The Economic Times News

Wealth quote of the day by SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son Life is short. I will regret if I dont act boldly when I am young. The greatest risk is not taking any risk at all. In the high-stakes world of global finance, Masayoshi Son remains the ultimate disruptor. As of early 2026, the SoftBank founder has moved his firm into otal offense mode. He argues that the world is transitioning from simple automation to Artificial Super Intelligence (ASI). This shift is expected to create a wealth gap unlike

Thirteen Indian Super League clubs have informed the AIFF they may participate in the delayed 2025-26 season, but only if there are no participation fees and the federation covers organizational costs. They also requested a clear roadmap for financial sustainability and government support to ensure the league's viability.

India's outreach policy faces a crucial test in 2026 as Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar hold general elections. New Delhi will closely monitor the outcomes, particularly in Nepal and Bangladesh, to safeguard its security interests and foster stable bilateral ties. The region's political shifts will significantly impact India's neighborhood engagement.

The Congress ended another year marked by election defeats in Delhi and Bihar, adding to earlier losses in Haryana and Maharashtra, and deepening concerns within the party despite a partial recovery in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. More than the results, many party insiders are worried about what they see as a steady transformation of Congress under Rahul Gandhi, driven by shifting political positions and the growing influence of outsiders and new advisers.

A nationwide campaign, Your Money, Your Right, successfully returned approximately 4,200 crore in unclaimed financial assets to their rightful owners. The three-month initiative, concluding in December 2025, organized camps in 748 districts to ensure citizens reclaim what is rightfully theirs and strengthen institutional mechanisms for timely restitution.

John Foster has officially transitioned from a fan-favorite reality star to a national country music standout. After finishing as the runner-up on Season 23 of American Idol in May 2025, the 19-year-old singer-songwriter from Addis, Louisiana, kicked off 2026 on one of the world's most prestigious stages. On January 1, 2026, Foster headlined the Explore Louisiana mid-parade performance at the 137th Rose Parade in Pasadena, California.

Allegations of returning officers refusing nomination forms in South Mumbai's Colaba have prompted the Maharashtra State Election Commission to seek a report from the BMC Commissioner. Complaints arose on the final day of filing for civic polls, specifically concerning wards where relatives of Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar are candidates. The SEC is investigating these claims.

India is set to make high-level leader meetings a central part of its foreign policy this year, beginning with the India-EU summit in New Delhi during the Republic Day celebrations. The summit could see the signing of the long-pending free trade agreement and will be followed by the AI Impact summit in February, which India sees as a platform to shape the Global Souths agenda.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated the Congress-led UDF and CPI(M)-led LDF alliance in Kerala will soon end. He predicted a bright future for the BJP in the state. Modi praised BJP workers for their historic performance in Thiruvananthapuram's local body polls. He believes the people of Kerala are ready for a new dawn with the BJP-NDA.

Local body elections are scheduled for this year in Karnataka. This includes polls for five new corporations in Bengaluru. Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar confirmed the decision. The ruling Congress is confident after recent successes. Applications for tickets are being accepted until January 15. Funds from form sales will support party offices statewide.

Mumbai civic polls are witnessing a polarization of voters along religious and regional lines. Parties are targeting North Indian and Gujarati communities to consolidate Marathi votes, while also appealing to minority groups. The BJP's slogan 'Batenge toh Katenge' is being used to evoke Hindutva and counter appeasement claims.

Assam will expedite the expulsion of declared foreigners. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that individuals identified by Foreigner Tribunals will be deported within seven days. This policy aims to prevent appeals to higher courts. The state government is committed to addressing illegal immigration. This initiative marks a significant shift in dealing with foreign nationals residing in Assam.

Germany said last August that it would deliver two Patriot systems to Ukraine after reaching an agreement with the U.S. that Berlin would be first in line to receive the latest systems in return.

Under the previous Awami League regime, Hindus in Bangladesh experienced relentless discrimination. The president of the Bangladesh Minority Janata Party emphasizes the urgency of increased political representation to ensure the survival of the Hindu community. He calls on India to expand its diplomatic efforts beyond merely supporting the Awami League.

