The Economic Times

An adviser to Iran's supreme leader has warned Bahrain of severe military action following retaliatory Iranian strikes on a local US base. Concurrently, the US and Iran have agreed to halt counter-strikes and resume critical diplomatic talks in Doha this Tuesday to resolve their maritime dispute over the Strait of Hormuz.

Venezuela's largest Amuay refinery, a crucial fuel producer, faced a temporary shutdown due to a power outage following recent deadly earthquakes. While electricity was later restored, allowing operations to resume, the nation's energy infrastructure remains fragile. The smaller El Palito refinery and petrochemical complex are also struggling with unstable power, raising concerns about domestic fuel supply as the country recovers.

Flipkart's GOAT Sale, starting July 4, offers substantial discounts on the iPhone 17 series, with savings up to Rs 22,000 on Pro models. This makes the current iPhones an attractive buy, especially for those upgrading. However, potential buyers seeking the absolute latest features and next-gen AI capabilities might consider waiting for the iPhone 18, which is expected to launch at a higher price point.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has pledged full government support for flood-affected residents in Dhemaji, directing ministers to oversee relief and rehabilitation efforts. Meanwhile, the Northeast Frontier Railway has indefinitely suspended train services between Archipathar and Simen Chapari due to severe erosion damaging a railway bridge.

Weather Forecast Today: India braces for continued monsoon activity on Monday, June 29, with widespread rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds anticipated. Delhi-NCR can expect relief from heat with showers, while Mumbai is under a yellow alert for heavy rain and lightning. Other major cities like Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Jaipur are also forecast to experience monsoon showers and cloudy conditions, indicating an active phase across the country.

A US judge's request for more details on dismissing charges against Gautam Adani is a standard procedural step, not a sign the case will resume. Legal experts emphasize that federal courts rarely force prosecutors to pursue cases they've decided to drop. The Justice Department is expected to provide the requested explanation, with the case likely to be dismissed soon, as the court ensures the decision is made in good faith.

A chilling plot unfolded at Lohagad Fort as realtor Ketan Agarwal's fiance, Siya Goyal, allegedly used a pre-arranged signal to alert her lover, Chetan Chaudhary, before Agarwal was pushed to his death. Investigators revealed Goyal sat near the cliff edge, a deliberate move to ensure she remained out of Agarwal's reach. Chaudhary, arrested alongside Goyal, took elaborate steps to conceal his movements, including traveling by scooter to avoid toll records.

Puri gears up for the grand Deba Snana Purnima on June 29, a pivotal ritual before the Rath Yatra. The sibling deities will undergo a sacred bath with 108 pitchers of water, followed by their majestic Hati Besha. This marks their first public appearance, leading to a 15-day Anasara period for recuperation. Extensive security and crowd management measures are in place for the thousands of expected devotees.

July 2026 ushers in significant financial shifts for Indians. Expect revised credit card benefits, increased passport fees, and stricter railway penalties. Aadhaar email updates become free for a period, while new RBI rules aim to curb financial product mis-selling. Car prices are also set to rise, and taxpayers face approaching ITR deadlines. These changes will impact household budgets and require careful financial planning.

Andy Burnham, poised to lead Labour, will unveil a plan to shift power from London to Britain's regions, aiming to boost living standards through reindustrialisation and housing. His vision prioritises changing governance structures, not just leadership. Despite fiscal pressures, Burnham intends to adhere to Labour's pre-election pledges and the government's fiscal rules, promising stability.

The US Justice Department has reportedly ended its criminal investigation into Abbott Laboratories concerning its baby formula plant, which was linked to infant illnesses and deaths. Instead of criminal charges, the department is pursuing civil penalties. This decision comes despite some prosecutors believing they had evidence for criminal charges. The probe stemmed from a 2022 recall and plant closure that exacerbated a national formula shortage.

Iceland Cricket has sarcastically mocked India's head coach Gautam Gambhir following their unexpected 0-2 T20I series loss to Ireland. This follows a similar jab last year after a Test series defeat. Ireland achieved a historic first-ever bilateral series win over India, defending 154 in the second T20I by one run. The defeat continues a disappointing trend for India under Gambhir's coaching.

Brazil's star forward Neymar is showing significant recovery, with coach Carlo Ancelotti confirming he can now play for longer periods. The team is preparing for their FIFA Club World Cup Round of 32 clash against Japan with maximum focus, treating it like a final. Ancelotti emphasized the need for mental strength to face potential extra time or penalties in the knockout stage.

Europe is reeling from a devastating heatwave, with France reporting over 1,000 excess deaths, primarily among the elderly. Record temperatures have crippled infrastructure, strained power grids, and impacted vital river systems, affecting everything from nuclear cooling to agriculture. While some areas see relief, the WHO warns that such extreme events, amplified by climate change, are becoming alarmingly frequent, leaving many unprepared.

