The Economic Times

President Trump defended recent US military strikes against Iran. These actions were a direct response to Iran's reported bombing of commercial ships. He warned Tehran of significantly harsher consequences for any future attacks. The strikes mark a sharp escalation in the conflict near the Strait of Hormuz. This follows indications that diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran have collapsed.

Heavy monsoon rains battered India, causing widespread floods and disruptions. Flash floods and waterlogging affected Delhi, Mumbai, and Gujarat, with several deaths reported. Maharashtra faced landslides and disrupted train services due to swollen rivers. Kerala and Jammu also experienced severe weather events and rescue operations. Authorities are assessing damage and providing assistance to affected populations.

JD Vance issues stern warning to Iran: 'Stop attacking ships or face stronger US response'

Customs duty concessions on electronics manufacturing parts are extended until March 2029. This move supports investments in battery cell manufacturing and advanced electronics assembly. Lithium-ion battery machinery now has expanded eligibility for concessional customs duty. Display assembly components for automotive and medical uses also receive duty relief. Wireless charging components for mobile phones are similarly granted customs duty concessions.

US President Trump faces challenges exiting the Iran war after renewed attacks. A faltering ceasefire highlights difficulties in forging a comprehensive peace deal. Escalation risks full-scale war, while backing down empowers Iran's leverage. Analysts believe Trump is in a difficult position with few gains. The situation suggests managed instability with recurring violence ahead.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Melbourne. He was welcomed by the Indian community with cultural performances. The Australian-India Orchestra performed 'Maa Tujhe Salaam' for the Prime Minister. Modi also witnessed a unique musical performance featuring the Didgeridoo and Tabla. Discussions will focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

From emotional family stories to gripping crime dramas and adventurous fantasy, this week's releases offer plenty of entertainment across genres. Netflix dominates the streaming calendar with multiple new originals, while Apple TV+ adds another chapter to one of its most popular series. Whether you're planning a weekend binge or a movie outing, these titles are worth keeping on your watchlist. Read on to know when and where to watch them online.

Rescuers found wreckage of a cargo plane off Karachi's coast. The aircraft had reported a navigation system issue before losing contact. Flight data showed sharp altitude changes before a steep final descent. Efforts are underway to locate the five crew members on board. The investigation into the crash is now proceeding.

Indian markets experienced widespread selling on Wednesday, with the Nifty declining significantly. Global risk sentiment deteriorated following US President Donald Trump's comments on Iran. Asian markets also traded lower, reflecting the weak global backdrop. The Indian Rupee tanked against the US dollar as oil prices rose. Foreign and domestic investors showed net buying activity in equities.

Kuwait's military announced on Thursday that their air defense systems were actively engaged, intercepting what they described as hostile missile and drone attacks. The army's General Staff confirmed that any audible explosions were a direct result of these defensive actions, though the source of the attacks remained unspecified in their public statement.

Indian markets saw a significant decline on Wednesday, influenced by global factors. TCS anticipates modest profit growth amid client spending caution and wage pressures. Nalco and NLC India will form a joint venture for a power plant. HFCL plans substantial investment to boost optical fibre cable production capacity. Natco Pharma announced significant investments and stake increases in South Africa.

United States forces conducted new airstrikes targeting Iran early Thursday. Missile alerts sounded in Bahrain and Qatar following the American military action. Iran had launched attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait earlier in response. These exchanges have raised fears of a renewed conflict in the region. Negotiations for a permanent peace deal continue amid escalating tensions.

Asian shares advanced, led by a rally in chipmakers and South Korean stocks. Oil prices extended their gains for a third day, reaching about $78.80 a barrel. Treasury yields rose as markets anticipated earlier Federal Reserve interest rate increases. These events have reignited inflation concerns among investors and traders. Markets are now grappling with elevated stock valuations after recent gains.

New Reserve Bank of India lending rules increase funding costs for local proprietary traders. These changes require 100% collateral for bank guarantees, impacting domestic firms significantly. Foreign trading majors, however, can access cheaper overseas funding sources. This situation may allow foreign firms to capture a larger domestic market share. Domestic traders face a disadvantage compared to their well-capitalized international competitors.

Indian stocks and the rupee experienced a significant decline on Wednesday. This market downturn followed fresh US strikes on Iran and rising oil prices. The country's volatility index surged, reflecting increased trader risk perception. Bond yields climbed the most in over three months, while the rupee ended as the continent's worst performer. Analysts suggest market reactions to geopolitical events are often short-lived.

US forces have launched fresh strikes against Iran following an attack on three cargo vessels in the vital Strait of Hormuz. Trump has declared the temporary truce with Iran 'over'. Reports of explosions and power outages have come from Iran's southern coastline, heightening fears of a return to military tensions in the region.

Tata Consultancy Services anticipates slower revenue and profit growth for June 2026 quarter. Client decision cycles are elongating, impacting project ramp-ups and growth rates. Revenue is expected to remain flat sequentially, marking a continued trend. A weaker rupee may offer some support to rupee-denominated financials. Investors will monitor artificial intelligence initiatives and deal scalability trends.

