars.

Iran has developed a clandestine network involving over 5,000 agencies to import military equipment and evade sanctions. This network functions despite ongoing US naval blockades and sanctions since the war began. Extensive investigations reveal significant transactions and military logistics supporting their activities. The secretive agencies have been linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and elite controlled businesses.

India's services sector recorded widespread growth in August, with 17 of the 19 tracked segments expanding and 13 registering double-digit gains, according to the trial Index of Service Production (ISP). Retail trade led the expansion with 19.9% year-on-year growth, followed by repair services and real estate at 17.6% each. Banking, insurance and IT services also reported strong growth, while CareEdge Ratings estimated overall services output rose 14%.

The Supreme Court has refused to instruct the Securities and Exchange Board of India to enforce public disclosure requirements. Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra filed a PIL emphasizing the need for transparency and investor awareness. The court stated there is currently no legal framework supporting such disclosures for Alternative Investment Funds and Foreign Portfolio Investors. Moitra expressed concerns regarding market manipulation, money laundering, and tax evasion due to opaque struc

The road transport and highways ministry will soon start assessing the overall performance of national highways corridors to help improve the user experience.In a notification issued on Thursday, the ministry said two separate rating criteria will be adopted for access controlled expressways and designated high-speed corridors and normal national highways. These highways will be ranked across three categories, including highway efficiency, highway safety and user experience, with various sub-par

CEA: Supply shocks now drive global economic surprises, industrial strategy must evolve

US President Donald Trump has shifted to phone rallies in the final days of the midterm election campaign, cancelling planned appearances in Iowa and Kansas as Republicans face tight Senate races across several states. Trump travelled to South Carolina to campaign for Republican Senate candidate Darline Graham, who is facing a strong challenge from Democrat Annie Andrews. With voter concerns over the economy, fuel prices and the war in Iran weighing on the campaign, both parties are making a fin

Beginning November 1, 2026, the government of Delhi will impose new vehicle entry restrictions aimed at reducing air pollution levels. To gain entry, all vehicles must adhere to BS-VI emission standards and must possess a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate. This initiative addresses the urgent need for improved air quality, prompting motorists to verify their vehicle's compliance before traveling into the national capital.

The Supreme Court expressed discontent with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs regarding appointments in the National Company Law Tribunals. The court emphasized the need for NCLT and NCLAT to gain full autonomy over their staff. It criticized arrangements outsourcing tribunal staff recruitment to private companies, which could jeopardize existing contractual employees. The court urged comprehensive proposals from NCLT and NCLAT presidents to improve operational requirements.

Finance has become the main sticking point at COP17 in Armenia, with India, Brazil, China and other developing countries opposing efforts to widen the pool of nations contributing to biodiversity funding. They argue developed countries should first meet existing commitments, while the EU and others support bringing more countries into the funding base as negotiations remain deadlocked ahead of the summits close.

US President Donald Trump verbally attacked a journalist during a tense press exchange after being questioned about his health and cancelled weekend campaign rallies in Kansas and Iowa, insisting he is in perfect health and shifting to virtual tele-rallies instead.

Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid and La Liga have apologised after the footballer sparked outrage in China with comments about former leader Mao Zedong. The controversy has led major Chinese brands to cut ties with the French striker, while La Liga matches have been pulled from state broadcaster CCTV. Experts warn that the apologies may not be enough to repair the damage to their reputation and commercial interests in the country.

Delhi Weather Today: On Friday, October 30, weather patterns across India show notable variations. Delhi faces cloudy skies and light rain, with thunderstorms possible. Coastal districts in Andhra Pradesh will begin experiencing heavy rainfall from November 1 to November 3. Both Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are under warning for moderate to intense rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms. In contrast, Tamil Nadu will enjoy sunny spells, with minimal chances of rain.

India's executive search firms are experiencing a surprising growth despite broader job market challenges such as layoffs, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven disruptions and heightened geopolitical uncertainties. Business increased 15-25% in the first half of this financial year, and the momentum continues to be strong, fuelled by a broad range of sectors, according to executives from leading search firms.Companies are willing to spend heavily on leaders capable of navigating disruption and exe

Committee on Tribal Unity has announced a total shutdown in Kangpokpi district for 48 hours starting October 29. This action follows the alleged abduction of two Kuki youths from Taphou Kuki village. The committee demanded the immediate and safe release of the youths involved. It accused the government of bias towards Kuki-Zo people in security incidents. Agitation may intensify if the youths are not released unharmed.

