The Economic Times News

Sebi chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey urged proactive corporate governance. He stated compliance serves a purpose beyond mere form. Corporate governance is about credibility in decisions, conflict management, and information sharing. He highlighted the hazards of reactive governance as capital markets grow complex. Strong capital markets are built on confidence in fair rules and trusted disclosures. Boards must act as stewards.

Rivian stock today: Rivian shares surged over 11% to a new 52-week high, extending a two-day rally. Investor confidence is building around the electric vehicle maker's long-term strategy, fueled by advances in AI and autonomy, and optimism for the 2026 R2 SUV launch. Analysts have raised price targets, citing the R2's potential to drive demand and support growth.

Forty-one CPI (Maoist) cadres, including six senior leaders, surrendered to Telangana police, handing over 24 firearms. This significant erosion of the banned organization's strength and morale stems from arbitrary deployments and logistical hardships. The surrender highlights the steady decline of the CPI (Maoist) in the region.

Christmas fruit cake is a traditional bake that improves with age. Making it weeks in advance allows the fruit to soften and spices to mellow. Regular feeding with spirits like rum or brandy adds moisture and deepens the flavour. This slow process transforms simple ingredients into a rich, festive centrepiece ready for the holiday season.

Celebrating six years at the helm, Mikel Arteta expresses confidence in Arsenal's pursuit of silverware. With the Gunners currently at the top of the Premier League, their sights are set firmly on clinching the title. As contenders for both the league and the Champions League, they face a challenging festive fixture list.

A deadly attack shocked central Taipei on Friday night when a masked man wearing what seemed to be body armour made an indiscriminate assault on the public. Armed with a knife and smoke bombs, the attacker targeted crowded transport hubs, killing at least three people and injuring five others. CCTV footage captured him calmly entering the area before suddenly attacking pedestrians.

Head's unbeaten 142 in front of an adoring home crowd of 53,696 pushed Australia to 271 for four at stumps and a 356-run lead after England were bowled out for 286 in the morning.

Mortgage rates are staying high around 6%, making home buying expensive for many Americans. Experts say rates might slowly drop to 6% by late 2026, but 3% loans are unlikely. Buyers can save money by improving credit, making bigger down payments, or shopping around for lenders. Planning now can help manage costs until rates change.

The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at over 25 locations, including Dream Sports, the parent company of Dream11. This action is linked to an alleged 2,434 crore financial irregularity involving Jai Corp. The probe stems from a CBI case alleging investor fraud. Searches were carried out in multiple cities. Preliminary statements were recorded.

Wildlife enthusiasts are supporting a crucial WWF initiative to train sniffer dogs. These 'super sniffers' are vital in detecting illegal wildlife trade, including tiger parts and elephant tusks. Airports are key locations for these efforts. Public participation in such campaigns helps protect India's endangered animals from poachers and smuggling networks.

Two major energy tax credits expire December 31: Two valuable federal energy tax credits expire December 31, cutting short savings for homeowners nationwide. The changes affect solar panels, heat pumps, and efficiency upgrades. Taxpayers can still claim up to 30% credits. Installations must be completed, operational, and paid before year-end. Experts warn delays, permits, or timing mistakes could cost households thousands in lost tax benefits this winter season.

Without our independence, Moscow will inevitably come for Poland. That's why it's important that we exist, it's important that you exist, it's very important that Ukraine and Poland exist, and it's important that we stand together, Zelenskyy said at a press conference with Polish counterpart Karol Nawrocki.

Two major books on world history, 'The Silk Roads' and 'The Golden Road', are examined. They aim to shift focus away from Europe. However, both texts largely ignore the horse. This animal was vital for premodern empires. Central Asia was a key horse producer. India depended on horse imports. The omission of horses reveals a bias towards texts over ecology.

Delhi's ban on non-BS VI vehicles to combat pollution is disrupting commutes for thousands from Noida and Gurgaon. Employees are shifting to cabs and metro, facing crowding and limited availability, while some are forced to take leave. Companies are encouraging remote work and carpooling to mitigate the impact.

High-Paying Careers are evolving quickly as artificial intelligence and automation transform the U.S. job market. While technology is impacting almost every profession, human-centered roles continue to be essential across industries. Experts highlight that future workers must combine technical awareness with communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Sectors such as healthcare, social services, and skilled trades are anticipated to watch sustained demand in regard to aging population

Avocado consumption is surging across India, moving beyond big cities to smaller towns like Sangli and Patna. Imports have seen a significant jump, with demand growing rapidly. Even farmers in states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are experimenting with avocado cultivation. This boom is reshaping agricultural choices and making the fruit accessible to a wider audience nationwide.

