The Economic Times News

The Trump administration is demanding the International Criminal Court change its founding document. This move aims to prevent future investigations into President Trump and his top officials. The US is threatening further sanctions on the court if these demands are not met. This action escalates a long-standing US campaign against the ICC, which is seen as infringing on national sovereignty.

A murder conviction against former Jetstar pilot Greg Lynn has been overturned. The court cited serious trial irregularities. Lynn was convicted of murdering Carol Clay in 2020. He was acquitted of murdering Russell Hill. A retrial for Clay's murder is now mandated. Lynn faces a new bail hearing in January.

Former US President Donald Trump has intensified his criticism of Ukraine. He stated President Volodymyr Zelenskyy must be realistic about the ongoing war. Trump also questioned when Ukraine will hold its next elections. European leaders are reportedly seeking a joint meeting with both the US and Ukraine soon.

Delhi Police seized demonetised currency worth crores in Wazirpur. Old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes were found in multiple bags. Several individuals were detained. Two vehicles used for transport were impounded. The origin of the cash and the network involved are under investigation. Further details are awaited.

US representatives express concern over President Trump's policies impacting India. They highlight damage to the US-India partnership and rising trade barriers. Tariffs on Indian goods and potential new tariffs on rice exports are causing strain. Negotiations between the two nations face challenges, risking further trade friction.

Dhruva Jaishankar told US lawmakers that renewed American engagement with Pakistan's military poses challenges for India-US ties. His remarks came as Washington announced major investments in Pakistan, drew praise from Islamabad, and revived diplomatic and security concerns for India amid recent tensions.

US Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove warned that growing tariffs, visa hikes and political tensions are damaging India-US ties. She argued that President Donald Trump risks becoming he president who lost India, citing stalled engagement, cancelled summits and declining trust between Washington and New Delhi.

Delhi's air quality remains 'very poor' with AQI exceeding 300 in several areas, as a thin layer of smog blankets the national capital. This persistent pollution continues to affect citizens despite a slight dip in North India's temperatures. Anand Vihar and Delhi Cantonment recorded an AQI of 302.

Bill Gates, one of the most well-known philanthropists and programmer, often shares words of wisdom which help people navigate people. The Microsoft co-founder in one of his quotes emphasise that it is okay to celebrate success but one should also pay attention to failure. The key is not to fear failure but to face it with curiosity, he says.

US officials are considering sanctions against the UN Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA. This move follows accusations of links to Hamas. The agency provides vital aid in Gaza and other regions. Such sanctions could disrupt relief efforts. Many within the State Department have voiced concerns about the potential impact.

Delhi Police DIU, with Castrol officials, busted an illegal factory in Alipur. The unit was manufacturing and supplying fake Castrol oil across Delhi for six months. Authorities seized a large quantity of finished and packaged infringed products, including oil, empty bottles, and packaging materials. Three individuals have been identified as running the operation.

US President Donald Trump discussed Ukraine war peace proposals with European leaders. President Zelenskyy is expected to present new peace plans to US negotiators. European allies are supporting Zelenskyy's efforts for a fair settlement. Military aid for Ukraine has seen a decline this year. Trump's administration seeks improved ties with Russia.

The Trump administration is establishing a new militarized zone in California along the border with Mexico. This move aims to bolster border security operations. The Department of Interior is transferring jurisdiction to the Navy. This expands a strategy previously implemented in other border states. The designation allows troops to apprehend individuals accused of trespassing.

US trade representative Jamieson Greer will meet his Indonesian counterpart to discuss a trade deal. An agreement reached in July is reportedly at risk. Greer expressed interest in finalizing the deal, stating it benefits both nations. Indonesian officials confirmed ongoing talks, noting normal negotiation dynamics. The proposed agreement includes tariff eliminations and barrier removals.

Asian buyers are seeking significant price cuts for Venezuelan oil. This is driven by a surplus of sanctioned crude from Russia and Iran. Increased U.S. military activity near Venezuela also raises concerns for shippers. These factors are forcing Venezuela's state oil company to offer its heavy crude at much lower prices. China, a major buyer, is receiving these discounted offers.

The US government has moved to drop its case against a former Fox broadcasting executive involved in the FIFA corruption scandal that plunged the world's footballing body into crisis. The case was one of several to emerge from a sweeping 2015 corruption probe by the US Department of Justice (DOJ), which ultimately led to the downfall of then-FIFA president Sepp Blatter.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is facing a citizen-led recall effort. This is the second time in Alberta's history a premier has faced such a challenge. Petitions are also targeting other United Conservative Party members. Voters have three months to gather signatures. A recall vote could lead to a byelection before the next general election in 2027.

Weather in Hyderabad: Though the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted clear skies for Hyderabad on Thursday, the weather department has warned of a cold wave in Telangana. The temperatures in Hyderabad and other districts of Hyderabad are expected to fall further in the coming days amid the cold wave prediction, the IMD warned.

Oil firms bid over $300 million for drilling rights in the Gulf of Mexico. This marks the start of 30 planned sales to boost U.S. fossil fuel output. The move follows recent announcements for new drilling off Florida and California. Environmentalists express concerns about potential oil spills and harm to marine life.

Congress is pushing for tougher measures against China. A defense bill proposes blocking US investments in sensitive Chinese tech sectors. It also aims to reduce reliance on Chinese biotech firms. Support for Taiwan is set to increase significantly. These congressional actions signal a long-term competitive approach towards Beijing, diverging from the White House's current trade-focused strategy.