A solidarity rally took place in Itanagar, where participants demanded the release of those arrested related to protests. The protests were against the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, which raised concerns among local communities. Demonstrators expressed apprehensions regarding the impact of the project on their ancestral lands and livelihoods. Last week, the agitation turned violent, resulting in arrests and prohibitory orders being issued.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi focused on the BIG-B initiative. The initiative aims to enhance economic cooperation and connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region. Japan is particularly interested in developing the Matarbari deep-sea port with Bangladesh's support. Both countries plan to expand supply chain networks linking India, Nepal, and Bhutan.

Chinese electric vehicle makers such as BYD are making inroads into South Korea, challenging established domestic brands with competitively priced models and growing dealership networks. BYD has sold more than 20,000 vehicles in the country in the first nine months of the year, overtaking Toyota and Lexus combined. Japan, however, has proved a tougher market due to low EV adoption, consumer preference for hybrids and scepticism towards Chinese brands.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh proposed a dedicated youth bridge across the Asean region for innovation and collaboration. He emphasized the importance of empowering youth to enhance regional peace and security in the Indo-Pacific. Singh highlighted India's maritime security efforts, including escorting merchant vessels and countering piracy on the high seas. Furthermore, he reaffirmed India's commitment to combat terrorism and share its expertise with regional partners.

Indonesia is exploring gasoline imports from India and China to combat rising global crude oil prices. The country's energy minister Bahlil Lahadalia will visit India this week for discussions. Indonesia has faced significant fuel supply disruptions in various provinces due to increased demand and distribution challenges. President Prabowo has directed the exploration of alternative energy sources amidst geopolitical tensions. The situation underscores Indonesia's urgent need for reliable energy

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for a rapid expansion of the country's drone technology and oversaw tests of drones, missiles and other weapons, state media reported. The developments come amid rising tensions with South Korea following recent border incidents and renewed weapons activity. Kim's push to strengthen unmanned technology also comes as North Korea seeks to improve its military capabilities and potentially gain leverage in future talks with the US.

The Indian Premier League's 10 franchises are valued at an average of $1.7 billion each, with a revenue multiple of 22.9 times, the highest among major global sports leagues, according to Sportico. Mumbai Indians lead the rankings at $2.1 billion, followed by Royal Challengers Bengaluru at $1.85 billion. The valuations reflect the league's strong central revenue pool, lucrative media rights and growing investor interest.

Indias economy is estimated to have grown 7.35% in the September quarter, supported by strong industrial output, GST collections, energy use, port traffic and auto sales, the finance ministry said. It expects domestic demand and investment to sustain momentum, while warning that high crude prices, food inflation, rupee pressure and elevated US bond yields could pose risks in the second half.

Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran and Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata held talks aimed at easing tensions over key governance issues, including a possible Tata Sons listing, the Shapoorji Pallonji Groups stake and Chandrasekarans reappointment, but the meeting ended without a resolution. The dispute deepened the next day when Noel Tata challenged decisions taken at the September 17 Tata Sons board meeting and sought records related to the approval of Chandrasekarans new term.

Ukraine has paused its strikes on Russian oil refineries following pressure from US President Donald Trump, the Wall Street Journal reported. Ukrainian units were reportedly told in mid-October to complete ongoing missions but hold off on further attacks. The unofficial pause could last until after the US midterm elections and potentially deeper into November, amid renewed efforts to revive peace talks.

Morning Brief Podcast: China vs US: The New War Over Cancer Drugs and Biotech Supremacy

Israels election has left Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu without a clear path to a governing majority, with his bloc winning 53 seats against 48 for Gadi Eisenkots opposition and Arab-led parties holding the remaining 19. The result makes Arab parties potentially decisive in coalition talks, even as Likud alleges without evidence that the vote was stolen and authorities investigate separate claims of possible foreign interference.

Binance.US, a separate cryptocurrency exchange, said it was not affected by the security incident.

Wall Street today saw one of the shocking losses as Google-parent Alphabet sufferedthe worst day since the company began trading at the US Stock Market.

US Treasury yields were down ahead of the US midterm elections 2026 due to a number of factors.

Along with Alaska election in the US midterm election 2026, California's voter rolls is also under scanner.

'Sylvia failed three polygraphs': Hegseth fires top Pentagon strategist as Trump warns 'leakers'

According to the filing, Kalshi required the agent to confirm his location before each bet, and he truthfully reported he was in Utah. The company collected a fee on every wager, which prosecutors say amounted to proceeds from illegal gambling.

Google's planned expansion in Finland is facing scrutiny due to alleged environmental violations at a data centre site. Authorities are investigating whether the company breached local laws related to water management. The controversy has drawn public criticism and highlighted the need for responsible corporate practices. As investment in artificial intelligence increases, balancing economic growth and environmental protection remains challenging.