Laser Power

Nvidia's stock has experienced a substantial market value decline recently. This chipmaker's shares are now trading at their lowest valuation since early 2019. Investors are shifting their focus to memory and storage semiconductor manufacturers. Analysts are raising profit estimates for Nvidia's upcoming quarters. The company's consistent performance suggests it is currently undervalued.

Gold and silver prices declined significantly in Mumbai trading on Wednesday. This retreat followed global bullion market weakness and US President Donald Trump's comments. Crude oil prices surged, stoking inflationary concerns and impacting investor sentiment. Analysts noted that rising inflation and a stronger US dollar reduced gold and silver's appeal. Investors now await US Federal Reserve meeting minutes for interest rate guidance.

India added over 2.5 million demat accounts in June, the highest since February. This growth occurred as key market indices Nifty 50 and Sensex advanced significantly. Improved market sentiment followed the easing of geopolitical concerns and potential IPO announcements. Broader market participation and digital onboarding are attracting new retail investors. Future demat account growth will depend on Indian market performance and investor confidence.

UK insurer Aviva Plc is set to fully own its Indian life insurance venture. This move follows India's recent policy allowing total foreign ownership in the sector. Aviva will buy the remaining 26% stake from its partner, Dabur Invest Corp. Full ownership offers greater strategic flexibility and faster decision-making for business expansion. The transaction marks the first deal under the government's liberalized foreign ownership policy.

Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran is establishing an interim management committee for Air India. The airline faces a delay in appointing a new chief executive officer. Pradeep Singh Kharola joins the committee to streamline operations and improve execution. Air India's revenue doubled, but losses after tax significantly widened last year. The airline continues to navigate industry-wide disruptions and elevated fuel prices.

India's US Treasury holdings dropped to $181 billion in April. This reduction reflects a strategic shift in foreign asset diversification by the Reserve Bank of India. The central bank significantly increased its gold reserves to 881 metric tonnes. Gold offers a stable reserve asset, unaffected by geopolitical stresses. This move aligns with a global trend of central banks accumulating precious metals.

Angela Merkel's wisdom highlights that all change begins within the mind. Her leadership through crises proved that fixed situations can indeed transform. Merkel's scientific background informed her adaptable and logical approach to governance. She guided Germany through numerous global challenges with flexibility and careful decision-making. This lesson emphasizes that internal belief fuels external progress and lasting transformation.

Quote of the Day by Gary Cooper: Gary Cooper's quote highlights life's universal lessons on resilience and humility. It reminds us that no one is invincible and setbacks are natural. Failure should be viewed as an opportunity for growth and learning. The actor's words encourage perseverance and courage in overcoming obstacles. This timeless wisdom remains relevant in today's competitive world.

Life advice by John F. Kennedy: John F. Kennedy emphasized that change is life's constant law. He believed looking only to the past or present misses the future. Embracing new ideas and experiences aids adaptation and personal growth. This forward-looking mindset is crucial for achieving lasting success. Kennedy, the 35th US president, served from 1961 to 1963.

The idiom 'walking on eggshells' describes extreme caution in conversations. This phrase vividly captures the feeling of navigating tense relationships and situations. It signifies being careful to avoid upsetting or angering someone. This expression is commonly used in various personal and professional contexts. Understanding this idiom highlights the importance of open and respectful communication.

Psychology says people who say grace, thank god or pray before having a meal aren't simply following a tradition. Psychology suggests this habit can reflect gratitude, mindfulness, emotional awareness and stronger social connections. Many researchers have studied gratitude, prayer and positive emotions to understand how these practices influence mental wellbeing, relationships and everyday life. Here is what psychology explains about this common habit and the lessons people can learn from it.

Leon Festinger quote explains why deeply held beliefs resist factual challenges. People often protect their convictions, which are tied to identity and emotions. New information is interpreted through existing beliefs, making objective evaluation difficult. Persuasion requires empathy and respect, not just confrontation with facts.

Quote of the Day by Nikola Tesla: Nikola Tesla's famous prediction, In the twenty-first century, the robot will take the place which slave labor occupied in ancient civilization, continues to spark discussions about artificial intelligence, robotics and the future of work. Spoken in 1935, the quote reflects Tesla's belief that machines would eventually take over repetitive labour, allowing people to focus on creativity, learning and innovation rather than physical toil.

Excessive criticism can significantly harm creativity and individual initiative. A strong wind can extinguish a torch, symbolizing how too much negativity destroys potential. People are emotionally fragile and constant fault-finding damages their spirit. This excessive pressure can ruin opportunities and personal well-being. Such relentless judgment ultimately kills productivity and dampens ambition.

Robert Frost's quote highlights home as a place of unconditional acceptance. This timeless message emphasizes belonging and genuine relationships over achievements. Frost's early life involved challenges before his celebrated literary career. His enduring words offer comfort and emotional security in a changing world. The poet's wisdom remains relevant for finding true happiness and connection.

Psychology says people who are scared of cockroaches, bugs or house lizard aren't always reacting without reason. Psychology explains that fear of insects and reptiles can develop through evolution, learning, personal experiences, and the brain's response to possible danger. This article explains what psychology says, why this behavior happens, which theories support it, what research has found, and what lessons people can learn from understanding this common fear.

