Winter shock rewrites power demand curve as January peak tops summer high

Advertisers are flocking to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with ad rates for the final expected to reach Rs 50 lakh for a 10-second spot. The tournament has already broken viewership records, with digital streaming playing a key role. While the IPL remains the safer bet for brands, the current World Cup highlights the growing value of the shortest format of cricket.

Flipkart, with backing from Walmart, is downsizing around 1.5% of its workforce, approximately 250-300 employees, through its annual performance review. It is also shifting its headquarters to India and preparing for a public listing. The company is working towards profitability and growth, with initiatives such as Flipkart Minutes and expanding its dark store network to 1,000 by March-April.

The Navi Mumbai International Airport Limited has been chosen as the Premium Airport Partner for the Airport 360 Expo 2026 in Mumbai. The event will gather airport experts to discuss solutions for terminal development and airside operations, in light of India's growing aviation market. It aims to provide a comprehensive view of the airport ecosystem and promote practical discussions on its future.

The conflict in West Asia is causing disruptions in India's natural gas supply chain, leading to potential rationing and prioritization of supply to critical industries. This could result in reduced fertiliser output, increased subsidy costs, and potential shutdowns in gas-based power plants and industrial clusters.

The Indian government assures farmers of ample fertiliser supply for the upcoming kharif season, despite tensions in West Asia. Current stock at a record high of 17.73 MT acts as a buffer against global disruptions. Measures like imports and resource optimization have been taken to ensure uninterrupted supply.

Noida International Airport has received its aerodrome licence, allowing for cargo and domestic flights to begin within 45 days. However, concerns have been raised about potential interference with navigation aid, prompting the need for a permanent solution. The airport is expected to handle 12 million passengers annually and will serve as the second major airport in the NCR region.

The shipping ministry is addressing the problem of stalled shipments to Gulf countries at Mumbai's JNPT due to the US-Iran conflict. Exporters are requesting for extended storage time and discussions are being held with DP World to aid in shipments. The conflict has also caused delays and increased demand for Ramadan exports.

Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, predicts a smooth growth in road construction activities in FY27. He acknowledges a slowdown in highway projects due to land acquisition and clearance issues. He aims to build 60 km of highways per day and elevate India's road infrastructure to match the US standards in three years.

Global concerns and war-related worries caused benchmark indices to decline, with banking stocks leading the way. The Sensex and Nifty experienced their biggest drop in a year. Experts believe the market will remain uncertain until the war ends but see potential for long-term investors due to attractive valuations.

Under new tax regime, credit card cashbacks and reward points are tax-free unless they exceed Rs 50,000. NPS deductions are still allowed for employer contributions, but not for personal contributions. Rental income can be reduced by 30% and municipal taxes. Capital gains tax on inherited agricultural land varies based on rural or urban classification.

ULPPs are a beneficial option for retirement planning, providing a combination of long-term investing, pension accumulation, and regulatory safeguards. With a mandatory lock-in period of five years, they encourage a focus on long-term goals. ULPPs offer flexibility in fund management and tax benefits, allowing for a lump sum withdrawal and the purchase of an annuity for regular pension income.

Fuel credit cards are a great option for consumers with high petrol or diesel bills, as they offer reward points and fuel surcharge waivers. These cards are often offered in collaboration with major oil companies and can be used at partner fuel stations. Co-branded cards provide higher rewards for specific brands, while regular cards offer more flexibility.

The Finance Ministry cautions about the potential economic impact of the West Asia conflict on India, including a wider current account deficit, weaker rupee, and higher inflation. The US-Israel strikes on Iran have disrupted oil flows and damaged energy infrastructure, potentially reshaping global energy geopolitics. This could also affect industries like fertilisers and petrochemicals.

Indian Railways' freight loading for the 11 months of FY26 stood at 1503.8 million tonnes, with revenues reaching Rs 1.61 lakh crore. The railways is expected to carry 1700 MT of freight and generate Rs 1.78 lakh crore in revenues in FY26. Coal, cement, iron ore, and foodgrains are the major commodities driving traffic.

