The Economic Times

The average age of directors on NSE-listed companies has declined significantly over the past decade. However, boards at Nifty 100 and Nifty 500 firms have grown marginally older. This trend reflects a continued preference for more experienced directors in mature companies. Younger companies are actively seeking board members with domain-specific expertise. The overall shift indicates a broader embrace of younger directors across the market.

Quote of the day by Arthur Conan Doyle: Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of Sherlock Holmes, believed life itself held surprising stories. He felt reality often surpassed imagination's wildest flights and daring plots. Doyle's quote encourages observing the world for its own remarkable events. He was a Scottish writer, knighted for his services during the Boer War.

Quote of the day by Glenn Close explores how people often reveal more through what they choose not to say than through their words. The quote explains the value of emotional restraint, quiet communication and human mystery. It also offers lessons for relationships, personal growth and acting. Glenn Close believes subtle expression creates deeper understanding and stronger connections between people in everyday life.

Cristiano Ronaldos inspiring quote reminds people of all ages that success is not reserved only for those born with extraordinary gifts. Instead, it belongs to those who combine whatever abilities they possess with discipline, consistency, humility, and perseverance. Every small step taken each day contributes to larger accomplishments in the future.

In 1849, an Italian-born inventor developed an early device for voice communications but couldn't afford a full patent due to financial hardship. Antonio Meucci created the Telettrofono years before the telephone patent was granted to Alexander Graham Bell. Financial struggles, injuries, and unpaid patent renewal fees affected his claim. His work was later recognized by the United States House of Representatives in 2002 for helping lay the foundation for voice communication technology.

Norse proverb of the day: A Norse saying highlights that true affection grows from mutual openness and honesty. People feel safe sharing thoughts and struggles, building stronger connections. Constant flattery may hide insincerity, undermining genuine friendship and trust. Honest feedback, though difficult, strengthens relationships more than empty compliments.

French proverb of the day brings attention to the traditional saying, Bees touch no fading flowers. The proverb explains how people are often drawn toward growth, purpose, and opportunity. It uses the behavior of bees in nature to explain human choices in relationships, work, success, and social life. The saying also reminds people to continue improving their character, skills, and contribution instead of depending on past achievements.

'Hasan Piker said US deserved 9/11': Cruz targets El-Sayed over his ties to far-left commentator

India's per capita income could rise six-fold by 2047. This growth would make the nation a developed economy. Higher investment and domestic savings are critical for sustained economic growth. Structural reforms are needed to remove investment obstacles. Achieving this goal requires attracting investment and boosting savings.

Today's Quote of the Day by John Lennon: John Lennon's famous quote hits right where it matters: Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans. Most of us spend years mapping out the future while completely missing the present moment in front of us. Real peace isn't about total control. Its about learning to lean into lifes unexpected detours.

NOAA predicts a below-average Atlantic hurricane season for 2026. A strong El Nio is expected to suppress storm development significantly this year. Forecasters anticipate fewer named storms and hurricanes than usual. However, coastal communities must remain prepared for potential storms. This outlook aligns with other meteorological predictions for the season.

The Janata Dal (United) party has requested the central government not renew the Farakka water-sharing treaty. This 30-year agreement with Bangladesh is set to expire in December. The party argues the current treaty compromises Bihar's water security and agricultural needs. Bihar's population has grown significantly, increasing demands for water resources. The party will officially oppose the treaty's renewal with the authorities.

The rapid reduction in costs associated with artificial intelligence will lead to its widespread adoption. This newfound accessibility will allow AI to support individuals numerous times throughout each day. With its vast population, India stands ready to emerge as a significant player in the AI landscape. Historically, affordable technology has revolutionized daily life, and the next wave of AI enthusiasts will engage with solutions for common problems.

Psychology says people who always stay enthusiastic and try to enjoy every moment of life aren't necessarily deeply happy. Constant positivity can sometimes hide anxiety, grief, fear or emotional discomfort. Psychology explains that avoiding negative emotions may prevent people from processing them. Emotional health involves accepting sadness, stress, anger and boredom instead of forcing happiness or using enthusiasm to meet social expectations.

Indian luxury hotel chains are investing heavily in wellness tourism. The Oberoi Group plans twenty new lifestyle resorts across India and abroad. Indian Hotels Company is expanding its Atmantan wellness brand with new centers. Developers are integrating wellness facilities into luxury hospitality projects. This expansion caters to growing traveler demand for wellness experiences.

