The Economic Times

Starbucks is developing artificial intelligence tools internally to replace existing software. These new applications could replace systems currently bought from Microsoft and IBM. The coffee chain aims to reduce significant annual spending on software licenses. Some of these AI-powered tools may be implemented by the end of next year. This strategic shift reflects a broader industry trend driven by AI advancements.

India and Australia have launched a Sports Collaboration Roadmap, strengthening their partnership. The Big Bash Cricket League's opening match will be held in Chennai, India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi affirmed that both nations will play and win together. India is also preparing to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030. Furthermore, the country is actively pursuing its bid to host the Olympic Games in 2036.

France secured a World Cup semi-final spot after defeating Morocco 2-0. Kylian Mbappe scored a stunning goal, and Ousmane Dembele added another. Mbappe also reached twenty World Cup appearances at twenty-seven years old. He is now the tournament's joint top scorer with eight goals. France awaits a semi-final match against Belgium or Spain.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death has exposed Iran's profound societal divisions. Supporters lionized him as a defender of clerical rule and the Islamic Republic. Decades of repression and economic hardship fuel widespread discontent among many citizens. Protests, met with crackdowns, have intensified calls for the regime's overthrow. The nation faces uncertainty as factions vie to shape its future direction.

Yogini Ekadashi in 2026 falls on July 10 and 11, marking a significant Hindu observance. This fast is believed to cleanse past sins and negative karma for devotees. The observance involves specific rituals and fasting guidelines for spiritual growth and healing. Parana timings are provided for Smarta and Vaishnava traditions to break the fast. Observing this vrat is considered highly meritorious and beneficial for well-being.

A US probe found foreign aircraft imports pose national security risks. However, the administration will not impose new tariffs on these goods. The report cited reliance on foreign supply chains and quality control issues. US President Trump directed negotiations to address industry impacts and may act later. The aviation sector previously warned of tariffs' negative consequences.

Kylian Mbappe achieved new World Cup milestones and led France to victory. He became the youngest player with twenty World Cup appearances and the fastest to score twenty goals. Mbappe's eighth goal of the tournament secured a two-nil win against Morocco. This victory advances France to the semi-finals and ends Morocco's impressive run. France now prepares for their next match against either Spain or Belgium.

France secured a two-nil victory over Morocco in their World Cup quarter-final match. Kylian Mbappe scored a superb goal after missing an earlier penalty kick. Ousmane Dembele added a second goal for France six minutes later. This win propels France into the World Cup semi-finals against Belgium or Spain. The French team aims to reach three consecutive World Cup finals.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was buried in Iran's holiest shrine after massive funeral events. His successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, has not appeared publicly since the war began. Crowds chanted slogans demanding revenge against US President Donald Trump for the leader's death. Khamenei's 37-year rule concluded amidst internal challenges and economic woes. The burial marks the end of a significant era for the Islamic Republic.

United States officials stated no fresh strikes occurred while diplomatic talks continue. Iran launched attacks on US military sites in Gulf states on Thursday. These strikes were retaliation for earlier US attacks on Iranian military infrastructure. The recent exchanges further strained a fragile three-week-old ceasefire. Both sides stressed the need to prevent further military escalation and revive diplomacy.

A powerful El Nino event has emerged across the Pacific Ocean. This developing weather pattern is expected to be one of the strongest in decades. Sea surface temperatures have risen significantly in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. There is an eighty-one percent chance of a very strong El Nino developing. This event ranks among the largest in the historical record going back to nineteen fifty.

Villagers in Bettiah gheraoed a forest department team on Thursday. They set ablaze one earthmover and damaged another during an anti-encroachment drive. Villagers claimed they had cultivated the land for many years. They stated they were not informed about the forest department's drive. Tension escalated after sugarcane crops were allegedly damaged during the operation.

Charlemagne's wisdom emphasizes action over mere knowledge for true success. He believed wise action requires understanding and learning from experience. Charlemagne united Europe and fostered education, demonstrating knowledge guiding societal improvement. Today, information is abundant, yet acting on known truths remains a challenge. Applying this lesson daily involves acting on what you already know.

In separate submissions to the USTR as part of the ongoing public hearing on the probe (July 7-9), industry bodies said the existing India-US Trade Policy Forum should be used to address concerns instead of imposing tariffs.