Lebanese Parliament Speaker and Hezbollah ally Nabih Berri said early Monday that the trilateral framework agreement between Lebanon, Israel and the United States would not pass as it did not guarantee Lebanon's rights. This agreement will not pass, and it will not be implemented in its current form, Berri said in a statement shared by his party the Amal movement, adding that it was an agreement of 'dictates', not an agreement that preserves Lebanon's rights.

Gold rate today down as oil prices rose following days of tit-for-tat strikes by the United States and Iran in the Middle East raising apprehnsions over Strait of Hormuz.

Amidst a new peace framework, Israel destroyed a significant Hezbollah tunnel in southern Lebanon, sparking condemnation from the Iran-backed group which vowed retaliation. The incident occurred despite a US-brokered agreement aimed at disarming Hezbollah. Lebanon's leadership pledged to uphold responsibilities, but Hezbollah declared the deal void, signaling deep internal divisions and potential for further conflict.

Pakistan's army chief's international peacemaker image clashes with domestic repression, particularly in 'Azad Kashmir'. Protests demanding freedom from Pakistani rule have erupted, mirroring past unrest in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The government's heavy-handed tactics, including internet shutdowns and media smear campaigns, are intensifying the crisis, raising concerns about Pakistan's internal stability.

India's Kidambi Srikanth secured a runner-up finish at the US Open Super 300 badminton tournament, losing a hard-fought final to Chinese Taipei's Su Li-yang. Despite a strong comeback in the second game, Srikanth couldn't overcome the pace and intensity of his younger opponent, ultimately falling in three games. This marks his second final appearance this season.

S&P 500, Dow Jones, Nasdaq of U.S. Stock Market will look to start the week on a positive note on Monday.

India and Seychelles have solidified their partnership with a Rs. 1250 crore line of credit for development projects and an extradition treaty to combat crime. The nations also agreed to integrate India's UPI payment system and explore outer space cooperation. Seychelles requested Indian aid for AI, cybersecurity centers, and a helicopter, which India positively considered. Discussions also touched upon regional security and the Indian Ocean's significance.

Venezuelans have not hidden their anger at the slow and meager aid coming from the authorities after the twin earthquakes that killed nearly 1,500 so far and left tens of thousands more missing.

Pakistan launched retaliatory strikes across its border with Afghanistan, resulting in the deaths of 29 individuals. This action followed a well planned intelligence based ground operation by Pakistani security forces. The strikes were a direct response to recent terrorist incidents targeting civilians and security personnel in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Karachi.

Tensions ease in the Gulf as Iran and the US agree to halt recent hostilities and resume talks on the Strait of Hormuz. This de-escalation follows days of strikes and counter-strikes, with both nations accusing each other of violating a ceasefire. President Trump's stern warning to Iran preceded the agreement, while Israel also reported striking Hezbollah in Lebanon. Diplomatic efforts are now focused on salvaging an interim peace deal.

Why are oil prices rising today, and will Brent crude futures and US WTI prices continue to go up? Oil prices increased after renewed attacks involving the United States and Iran raised concerns over energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude futures and US WTI crude moved higher as tanker traffic slowed again. Analysts believe supply recovery may take months because of damaged infrastructure, shipping delays, and production disruptions.

Heat wave alert: Weather forecast predicts that temperatures will soar into the 90s and low 100 degrees Fahrenheit (mid to high 30s Celsius), the weather service said. High humidity will lead to heat indexes of 100 to 110 degrees F (40 C to 43 C), and as high as 115 F (46 C).

Quote of the Day by Allen Saunders offers valuable wisdom about the unpredictable nature of human existence. It reminds us that while planning is important, life's most meaningful experiences often occur unexpectedly. Success should not be measured only by fulfilled plans but also by our ability to embrace change, cherish relationships, appreciate the present, and find joy in life's surprises. When we learn to balance preparation with openness, we discover that life's unplanned moments often bec

Proverb of the Day: A cat may go to a monastery, but she still remains a cat is an Ethiopian saying that explains how a person's basic nature does not change simply because of a new place or environment. The proverb teaches lessons about self-awareness, authenticity, personal growth, habits, and realistic expectations. It also connects with similar English expressions and remains relevant in modern life.

Quote of the day by Johnny Depp reminds people that success does not create a new personality. It only brings out the values, habits, and character that already exist. The quote explains how wealth, achievement, and influence expose a person's real nature. It also encourages people to build honesty, kindness, and strong values before reaching their goals because those qualities become visible once success arrives.

