The Economic Times News

Bitcoin price today: Bitcoin's rally faltered, dipping below $88,000 after a brief surge past $90,000. This pullback impacted major altcoins, mirroring weakness in US stock futures. Traders reduced leveraged positions as Bitcoin futures open interest declined. Analysts suggest year-end tax harvesting may be contributing to selling pressure, though the long-term outlook remains positive.

Anthony Joshua has been injured in the car crash in Nigeria. Local police has launch an investigation into the matter.

INSV Kaundinya, an engineless Indian Navy vessel built using ancient stitched-ship techniques, has set sail from Gujarat to Oman. This maiden voyage retraces historic maritime routes, symbolizing India's rich seafaring traditions and its ancient role as a maritime nation. The project revives indigenous knowledge and highlights India's deep connection with the Indian Ocean.

Indian exports to Australia will become duty-free for all product categories starting January 1, 2026. This move follows an interim trade pact implemented in December 2022. Indian exports have already seen an 8 percent rise in 2024-25. This development promises new opportunities for India's labour-intensive sectors and strengthens supply chains.

The Punjab Congress will initiate a statewide mass movement starting January 8 from Gurdaspur. This action aims to protect the MGNREGA scheme. State unit chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring announced the plan, which follows press conferences across Punjab. The party has also raised this issue nationally, highlighting concerns about a new scheme replacing MGNREGA.

In a bold legislative maneuver, Russia has introduced a new law that enables the country to sidestep judgments issued by foreign and international courts regarding criminal issues. This decision arrives as Ukraine and European organizations intensify their calls for accountability for Russian officials amid the ongoing crisis.

Gold rose 72 per cent this year, rallying on factors such as softer U.S. monetary policy, dollar weakness, geopolitical friction and robust central bank purchases.

Millions of US workers will earn more money starting January 1 as new minimum wage laws take effect. States and cities across the country are raising pay to help workers manage rising living costs. Some increases are automatic, while others follow voter-approved plans. More wage hikes are also scheduled later in 2026.

The government has granted a one-year exemption from mandatory quality control for certain imported copper products, specifically for actual users. This decision, made in consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards, aims to facilitate the import of specialized copper for various sectors. Importers must adhere to specific conditions, including informing BIS and submitting an indigenisation plan.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused the Congress of treating Bangladeshi infiltrators as a vote bank. He promised to identify and deport all illegal immigrants from Assam and across India. Shah highlighted the BJP government's focus on Assam's development and cultural preservation. He contrasted the BJP's actions with the Congress's perceived inaction.

Arnold Schwarzeneggers rise from champion bodybuilder to Hollywood legend started in the 1970s and led to a profession covering decades of blockbuster victories. With movies grossing over $5.2 billion worldwide, the former California governor has established a fortune estimated around $1.2 billion. Following his last significant role in Terminator: Dark Fate in 2019, fans are highly anticipating his comeback in The Man with the Bag, where he plays Santa Claus.

Today's Wordle #1654, a common food-related term, proved accessible for players. The New York Times' popular daily puzzle, known for its simple mechanics and engaging feedback, continues to captivate millions. The answer aligns with the game's tendency to feature familiar vocabulary, making it a straightforward challenge for most.

The Supreme Court has stayed a Delhi High Court order that suspended the life sentence and granted bail to Kuldeep Sengar in the Unnao rape case. The survivor expressed satisfaction and faith in the justice system, vowing to continue her fight. Sengar's daughters appealed for impartial justice, while political parties reacted to the development.

Delhi government is installing anti-smog guns at bus terminals to fight dust pollution. Kashmere Gate bus terminal will be the first to get these devices. Eight roof-mounted guns will spray water up to 30 meters. This initiative expands anti-pollution measures to busy transport hubs. Over 150 anti-smog guns are already on buildings.

Quote of the Day: Sigmund Freud's profound quote, 'One day, in retrospect, the years of struggle will strike you as the most beautiful,' offers a unique perspective on hardship. It suggests that while painful in the moment, struggles can later reveal their deepest meaning, forging resilience and self-knowledge. This insight encourages reflection over immediate escape from discomfort, highlighting growth's often arduous path.

Silver price today: Silver prices experienced a sharp decline on Monday after reaching record highs above $80 an ounce. Investors took profits, and reduced geopolitical tensions lessened demand for safe-haven assets. Gold, platinum, and palladium also saw losses. Despite the pullback, precious metals have shown strong gains this year, with silver significantly outperforming gold.

Ukraine's President Zelenskyy revealed the U.S. is offering 15-year security guarantees as part of a peace plan, though he prefers a longer commitment. U.S. President Trump met with Zelenskyy, stating Ukraine and Russia are nearing a settlement. Key issues like troop withdrawal and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant remain unresolved, with negotiations potentially collapsing.

A US House committee report reveals major semiconductor equipment firms from the US, Netherlands, and Japan are significantly boosting China's chip industry. This expansion is fueling China's military ambitions and poses serious national security risks. The committee urges aligned export controls and tighter restrictions on China's access to critical technology.

US Charge d'Affaires Tracey Ann Jacobson met with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. They discussed upcoming elections and bilateral relations. The US official praised labor reforms. Discussions also covered Rohingya humanitarian aid. Yunus thanked Jacobson for her work during a difficult period for Bangladesh.

Brigitte Bardot passed away at 91 on December 28 at her Saint Tropez home following repeated hospitalizations. A global movie legend of the 1950s and 1960s, she starred in And God Created Woman, The Truth, and Viva Maria!, receiving a BAFTA nod. In 1973, she stepped away from acting to concentrate on animal rights, stating, I gave my youth and beauty to men; I give my wisdom and experience to animals.

