The Economic Times

US natural gas trading reached a new single-day record of 2,576,346 contracts on January 20 at CME Group. Extreme cold across the US has boosted heating demand, reduced production due to freeze-offs, and increased volatility. Futures rose sharply, while European gas prices reacted to storage and geopolitical concerns.

IRS announces new tax benefit for Americans. The $1,776 Warrior Dividend payment issued in December 2025 to active-duty military and eligible Reserve members is tax-free. Recipients do not need to report it as income. The IRS confirms eligibility rules and filing guidance for this one-time benefit.

Vanna White, co-host of Wheel of Fortune, married longtime partner John Donaldson in a private ceremony. The couple has been together since 2012. This story details their relationship, Donaldsons construction career, and their net worth, including Whites earnings from Wheel of Fortune and other ventures.

Why is gold price still rising and will it continue to increase more than $4,778 remains a key market question. Gold crossed $4,887 as Trump eased tariff threats and the Fed signaled steady rates. Investors tracked safe-haven demand, equity rebounds, and price outlook.

US President Trump demanded that Europe cede control of Greenland, citing national security and missile defence requirements. He warned of consequences if NATO countries refused, describing the request as a modest one in exchange for decades of US defence support. Trump also criticised European leaders on various policy matters, asserting the strength of the US economy.

Why is silver price falling now and will it drop more than $91.17? Silver prices dropped after hitting record highs as investors reacted to easing tariff threats, rising equity markets, and profit booking. Gold trimmed gains, while platinum and palladium also moved lower amid shifting global signals.

Why did Donald Trump rule out Greenland invasion? The US President said he will not use military force to take Greenland. Legal limits, NATO pressure, Greenland opposition, and a possible deal shaped his decision during meetings in Davos.

Dow, S&P 500 and Nasdaq rise again as US stock markets 'celebrate' Trump tariff U-turn over Greenland after President Donald Trump withdrew tariff threats on Europe. Markets reacted to comments on Greenland, NATO talks, and a pause on planned tariffs set for February 1.

Best AI-proof jobs in the US 2026 list: New data reveals that despite AI's impact, many top job opportunities for 2026 will rely on human skills and offer six-figure salaries. Health care roles, particularly cardiac medical technician, dominate the highest-paying positions, driven by an aging population and increased medical needs.

Infinity War comic is a sequel to Infinity Gauntlet by Marvel. A powerful villain named Magus wants to become a god and control everything. This danger forces Thanos to change his role and work with heroes. The story shows shocking alliances, big cosmic battles, and a very different side of Thanos.

US President Donald Trump has cancelled his tariff threat on several European nations. This move comes after reaching a deal on Arctic security with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Trump had previously insisted on acquiring Greenland. He stated he would not use force for this acquisition. Denmark and Greenland have responded to Trump's remarks. The situation highlights ongoing geopolitical discussions.

Venezuela's government has received its first payment from a recent oil sale to the US. This marks a significant influx of dollars into the nation's economy after a month. Acting President Delcy Rodriguez confirmed that $300 million has entered the banking system.

Luisa Zhou, a Princeton Universityeducated engineer, stepped away from her high-paying corporate job after realizing it provided little flexibility during family health emergencies. Rather than quitting immediately, she spent two years establishing a side business while working full-time. The strategy proved successful, turning her initiative into a million-dollar company before she officially resigned.

American envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are traveling to Russia on Thursday. They will meet President Vladimir Putin to discuss peace proposals for the Ukraine war. This visit follows an invitation from Russia. Both US and Ukrainian officials believe significant progress has been made on a 20-point plan.

Percy Jackson & The Olympians Season 3 renewal, release date, story, cast and filming update confirms the show is returning on Disney+. Season 3 adapts The Titans Curse, brings new characters, continues the Great Prophecy, and targets a 2026 release after filming in Vancouver.

US President Donald Trump believes European Union investment will continue despite potential tariffs over Greenland. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent cautioned European nations against increasing military presence on Greenland. He also criticised France's calls for NATO exercises.

A wave of Swiss business enthusiasm is sweeping towards India, following the recent Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Free Trade Association. The number of investment inquiries and advisory support requests has skyrocketed, more than doubling in frequency.

NATO chief Mark Rutte stresses diplomacy for Greenland tensions. He is meeting President Donald Trump in Davos. Rutte assures that Europe will defend the United States if needed. He believes a safe Arctic and Europe are vital for US security.

US pay raises 2026: Get ready for a change in your 2026 pay raise. Many companies are moving to a flat, across-the-board increase for all employees. This means your performance this year might not directly impact your pay bump. The average raise is expected to stay at 3.5%. Top performers may receive bonuses or promotions instead.

Word of the day: A unique Scots word, clishmaclaver, describes empty talk. This term captures gossip, idle chatter, and nonsense. It highlights conversations lacking substance. Understanding clishmaclaver helps identify meaningless communication. The word remains relevant today, appearing in social media and political discussions. It encourages clearer thinking and better communication.

Speaking at the ET House in Davos on Tuesday, Soren said Jharkhand is closely evaluating opportunities arising from the new legislation on nuclear energy generation at a time when India is recalibrating its critical minerals and energy strategy.

Greenland's government unveiled a new brochure on Wednesday offering advice to the population in the event of a crisis in the territory, which US President Donald Trump has repeatedly vowed to seize from ally Denmark. The US president said Wednesday in Davos that he won't use force to take the island, while calling for immediate negotiations to acquire it.

Quantum computing is leaping forward at an unprecedented pace, and experts are raising red flags about the future of encryption. Predictions indicate that our safeguards could be compromised in as little as three years, leading to profound implications for global safety and economic structures.

