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The Economic Times

Top News / The Economic Times

Gurgaon HR exec beaten with cricket and baseball bats after rear hit by a no-number plate car near IMT Manesar

An HR executive was brutally attacked with bats after his car was rear-ended near IMT Manesar. The victim, Nitesh Bhatia, believes the assault was pre-planned, not mere road rage. Three assailants, armed with cricket and baseball bats, continued to beat him even after he fell. Bystanders intervened, and police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the attackers.

20 Feb 2026 8:55 am
In MP assembly, Vijayvargiya uses unparliamentary word for LoP Singhar; CM Yadav extends apology

During the discussion on the motion of thanks on the Governor's address in the Assembly on Thursday, the parliamentary affairs minister lost his cool, triggering an uproar.

20 Feb 2026 8:54 am
HC issues notice to producers of 'The Kerala Story 2', CBFC on plea to quash certification

he Kerala Story 2 case: The petition stated that it approached the court after being aggrieved by the grant of certification to the film titled The Kerala Story 2 - Goes Beyond by the CBFC allegedly without due compliance with the statutory mandate under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.

20 Feb 2026 8:46 am
Iran warns US bases, assets 'legitimate targets' if attacked

Iran has issued a stern warning to the United States. Iranian ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani stated that US bases and assets in the region will be considered legitimate targets. This comes amid escalating tensions and military deployments by the US. Iran insists it is committed to diplomatic solutions for its nuclear program.

20 Feb 2026 8:35 am
55% of Indian Americans disapprove of Trump's India policies: Survey

A new survey reveals Indian Americans are unhappy with Donald Trump's approach to India. Trade and technology issues have strained ties. Many also face online racism and discrimination. This impacts their political leanings and views on US-India relations. The report highlights growing concerns for the diaspora.

20 Feb 2026 8:29 am
Eric Dane, 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Euphoria' star, has died at 53

Actor Eric Dane, known for Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at 53 from ALS. He became a passionate advocate for ALS awareness and research after his diagnosis less than a year ago. Dane's memoir, detailing life-shaping moments including his ALS journey, is set for posthumous release in 2026.

20 Feb 2026 8:22 am
India-US trade deal an attack on Apple and other farmers in Kashmir: Himachal CM Sukhvinder Sukhu

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has voiced concerns over the recent India-US trade deal. He believes it will adversely affect farmers across India, especially in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Apple, almond, and walnut growers are expected to face significant challenges.

20 Feb 2026 8:22 am
'I spoke to PM Modi, he is excited about the Gaza peace plan,' says Trump at inaugural Board of Peace meeting

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is reportedly excited about US President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan. India attended a meeting of Trump's newly formed 'Board of Peace' as an observer. This international body aims to bring stability to Gaza after the conflict. Nearly 50 countries participated in the discussions. India's participation is under consideration for formal membership.

20 Feb 2026 8:15 am
Eric Dane death reason: What is ALS that slowly killed Grey's Anatomy's actor

Actor Eric Dane, known for Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, has died at 53 from ALS. He became a passionate advocate for ALS awareness and research after his diagnosis less than a year ago. Dane's memoir, detailing his life and fight with the disease, is set for posthumous release in 2026.

20 Feb 2026 8:09 am
US Dept of State rolls out $200 mln push to expand secure smartphones in Indo-Pacific

The US State Department is launching a contest. It will award up to 200 million dollars. This funding supports secure smartphone deployment in the Indo-Pacific region. The goal is to boost next-generation devices. It also aims to equip millions with AI tools. This will foster innovation and entrepreneurship. The initiative advances a dynamic, interconnected Indo-Pacific.

20 Feb 2026 8:09 am
Trump says he doesn't know if aliens are real but directs govt to release files on UFOs, more

President Donald Trump has ordered government agencies to release files on aliens and UFOs. This follows former President Barack Obama's comments suggesting aliens might exist. Public interest in UFOs grew after leaked Navy videos in 2017. Congress held hearings, and the Pentagon established an office to investigate these phenomena.

20 Feb 2026 7:51 am
NASA chief slams Boeing, agency's failures over flawed Starliner mission

NASA Administrator has strongly criticized Boeing and agency leaders for the failed Starliner mission. Two astronauts were stranded on the International Space Station for nine months due to technical and oversight issues. A new report details these failures, classifying the mission as a severe mishap. Boeing has spent millions to fix the spacecraft.

