The Economic Times

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited a disputed island near Japan on Thursday. This visit prompted strong condemnation from Tokyo, which cited the action as unacceptable. Ties between Moscow and Tokyo have soured significantly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Russian and Chinese ambassadors pledged to oppose attempts to revise World War Two outcomes. Putin's trip included visiting a fish-processing plant and overseeing navy drills.

Ice cream makers are reformulating products to meet evolving consumer preferences. Demand for healthier options and appetite-suppressing drugs influences product development. Companies are reducing portion sizes and increasing protein content in their offerings. Consumers seek indulgence with fewer calories and simpler ingredient lists. This trend reshapes the future of the global ice cream market.

Researchers documented a rare dolphin foraging tactic called shelling in Queensland. This behavior involves using sea snail shell to capture fish prey. Groundbreaking video footage shows a young calf learning this skill from its mother. This challenges previous beliefs about dolphins learning from peers. The findings highlight dolphin intelligence and innovative cultural transmission.

Students protesting alleged recruitment exam irregularities accused the Ranchi district administration of withholding health details. Devendra Nath Mahto, on a hunger strike for twelve days, sought permission to return to the protest site. Job aspirants have been demonstrating for twenty days over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations. Mahto was admitted to hospital after his health deteriorated following a march to the Jharkhand assembly.

Iran plans to join the New Development Bank soon. This move comes as the nation faces international sanctions and seeks alternative financial channels. Iran joined BRICS in 2024 and desires shareholder status in the NDB. The bank was established by BRICS nations to finance development projects. BRICS members aim to reduce dollar reliance through national currency transactions.

Munjal Auto Industries reported a strong Q1 FY27 performance, with consolidated revenue rising sharply and the company turning profitable from a year-ago loss. Both its auto components and composite products segments recorded healthy growth, while a mark-to-market gain on mutual fund investments also supported other income.

The year 1946 saw a remarkable feat by the US Army as they bounced radar signals off the Moon, demonstrating that radio waves can traverse the ionosphere. This innovative test, called Project Diana, utilized modified radar equipment from WWII. The successful detection of lunar echoes not only confirmed this capability but also served as a catalyst for the evolution of radar astronomy and the broader realm of space exploration.

Mark your calendars! The NFL preseason kicked off on August 6 with the Hall of Fame Game, featuring the Carolina Panthers taking on the Arizona Cardinals. Now the preseason week 1 starts from today. Fans can enjoy an array of games spanning three weeks, broadcasted on local affiliates and national networks, with the NFL Network offering a robust lineup throughout the season.

Benes can appear as informal shorthand for benefits, while Beneis a Czech and Slovak surname derived from Benedikt, or Benedict. This Word of the Day explores the different uses of the term, its linguistic roots and how context can give the same spelling very different meanings.

A laid-off employee's attempt to return his company laptop with his 2-year-old son led to an unexpected lesson about corporate priorities. Denied entry with his child, he was forced to ask a colleague for help, highlighting the stark difference between personal circumstances and business arrangements. The experience serves as a stark reminder for workers to prioritize family over employment identity.

Gold rates today:Here is a look at the latest 22k gold jewellery prices at Tanishq, Joyalukkas, Malabar Gold & Diamonds and Kalyan Jewellers across major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Thiruvananthapuram.

Everyday life shows how opinions differ on art and people. A Korean proverb explains this subjective perception. It highlights that beauty and value are seen through personal lenses. Understanding varied perspectives fosters respect and reduces conflict in relationships. Embracing diverse viewpoints enriches life and strengthens individual growth.

Vibrio Vulnificus Louisiana Outbreak: Louisiana has reported five deaths linked toVibrio vulnificusinfections, raising concerns about the flesh-eating bacteria found in warm coastal waters. Here is what to know about the outbreak, oysters, symptoms and safety precautions.

Josh Kushner, founder of Thrive Capital, is set to buy the Los Angeles Lakers alongside former Disney CEO Bob Iger in a reported $12.5 billion deal. The blockbuster transaction has put Kushner in the spotlight, raising interest in the businessmans career, multibillion-dollar fortune, family background and rise from tech investor to NBA team owner.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright claims nearly nine million barrels daily leave the Strait of Hormuz. Vessel tracking services, however, report volumes closer to half this amount. Total Middle East crude exports remain below pre-conflict levels, according to tracking data.