Zach Yadegari, a 19-year-old college student, sold his start-up, Cal AI, to MyFitnessPal. The app uses AI to track nutrition through photos and videos and has over 15 million downloads and generates $40-$50 million in annual revenue. Yadegari will continue working on the app as a standalone division within MyFitnessPal and aims to revolutionize how people interact with their health using AI.

Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan has expanded his growing real estate portfolio with a 2.67-acre land purchase worth Rs 35 crore in Ayodhya. The investment reflects a wider trend among wealthy investors who are moving beyond luxury apartments and focusing on land banking in rapidly developing cities.

Indian cricket team's victory over England in the T20 World Cup 2026 was a result of four key moments - a dropped catch by Harry Brook, a missed opportunity by Tom Banton, and two crucial catches by Axar Patel. These moments led to India's win and ended England's chase just seven runs short.

Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui's journey to fame was filled with challenges, from growing up in a small town with financial struggles to facing years of rejection and minor roles. However, his mother's sacrifice and his determination led him to pursue his dream of acting, eventually gaining recognition with his powerful performance in Gangs of Wasseypur.

Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh have banned social media access for children under 16, sparking a debate on state governments' ability to regulate minors' online activity. Similar measures are being considered in Australia and Europe due to concerns about the impact of social media on young users. Technology companies warn that selective restrictions may not effectively address the issue.

The Hurun Global Rich List 2026 reveals that the world’s richest celebrity is neither a pop superstar nor a sports icon. While names like Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Michael Jordan and Shah Rukh Khan dominate entertainment headlines, the top spot actually belongs to a legendary filmmaker whose fortune comes from owning some of the most valuable intellectual property in Hollywood history.

India's T20 World Cup final has boosted reservations and walk-ins at bars and restaurants nationwide, as the spectator sports market is projected to reach $2.56 billion by 2031. The popularity of shared sporting experiences, especially cricket, is driving this trend, with other global sports like Formula 1 and football also shaping nightlife programming.

The India-Australia women's cricket Test is not just a competition, but an opportunity for players to achieve career milestones and extend impressive streaks. With Australian wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy playing her final international match and Indian opener Smriti Mandhana and Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry nearing batting records, the game could also set team records.

The India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is expected to be ready by July and operationalized by the end of 2026. Negotiations lasted almost two decades, with the first attempt abandoned in 2013. The FTA secures market access for over 99% of Indian exports to the EU and eliminates tariffs on 96.6% to 97.5% of EU exports to India, including high-end cars and wine.

The Indian government is working to align Ind AS with ICDS to simplify corporate tax compliance. This will reduce tax adjustments and make the tax audit reporting process easier. A panel will be formed to identify which ICDS can be aligned with Ind AS, and the integration is expected to be achieved through modifications or clarifications.

The 16th Finance Commission's recommendations focus on reducing revenue deficits and promoting growth-oriented capital spending to strengthen states' long-term fiscal position. However, limited fiscal support from the Centre may continue to pressure states in the short term.

The government is using the Export Promotion Mission and other policy tools to support exporters affected by the West Asia conflict. The minister promises unwavering support and acknowledges the challenges caused by disrupted shipping and increased freight charges.

PM Modi urges stakeholders to focus on export-led growth in Indian agriculture, highlighting the need for investment in storage and supply chains, agri-fintech innovation, and region-specific crops. He notes the significant emphasis on revitalizing the farm sector and boosting rural development in the 2026-27 budget.

Qatar's Energy Minister predicts that if the Iran conflict persists and oil prices reach $150 a barrel, all Gulf energy producers will cease exports within weeks. Qatar has already stopped its production of liquefied natural gas, which makes up 20% of global supply. The minister warns of possible shortages and economic consequences

Renault is launching the Duster in India on March 17, amidst a thriving mid-size SUV market driven by increasing disposable incomes and demand for larger vehicles. However, the Duster will face stiff competition from established players like Hyundai, Toyota, and Maruti Suzuki. It will feature 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engines.

The 2026 Hurun Global Rich List shows a significant increase in the number of billionaires, reaching over 4,000 for the first time. This is due to the stock market and the rise of artificial intelligence. Tech founders and AI pioneers, including Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, have seen a rise in their net worth. However, traditional value investors like Bill have dropped in the rankings.