20 Feb 2026 7:18 am
UK PM Starmer blocks Trump from using RAF bases to strike Iran amid escalating tensions: Report

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer reportedly blocked Donald Trump from using RAF bases for strikes on Iran, citing concerns over international law. This decision came amid US military build-up and Trump's public calls for the UK to resist wokeism and not cede control of Diego Garcia.

20 Feb 2026 6:31 am
Johnson & Johnson explores $20 billion sale of orthopedics unit, source says

Johnson & Johnson is planning to sell its orthopedics unit, DePuy Synthes. The deal could be worth more than twenty billion dollars. Private equity firms are seen as the most probable buyers. This move follows J&J's earlier announcement to spin off the unit. The company is gathering financial documents for potential buyers. Rival medical device companies may also show interest.

20 Feb 2026 6:14 am
US automakers caught in crossfire of Trump, California EV battle

If California wins, it could force U.S. automakers to comply with two diametrically opposed regulatory schemes: President Donald Trump's anti-EV policy and California's pro-EV regime, which 11 other states have adopted.

20 Feb 2026 6:12 am
King Charles' brother Andrew released after arrest over misconduct relating to Epstein

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who turned 66 on Thursday, had been questioned all day by detectives from Thames Valley Police. Earlier this month, the police force said it was looking into allegations that he had passed documents to the late convicted sex offender while working as a trade envoy.

20 Feb 2026 6:07 am
Laid-off employee gets a job offer with a huge pay cut doesnt know what to do, dilemma sparks a wave of advice

Laid-off Americans now wait 21 weeks for a new job. Many accept $17,000 salary cuts. Lost health insurance adds $6,720 yearly. Missing 401(k) matches cost $3,800 annually. Total compensation loss hits $40,000. A 20% pay cut suppresses lifetime earnings for years. This lowball trend stalls long-term career growth and erodes retirement security. Negotiating for remote flexibility or six-month pay reviews is essential to survive this volatile job market.

20 Feb 2026 4:31 am
Thought of the day by Emily Dickinson, Hope is the thing with feathers / That perches in the soul / And sings the tune without the words / And never stops at all. why this 19th-century poem is resonating again in 2026

Thought of the day by Emily Dickinson, Hope is the thing with feathers / That perches in the soul / And sings the tune without the words / And never stops at all. Over 1,800 poems. One timeless message. Emily Dickinsons Hope is the Thing with Feathers remains a top-searched American poem in 2026. The short hope poem defines resilience and mental strength. It uses simple bird symbolism. It speaks about emotional survival. Schools teach it widely. Literary scholars analyze it deeply. Readers shar

20 Feb 2026 3:11 am
Why SSI recipients are getting their March 2026 Social Security payment early on February 27 is this early Social Security deposit a stimulus check or just a schedule shift?

More than 7.4 million Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will receive their March 2026 Social Security payment early on February 27, 2026. The early SSI deposit is nationwide. It is not a stimulus check. The Social Security Administration moved the payment because March 1 falls on a Sunday. Federal rules require benefits to go out on the prior business day. March will not have a separate SSI payment. It is a schedule shift. Not extra money.

20 Feb 2026 2:53 am
How AI companies are driving a record $13.6 billion convertible bond surge in the US

AI companies convertible bonds: The US convertible bond market is experiencing a record start in 2026, largely propelled by AI companies. Nearly $13.6 billion has been raised by 18 firms, a significant jump from last year. Experts anticipate continued strong activity, with growth companies favoring these bonds for flexible financing. Market volatility also presents opportunities for investors.

20 Feb 2026 2:21 am
A dad with two kids laid off right after a promotion- sparking a wave of hard-earned job search advice and community support

A Tampa Bay operations manager faced job elimination shortly after a promotion. He shared his situation on Reddit seeking guidance. The post resonated with many professionals. Advice poured in on immediate steps like unemployment benefits and food banks. Suggestions also focused on local job markets and networking. The community offered support and reassurance during this challenging time.

20 Feb 2026 2:12 am
Nancy Guthrie DNA evidence update: has the FBI finally identified a suspect after new forensic findings surfaced in the Tucson abduction investigation?