RKLB stock today: Rocket Lab's stock experienced a significant surge, climbing over 16% on Friday, driven by strong operational updates and a substantial US government contract win. This rally, marking its best session in eight months, also benefited from broader positive sentiment in the space sector, including SpaceX IPO buzz and a new US space policy.

In West Bengal, the Matua community is bracing for a tense period as document verification hearings approach, pivotal in safeguarding their voting rights. The anticipation surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's forthcoming trip to Nadia district is tangible, as community members hope for clearer insights regarding the Citizenship Amendment Act and their prospects.

A Delhi court has rejected Rabri Devi's request to move IRCTC and land-for-jobs cases. The CBI argued her plea was a tactic to avoid fair justice. The cases involve alleged corruption by Rabri Devi and her family. Special Judge Vishal Gogne is presiding over these matters. The court found the judge's previous decisions were based on judicial application of mind.

The Imposter is a gripping four-part thriller that turns a family reunion into a nightmare. When a woman claiming to be a long-lost daughter comes, hidden secrets and buried motives rapidly surface. As trust erodes, manipulation, greed, and ambition tear the family apart. A lucrative business deal intensifies the stakes while lies linger into deadly consequences. Bodies start to pile up, alliances fracture, and suspicion spreads through every bond.

Artificial intelligence is changing jobs now. Leading AI expert Yoshua Bengio warns many screen-based jobs face replacement. Automation is speeding up. Even physical jobs may be temporarily safe. Companies are already linking layoffs to AI. More human roles could be replaced soon as businesses cut costs. This is a significant shift for many careers.

Tamil Nadu and Gujarat have removed the highest number of voters from their electoral rolls. This Special Intensive Revision saw over 97 lakh names deleted in Tamil Nadu and 73 lakh in Gujarat. Most deletions are due to voters shifting or deaths. This significant reduction impacts the total voter base in both states.

Security forces have intensified checks in Srinagar and nearby districts. This comes after intelligence reports indicated a potential targeted attack in the coming days. Police and paramilitary personnel are frisking vehicles, especially two-wheelers and cars with out-of-state number plates. Authorities are also searching for a white Ford Eco Sport vehicle suspected of carrying militants.

Married retirees should know some important Social Security rules that many people miss. Spousal and survivor benefits can change how much money couples get each month. Age, marriage status, divorce, and when benefits are claimed all matter. Knowing these basic rules can help married couples plan better and avoid mistakes with Social Security.

Iltija Mufti has filed a police complaint against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The complaint concerns an incident where Mr. Kumar allegedly pulled down the veil of a woman doctor during an appointment ceremony. Ms. Mufti stated the act caused distress among Muslim women. She described the incident as an assault on women's autonomy and dignity.

Social Security faces a potential collapse by 2033. Experts warn benefits could drop from $2,008 to $1,546 without action. Most Americans reject paying the $2,600 tax increase needed to save the program. Smaller increases gain more support, but the clock is ticking. Lawmakers must act soon to prevent deep cuts and financial strain.

The Supreme Court has ruled that corporate social responsibility (CSR) must encompass environmental protection, stating companies cannot be socially responsible while harming ecosystems. The court emphasized that allocating funds for environmental protection is a constitutional obligation, not mere charity. This ruling, in a case concerning endangered birds, mandates companies bear the cost of species recovery when their operations threaten habitats.

Supreme Court has green-lighted the Rajasthan government's commitment to hold elections for urban local bodies without delay beyond April 2026. This ruling follows a challenge from a Congress leader against the High Court's directive that mandated the polls within this timeline, ensuring that the democratic process continues unabated.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Pancholi refused to entertain a plea by Shetty challenging the FIR lodged for a post attributed to him on the social media platform X, under a parody account titled Jawaharlal Nehru Satire.

The Modi government is demonstrating strong control over its coalition. Key legislation, including those replacing UPA-era laws, has been passed with allies offering full support. This signals a shift in power dynamics. Opposition parties acknowledge this reality. Rahul Gandhi's foreign trips during crucial debates have drawn criticism. The opposition's protest stamina appears reduced.

Quote of the day: The words of Russian literary giant Leo Tolstoy continue to echo with remarkable clarity. Celebrated not only as one of the greatest novelists in world literature but also as a moral thinker, Tolstoys insights into human nature, authority and conscience retain their relevance well beyond his lifetime.

AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal's hint at a potential alliance with AIMIM for the upcoming Assam assembly polls has unsettled the Congress. Ajmal revealed Owaisi received emails urging him not to campaign for AIUDF, with some labeling it the BJP's 'B team'. Despite Congress's past resolve to sever ties, Ajmal remains hopeful for collaboration.

The government has levied accusations against the Opposition for hindering vital discussions in Parliament regarding air pollution. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju condemned the conduct of certain MPs during the debate on the rural jobs guarantee Bill, describing it as thoroughly inappropriate.

Thousands of Pakistan nationals face deportation from Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Azerbaijan on begging charges. This follows visa restrictions imposed by UAE, Oman, and Qatar due to criminal activities. Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency reported over 51,000 Pakistanis were offloaded this year. Saudi Arabia led deportations with 24,000 individuals. The UAE expelled 6,000, and Azerbaijan sent back 2,500.

India and Russia are boosting cooperation in critical minerals and rare earths. Joint projects are set to involve hundreds of millions of dollars. This partnership is vital for green energy and modern technology. Russia holds significant rare earth deposits. India's interest is growing due to electric mobility and wind energy sectors.

Bangladesh is on edge as protests and violence erupt after Sharif Osman Hadi's death. Radicals chant anti-India slogans, disrupting Dhaka. The interim government urges calm, calling the upcoming elections a national commitment. India watches closely as the situation escalates, with fears of army intervention if unrest continues. Media houses are also targeted.

India will soon remove import duties on several Omani products. This is part of a new trade agreement, the CEPA, signed recently. Goods like crude oil, LNG, and urea will see duty cuts. The agreement aims to boost trade between the two nations. Implementation is expected within three months. This move will benefit both Indian consumers and Omani exporters.

Congress leaders attended post-session tea with the Lok Sabha Speaker and Rajya Sabha Chairman. This marks a shift after a boycott of four sessions. The opposition felt the presiding officers were fairer this session. Discussions included Prime Minister Modi's observations on Ethiopia's infrastructure. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra spoke about blue turmeric. Kumari Selja suggested a Central Hall.

Meghalaya is developing a new Taj Resort and Spa in Umiam. This project is part of a larger plan to make Umiam a premium tourism hub. Several other five-star hotels are also under development. The state government is investing in infrastructure and community development. This will create jobs and boost the local economy.

Look east after sunset this week to witness Jupiter, shining brightly like the fabled 'Christmas Star.' This celestial event offers a perfect opportunity to share the wonder of the night sky with children. While Jupiter's brilliance evokes the 'Star of Bethlehem,' astronomers suggest other astronomical phenomena might be more plausible explanations for the biblical account.

The holiday season offers an opportunity to transform your Christmas tree into a dazzling centerpiece that showcases creativity. Modern decorating ideas combine tradition with innovation, providing ways to elevate festive showcases through style, texture, and color. This approach features visual impact, warmth, and a sense of magic, while enabling for personal aesthetics that make every tree unique.

The launch of LVM3-M6 is scheduled on 24 December 2025 at 08:54 hrs IST from the Second Launch Pad, SDSC SHAR (Satish Dhawan Space Centre), Sriharikota, ISRO posted on X' on Friday.

The last new moon of 2025 rises on December 19, marking a phase of fresh intention-setting, renewed optimism and inner realignment. Occurring in the fire sign Sagittarius, astrologers view this lunar moment as an invitation to think boldly, embrace expansion and restore faith in new possibilities.

Gas prices in California: California is heading toward a major fuel supply crunch. Two large refineries operated by Valero Energy and Phillips 66 are scheduled to shut down by 2026. Phillips 66 plans to shut its Los Angeles refinery, and Valero its Benicia plant, in 2026, cutting roughly 17% of the state's refining capacity. Analysts warn gas could hit $10 to $12 per gallon.

The IRS has introduced a new law to fix tax filing math errors more clearly. The IRS MATH Act helps taxpayers understand mistakes, know where they happened, and respond on time. It aims to reduce confusion, save effort, and make dealing with IRS tax notices easier for millions of Americans.

John Means made his major league debut in 2018, was an All-Star the following year and spent his first seven seasons with Baltimore.

Nasdaq rose more than 1% again today as AI stocks staged a strong rebound. Oracle jumped after a TikTok deal headline. Nvidia climbed on chip export optimism. Micron extended gains on bullish guidance. Volatility remains high with record options expiry approaching. Investors now watch AI momentum into year-end.