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Top / The Economic Times

This simple Social Security slip-up could cost you every dollar of your $2,000 benefit

Social Security mistakes are costing retirees big. One slip-up can wipe out a $2,000 monthly benefit. If you claim benefits before full retirement age and keep working, earnings over the limit trigger cuts. The government can take $1 for every $2 earned above the threshold. Filing at 62 can reduce lifetime benefits by up to 30%. Missing spousal or survivor benefits or incorrect wage records can further slash payments. Even taxes can take 85% of benefits.

5 Dec 2025 12:00 am
Critically ill former Bangladesh PM Zia to be taken to London, doctors say

Zia, the 80-year-old Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson, will be flown in an air ambulance late after midnight or early Friday to London, where her elder son and acting BNP chief Tarique Rahman lives. After she developed a chest infection that affected both her heart and lungs, Zia was admitted to a private hospital here on November 23 and four days later, shifted to the coronary care unit (CCU) after several of her health complications worsened.

4 Dec 2025 11:51 pm
Brian Cole: Everything we know so far about Brian Cole of Virginia, the alleged Jan. 6 DC pipe bomber arrested by the FBI

Brian Cole: The FBI arrested Brian Cole Jr. from Woodbridge, Virginia, on December 4, in connection with pipe bombs planted near DNC and RNC headquarters on January 5, 2021. The arrest follows a nearly five-year investigation into the suspect, who was captured on surveillance footage. Authorities have not yet confirmed Cole's involvement.

4 Dec 2025 11:43 pm
Dietitians rank the 5 breakfast cereals that keep blood sugar steady all day

Blood sugar influences daily health, impacting energy, mood, and appetite. High blood sugar can result in fatigue, mood swings, and long term complications, while low sugar can cause dizziness and fainting. Selecting the right breakfast is important, and fiber-rich, whole-grain cereals with minimal sugar help regulate glucose.Portion size, fiber, whole grains, and low added sugar are vital for optimal morning breakfast.

4 Dec 2025 11:39 pm
Assam govt prohibits 'all forms of radical literature associated with banned extremist organisations'

Assam has banned all radical literature from banned extremist groups. This includes print and digital content from organizations like JMB and ABT. The government aims to protect youth from extremist propaganda and safeguard internal security. Law enforcement agencies will strictly enforce this order. Investigations revealed continued circulation of such materials.

4 Dec 2025 11:18 pm
Faced with daily notices for suspension of listed business, VP cites grounds for rejection

Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan clarified Rule 267 usage. He stated notices are dismissed for not following format or discussing unrelated matters. Rule 267 is for rare cases and only for listed business. Since 2000, no discussions occurred under Rule 267 without consensus. Other parliamentary devices can raise urgent issues.

4 Dec 2025 11:17 pm
Pantone color of the year 2026 is Cloud Dancer' - Why this color is about to be everywhere

Pantone has announced Cloud Dancer, a gentle white, as its 2026 Color of the Year. This calming shade signifies a global need for serenity amidst increasing technology. Fashion and interior design are already embracing this soft, natural hue. Cloud Dancer represents new beginnings and a fresh start for the year ahead.

4 Dec 2025 11:17 pm
Delhi Police Constable Exam 2025: SSC activates self-slot selection at ssc.gov.in

The Staff Selection Commission has opened the self-slot selection window for Delhi Police Constable Exam 2025 candidates on ssc.gov.in. Applicants can now choose their preferred exam city and date for various constable and head constable posts. Failure to select a slot within the specified timelines will result in the non-generation of admission certificates, and selections cannot be altered once submitted.

4 Dec 2025 11:07 pm
The US states absence at COP30 created a power vaccum in climate action Chinas taken the leadership role but it poses risks

America sees a divided approach to climate action. Investor-driven ESG efforts face challenges but maintain a core group. The tech sector leads in climate data innovation, though AI ambitions now compete. China emerges as a significant climate leader, offering technology and capital globally. This presents both opportunities and risks for international cooperation.