Nancy Guthrie DNA evidence update: A third biological sample recovered from inside her Tucson home does not match the victim, and Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos now says we believe this may be our suspect. Two prior CODIS submissions failed to return matches. FBI genetic genealogy testing is now underway. Walmart purchase records extend beyond Tucson. The $100,000 federal reward remains unclaimed. No arrest has been made in 21 days.

20 Feb 2026 2:00 am
Nancy Guthrie disappearance update: FBI identifies names and photos of possible suspects in Nancy Guthrie case

Twenty suspects are now the focus as the FBI identifies names and photos in the Nancy Guthrie disappearance. Agents are canvassing gun shops with photo packets to find the owner of a black Ozark Trail backpack. DNA evidence from a recovered glove is undergoing genetic genealogy testing. Over 14,500 search hours and a $200,000 reward drive this high-stakes Tucson case. Savannah Guthries family is cleared as federal searches expand.

20 Feb 2026 1:29 am
Word of the day: Yemeles

Yemeles is a very old English word from Germanic roots that people do not use anymore today. It was last seen in Middle English time. There is also a different name called Yemele from Yoruba culture in Africa. This name means honor and royalty and shows respect, dignity, and strong cultural traditions of the Yoruba people.

20 Feb 2026 1:24 am
IRS Tax refunds delayed in 2026: Are 164 Million filings, staffing cuts, and backlogs slowing your expected refund processing time?

164 million tax returns are expected before the April 15, 2026 tax deadline. The IRS is still handling nearly 2 million unresolved cases. Staffing is down 27%. IRS refund delays in 2026 are likely. Paper tax returns face longer IRS processing times. Amended returns may stall. Identity verification can freeze refunds. EITC and Child Tax Credit refunds cannot be issued before mid-February. E-file and direct deposit remain fastest.

20 Feb 2026 1:13 am
Nancy Guthrie update: Sheriff Nanos believes victim held near home, DNA evidence analyzed

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos believes Nancy Guthrie, 84, was a victim of targeted kidnapping near her Tucson home. Law enforcement is actively searching, with evidence including DNA analysis and surveillance footage of a potential suspect. Rewards for information now exceed $200,000.

20 Feb 2026 1:06 am
Rare SixPlanet Parade in February 2026: How and when to watch the celestial spectacle

Skywatchers have a rare opportunity to witness a rare six-planet alignment on February 28, 2026. Mercury, Venus, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus, and Jupiter will appear in a line shortly after sunset. While four planets can be watched with the naked eye, Uranus and Neptune require binoculars or a telescope. NASA highlights that planets must be sufficiently above the horizon for optimal viewing, as lower positions are obscured by Earths atmosphere and obstacles.

20 Feb 2026 1:04 am
Quote of the day by Jeffrey Immelt: Leadership is an intense journey into yourself... Every morning, I look in the mirror and say, 'I could have done three things better yesterday'.

Jeffrey Immelts quote, Leadership is an intense journey into yourself... Every morning, I look in the mirror and say, 'I could have done three things better yesterday' highlights the significance of self-reflection in leadership. It refers to daily accountability and personal growth. Immelts career, spanning major corporate transformations and global challenges, offers weight to his perspective.

20 Feb 2026 1:02 am
BTC USD price prediction: Why Eric Trump doubles down on Bitcoin reaching $1 million - here's what crypto traders must know

Bitcoin BTC USD price prediction: Eric Trump expressed strong confidence in Bitcoin at the World Financial Forum, calling it a top-performing asset class. He believes Bitcoin could reach $1 million, citing its significant past growth and potential upside, despite acknowledging its inherent volatility. Trump remains highly bullish on the cryptocurrency's future.

20 Feb 2026 1:02 am
IMF to release new US economic policy prescriptions next week

The International Monetary Fund will present its U.S. economic policy review on February 25. This report will examine fiscal, trade, and current account deficits. It will also assess the dollar's value. The IMF views the dollar as central to the global monetary system. The review follows consultations with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other Trump administration officials.

20 Feb 2026 12:46 am
Can AI interview tools really help you get a job? Reddit user shares real experience

Many job seekers are now trying AI interview tools to feel more confident during interviews. These tools can help people structure answers, remember points, and reduce stress. But they cannot replace real preparation or strong knowledge. Experts say candidates still need good basics, practice, and understanding because AI tools can only give small support, not full success.