Britain's economy saw unexpected growth in June, with gross domestic product rising. The economy expanded by 0.4% during the second quarter, exceeding forecasts. Keir Starmer resigned as prime minister amid political uncertainty during this period. New Prime Minister Andy Burnham pledged to lower business costs and address household expenses. The Iran war is expected to slow future growth due to rising energy prices.

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu has joined a new political party. This move follows a court order impacting his former party's leadership. The new party aims to challenge President Tayyip Erdogan's long rule. Imamoglu faces corruption charges which he denies. The opposition's splintering could benefit the president's prospects.

A social media post shared by the tax help desk account highlighted seven humorous money habits associated with Punjabi families. The observations covered salary-day spending, property discussions, trusted tax-saving investments, tax questions around major purchases, careful wedding spending, food as a measure of hospitality and tax conversations during family trips. The post offered a light-hearted look at how money, celebration and financial planning often intersect.

Smelly shoes are a common issue, and simple solutions exist for this problem. Letting shoes air out completely helps reduce moisture and bacteria growth. Baking soda sachets can absorb humidity and eliminate unpleasant smells from footwear. A mixture of baking soda and white vinegar tackles stubborn odors effectively. Regular care and proper drying will keep your favorite shoes fresh.

A Bengaluru-based techie revealed how he underwent months of gruelling interviews when he landed a great job in Hyderabad, advising engineers to be patient and focus on learning from every interview, good or bad.

Ancient philosopher Mencius believed true greatness lies in retaining a child's heart. Modern pressures can erode qualities like kindness and curiosity over time. Mencius's teaching suggests maturity does not require sacrificing sincerity and compassion. This wisdom encourages preserving essential human qualities despite life's complexities. Adults can gain wisdom without losing their innate sense of wonder and care.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson highlighted environmental concerns regarding oil pollution. Recent pollution along Qeshm Island shores points to a foreign bulk carrier. Iran demands compensation for extensive environmental damage over decades. The Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until US conditions are met. Commercial shipping continues under tight security amid volatile regional tensions.

Trump was secretly moved to a smaller military jet after an Iranian threat during his return from the NATO summit in Trkiye. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent remained on a decoy aircraft, while journalists and some White House staff believed Trump was aboard.

Since taking office, Giorgia Meloni's fashion has undergone a remarkable transformation. Embracing pastel hues and elegant silhouettes, she projects an aura of confidence and authority. This shift not only aligns with her pragmatic stance on the European Union but also signifies her evolution from an outsider to a respected leader.

Following a Supreme Court ruling that mandates the return of collected tariffs, major shipping companies are now issuing significant refunds to consumers.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced ten crore rupees assistance for flood-affected Assam. These funds will be disbursed from the Chief Minister's relief fund to aid the state. Seva kendras across all assembly constituencies will be named after Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Assam's government will spend one thousand crore rupees for relief and rehabilitation efforts.

Women generally notice a decline in health after 30, both due to ageing and from hormonal imbalances. An endocrinologist recently shared five natural drinks to restore hormone balance and keep you healthy after you hit 30.

Human remains found during a 2023 demolition were identified as Brenda Marie LeBlanc. She had disappeared in the 1990s and was originally from New Brunswick. Genetic genealogy identified the remains in 2025 after years at the vacant property. Police are investigating LeBlanc's death as a homicide after the discovery. Authorities seek information regarding LeBlanc's whereabouts and activities during the 1990s.

Ford plans to move some Lincoln vehicle production from China to the United States. This significant shift is scheduled to begin in the year 2030. Tariffs and restrictions on Chinese technology influenced this strategic decision. US-produced models will be sold within the domestic American market. This move aims to bolster the American auto manufacturing base.

Warner Bros. and the Barbie creative team face stalled sequel negotiations. The team seeks higher upfront and backend compensation for the film. The studio has made multiple offers which were reportedly rejected. Active development is needed within four months to retain rights.

Delhi and NCR areas anticipate partly cloudy skies on Thursday. Temperatures will remain in the mid-30s across most locations. Gurgaon and Faridabad may experience isolated rain or thundershowers. The forecast indicates a gradual dip in maximum temperatures after Thursday. This weather pattern is expected to persist for the next seven days.