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation will auto-process 8.25% interest for FY26 by July 15. This credit will be applied to nearly 340 million members' accounts. A new CITES 2.01 member portal will also be launched simultaneously. The organization has also raised the auto-settlement limit for advance claims to 5 lakh. This new system aims to provide a unified view of member accounts and services.

Quote of the Day by Johnny Depp: Johnny Depps quote, You use your money to buy privacy because during most of your life you aren't allowed to be normal, explores the importance of privacy, personal freedom, and maintaining a sense of normalcy in a life shaped by fame and public attention. The quote suggests that while success and wealth can provide comfort, they cannot replace the simple freedom of living privately, protecting personal boundaries, and experiencing everyday moments without consta

India closely monitors West Asia maritime tensions following recent ship attacks. No Indian-flagged vessels were among those recently attacked near the Strait of Hormuz. Vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz has once again been restricted by authorities. A decision on reissuing advisories for seafarers to West Asia is pending. The Directorate General of Shipping continues its 24x7 grievance redressal mechanism.

The Central Board of Direct Taxes has granted income-tax exemption to NCCL's Core Settlement Guarantee Fund. This tax benefit will continue for assessment years 2019-20 through 2026-27. The exemption ensures continued tax relief under the new Income-Tax Act provisions. This relief remains available as long as the fund files its income-tax returns. The notification removes uncertainty over the tax treatment of this important market safeguard.

The Centre plans to invite bids for national highway projects using a new toll-cum-annuity model. This hybrid approach combines build-operate-transfer and hybrid annuity model features. The revised agreement aims to optimise risk allocation and boost investor confidence significantly. The government will provide upfront financial support for certain projects with viability gap funding. This initiative seeks to revive private sector participation in infrastructure development.

The coal ministry has invited applications for a 37,500 crore scheme. This initiative promotes surface coal and lignite gasification projects across India. The government aims to convert domestic coal into higher-value fuels and chemicals. Eligible developers can receive financial support for commercial-scale projects. Applications are due by September 7, with a pre-application conference on July 20.

The National Investigation Agency conducted searches at twenty locations across multiple states. These searches are connected to a petrol bomb attack on an RSS office in Ranchi. Three men arrested in the attack were linked to the ISI-funded Tehreek-e-Taliban Hindustan. Officials stated the accused were radicalized in Dubai and communicated with handlers. They filmed the attack and sent the video to their handler after the incident.

US authorities have charged jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar for ordering Nijjar's assassination. This action is part of a wider crackdown on transnational organized crime groups. The probe focused on crime syndicates impacting the Indian diaspora globally. Nijjar's killing had previously strained India-Canada relations significantly. Bishnoi's syndicate reportedly has hundreds of operatives across India and abroad.

The Army is procuring hundreds of one-way attack drones for 1500 crore. Tata Advanced Systems Limited emerged as the lowest bidder for this significant procurement. Supplies are expected to commence within six months of contract signing. These drones are designed to be resistant to jamming and spoofing. Additional orders for similar systems are anticipated in the coming months.

Dutch prosecutors have initiated criminal proceedings against Tata Steel IJmuiden. The company faces charges for illegally releasing harmful substances into the environment. This action follows a 2022 investigation prompted by a complaint from over 800 individuals. Authorities allege failures in maintenance and unauthorized operations at the steel plant. Tata Steel acknowledges concerns and is implementing improvement measures to minimize issues.

Delhi's new electric vehicle policy aims to boost clean mobility and reduce pollution. The policy offers incentives and mandates for electric two and three-wheelers. However, it faces challenges from external vehicle traffic and non-exhaust emissions. Achieving clean mobility requires integrating mass public transport and promoting non-motorised options. Private vehicles should not remain the primary travel choice for all journeys.

Consumers are increasing borrowing to afford rising prices on electronics and gadgets. Easy digital credit fuels this demand, but household budgets are strained. Electronics makers offer lower-spec products as sales face challenges. This borrowing surge differs from post-Covid demand, adjusting to supply constraints. Inflationary pressures and slowing growth may test this credit-led consumption.

NATO leaders concluded their summit in Ankara, with no firm date set for the next meeting. The upcoming summit will be hosted by Albania, though the exact timing remains undecided. Some alliance members prefer to reduce the frequency of annual summits. This shift comes after a recent summit which included US President Donald Trump. Albania's defense spending was also a factor in delaying the date announcement.

Total student enrollment reached a record 4.50 crore in 2023-24, showing significant growth. Women's participation rose substantially, contributing to a higher gender parity index in colleges. STEM course enrollment also increased, with women making notable gains in these fields. Enrolment across social categories like ST, OBC, and SC saw considerable percentage increases. The teaching workforce expanded, and undergraduate courses remain the most popular choice for students.

A train ticket examiner was suspended after a decorated AC coupe went viral. The incident occurred on the Nandigram Express on July sixth, 2026. An online decorator privately engaged by a couple entered the coach without authorization. This unauthorized entry is viewed as a serious lapse by railway officials. A detailed departmental inquiry has been ordered into the matter.