4 Dec 2025 10:58 pm
AT&T users have just 2 weeks left to claim checks up to $7,500 here's how to grab yours

AT&T customers have just two weeks left to claim up to $7,500 from a $177 million data breach settlement. Two breaches in 2024 exposed names, addresses, phone numbers, emails, Social Security numbers, and call data. Claims must be filed by Dec. 18, 2025, online at www.telecomdatasettlement.com or by mail. Millions are eligible, including those in both settlement classes. Tiered payouts range from documented losses up to $5,000 to combined claims reaching $7,500.

4 Dec 2025 10:47 pm
India abstains from UNGA resolution demanding return of Ukrainian children from Russia

India abstained from a United Nations General Assembly vote on a resolution concerning Ukrainian children. The resolution demanded Russia's immediate return of children forcibly transferred or deported since the war began. Many nations also abstained. Russia stated the resolution contained baseless allegations. The UNGA has passed multiple resolutions regarding the conflict.

4 Dec 2025 10:46 pm
Pakistan formally appoints Asim Munir as first Chief of Defence Forces

President Zardari approved the summary submitted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally asking him to appoint Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Munir as the first CDF of Pakistan.

4 Dec 2025 10:45 pm
PM Modi, Amit Shah to visit Assam soon amid poll prep

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Assam on December 20, inaugurating a new airport terminal and laying the foundation for a urea complex, signaling a new wave of development. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will also visit soon to finalize election preparations for the upcoming assembly polls.

4 Dec 2025 10:41 pm
Throw this fall plant out doctors say it can disrupt your heartbeat and even kill

Foxgloves are visually striking plants with tall, pastel colored spikes, but they contain hazardous cardiac toxins known as digitalis glycosides. The foxglove plant is noticeable for its tall spires of purple, pink, or white blooms, but it hides powerful toxinsthat can affect your hearts rhythm and be fatal if consumed, cautions Andrew White, flower expert at Eflorist.

4 Dec 2025 10:39 pm
ECI to roll out Demographic Similar Entries Software in 12 states amid intensive voter roll revision

The Election Commission of India is launching new software to find and remove duplicate voters. This technology will be used in 12 states, including West Bengal, during a special revision of voter lists. Officials are urging election workers to be diligent in verifying voter details. Strict action will be taken against intentional errors.

4 Dec 2025 10:31 pm
Dollar Tree price point changes - heres the new cost shoppers must brace for

Dollar Tree price point changes: Dollar Tree is changing its pricing strategy. The retailer is introducing higher price points like $3, $5, $7, and $9. This move is attracting more shoppers, including those with higher incomes. The company is converting stores to a new format to support this expansion. This strategy is driving strong sales and positive investor response.

4 Dec 2025 10:27 pm
2026 IRA limits are in - see how much more you can stash in traditional and Roth accounts

2026 IRA limits are up. Savers can now contribute $7,500 to traditional and Roth IRAs. Those 50 and older can add a catch-up $1,100, for a total of $8,600. Roth IRA contributions phase out above $153,000 for singles and $242,000 for joint filers. Traditional IRA deductions reduce at higher incomes if you have a workplace plan. Every extra dollar counts. Splitting contributions between Roth and traditional is allowed, but total limits apply. Maximize your savings now. Small increases today can gr

4 Dec 2025 10:24 pm
Layoff tsunami hits US as 71,000 jobs slashed in November: 2025 becomes first 1.1 million+ cut year since Pandemic

US layoffs surged again in November, with employers announcing 71,321 job cuts, according to new data from Challenger, Gray & Christmas. The monthly total fell sharply from Octobers 153,074 reductions but remained 24% higher than the same month last year. The bigger picture is more alarming. With Novembers cuts added in, 2025 has now crossed 1.17 million layoffs, making it the first year since the pandemic to break the 1.1 million mark.

4 Dec 2025 10:14 pm
No water from Sutlej, Beas flows to Pakistan except during monsoon: Jal shakti ministry

In a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Choudhary said such releases occur only in exceptional circumstances, primarily when the water levels of dams rise significantly, necessitating water discharge to ensure dam safety.

