The Economic Times

AI companies convertible bonds: The US convertible bond market is experiencing a record start in 2026, largely propelled by AI companies. Nearly $13.6 billion has been raised by 18 firms, a significant jump from last year. Experts anticipate continued strong activity, with growth companies favoring these bonds for flexible financing. Market volatility also presents opportunities for investors.

A Tampa Bay operations manager faced job elimination shortly after a promotion. He shared his situation on Reddit seeking guidance. The post resonated with many professionals. Advice poured in on immediate steps like unemployment benefits and food banks. Suggestions also focused on local job markets and networking. The community offered support and reassurance during this challenging time.

Nancy Guthrie DNA evidence update: A third biological sample recovered from inside her Tucson home does not match the victim, and Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos now says we believe this may be our suspect. Two prior CODIS submissions failed to return matches. FBI genetic genealogy testing is now underway. Walmart purchase records extend beyond Tucson. The $100,000 federal reward remains unclaimed. No arrest has been made in 21 days.

Twenty suspects are now the focus as the FBI identifies names and photos in the Nancy Guthrie disappearance. Agents are canvassing gun shops with photo packets to find the owner of a black Ozark Trail backpack. DNA evidence from a recovered glove is undergoing genetic genealogy testing. Over 14,500 search hours and a $200,000 reward drive this high-stakes Tucson case. Savannah Guthries family is cleared as federal searches expand.

Yemeles is a very old English word from Germanic roots that people do not use anymore today. It was last seen in Middle English time. There is also a different name called Yemele from Yoruba culture in Africa. This name means honor and royalty and shows respect, dignity, and strong cultural traditions of the Yoruba people.

164 million tax returns are expected before the April 15, 2026 tax deadline. The IRS is still handling nearly 2 million unresolved cases. Staffing is down 27%. IRS refund delays in 2026 are likely. Paper tax returns face longer IRS processing times. Amended returns may stall. Identity verification can freeze refunds. EITC and Child Tax Credit refunds cannot be issued before mid-February. E-file and direct deposit remain fastest.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos believes Nancy Guthrie, 84, was a victim of targeted kidnapping near her Tucson home. Law enforcement is actively searching, with evidence including DNA analysis and surveillance footage of a potential suspect. Rewards for information now exceed $200,000.

Skywatchers have a rare opportunity to witness a rare six-planet alignment on February 28, 2026. Mercury, Venus, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus, and Jupiter will appear in a line shortly after sunset. While four planets can be watched with the naked eye, Uranus and Neptune require binoculars or a telescope. NASA highlights that planets must be sufficiently above the horizon for optimal viewing, as lower positions are obscured by Earths atmosphere and obstacles.

Jeffrey Immelts quote, Leadership is an intense journey into yourself... Every morning, I look in the mirror and say, 'I could have done three things better yesterday' highlights the significance of self-reflection in leadership. It refers to daily accountability and personal growth. Immelts career, spanning major corporate transformations and global challenges, offers weight to his perspective.

Bitcoin BTC USD price prediction: Eric Trump expressed strong confidence in Bitcoin at the World Financial Forum, calling it a top-performing asset class. He believes Bitcoin could reach $1 million, citing its significant past growth and potential upside, despite acknowledging its inherent volatility. Trump remains highly bullish on the cryptocurrency's future.

The International Monetary Fund will present its U.S. economic policy review on February 25. This report will examine fiscal, trade, and current account deficits. It will also assess the dollar's value. The IMF views the dollar as central to the global monetary system. The review follows consultations with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other Trump administration officials.

Many job seekers are now trying AI interview tools to feel more confident during interviews. These tools can help people structure answers, remember points, and reduce stress. But they cannot replace real preparation or strong knowledge. Experts say candidates still need good basics, practice, and understanding because AI tools can only give small support, not full success.

The United States has paid USD 160 million towards its substantial UN dues. This payment is for the UN's regular budget. The UN had warned of financial collapse if member nations did not pay. The US owes billions to the UN's regular and peacekeeping budgets. This comes as President Trump convenes a new peace initiative.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed concerns over the recent India-US trade deal. He stated the agreement will adversely affect farmers in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Apple, almond, and walnut growers are expected to face significant consequences. Sukhu highlighted that almond prices have already seen a decline due to such trade agreements.

