The Economic Times

What is gold price next milestone and will it really hit $6,000 by year end? Gold crossed $5,000 per ounce as investors reacted to policy risks, rate expectations, and global uncertainty. Banks now project higher targets as demand remains strong across markets.

Arizona shooting: A critical shooting involving US Border Patrol in southern Arizona has left an unidentified individual fighting for their life. The incident occurred Tuesday morning near Arivaca Road, prompting an emergency response and a joint investigation by the Pima County Sheriff's Office and the FBI. Details surrounding the encounter remain unclear as authorities probe the event.

Why is silver price looking to hit $150 soon and will it go on to touch $170 milestone? Silver price rises as gold price hits records. Bank forecasts change. Investor demand grows. Federal Reserve policy, market risk, and metal trading volumes support silver price movement.

Joe Brady has been named the new head coach of the Buffalo Bills, signing a five-year deal. Brady, who joined the Bills in 2022, was promoted to offensive coordinator in November 2023 and led the team to a record-breaking offensive season. Quarterback Josh Allen praised Brady's positive influence and energy.

Philip Glass canceled the premiere of his Lincoln symphony at the Kennedy Center, citing disagreements with its current leadership. His decision comes as more artists pull out of the venue following changes made after Donald Trump took control. The controversy has raised questions about artistic freedom, leadership influence, and the future direction of Americas top arts center.

A near-fatal incident has sparked concerns over AI chatbots. YouTuber Kristi shared how her best friend was repeatedly assured that a deadly poison hemlock plant was safe, even after providing multiple images. Kristi wrote, Chat GPT NEARLY k*lled my best friend by telling her that POISON HEMLOCK was CARROT its poison hemlock. Which there is NO antidote for and is EXTREMELY deadly.

Graham Norton revealed he has signed numerous NDAs regarding Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's upcoming wedding, stating he can say nothing about the nuptials. Swift had previously hinted at Norton's attendance during an interview on The Graham Norton Show, where she discussed Kelce's elaborate proposal.

US health insurance stocks experienced a significant drop Tuesday. This followed a proposal for a minimal 0.09 percent increase in 2027 Medicare Advantage rates. Major companies like UnitedHealth and Humana saw substantial stock declines. The move has raised concerns about potential cost and benefit changes for millions of seniors and people with disabilities.

In a monumental development, India and the European Union have come to terms on a landmark Free Trade Agreement that promises to unlock a wealth of investment and foster innovation for businesses and entrepreneurs across both regions.

Ambassador David Perdue said the probe into Zhang Youxia, announced over the weekend, is a major development, citing the family connections the vice chair of China's apex military commission has with Xi. Chinese authorities said Zhang is being investigated for suspected serious discipline and law violations, without providing further details.

University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026, was notified earlier this month and applies to all higher educational institutions in India.

A severe Arctic air mass is expected to hinder recovery efforts across the northern half of the United States following a recent storm. Municipalities from New Mexico to Maine are working to clear snow and debris after the weather system brought heavy snow, strong winds, freezing rain, and sleet.

Angelina Jolie is reportedly planning a significant lifestyle shift. She has sold her New York apartment and may sell her Los Angeles mansion. This comes amid reports of financial strain and ongoing legal battles. Jolie has expressed a desire to spend more time in Cambodia. Her children's differing life paths present a challenge to her plans.

New Delhi hosts the Global Business Summit on February 13-14. The event examines a decade of disruption and its impact on global leadership, governance, and growth. Industry 5.0, economic shifts, and workforce transformation are key themes. India's role as host highlights its economic standing. The summit brings together global leaders and thinkers to discuss critical challenges and opportunities.

Wealth Quote of the Day by David Ricardo: Profits depend on high or low wages, wages on the price of necessaries, and the price of necessaries chiefly on the price of food Food prices rose over 25% since 2020 in the US. Wages followed, but unevenly. Corporate profits stayed strong. David Ricardo explained this chain two centuries ago. Necessities set wages. Wages pressure profits. Food sits at the base. Todays inflation debate proves his theory still works.

Andhra Pradesh's GoM on social media, headed by state IT and electronics minister Nara Lokesh, will meet to discuss the pros and cons of banning social media for children.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the innovative contributions of DRDO in developing homegrown technologies. He noted the urgency for expediting the rollout of new weapon systems, as the pace of technological evolution necessitates swift governmental action.

Russia launched more than 50 drones at the Ukrainian city of Odesa, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated. He characterized the action as a rutal attack. The reported drone strikes come as Ukrainian and Russian negotiators are preparing for new talks scheduled for Sunday.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated the BJP has a surplus of 32 assembly seats based on their 2024 Lok Sabha performance, where they secured 96 segments. He emphasized that with only 64 seats needed to form the government, the BJP is poised for a third consecutive term in the upcoming assembly polls.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is set to visit New Delhi to discuss alleged harassment during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise with MPs and Opposition leaders. This visit has led to the postponement of the state's interim budget, now scheduled for February 5, with the assembly session commencing on February 3.