Delhi government has formed an expert committee to address the city's air pollution. This committee is part of a five-pronged strategy focusing on innovation and scientific management. An implementation committee is also established for faster action. Vehicular pollution is a key focus with road infrastructure upgrades underway. The city's air quality has worsened, entering the 'severe' category.

Millions of Americans may receive a second SSI or VA payment in December due to a schedule change. Veterans and Social Security recipients could see extra money before year-end. The early payment helps during the costly holiday season and supports people who depend on monthly government benefits, including disabled veterans and low-income individuals.

India is enhancing its battlefield concealment capabilities. New camouflage and deception technologies have been transferred to the Indian Army. These systems aim to counter advanced threats from missiles, drones, and sensor surveillance. The move follows recent conflicts that highlighted vulnerabilities. These advancements will improve troop and equipment survivability on modern battlefields.

Delhi faces a persistent air pollution crisis. The government has launched cloud-seeding trials and deployed anti-smog guns. A comprehensive action plan targets dust, vehicle emissions, and waste burning. New monitoring stations are planned. Efforts are underway to clear garbage dumps and increase green cover. Air quality remains a major concern.

UPSSC 2026: The UPSSSC is now accepting applications for 7,994 Lekhpal positions. This recruitment drive follows a revision in category-wise vacancies after intervention from the Chief Minister. Applications open today and close on January 28, 2026. Candidates need to have passed Class 12 and qualified the UPSSSC PET 2025. The selection process includes a written exam and document verification.

Today's word of the day 'Saudade' captures a deep emotional longing that blends loss, love, memory, and hope. This story explores its Portuguese origins, pronunciation, meaning, and why it remains famously untranslatable. It explains how saudade names a feeling English often describes only through many words.

For over two decades, the Supreme Court has consistently protected the Aravalis, banning mining and groundwater extraction. Despite repeated PMO interventions to uphold environmental norms against attempts to relax restrictions, recent reports and policy shifts suggest potential threats to these hard-won safeguards.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has called on the people of Assam to elect a government in the upcoming assembly polls that will curb infiltration and foster development. He highlighted the progress made under the BJP's decade-long rule in the state and the Narendra Modi government's eleven years at the Centre.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Saturday his country is in a full-scale war with the U.S., Israel and Europe ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu s meeting Monday with U.S. President Donald Trump.

The US economy is set for a strong 2026. President Donald Trump's tax cuts and increased AI investments will boost growth. The Federal Reserve is expected to lower interest rates. This will lead to more consumer spending and business investment. However, a weakening job market and high inflation remain concerns.

India's Defence Acquisition Council has approved proposals worth approximately Rs 79,000 crore. These decisions aim to significantly boost the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The procurements include advanced weaponry and surveillance systems. This move underscores India's commitment to strengthening its defence preparedness and ensuring national security.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pointed out a contradiction. He said Russian President Vladimir Putin tells US President Donald Trump he wants to end the war. However, Putin's public messages and actions show a desire to continue fighting. Russia continues missile strikes and celebrates destruction. Zelensky believes these actions do not match Putin's peaceful words to the US leader.

Rakhi Jadhav, Nationalist Congress Party (SP) Mumbai president, has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. This move comes just before the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. Jadhav is expected to contest from Ghatkopar on a BJP ticket. Her departure is a setback for NCP (SP) as alliance talks were ongoing. This development widens cracks within the party during the crucial election period.

India is seeking the extradition of Hussain Mohammed Shattaf from the United Arab Emirates. Shattaf is wanted for the 2006 murder of Captain Manmohan Singh Virdi in Lonavala. He allegedly fled India and used forged documents to reside in the UAE. The Ministry of External Affairs has forwarded the extradition request. India is committed to bringing back wanted criminals.

A new study from Keele University and the University of Alabama reveals that swearing isn't just a way to vent frustration. When people curse during physically demanding tasks, they actually perform better by shedding mental hesitation and self-doubt, unlocking a psychological state that lets them tap into their full capacity.

Quote of the Day Motivation: Alfred Nobel, inventor of dynamite, established the Nobel Prizes, celebrating achievement and reflecting on the impact of work. His enduring quote, 'Hope is the only thing stronger than fear,' underscores the power of optimism in driving innovation and positive change, even amidst controversy and potential destruction. This message remains vital for navigating challenges and inspiring responsible action.

A 34-year legal battle for ITDC employee D K Sharma concluded with the Supreme Court ruling in his family's favor, awarding 50% of his back wages. Sharma, terminated in 1991, passed away last year before the final verdict. The court acknowledged his claim of not being gainfully employed, upholding a High Court single bench's decision.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled Guwahati's 'Jyoti-Bishnu Antarjatik Kala Mandir', the North East's largest auditorium, on Monday. This Rs 291 crore facility boasts a 5,000-spectator capacity, convention centre, and advanced amenities, all powered by solar energy. Shah will also honor 1,000 beneficiaries of a heart disease program at the venue.

Special Rolls Observer C Murugan faced an attack and gherao in Magrahat, South 24 Parganas. His vehicle's lock was broken as locals, primarily women, protested. Murugan reported the incident to the Chief Electoral Officer. The protests occurred during the Bengal SIR hearing phase. Similar disruptions were reported in other districts. The hearing process was stalled multiple times.

A troop of monkeys in Odisha's Kendrapara district displayed remarkable unity by leaping into a river to rescue one of their own from a crocodile's attack. The coordinated group effort overwhelmed the predator, forcing it to retreat and allowing the injured monkey to escape to safety.