US mortgage rates have climbed for five consecutive weeks, reaching a yearly high. This trend makes homeownership increasingly difficult for many American families. Higher borrowing costs are slowing down home sales across the United States. Meanwhile, 15-year fixed mortgage rates have slightly decreased for refinancers. Persistent high borrowing costs will likely pressure the housing market in coming months.

Opposition members demanded Union Home Minister Amit Shah's statement on pellet gun use. Chairman CP Radhakrishnan supported the Leader of Opposition's view. He requested Minister Kiren Rijiju to convey these sentiments to Shah. Rijiju accused Kharge of repeating statements and disrupting the House. The Chairman warned MPs to maintain decorum and adjourned the proceedings.

Permission for Rahul Gandhi's student event in Prayagraj was revoked by the venue provider. The trust cited waterlogging and a court order for cancelling the programme. Rahul Gandhi stated the BJP government cannot stop him from raising student voices. He alleged the administration is filing cases against students protesting fee hikes. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge affirmed the party stands with students everywhere.

India has quietly advanced flex-fuel vehicle adoption and E85 fuel sales. Ethanol blending has significantly increased, exceeding initial targets ahead of schedule. This expansion opens a larger market for ethanol beyond simple fuel blending. Government estimates project substantial economic and environmental benefits from flex-fuel vehicle uptake. Public confidence will grow with independent verification of emission reduction claims.

India's real estate IPO market is diversifying into new asset classes. Companies are exploring listings in co-working spaces and student housing. Institutionally managed platforms are increasingly tapping public markets for capital. Industrial and logistics parks are also seeing significant investor interest. This evolving pipeline signals a new phase for real estate listings.

'Don't interrupt the chair': Rand Paul, Gary Peters clash over Dr Anthony Fauci's contempt vote

Our time on earth is limited and like all the good things in life, life too is short and can come to an end without warning. Since life is so transient, we should do all we can to celebrate it as well as cherish the people we love. We never know when they will be gone forever.

'I trust Gen Z blindly': RSS Chief Bhagwat on student protest, reservation & social media

'The carpet question wasn't random': Josh Hawley says Fauci's Fifth Amendment plea proved his point

Mehbooba Mufti and her daughter Iltija Mufti have been booked by police officials. They are accused of assaulting a police officer during a protest on Tuesday. The protest was held against the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. Iltija Mufti allegedly bit the officer, causing a bleeding injury. Four other PDP leaders were also asked to join the ongoing investigation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged celebrating National Handloom Day with enthusiasm. He asked citizens to wear handloom products and support weaving communities. This initiative aims to economically benefit families dependent on the handloom sector. Modi suggested using social media trends to promote India's rich handloom heritage. The Prime Minister emphasized preserving cultural heritage and strengthening rural livelihoods.

New research suggests Webb's mysterious red dots are colossal monster stars. These stars weigh up to 100,000 times the Sun's mass. Violent pulsations created dense gas cocoons around each star. This process explains their observed appearance and chemical composition. These stars collapsed into massive black holes, solving an early universe mystery.

Quote of the day by Woody Allen, Problems are like toilet paper. You pull on one and ten more come, explains how one problem can lead to several others. The quote uses humor to describe daily stress, connected challenges, patience and acceptance. It also suggests that people can handle difficult situations better when they accept that problems are part of life.

Lion's Gate Portal Peaks on August 8: Why the powerful 8/8 portal is considered the best time to manifest new beginnings and how to harness it

Quote of the day by Charlize Theron offers inspiring perspective that encourages people of all ages to view life as a continuous journey of discovery rather than a destination defined by perfection. Instead of asking whether a task will be difficult, perhaps the better question is whether it will help us grow. If the answer is yes, then the challenge is worth embracing.

Researchers from Rutgers University have uncovered genetic evidence demonstrating that dragonflies embark on remarkable long-distance migrations. These agile insects are capable of traversing thousands of miles over oceans, utilizing their wings to ride on weather currents for long durations. By aligning their journey with seasonal weather shifts, dragonflies seek out the essential moisture needed for reproduction. This groundbreaking find positions dragonflies as the world's premier long-distan

Sydney Towle, a popular TikTok creator, has died at the age of twenty-six. She bravely documented her three-year fight against a rare bile duct cancer for followers. Towle underwent experimental immunotherapy treatment in her final weeks of life. Her family announced her passing through a video posted on her account. Millions of followers mourned her loss and celebrated her honest journey.