Assam's government is urging tea estate owners to cooperate in granting land rights to workers, threatening to withdraw 150 crore in annual incentives for non-compliance. The new law, assented by the Governor, aims to rectify historical injustices by providing land pattas to generations of tea garden families residing in labour lines.

The Army has recovered a consignment suspected to have been dropped by a drone along the Indo-Pakistan border in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. The recovery was made early Thursday in the Chakkan da Bagh area, where a bag containing ammunition and a suspected improvised explosive device was found.

Russia deliberately brings war into the New Year-launching more than two hundred attack drones against Ukraine overnight, Zelensky said on social media, adding that the argets were our energy infrastructure. Earlier, Zelenskyy, during his New Year's Eve address late on Wednesday, said that his country was 10% away from an agreement to end the war with Russia.

Up to 25 million American children may receive $250 through Trump Accounts backed by a $6.25 billion Michael Dell donation. The savings plan is tax-deferred and income-based. Some families may also qualify for $1,000 Treasury seed money. Accounts open in July 2026, with eligibility tied to age, ZIP-code income limits, and IRS filing requirements.

China faces a demographic crisis ten years after ending its one-child policy. Birth rates remain low, and the population is aging rapidly. Despite incentives, government attempts to boost births, including a new tax on contraceptives, are met with public skepticism and concern.

Swiss blaze on Thursday came 25 years after an inferno in the Dutch fishing town of Volendam on New Years Eve, which killed 14 people and injured more than 200 as they celebrated in a cafe.

Apples iPhone 17 Pro Max gets a Rs 11,000+ discount ahead of New Year. Available at Rs 1,38,490 with extra Rs 4,000 off on select cards. Features A19 Pro chip, triple 48MP cameras, 6.9-inch OLED display, and fast charging.

President Trump defended his health in an interview, revealing he underwent a CT scan, not an MRI, during an October examination. He expressed regret over the advanced imaging, stating it fueled public speculation about his health. Trump also addressed concerns about his energy levels and physical appearance, attributing them to genetics and common age-related conditions.

Pakistan has expressed serious concerns over India's reported plans for a new hydropower project on the Chenab River. Islamabad stated that India cannot misuse its water allowance under the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan has sought clarification from India regarding the project's details. The treaty governs water distribution between the two nations.

Rose Parade is being held on Thursday morning, January 1 which is a federal holiday.

The defence ministry said it has signed capital contracts worth Rs 1.82 lakh crore for modernising the armed forces in 2025-26 up to December, while the Defence Acquisition Council has approved acquisition proposals worth over Rs 3.84 lakh crore since January 2025. The focus has been on modernisation through indigenisation, with higher private sector participation to strengthen domestic supply chains.

Dense fog covered Delhi as New Year celebrations began, with temperatures expected to dip to 9C. IMD has issued an orange alert, warning of cold wave conditions, poor visibility, and possible light rain.

Donald Trump delayed higher tariffs on furniture and home goods for one year. The move keeps current taxes but pauses bigger increases. The decision is linked to ongoing trade talks and legal challenges. For now, shoppers may avoid sudden price hikes, but future costs will depend on trade deals, court rulings, and new tariff plans.

Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biels marriage is reportedly under strain, with friends concerned that the relationship is no longer healthy. Sources cite that the pair has been living mostly separate lives, with Biel concentrating on work,companions, and her children, while Timberlake focuses on rebuilding trust after previous mistakes. Public controversies, that includes Timberlakes 2019 apology and 2024 DWI arrest, remain to affect the relationship.

President Trump amplified a New York Post editorial criticizing Vladimir Putin's stance on peace, sharing it without comment. The editorial contrasts Trump's optimism after meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy with a perceived setback following a call with Putin, who alleged Ukrainian drone attacks. The piece argues Putin rebuffed peace overtures, labeling him an untrustworthy figure.

Local body elections will be held across Karnataka this year. This includes polls for five new corporations in Bengaluru. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced the decision. Ticket aspirants are asked to apply by January 15. Funds from applications will build party offices. Elections for Zilla and Taluk Panchayats are also expected soon.