Klarna shares crashed 26% after $26 million Q4 loss. One year ago, it earned $40 million profit. Revenue hit $1.08 billion a record high. But Wall Street expected near-zero losses. Q1 revenue guidance missed analyst targets. GMV growth is slowing. New installment loans hurt short-term profits. Morgan Stanley cut its price target. Lock-up expiration threatens more selling. BNPL stock outlook remains uncertain.

Discover the word 'susurration', a beautiful term for soft, whispering sounds. It captures the gentle rustle of leaves or quiet murmurs. This word adds depth to language, creating atmosphere in stories and nature writing. It reminds us that subtle sounds hold significance. Experience the world through its quietest noises.

Russian Urals oil faces its largest discount in three years from Baltic ports. Western sanctions are the cause. This impacts Russia's budget significantly. Oil and gas revenue has fallen. Urals oil prices are dropping. Exports to India have declined. Rising freight costs also affect pricing. This situation is developing.

The Supreme Court has clarified insolvency proceedings. The National Company Law Tribunal only needs to confirm a debt default to admit a case. It does not need to examine if the company can pay. This ruling upholds the admission of Hiranmaye Energy into insolvency. REC's plea was accepted for 218 crore dues.

Golf in India is transforming from an elite sport to an accessible, commercially viable venture with significant corporate investment. Two new leagues, the Indian Golf Premier League and 72 The League, launched in 2025, attracting major backing and aiming to build integrated golf communities in smaller cities.

The West Bengal government is enhancing the mid-day meal scheme by providing extra eggs to school children. This initiative aims to boost nutrition. The decision has ignited a political dispute between the ruling Trinamool and the opposition BJP. The Education Minister clarified that provisions for an additional egg and fruit annually exist.

India has sent an observer to a crucial Gaza Peace board meeting in Washington. The meeting, chaired by US President Donald Trump, will discuss a $5 billion pledge for Gaza's reconstruction and security. India is carefully evaluating an invitation to join the board, considering its long-standing support for a two-state solution and its interests in West Asia.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt remain entangled in legal disputes almost two years after their December 2024 divorce. Central to the battle is the sale of their Chteau Miraval vineyard, which Pitt claims happened without his consent. Ten years of fighting is long enough, an insider said, highlighting both parties are seeking resolution. Court orders require Jolie to provide unredacted communications, while appeals keep the case active.

Supreme Court is investigating missing case records. A fact-finding inquiry has been ordered by the court's secretary general. This follows the discovery of a missing order from a Goa tiger reserve case. The court noted that missing proceedings have become a common issue. The inquiry aims to understand how these important documents disappear from case files.

Iran's nuclear deal window is closing amid US military build-up in the Middle East. The UN nuclear watchdog chief met with Iranian and US officials to discuss concrete proposals for inspections. Inspectors have not verified Iran's nuclear material for over eight months.

Airbus is setting up a helicopter production line in India with Tata. This facility will cater to regional civilian and military needs. Over 1,000 choppers are expected for the civilian sector. The military sector also presents large requirements. The first helicopter is anticipated by early 2027.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has strongly condemned the trailer for The Kerala Story 2 - Goes Beyond. He described the film as a collection of fabricated narratives designed to create communal discord. Vijayan stated that Kerala will reject this attempt to tarnish its secular image. He urged the public to treat the film with utmost seriousness.

The Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam has officially joined the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led Secular Progressive Alliance. This alliance is for the upcoming assembly elections in Tamil Nadu. The DMDK's decision ends speculation about their political alignment. This move is seen as a blow to the National Democratic Alliance. The DMK chief welcomed the DMDK's general secretary to the alliance.

Maha Vikas Aghadi partners are not united on sending Sharad Pawar to the Rajya Sabha. Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray Sena and NCP-SP support the move. Maharashtra Congress is hesitant, seeking clarity on a potential NCP merger with the ruling NDA. Congress also feels sidelined by the unilateral decision. All three parties need to discuss their stance.

Quote of the day by Amy Tan: Renowned author Amy Tan reveals how reading offered her a vital refuge and the power to envision different outcomes during challenging times. Her insights, drawn from a life shaped by a multilingual upbringing and the immigrant experience, highlight literature's role in fostering resilience and imagination.