J&K Police conducted raids across Baramulla district on Thursday. These searches were part of an investigation under the UAPA and BNS laws. Four mobile phones and a laptop were seized for forensic examination. Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth visited forward areas in Poonch district. He reviewed the security situation amid heightened Amarnath Yatra measures.

India suffered another defeat in England, losing the fourth T20I by nine wickets. Skipper Shreyas Iyer scored an unbeaten 80 to help India reach 158. England's Harry Brooks and Phil Salt then chased the target with ease. They achieved the victory in just 13.5 overs. This loss gives England an unassailable 3-0 lead.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia highlighted Tripura as a promising investment destination. He emphasized the Northeast's role as an engine for India's growth. Tripura stands at the intersection of connectivity, commerce, and opportunity for investors. Abundant natural resources and a skilled workforce offer significant manufacturing potential. India's infrastructure development positions Tripura as a gateway to Southeast Asia.

Manipur government employees continue their cease-work strike, which has now entered its ninth day. This prolonged agitation has severely disrupted administrative functions across the state government offices. Employees are demanding several changes, including pension scheme restoration and retirement age increases. The strike has resulted in an estimated productive loss of Rs1.66 crore daily. Officials are urging an early resolution to minimize further governance and economic activity disruptio

Japanese Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of Among flowers, the cherry blossom. Among people, the warrior. The saying reflects how beauty, excellence, and admirable qualities are viewed through cultural values and human experience. It suggests that the cherry blossom represents the highest form of natural beauty, while the warrior symbolizes courage, discipline, honor, and inner strength among people.

Today's Quote of the Day by Hermann Hesse offers timeless wisdom on solitude, self-discovery, and inner peace. The Nobel Prize-winning author explains why quiet reflection builds lasting emotional strength. His words feel especially relevant in today's world of social media, constant notifications, and mental overload. Instead of escaping life, Hesse encourages finding calm within yourself first.

Shah said India's border extends 15,000 km through 18 states and UTs and asked the forces to take three pledges - secured border, prosperous border region and a vigilant society.

The BJP candidate filed nomination papers for the Bankipur assembly bypoll on Thursday. Senior NDA leaders attended the nomination event and addressed a public meeting. Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary criticized Prashant Kishor for seeking votes without local connection. JDU leader Sanjay Jha cautioned workers about lower polling percentages in bypolls. The BJP has historically held this seat with significant vote share since 1995.

Maharashtra's chief minister has unveiled a seven-member committee tasked with the implementation of a uniform civil code. The panel will be led by retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Desai and is expected to deliver its report within seven months.

The Asian Development Bank has lowered India's FY27 growth forecast to 6.6 percent. Higher crude oil prices and transportation costs will impact consumer sentiment and demand. The bank retained its FY28 growth forecast at 7.3 percent, expecting global conditions to improve. Inflation forecast for FY27 is raised to 5.2 percent due to oil and food prices. Policy measures and public capital expenditure will support India's economic momentum.

President Trump reiterated his claim of resolving the India-Pakistan conflict. He stated that eleven aircraft were shot down during the hostilities. Trump believes he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for settling eight wars. India has consistently denied any third-party intervention in its affairs. The President asserted the conflict was on the verge of becoming nuclear.

S&P Global Ratings downgraded Harley-Davidson's credit to junk status on Wednesday. The company's strategy to sell lower-cost motorcycles will pressure profitability for some time. Analysts estimate margins will be around five to six percent in 2026. Restructuring expenses and tariff costs also face near-term profitability pressures.

The Bombay High Court has temporarily restrained Hamon Cooling Systems from using the 'Hamon' trademark. John Cockerill Hamon SA established a prima facie case for owning the brand after a cross-border insolvency process. The court found no merit in the defendant's claims of acquiescence and delay. The defendants are derivative users whose authority to use the marks has expired.

Life lesson by Mother Teresa today: Mother Teresa taught that small acts of kindness hold immense power. Genuine love, she believed, is shown through everyday compassionate actions. She founded the Missionaries of Charity to serve the poor in India. Mother Teresa received the Nobel Peace Prize for her humanitarian work.

Google is appealing a Delhi High Court ruling concerning trademark infringement in its advertising program. The company argues the judgment deviates from established legal precedents regarding keyword advertising practices. A division bench will likely hear Google's appeal against the single judge's decision. The court had previously ordered Google to pay damages to Hindware for trademark misuse.