Proverb of the Day: The Chinese saying, A moment of patience can prevent a great disaster and a moment of impatience can ruin a whole life, explains why people should pause before reacting. The proverb teaches rational thinking, emotional control, resilience, patience, mental well-being, and avoiding irreversible mistakes. It remains relevant in relationships, workplaces, finances, and daily life where impulsive decisions can have lasting consequences.

Quote of the day by Dwayne Johnson reminds people that success is built through daily effort, discipline, consistency, competition and hard work. The quote encourages people to complete tasks others avoid today so they can achieve goals others cannot reach tomorrow. It also explains the value of delayed gratification, building habits, staying focused and accepting challenges instead of making excuses in everyday life and work.

FIFA World Cup 2026 match schedule for 29 June: The FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage heats up on June 29 with three crucial Round of 32 matches. Football giants Brazil face Japan, while Germany takes on Paraguay in late-night fixtures. The Netherlands will clash with Morocco in a highly anticipated encounter. These do-or-die games determine who advances to the Round of 16. Indian fans can catch the action live on Unite8 Sports channels and stream it on ZEE5.

Exciting news for those in the northern states! The southwest monsoon is set to make significant progress in the next five to six days, providing much-needed relief from the heat. While Delhi swelters in its warmest morning in two years, the India Meteorological Department anticipates rain in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and surrounding areas. However, residents of Uttar Pradesh should brace for heatwave conditions on June 28-29.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the populace to dismiss superstition, emphasizing its role in hindering rational thought and prompting harmful choices. He commended those promoting science and logic in countering outdated beliefs. Citing the Hargila bird in Assam, previously seen as unlucky, Modi showcased how awareness of its ecological significance shifted local attitudes through informative campaigns.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded citizens for heeding his call to curb extravagant spending amidst the West Asia crisis. Many have pledged to forgo gold purchases, postpone foreign vacations, and embrace chemical-free farming, demonstrating remarkable public cooperation. The PM expressed gratitude for this collective spirit, highlighting how Indians are uniting to navigate global challenges, with families opting to recycle old gold and carpool to conserve resources.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the inseparable security and defense ties between India and Seychelles, highlighting new avenues for industrial cooperation. He emphasized India's vision for the Indian Ocean as an 'Ocean of Opportunity.' Discussions focused on strengthening maritime security, digital connectivity via UPI, and collaboration in the blue economy, including clean energy and space exploration, reinforcing decades of close partnership.

The index, proposed by the ministry of statistics and programme implementation (MoSPI), will provide insights into the health of the large yet often difficult-to-measure informal sector.

The account said the EU has altered its approach after an electric-vehicle subsidy probe, using pressure and conditions to strengthen its negotiating position. It accused the bloc of being a ule-breaker and said its ormative power is weakening as it increasingly defines rules in ways that create barriers to market access.

India's Census 2027 is progressing with the second pre-test for population enumeration scheduled from July 6-18, 2026, in select areas. This phase follows successful house-listing operations across 19 states and five UTs. For the first time, the census is leveraging digital tools alongside traditional methods, with enumerators using a mobile app. Residents can also opt for self-enumeration from July 1-5, 2026, a feature that has already seen significant public participation.

Any moderation in El Nino effects and resolution of geopolitical uncertainty will further reduce the downside risks to growth. Operationalising the FTAs signed with 37 countries will boost exports and FDI, and thus growthRam Singh, Director, Delhi School of Economics

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath challenged Akhilesh Yadav to support the 'liberation' of Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura, countering Yadav's criticism of the BJP over Ram Temple donations. Yadav accused the BJP of running a business under the guise of religion, prioritizing money over faith. Meanwhile, Ayodhya police raided the homes of those arrested in the alleged donation embezzlement case, as political parties traded barbs over the issue.

India is facing a significant shortage of stablecoins like USDT, causing its price to surge locally. This premium, usually modest, has ballooned to over 8.5% following Enforcement Directorate actions against entities facilitating crypto-based money transfers. The crackdown has disrupted a popular remittance channel for NRIs, impacting USDT supply and raising concerns about regulatory ambiguity and the urgent need for clear crypto policies.

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath challenged Akhilesh Yadav to support the 'liberation' of Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura, countering Yadav's criticism of the BJP over Ram Temple donations. Yadav accused the ruling party of running a 'business' under the guise of religion, prioritizing money over faith. Meanwhile, police raided homes of those arrested in the alleged donation embezzlement case, as other political leaders weighed in on the controversy.

The Trinamool Congress is facing an internal crisis as the Mamata Banerjee faction filed multiple police complaints against dissident leader Ritabrata Banerjee and his group. Allegations include unauthorized use of the party's logo and impersonating party leadership, notably naming Arup Roy as chairperson. The complaints also question the funding behind the dissident faction's activities, hinting at a deeper power struggle within the party.