The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that the creamy layer principle does not apply to SC and ST reservations. It stated that previous court rulings have clarified this non-applicability for these categories. The government argued that PILs seeking its implementation lack legal merit and constitutional basis. It emphasised that policy changes require empirical study and legislative action.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed balancing national loyalty and civilisational peace. He stressed supporting the government during times of conflict and external hostility. Bhagwat urged not to forget historical and cultural ties between peoples across borders. He stated that permanent hatred is not a solution for political friction. Humanity's ultimate goal remains reconciliation and enduring peace through dialogue.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined Viksit Bharat's vision for a developed nation. She stated that 2047 is an immediate national horizon for progress. India's destiny is to be prosperous without losing its civilisational character. Early governance choices and post-2014 reforms shaped the developmental journey. Modern progress will be anchored in India's rich civilisational heritage.

Indian investors favoured long-term stock ownership in FY26 as delivery ratios rose to around 30%, despite market volatility. Sebi said stronger domestic inflows, expanding demat accounts and reduced derivatives speculation reflected healthier participation and greater resilience amid foreign investor outflows.

Russia's crude and condensate output rose in July, exceeding nine million barrels daily. Strong oil exports and refinery recovery supported this production increase. However, future output levels are unlikely to be maintained in August. Drone attacks on refineries and tanker capacity issues could force production cuts. Russia plans to boost crude exports from western ports despite potential disruptions.

How to build confidence in yourself when you seem to have none? In an old interview, tennis player Venus Williams explained how, when you are being overwhelmed by self-doubt, it is good to make an attempt to believe in yourself.

Tigers are returning to Kazakhstan's wilderness after a 70-year absence. An adult female Amur tiger named Umit was released into the Ile-Balkhash State Nature Reserve. This ambitious wildlife restoration project aims to re-establish the apex predator in its former habitat. Endangered prey species and anti-poaching measures have been implemented to support the tiger's return. Kazakhstan is working to ensure peaceful coexistence between tigers and local communities.

A trending social media post featured clothes hanging on the balconies of upscale high-rise apartments, igniting a lively debate about luxury living. Critics expressed concerns over the aesthetics of such displays, while defenders championed practicality in Indian homes. This conversation urged a reconsideration of whether premium housing should balance visual appeal with essential daily needs, highlighting the disconnect between design and everyday living.

Maintaining its position, UEFA has not wavered in its FIFA boycott threat, prompted by ongoing distrust in President Gianni Infantino. The European football governing body highlighted that the prerequisites for lifting this threat are still unfulfilled. Despite FIFA's apology for its unsuccessful World Cup stake selling plan and commitments to avoid future issues, UEFA dismissed FIFA's assertions of support after a recent summit.

Options trading volumes in India dropped 51% in FY26 after Sebi tightened derivatives rules to curb retail speculation. Higher contract sizes, uniform expiries, upfront premium collection and increased transaction taxes reduced expiry-day trading while encouraging healthier market participation and stability.

India's overall fuel demand saw a 2.9% increase in July compared to last year. Gasoline consumption climbed 9.2%, while diesel usage rose by 10.0% during the same period. Naphtha and cooking gas sales experienced a notable decrease in July. Bitumen sales for road construction showed an 8.5% increase. Fuel oil use also edged up significantly by 29.7%.

Warner Bros Discovery reported second-quarter revenue below expectations, mainly due to significant declines in box-office and advertising sales, which weighed on overall financial performance. Despite these challenges, the streaming segment thrived, presenting a glimmer of hope. A merger with Paramount gained UK approval but is entangled in legal issues in the US. The company aims to boost future box-office results with a film slate leaning toward later releases.

Iran issued serious warnings to Gulf neighbors about regional blackouts. This threat came after the United States considered striking Iranian power plants. Iran communicated that its power plants would be met with similar strikes. The message included a list of potential targets like power and desalination facilities. These events follow heightened tensions and prior retaliatory threats.

Monsoon rains have caused 64 deaths and Rs 797 crore in losses across Himachal Pradesh. One hundred twenty roads remain closed, and many water supply schemes are disrupted. The Hindustan-Tibet road was reopened after a significant landslide in Kinnaur. Moderate to heavy rain continues, with a yellow alert issued until August 12. Manali and Dharamshala recorded significant rainfall in the past 24 hours.

Rahul Gandhi launched an engaging 'Ask Me Anything' session on Instagram, encouraging students to voice their concerns directly. This initiative comes after he met with students protesting against paper leaks. He also held Home Minister Amit Shah accountable for recent violence. Meanwhile, the BJP is ramping up its digital efforts to connect with the youth electorate.