4 Dec 2025 10:11 pm
Putins Ghost Train: Luxury gym, spa, bulletproof walls, and hidden secrets revealed

Putins Ghost Train: A 22-car armored convoy coming with luxury and extreme security. Leaked 2023 documents disclose a private gym, spa, wellness suite, medical bays, and command systems, all reinforced against intrusion and surveillance. Critics view it as a symbol of kleptocratic excess, estimating $74 million with yearly upkeep of $15.8 million, featuring both protection and indulgence.

4 Dec 2025 9:55 pm
Apple drops the axe on five devices millions still use, including a classic iPhone

Apple is getting ready to add several older iPhone and iPad models to its obsolete products list, indicating these gadgets will no longer get official repairs, parts, or support. Once categorized as obsolete , Apples service centers cannot order components, leaving users dependent on third-party repair shops or upgrades. The move is part of Apples regular lifecycle management, where aging devices gradually lose eligibility for maintenance in regard to limited parts availability.

4 Dec 2025 9:51 pm
Trump sends out $250 checks to 25 million Americans see if you are on the list

Trump Accounts eligibility requirements: Tech CEO Michael Dell and his wife, Susan, pledged $6.25 billion to Trump Accounts, a new tax-advantaged savings program for children. The donation provides $250 contributions to 25 million eligible kids. Parents can open accounts starting July 4, 2026, with additional $1,000 seed contributions from the US Treasury. Funds grow over time and roll into an IRA at age 18.

4 Dec 2025 9:49 pm
Anti-Hamas Gazan clansman reported killed, in blow to Israeli policy

Yasser Abu Shabab, leader of a prominent anti-Hamas faction in Gaza, has reportedly been killed, Israeli media said Thursday. His death is seen as a boost for Hamas, which labelled him a collaborator. Abu Shabab led a Bedouin tribal group operating in Rafah under Israeli control, aiming to challenge Hamas, though details of his death and circumstances remain unclear.

4 Dec 2025 9:42 pm
Michael Dell net worth: How wealthy is Dell Technologies founder who just donated $6.25 billion to Trump

Michael Dell net worth: Michael Dells fortune continues to surge as tech valuations expand across the U.S. market. Bloombergs Billionaires Index places him at about $148 billion as of late 2025. Forbes real-time tracker lists him slightly higher at around $150.5 billion. The Dell Technologies founder now ranks among the top 10 to 15 richest people in the world, driven by decades of growth in cloud services, enterprise hardware and private investments made through his family office.

4 Dec 2025 9:41 pm
If the US has right to buy our fuel, why doesn't India have that privilege?: Russian President Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin, during his first India visit in four years, defended New Delhis right to buy Russian oil, questioning U.S. objections while Washington imports Russian nuclear fuel. Speaking to India Today, he criticised the proposed 50% U.S. tariff on Indian goods, calling it unfair and highlighting perceived double standards.

4 Dec 2025 9:38 pm
Flashback: Viral 2001 photo shows Modi and Putin together during early diplomatic visit

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in India for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. He was received by PM Modi at Palam airport and will be accorded a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Putin will pay respects at Rajghat and hold talks with Modi at Hyderabad House, strengthening bilateral ties in defence, trade, and strategic cooperation.

4 Dec 2025 9:31 pm
Brandon Sklenar and Courtney Salviolo steal the spotlight on the 'Housemaid Tour'

Brandon Sklenar, the 35-year-old actor gained widespread attention for his character in The Housemaid, was recently spotted sharing affectionate moments with his girlfriend, Courtney Salviolo, during the movies press tour. The duo seemed to be cheerful and closely connected, exchanging lively conversations and laughter amid the busy promotional setting. Their bond stood out to fans and onlookers, showcasing the strength of their relationship despite a demanding schedule.