Archaeologists have stumbled upon ancient wolf remains on a remote island in Sweden, linking back to a time between three thousand and five thousand years ago. The discovery has led researchers to propose that humans possibly brought these wolves over by boat. Notably, the wolves' diet consisted largely of marine protein, indicating intriguing interactions between the two species in prehistoric times.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Australian businesses to invest in India's growing economy. He highlighted opportunities in manufacturing, clean energy, and advanced technologies for collaboration. Modi also called for the swift finalization of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement. He met with Australian CEOs and business leaders to foster stronger economic ties. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined Modi at a diaspora event in Melbourne.

Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav chaired key meetings on wildlife conservation issues. Decisions were made regarding tiger and Great Indian Bustard conservation efforts. Two national frameworks were released to aid wildlife rescue and reserve assessments. The 6th Management Effectiveness Evaluation cycle for tiger reserves was launched. Several project clearances were also granted during these important discussions.

Gujarat's new Data Centre Policy aims to attract significant AI investments. The state seeks to establish itself as India's premier data centre hub. Comprehensive fiscal and non-fiscal incentives are offered to boost competitiveness. These include subsidies on capital, interest, and power tariffs for businesses.

Spanish Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of He who distributes ends up with the best part. The saying reflects how generosity, responsibility, and the act of sharing can often bring unexpected rewards. It suggests that people who take the initiative to distribute resources, opportunities, or support may gain valuable benefits through trust, respect, and stronger relationships. The proverb emphasizes that giving does not always mean losing; instead, those who contribute to others often r

West Bengal orders CID and judicial probes into the Baruipur police encounter. One accused, Prabhas Mondal, died during a police operation Tuesday night. Police claim Mondal attempted to escape and snatch a firearm. Forty additional arrests were made for lynching and related violence. The CID has now taken over the investigation into Mondal's death.

Prime Minister Modi's current tour is a major diplomatic and strategic success for India. Indonesia will procure BrahMos missiles, marking India's largest defense export deal. Agreements on critical minerals will bolster India's semiconductor and EV ambitions. Joint development of Sabang Port enhances India's Indo-Pacific strategic presence. These outcomes reflect India's expanding regional strategic footprint.

India seeks to lead global innovation and enterprise development in the coming decade. The finance minister outlined a five-point strategy to achieve this ambitious goal. Companies must move up the value chain and create significant intellectual property. Expanding GCCs into tier-two and tier-three cities is also a key objective. Industry will collaborate with governments to foster this technological transformation.

DMK petitioned a Supreme Court panel regarding CM Vijay's upcoming Karur visit. The party seeks to prevent influence on witnesses in the 2025 stampede probe. CM Vijay plans to meet victim families and distribute government orders on July 10. The representation requests safeguarding witnesses from any potential tampering. CBI and Chief Secretary are asked to take adequate protective measures.

The Calcutta High Court allowed conditional access to Trinamool Congress bank accounts. Funds can be withdrawn for daily expenses and legal matters. Two signatories will draw money by signing cheques with observer counter-signatures. A retired justice was appointed to monitor all fund withdrawals. Restrictions were imposed after complaints about potential fund misuse.

India and Afghanistan held a Joint Committee Meeting to strengthen their development partnership. The two nations reviewed cooperation across humanitarian aid, food security, and trade. India reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Afghan people's welfare and development needs. Afghanistan appreciated India's sustained support and cooperation in various important sectors. A Joint Working Group will now prepare a long-term roadmap for agricultural cooperation.

Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran stressed India's need to lead in critical technologies. He advocated for government and industry collaboration to harness artificial intelligence's potential. Nageswaran highlighted AI's dual capacity for both constructive and disruptive impacts on businesses. He emphasized that AI creates new job opportunities while transforming routine tasks. India must skill its population to actively shape and benefit from technological advancements.

Digital IDs of former Ayodhya temple officials have been deactivated by the trust. This action aims to curb alleged irregularities in issuing preferential entry passes. The move follows an ongoing investigation into financial irregularities at the Ram temple. Some associates of former officials are also under scrutiny for alleged illegal pass rackets. The Special Investigation Team is continuing its probe into the matter.