The Election Commission of India has directed chief electoral officers across 23 states and Union Territories to expedite preparatory work for a special intensive revision of electoral rolls. This significant exercise is slated to commence in April. This move covers states like Uttarakhand, Manipur, and Punjab, which are preparing for elections in 2027.

In a bold rebuttal, Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, has called out Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his controversial reference to the revered Ramakrishna Paramahansa as 'Swami.' Banerjee passionately emphasized that Bengals cultural icons should be honored with their rightful titles, such as the cherished name 'Thakur' for Ramakrishna.

A massive unsecured database with billions of records was discovered by security researchers. It includes emails, passwords, and many real Social Security numbers. Experts say much of the data is old but still very risky because some details never change. Many victims may not even know their information is exposed, which makes the leak a serious long-term security threat.

In a surprising political shuffle, Bishnu Prasad Sharma, a formerly defiant MLA from the BJP representing Kurseong, has opted to align himself with the ruling Trinamool Congress. Sharma revealed that the escalating pressure to embrace communal rhetoric and divisive campaign strategies forced him to leave the BJP.

In West Bengal, a staggering 7 million voters might find themselves removed from the electoral rolls. Approximately 500,000 have had their names rejected, while another 500,000 did not attend their hearings. The final voter list is set to be published on February 28, but many names remain in limbo due to document verification issues.

Carl Sagans quote, Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were, but without it we go nowhere, highlights imagination as the foundation of progress, even when it leads to ideas that never materialize. It states that imagining possibilities, whether realistic or not, is what motivates exploration and growth. Without imagination, curiosity fades and advancement stops.

In a dramatic turn of events, the Enforcement Directorate has presented a case before the Supreme Court, alleging that high-ranking police officials in West Bengal deliberately hampered their investigative efforts. The agency suggests these actions were influenced by personal loyalty to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

India participated as an observer in the first meeting of US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace on Gaza. The Indian Embassy's Charge d'affaires attended the event. India has not joined the board, which aims for Gaza's redevelopment.

Come May 5, 2026, the Supreme Court is set to delve into a series of petitions that challenge the Citizenship Amendment Act and its accompanying rules. The petitions have been smartly categorized into two groupsthose focusing on the Assam-Tripura regions and a separate batch for the rest of the nation.

In a resounding statement, the Supreme Court has lambasted state governments for rolling out freebie schemes on the eve of elections. The justices labeled this tactic as a dangerous form of appeasement that risks stalling economic growth and jeopardizing state budgets.

Why is Dow Jones down today: Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 271.87 points on Thursday, falling 0.55% to close at 49,390.79. The S&P 500 fell 0.37% to 6,855.89, while the Nasdaq Composite dropped 0.33% to 22,677.60. High crude oil prices and rising U.S.-Iran tensions triggered the sell-off. Investors dumped software stocks like Salesforce after Mistral AI warned that AI could replace 50% of enterprise software. Amazon officially surpassed Walmart in annual revenue, fueling a massive market

Quote of the Day: George Clooney shares powerful insights on failure. He believes success teaches nothing, while failure offers valuable lessons. Clooney's own journey from early struggles to Hollywood stardom proves this philosophy. He emphasizes that the only true failure is not trying at all. This perspective encourages resilience and growth through embracing challenges and learning from setbacks.

Netflix possesses substantial funds and is prepared to raise its bid for Warner Bros. Discovery if Paramount Skydance escalates its own offer. Warner Bros. is proceeding with a shareholder vote on Netflix's proposal but has granted Paramount a week for a superior bid.

A special court has framed charges against Tej Pratap Yadav in the land-for-job scam. This case involves allegations of Group D railway jobs being given in exchange for land. The court previously framed charges against Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi. The CBI investigation revealed a conspiracy to use government jobs for acquiring property.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, the prominent CEO of DP World, has officially resigned amid a storm of allegations. His connection to Jeffrey Epstein's infamous network, which sought to cultivate ties with prominent leaders across the region, has raised significant eyebrows. Following the fallout from this revelation, key financial supporters have decided to pause their investment plans.

Hypnagogic refers to a dreamlike state that appears as wakefulness fades and sleep begins. During this brief phase, imagination happens freely, logic softens, and the mind forms unusual connections. The concept matters because several creative insights, emotional realizations, and rapid ideas emerge here. The hypnagogic state states why late-night thoughts feel profound and why strange sensations can occur before sleep.