4 Dec 2025 9:10 pm
MH370 mystery deepens: Pilots final 5 words revealed as new search kicks off

Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 new search update: Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 vanished in 2014 with 239 people aboard. Pilot Zaharie Ahmad Shahs final words, 'Goodnight Malaysia three seven zero,' remain haunting. Over a decade later, Malaysia partners with Ocean Infinity for a 55-day Southern Indian Ocean search using advanced robotics.

4 Dec 2025 9:08 pm
Why is US stock market down today? Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq all in red Is Fed rate-cut expectation holding investors back?

US stock market down today: The US market slipped early as the Dow fell to 47,847, the S&P 500 eased to 6,847, and the Nasdaq dropped to 23,423. Traders stayed cautious. Tech moved unevenly. Nvidia, Meta, and Tesla gained, but broader sentiment weakened. Investors watched Fed cut expectations closely. Uncertainty kept indexes in tight, negative trade.

4 Dec 2025 8:45 pm
Meta stock surges 5% after Mark Zuckerberg unveils plans for metaverse - here's the breakdown

Meta stock: Meta Platforms shares jumped 5% after reports of planned up to 30% budget cuts in its metaverse division, including Horizon Worlds and Quest VR, as part of 2026 cost planning. The move may involve layoffs and signals a strategic shift from the underperforming metaverse toward AI projects and smart hardware like Ray-Ban smart glasses.

4 Dec 2025 8:25 pm
India must integrate quantum computing with national missions to be a developed nation: Niti member

India must embed quantum computing, secure communication, precision sensing, and advanced materials into national missions to reach developed-nation status by 2047, NITI Aayog member V K Saraswat said. Releasing a quantum roadmap, he stressed talent development and strong platforms. CEO BVR Subrahmanyam added that the next five years will determine whether India becomes a global supplier or remains a dependent consumer.

4 Dec 2025 8:22 pm
US filings for jobless benefits fall to 191,000, lowest since September of 2022

The number of Americans applying for jobless benefits for the week ending Nov. 29 fell to 191,000 from the previous week's 218,000, the Labour Department reported Thursday. That's the lowest level since September 24, 2022, when claims came in at 189,000. Analysts surveyed by the data provider FactSet had forecast initial claims of 221,000.

4 Dec 2025 8:22 pm
Mystic who predicted Covid makes stunning new claim this time about Prince Harry

Athos Salom, a Brazilian psychic dubbed the living Nostradamus, states to have forecasted significant global events and is now predicting developments that involve the British Royal Family. He predicts a major event between late 2025 and early 2026 that may involve the health of a prominent royal and result in a symbolic return for Prince Harry. While a complete reconciliation with Prince William isnt immediate, strains could ease over the next generation.

4 Dec 2025 8:20 pm
Adani Group deepens investment commitment in Andhra Pradesh, accelerating a new phase of robust growth

The Adani Group has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Andhra Pradesh, with Gautam Adani praising Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidus vision and accelerating work on the Google-linked 1 GW data-centre project. With fresh land allotments and expanding plans across ports, green energy, logistics, education and Amaravatis development, the Groups Rs 1.4 lakh crore roadmap aims to boost jobs, infra and digital growth in the state.

4 Dec 2025 8:03 pm
CAT 2025 provisional answer key released; check how to download and the final date for access

IIM Kozhikode has released the CAT 2025 provisional answer key and candidate response sheets for all three slots. Candidates can log in at the official portal until 10 December, 11:55 PM, to download the PDFs and verify their responses. Objections, if any, can be submitted online from 810 December. The final key and normalised scores will be announced later.

4 Dec 2025 8:02 pm
Oracle default fears explode as Credit Default Swap hits crisis-level highs amid AI bubble panic

Oracles default risk is surging as its 5-year CDS jumps to 128 bps, the highest since the financial crisis. Credit traders are buying protection amid AI-driven debt fears. Oracle stock is down 46% in three months after a 191% rally and now rebounds from $185$198.3 support. Key resistance stands at $213.4$213.8, with upside targets at $246.85, $290, and $346.

4 Dec 2025 7:55 pm