20 Feb 2026 12:33 am
US pays about $160 million of nearly $4 billion it owes United Nations

The United States has paid USD 160 million towards its substantial UN dues. This payment is for the UN's regular budget. The UN had warned of financial collapse if member nations did not pay. The US owes billions to the UN's regular and peacekeeping budgets. This comes as President Trump convenes a new peace initiative.

20 Feb 2026 12:31 am
In Srinagar, Himachal CM Sukhu warns India-US trade deal to hit apple growers in J&K, HP

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed concerns over the recent India-US trade deal. He stated the agreement will adversely affect farmers in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Apple, almond, and walnut growers are expected to face significant consequences. Sukhu highlighted that almond prices have already seen a decline due to such trade agreements.

20 Feb 2026 12:29 am
Klarna shares crashed 26% after $26 million Q4 loss heres what spooked buy now, pay later investors

Klarna shares crashed 26% after $26 million Q4 loss. One year ago, it earned $40 million profit. Revenue hit $1.08 billion a record high. But Wall Street expected near-zero losses. Q1 revenue guidance missed analyst targets. GMV growth is slowing. New installment loans hurt short-term profits. Morgan Stanley cut its price target. Lock-up expiration threatens more selling. BNPL stock outlook remains uncertain.

20 Feb 2026 12:17 am
Word of the Day: Susurration

Discover the word 'susurration', a beautiful term for soft, whispering sounds. It captures the gentle rustle of leaves or quiet murmurs. This word adds depth to language, creating atmosphere in stories and nature writing. It reminds us that subtle sounds hold significance. Experience the world through its quietest noises.

20 Feb 2026 12:16 am
Discount for Russia's Urals crude oil is deepest since 2023, data shows

Russian Urals oil faces its largest discount in three years from Baltic ports. Western sanctions are the cause. This impacts Russia's budget significantly. Oil and gas revenue has fallen. Urals oil prices are dropping. Exports to India have declined. Rising freight costs also affect pricing. This situation is developing.

20 Feb 2026 12:14 am
Supreme Court: NCLT neednt probe debt default at plea stage

The Supreme Court has clarified insolvency proceedings. The National Company Law Tribunal only needs to confirm a debt default to admit a case. It does not need to examine if the company can pay. This ruling upholds the admission of Hiranmaye Energy into insolvency. REC's plea was accepted for 218 crore dues.

20 Feb 2026 12:12 am
Golf tees off a new course for capital edge, mass connect

Golf in India is transforming from an elite sport to an accessible, commercially viable venture with significant corporate investment. Two new leagues, the Indian Golf Premier League and 72 The League, launched in 2025, attracting major backing and aiming to build integrated golf communities in smaller cities.

20 Feb 2026 12:12 am
Extra eggs for students in West Bengal schools

The West Bengal government is enhancing the mid-day meal scheme by providing extra eggs to school children. This initiative aims to boost nutrition. The decision has ignited a political dispute between the ruling Trinamool and the opposition BJP. The Education Minister clarified that provisions for an additional egg and fruit annually exist.

20 Feb 2026 12:05 am
India sends observer to Trump's Gaza Peace Board meet amid rising stakes

India has sent an observer to a crucial Gaza Peace board meeting in Washington. The meeting, chaired by US President Donald Trump, will discuss a $5 billion pledge for Gaza's reconstruction and security. India is carefully evaluating an invitation to join the board, considering its long-standing support for a two-state solution and its interests in West Asia.

20 Feb 2026 12:03 am
Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt weigh Truce after years of legal battles

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt remain entangled in legal disputes almost two years after their December 2024 divorce. Central to the battle is the sale of their Chteau Miraval vineyard, which Pitt claims happened without his consent. Ten years of fighting is long enough, an insider said, highlighting both parties are seeking resolution. Court orders require Jolie to provide unredacted communications, while appeals keep the case active.

20 Feb 2026 12:02 am
Supreme Court orders probe after missing case records

Supreme Court is investigating missing case records. A fact-finding inquiry has been ordered by the court's secretary general. This follows the discovery of a missing order from a Goa tiger reserve case. The court noted that missing proceedings have become a common issue. The inquiry aims to understand how these important documents disappear from case files.

20 Feb 2026 12:01 am