Parliament's budget session begins Wednesday. Opposition parties want debates on MGNREGA, electoral roll revisions, foreign policy, and the economy. The government rejects discussing MGNREGA's replacement. The focus will be on the President's address and the general budget. All-party meetings aim for smooth proceedings. A TDP ally seeks tax relief on unmanufactured tobacco.

The Doomsday Clock 2026 shows the world is closer to disaster than ever. Scientists warn that nuclear risks, climate crisis, AI dangers, and misinformation are pushing humanity toward global threats. The clock is a warning to governments and people to act fast and work together to reduce these risks before its too late.

Pyongyang has substantially increased its missile testing in recent years, according to analysts. These tests are reportedly aimed at improving precision strike capabilities. They also serve to challenge Washington and Seoul. Furthermore, analysts suggest North Korea is testing weapons before exporting them to Russia, a key ally.

With the 2027 Assembly elections on the horizon, Uttar Pradesh politics is heating up like never before. The BJP is rolling out its playbook early, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and National President Nitin Nabin making key visits to stir the pot. Meanwhile, Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party is galvanizing support through strategic meetings.

In a significant development, India and the European Union have forged a strategic security and defense alliance. This agreement is set to enhance collaboration in maritime operations and the dynamic Indo-Pacific region. Notably, it paves the way for Indian defense manufacturers to tap into the European market.

Calling for stricter punishment and measures against acid attackers, the CJI verbally observed that unless the action is so painful for the accused, it will not work. The bench suggested that immovable assets of such offenders can be attached and auctioned by the prosecuting agencies to compensate victims of acid attacks.

Quote of the day by Alfred Marshall: One of the founding economist, noted prices and money's value are not fixed. This idea remains relevant today. Understanding fluctuating purchasing power explains rising costs and budget challenges. Marshall's work shaped modern economics, focusing on supply, demand, and market dynamics. His insights continue to guide economic thought and policy.

The Bombay High Court has thrown out petitions filed by ex-Religare leader Rashmi Saluja that contested the FIRs brought by the Mumbai Police and the ED. The court discovered substantial evidence implicating Saluja in financial misdeeds, including purported unlawful profits of 179.54 crore from Esop distributions and a staggering 192 crore diversion.

In a captivating demonstration in Kurukshetra, Rahul Gandhi displayed his martial arts prowess before the Congress district presidents. He articulated how maneuvers such as dodging and rolling can be strategically employed to counter political adversaries. Drawing an inspiring connection to Lord Shiva, he underscored the importance of concentration and bravery.

In a recent statement, US President Donald Trump expressed his disapproval of the UK's choice to transfer the Chagos Islands back to Mauritius, a move that could potentially strain relations with India, which staunchly endorses Mauritius' claim.

Amazon is shutting down its Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh grocery stores, shifting focus to same-day grocery delivery and expanding its Whole Foods Market presence. The company will offer its cashierless technology to third parties. This move aims to refine its physical retail strategy, leveraging stronger brand affinity with Whole Foods for future growth.

Indian seafood exporters anticipate a significant boost in trade with the European Union once the free trade agreement becomes operational. The elimination of duties, ranging from 4.7% to 7.5%, is expected to create a level playing field with competitors. Addressing non-trade barriers, such as extensive product sampling, is crucial for India to achieve market leadership in the EU seafood sector.

Word of the day ludic meaning: Discover the word ludic, meaning playful and spontaneous. It encourages rediscovering joy in everyday life. This term, rooted in Latin, highlights the importance of play in human development and well-being. Examples show its use in describing children's games and creative art. Ludic offers a refreshing perspective on life's lighter moments.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will release an SIT report on February 8 concerning Pakistani national Ali Tauqueer Sheikh. The report, submitted to the cabinet, allegedly links Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi and his wife Elizabeth Gogoi to Sheikh's activities, with the CM stating the probe uncovered a conspiracy to undermine national sovereignty.

Word of the Day: Disinflation means inflation is slowing, not stopping. Prices still rise, but at a weaker pace. It signals easing pressure on households and businesses. Today, disinflation reflects tighter monetary policy, improved supply chains, and softer demand. Central banks closely track it to judge rate cuts.

Tension flared in Manipur's Kangpokpi district as three houses and four huts were set ablaze by suspected Zeliangrong United Front (ZUFKamson) cadres. The incident, which also damaged vehicles and destroyed property, has drawn condemnation from tribal bodies urging peace and justice for affected families.

In his remarks at a press statement delivered at the Hyderabad House here in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the EU leader said he was also an overseas Indian citizen, as he pulled out his Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card from his suit's pocket and showed it to the gathering.

UPS plans to cut thousands of jobs as it reduces Amazon deliveries and reshapes its business. The company is closing buildings, using more machines, and offering voluntary exits to some workers. Leaders say these steps will save money and improve long-term growth. Job changes will happen slowly through 2026.

Arijit Singh 1st Wife: National Award and Padma Shri winner Arijit Singh announced his retirement from Bollywood playback singing on January 27, 2026. While stepping away from film songs, he will continue with live shows, concerts, tours, and independent music releases, ensuring his musical journey continues beyond the silver screen.