China's economy showed strength in the third quarter of 2025. Year-to-date GDP growth reached 5.2 percent. Full-year growth is projected at 4.9 percent. For 2026, the forecast is 4.4 percent. Government measures and stable trade policies are expected to boost investment and exports.

Mexico's Senate has greenlit significant tariff increases, potentially reaching 50%, on imports from China and other Asian nations starting in 2026. This move, aimed at strengthening domestic industries, will impact goods like autos, textiles, and steel from countries without trade agreements. Business groups and affected governments have voiced their opposition to the new duties.

IPL 2026 auction uncapped players: As the IPL 2026 mini auction approaches, several uncapped Indian players are drawing significant attention following strong performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Pacers Auqib Nabi Dar and Ashok Sharma, along with dynamic batters Kartik Sharma, Tushar Raheja, and Anmolpreet Singh, are poised to trigger competitive bidding due to their recent form and valuable skill sets.

Ajay Gupta, an owner of the Arpora nightclub where a fire killed 25 people, has been brought to Goa. He faces charges in the tragic incident. Co-owners Gaurav and Saurav Luthra have fled to Thailand. Authorities are pursuing them. An inquiry report is expected soon. Compensation is being disbursed to victims' families. Safety audits are underway at entertainment venues.

Coca-Cola has appointed Henrique Braun as its new Chief Executive Officer. He takes over from James Quincey, who will become executive chairman. This leadership change comes as the company navigates evolving consumer preferences for healthier and more affordable drinks. Braun's appointment is effective March 31. He aims to build on existing momentum and unlock future growth.

The Election Commission of India has extended the deadline for updating electoral rolls in West Bengal. The final publication is now set for February 14, 2026. This comes as the Supreme Court has issued a notice regarding the safety of Booth Level Officers conducting the intensive revision.

The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a massive defense bill. This legislation authorizes a record $901 billion for military spending. It also includes significant military assistance for Ukraine. The bill is now heading to the Senate for approval. This marks a strong commitment to Europe's defense. The measure also aims to improve troop welfare.

China has issued new export licenses for rare-earth magnets to suppliers of US automaker Ford Motor. This move aims to boost shipments and reduce shortages of vital components. The general licenses were agreed upon after a meeting between Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump. This development is expected to streamline supply chains for some companies.

December's PS Plus Game Catalog additions are here, featuring Assassin's Creed Mirage and the unique skateboarding sim Skate Story. Subscribers can also enjoy Granblue Fantasy: Relink, Cat Quest III, and more. This lineup offers a diverse range of genres for both PS4 and PS5 players, with Skate Story already available and other titles launching December 16.

America has seized a large oil tanker near Venezuela. President Donald Trump confirmed the action. This move escalates tensions with Caracas. Oil prices saw a rise following the news. The tanker is believed to be the Skipper. This is the first known seizure of an oil tanker by the US in the region.

Kelly Osbourne has hit back at online trolls criticizing her dramatic weight loss. She stated her father, Ozzy Osbourne's, recent death has made it difficult to eat. Her mother, Sharon Osbourne, defended Kelly, calling critics unhappy and jealous. Kelly previously addressed speculation about using Ozempic, emphasizing her grief.

Senator Joni Ernst is urging the Social Security Administration to improve its processes for preventing payments to deceased individuals. A recent watchdog review uncovered over $186 million in payments made to dead people, with relatives often pocketing the funds for years undetected. Ernst advocates for stronger safeguards to stop this fraud and protect taxpayer dollars.

U.S Fed's rate cut on Wednesday reduced the rate by a quarter-point to about 3.6%, the lowest it has been in nearly three years. Lower rates from the Fed can bring down borrowing costs for mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards over time, though market forces can also affect those rates.

In-N-Out Burger has removed the number 67 from its ordering system after a viral slang trend caused disturbances. Teens, particularly Gen Alpha, swarmed restaurants when order number 67 was called, reacting to the phrase six seven originating from a rap song. The chain also removed 69 due to similar reasons.

Americans are being asked to check their bank accounts as Section 8 landlord payments begin after a short delay. The program helps families and seniors pay rent by sending part of the payment to landlords. Housing agencies say the money is now ready, and landlords should receive around $1,500 depending on the home. More support programs are also helping households.

U.S treasury yields extended decline after FOMC policy announcement; yield on 10-year treasury notes were last down 3.5 basis points at 4.151 per cent.

Jeff Garcia, the voice behind Sheen Estevez in 'Jimmy Neutron,' has passed away at 50. Garcia died after being taken off life support. He had been battling multiple medical issues, including a brain aneurysm and a stroke. His health declined further with pneumonia and a collapsed lung. Garcia was also a standup comedian who inspired young artists.

The government has no plans to revise PM-KUSUM subsidies, with the scheme's sunset date approaching. Renewable energy tenders issued since April 2023 have seen no cancellations, and a parliamentary panel seeks to expedite coal mining clearances. Nuclear power expansion faces tech and resource challenges, while Indian Railways deploys anti-bot solutions for online ticket bookings.

U.S. Federal Reserve is ending 2025 with a bang, delivering another rate cut for consumers amid an uncertain year for the economy.

Mortgage rates are gradually declining after the Feds 25-bps cut, its third move of 2025. The federal funds rate is now 3.50%3.75%. Thirty-year mortgage rates hold near 6.19%6.30, while refinance rates sit around 6.52. Markets remain volatile, and the next shift could push rates sharply up or down.

A massive fire has engulfed the Nevsky Market in Saint Petersburg, Russia, with flames spreading across over 1,500 square meters. Videos show thick black smoke billowing into the night sky as approximately 30 fire engines battle the blaze. Reports indicate at least two injuries, and the cause of the fire is currently unknown.