Indian corporate leaders at Davos highlighted India's economic resilience amidst global challenges, emphasizing the need for faster reforms and deeper manufacturing to sustain momentum. They noted opportunities arising from global trade disruptions and the importance of a strong domestic market, while also stressing the need to boost the MSME sector and accelerate AI development.

Europe must accelerate economic and defense growth. The world now operates on raw power. Internal disputes among allies embolden rivals. France's President Macron suggests using the bloc's anti-coercion tool against the United States. This instrument can impose significant costs on American companies.

David Rubenstein, a private equity veteran, shares insights on Donald Trump's business policies and their effect on the US economy. He highlights that expected recession and inflation have not materialized. Rubenstein expresses optimism about India's economic rise in the coming decades, citing its young population and growing market.

Prue Leith is leaving The Great British Bake Off after nine seasons as a judge. She shared the news on Instagram and said she loved being part of the show. Fans, judges, and the official Bake Off team praised her work. Leith says she now wants to enjoy life and spend time relaxing at home.

Large retailers and restaurant chains report lower sales in North India. High air pollution levels kept shoppers indoors, impacting footfalls. Restaurant dine-in business saw a significant drop. While deliveries increased, they did not fully compensate for lost dine-in revenue. This trend affected corporate earnings in the December quarter.

The World Economic Forum in Davos sees Indian businessmen navigate a unique experience, from sartorial crises with overcoats to the quest for authentic Indian food. They embrace local cuisine like fondue while delivering India Story soundbites and seeking validation, ultimately viewing Davos as a triumphant victory lap.

Tillman Global Holdings will invest up to Rs 60,000 crore in a new data centre in Maharashtra. This adds to their existing commitments in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The total investment across these three projects will exceed $10 billion.

Rani Kapur has approached the Delhi High Court. She seeks to cancel the Rani Kapur Family Trust. She alleges fraud and diversion of her assets. The trust holds a significant stake in Sona Comstar. Rani Kapur claims her son and his wife masterminded the asset transfers. She states her assets were moved without her consent.

The phrase break the ice reminds us that every relationship starts somewhere. Often, all it takes is one small action to turn silence into conversation and strangers into beautiful connections. Often used in meetings, classrooms, interviews, and social gatherings, it emphasizes the significance of first interactions. By knowing how and when to use break the ice, people can build confidence, improve communications, and create positive bonds in both personal and professional environments.

Wealth Quote of the Day by Palantir CEO Alex Karp, Let the shorts keep doing blow; well just keep building the company Palantir CEO Alex Karp did not come from a typical tech background. He studied philosophy, law, and social theory before building one of Americas most powerful data companies. Critics and short sellers question valuation and politics. Karp ignores them. He focuses on long term systems for defense, government, and industry. His strategy favors patience, deep data platforms, and d

The Central Administrative Tribunal has directed the West Bengal government to resubmit names for the Director General of Police selection by January 23. The UPSC will convene a meeting by January 28 to prepare the panel. This comes as the current acting DGP, Rajeev Kumar, retires on January 31.

The government is set to recognize language learning as a key component of the Skill India Mission. This initiative aims to boost overseas job prospects for young talent and facilitate worker mobility, particularly for destinations like Japan, Germany, and Russia.

Army, CRPF and RAF remain deployed in Assams Kokrajhar district for a second day after a mob attack linked to suspected cattle theft left two people dead and four injured.

The Supreme Court has taken a decisive stance against air pollution, mandating that the Delhi government and NCR authorities devise thorough action plans targeting long-term solutions. The Commission for Air Quality Management has outlined key initiatives such as retiring high-emission vehicles, tightening vehicle inspections, and pushing for the adoption of electric vehicles.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, currently detained under the NSA in Jodhpur jail, has sought a thermometer to carry out experiments on eco-responsive architecture aimed at improving jail barracks, according to his wife Gitanjali J Angmo.

Social Security monthly benefit increase: Americans born in 1960 or later face a critical decision regarding Social Security. Starting in 2026, the full retirement age becomes 67. Claiming early at 62 permanently reduces monthly benefits by about 30%. Delaying benefits until age 70 can significantly boost income for life. This choice impacts long-term financial security.

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot has refused to deliver his address at the state assembly's joint sitting. He objects to specific paragraphs in the government-prepared speech concerning MGNREGA and fund devolution. Minister HK Patil met the Governor, but no resolution was reached.

The All India Congress Committee will hold a convention on Thursday. Workers and activists linked to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act will attend. The party is protesting the Centre's move to replace MGNREGA with the G RAM G employment scheme. Leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are expected to be present.

The Supreme Court is forming an expert committee to study the Aravalli hills definition and mining issues. Farmers have opposed new mining leases. Lawyers are suggesting names for the committee. The court wants to stop illegal mining. Mountain ranges cannot have a strict definition, one lawyer argued. The government assured no illegal mining will occur.

Congress has raised concerns with the Chief Electoral Officer in Assam. The party alleges thousands of Form 7 applications for voter deletion were submitted in bulk. These forms reportedly lack proper details and verification. Congress seeks urgent intervention and a compiled list of all submitted forms.

The Bharatiya Janata Party is promoting young leaders across its organization. New age limits are being set for national and state youth wing chiefs. This move aligns with the new party president Nitin Nabin's age profile. The party is also preparing for upcoming state elections. Focus will be on communication, cadre strength, and government coordination.

The BBC has announced a significant deal with YouTube. This partnership will bring British storytelling and news to a wider audience. New content will be produced specifically for YouTube's younger viewers. This move aims to connect the BBC with audiences in new ways. The collaboration will also focus on investing in new programming and supporting emerging British creators.