A covert security operation secretly rerouted Donald Trump during his July trip from Ankara to Mildenhall, with the president leaving his aircraft via a catering truck and boarding another government jet. Journalists initially believed he was aboard their plane, while unusual security measures and Trump's comments fueled speculation about threats from Iran.

American Airlines is reorganizing its senior management team. New roles are being added to broaden oversight and boost performance. A former Spirit Airlines executive will now lead technical operations. The airline aims to close its profit gap with competitors like Delta and United. These changes are the first step in strengthening the team and accelerating execution.

Powerball draw: The Powerball jackpot has soared to approximately one billion dollars, marking it as the eighth-largest prize ever in the games history. The last winning jackpot was awarded to two fortunate players on May 2. Drawings take place every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday evening, with tickets available in forty-five states and additional territories.

President Trump visits California and Nevada to contrast his economic policies with Democrats. He aims to bolster Republican support in upcoming November elections. Trump will discuss the economy and criticise Democratic policies during his trip. California's governor criticizes the president's visit as a fundraising and attack mission.

A lawyer seeks sealed evidence concerning Carlos Palazuelos' detention. Palazuelos was held for hours without charges in the Nancy Guthrie case. Authorities claim evidence justified the search and detention of Palazuelos. Palazuelos and his family filed a claim for damages against county authorities. The investigation into Guthrie's disappearance continues with no suspect named.

Apple is reportedly discussing new multiyear deals with news publishers. These agreements would grant the iPhone maker access to their content for Siri. The proposed deals involve variable compensation based on content usage. Apple is preparing a major AI upgrade for its Siri voice assistant.

Oil prices dipped as demand forecasts for 2026 were lowered due to the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran. Despite supply concerns from the conflict, a surprise build in U.S. crude inventories and stalled talks with Iran are impacting the market, with shipping risks in key straits adding to volatility.

Donald Trump is facing a lawsuit from The Intercept and Freedom of the Press Foundation seeking to halt Truth API, a paid service offering early access to his Truth Social posts. The plaintiffs allege the service violates the First Amendment and creates financial conflicts because Trump, Truth Media's largest shareholder, benefits.

Indian stock indices closed in the red on August 12, reflecting growing unease in the market. The Nifty 50 lost 35.75 points, closing at 24,435.95. The increase in crude oil costs dampened investor confidence, prompting foreign portfolio investors to offload shares worth Rs 1,002.50 crore. Meanwhile, the Indian rupee remained under pressure, trading around 95.32 against the dollar.

Quote of the day by Hilary Duff offers a simple but powerful reminder about personal freedom. Other people will form opinions, make assumptions and interpret our choices through their own experiences. We cannot control all of that, and trying to do so can distract us from the life directly in front of us. What we can control is how thoughtfully we respond, whose advice we value, which criticism we learn from and which judgments we leave behind.

Quote of the day by Reese Witherspoon is a reminder that a meaningful life cannot be reduced to a perfect record of achievements. Every day will not produce a victory, and every year will not unfold according to plan. There will be missed opportunities, unexpected changes, disappointments and moments when progress seems frustratingly slow. But there will also be laughter, connection, growth, kindness, courage and unexpected reasons to be thankful.

In 1847, a Scottish obstetrician showed the world the use of chloroform as an anaesthetic during childbirth and surgery. Sir James Young Simpson tested the substance with colleagues in Edinburgh and later used it to reduce pain. His work helped spread anaesthesia in medicine and changed how doctors approached childbirth and surgical procedures.

In 1893, Rudolf Diesel published his design for a compression-ignition engine that aimed to improve engine efficiency and reduce dependence on existing steam and gasoline systems. His work later became the basis of diesel engines used in ships, trains, trucks, generators and industrial machines. Diesel also explored vegetable oils as fuel. His career later faced financial problems before his disappearance at sea in 1913.

The road transport ministry has mandated that motor vehicle aggregators eliminate any tipping prompts that appear before or during trips. This decision is based on the need for adherence to the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, especially after instances of deceptive tipping practices were noted. Tips should only be suggested post-trip to ensure all funds go directly to drivers without any reductions.