As 2026 nears, Publix makes holiday shopping simple with extended access to everything from fresh fruit and baked goods to party necessities and comfort foods. Customers can find supplies for simple snacks or elaborate New Years treats, while also getting remedies and cleaning supplies following celebrations. Most of the locations stay open on New Years Eve, closing around 9 p.m., and reopen on New Years Day, shutting at 7 p.m.

Giant Eagle stores close early on New Years Day 2026 to let employees celebrate. Stores shut at 5 p.m. and pharmacies at 3 p.m. Hours differ by location across Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Maryland, West Virginia, and Kentucky. Shoppers should check their local store online before visiting. Other grocery chains like Walmart and Kroger have normal or adjusted hours.

2026 promises a thrilling cinematic year filled with suspense, drama, comedy, and epic adventures. With something for every mood, this year offers unforgettable experiences, creative storyline, and thrilling spectacles for moviegoers everywhere.

The NYT Mini Crossword offers a quick, satisfying brain workout with its compact five-by-five grid and clever clues. It's a daily habit for many, providing a fast-paced mental challenge that balances ease and difficulty. Players often seek hints and answers for tricky clues, highlighting its engaging nature.

During his visit to the DRDO headquarters here on its 68th anniversary, he also said the organisation will play a crucial role in the creation of Sudarshan Chakra, and exuded confidence that it will work wholeheartedly to achieve this goal soon.

Macys plans big changes in 2026 to improve shopping. The company will close some stores, upgrade others, add popular brands, and improve online and in-store service. Shoppers may see better experiences but also higher prices on some items. These changes are part of Macys long-term plan to grow and stay strong.

Until the end of January, the lev will remain a legal means of payment alongside the euro. From February 1, the euro will be the sole official currency. The prices will be displayed in both euros and leva until August 8.

Stock market New Year's Day 2026: US stock markets are closed today, January 1, 2026, for New Year's Day. Major exchanges like the NYSE and Nasdaq will not trade. Trading resumes tomorrow, January 2, at regular hours. This closure is a federal holiday observance. Global markets also observe this holiday. Investors should note upcoming holidays like Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

A Hindu businessman in Bangladesh was seriously injured after he was allegedly attacked and set on fire by a mob in Shariatpur district on New Years Eve, according to local media reports. The victim, identified as 50-year-old Khokon Chandra Das, was assaulted with sharp weapons, doused with petrol and set ablaze near Keurbhanga Bazar before managing to escape by jumping into a pond.

New Year's Day 2026 falls on Thursday, January 1. Banks and post offices will be closed. Mail delivery and pickups will not occur. Shipping services like UPS and FedEx will also halt operations. Customers should plan ahead for these closures. Regular services will resume on Friday, January 2.

UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira began 2026 with a surprise personal announcement, confirming a romantic relationship with fellow UFC fighter Tracy Cortez. The news, shared during New Years celebrations, provided a rare glimpse into Pereiras private life and rapidly gained attention across the MMA world. Cortez also acknowledged the relationship on social media, uploading affectionate images that sparked online.

Bitcoin ATM scams 2025: Scammers are exploiting Bitcoin ATMs, causing Americans to lose over $333 million in 2025. This trend shows a clear and constant rise. Authorities are taking action, with one major provider facing legal scrutiny. Experts and organizations are urging for tighter regulations on these machines to protect consumers from this escalating problem.

Social Security cuts may be closer as the trust fund faces money problems. Retirees who depend heavily on monthly checks could see lower payments in coming years. A possible benefit cut could reduce yearly income for many seniors. Lawmakers have not yet agreed on a fix, raising concerns about future retirement security for millions of Americans.

Mumbai Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad unveiled the party's vision for the BMC polls, promising to eradicate corruption and ensure transparent governance. She accused the ruling Mahayuti of mismanaging city funds and services, citing issues like pollution and BEST's financial woes. The Congress pledges to expand BEST buses, provide free health cards, and improve schools.

The Indian Army has declared 2026 as the 'Year of Networking & Data Centricity' to boost connectivity, real-time decision-making, and combat effectiveness. This initiative, driven by indigenous technologies and reforms, aims to create a future-ready force. Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi highlighted this as a key part of the force's decade of transformation.