Reliance Power denies ED raids at Mumbai and Hyderabad offices, despite earlier reports. Share price falls as Anil Ambani and group companies face ED and CBI investigations for money laundering. ED forms SIT to investigate Rs 40,000 crore fraud involving ADAG, and attaches Ambani's Mumbai property worth Rs 3,716.83 crore.

Reliance Consumer Products, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries, partners with Fazer to distribute their chocolates and confectionery products in India. This collaboration leverages Fazer's global brands and Reliance's extensive retail network and consumer insights. Reliance has been acquiring renowned brands like Campa Cola and Ravalgaon,

Garden Reach Shipbuilders' stock price soared by 7% following the signing of an MoU with Kalyani Strategic Systems, aiming to develop indigenous solutions for maritime and defence systems. The ongoing tensions in West Asia, with Iran striking key locations, have also led to a surge in defence stocks.

UPSC has declared the final result of the Civil Services Examination 2025, with Anuj Agnihotri securing the top rank. The merit list includes names of candidates recommended for appointment to various prestigious services like IAS, IPS, and IFS. The final list is prepared by totaling the marks obtained in the Main Examination and Personality Test.

Sanju Samson, often compared to other players, has always been prepared but not given enough opportunities in Indian cricket. Despite impressive stats, he has been overlooked for the middle order. However, he proved himself as a game-changer in the T20 World Cup, similar to Yuvraj Singh in 2007. He stayed true to his risky yet rewarding style and silenced critics

Rising costs from the ongoing US-Israeli campaign against Iran are putting pressure on Gulf states’ budgets. According to the latest report from the Financial Times, this could lead them to rethink overseas investments and future financial commitments.

Motilal Oswal has given Jain Resource Recycling a ‘Buy’ rating with a target price of Rs 520, highlighting its leading position in the regulated non-ferrous metal recycling industry. The company is expected to see significant growth due to increasing focus on sustainability and favourable regulations, with a projected CAGR of 36% in revenue and 56% in net profit over the next four years.

NHSRCL refutes Congress' claims of cost escalation and funding problems for Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train, stating they are unfounded. Cost refinement is a regular procedure and Indian Railways will not bear the burden. The corporation denies rising ticket prices and assures a concessional loan for the project. Completion expected by 2029.

Acting goes beyond fame and fortune, as actors also serve as influencers, marketers, and role models. With fewer Hollywood opportunities, some aspiring actors have turned to being "standardised patients" for doctors in training. This unconventional job has become a profitable side gig for Broadway actors, who undergo extensive training to provide realistic simulations.

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders' share price surged after securing a major submarine project with the Indian Navy. The company also declared an interim dividend and highlighted the rising demand for defence products due to global tensions. Experts predict a spike in demand for specific defence segments like air defence systems, drones, anti-drone systems, and ammunition.

At Paris Fashion Week, longevity influencer Bryan Johnson made a surprising appearance at the Matieres Fecales show. He discussed the theme of power and the future domination of those with control over biology, reflecting on the broader themes of time, wealth, and power. His minimalist look on the runway symbolized the emerging idea of longevity as a symbol of power and the new.

Netflix has bought Ben Affleck's AI-based filmmaking startup, InterPositive, and Affleck will be a senior advisor. The tool uses AI to improve raw footage and align it with the director's vision. Netflix clarifies that this is not a substitute for filmmakers, but a tool to give them more choices and authority. This is a significant achievement for both Affleck and Netflix.

JM Financial maintains a 'Buy' rating on Reliance Industries due to the recent stock price correction being "overdone". Despite a 4% drop this week and 8% in the last month, the stockcan reach up to 28.6%. The O2C business is resilient to energy price spikes, and the digital segment has a robust growth outlook. The company's financial discipline and debt reduction plans make it a promising stock.

BSEB to close objection window for Bihar 12th class answer key on March 6, 2026. Provisional answer key out for Arts, Commerce, Science, and Vocational streams. Objections can be submitted online before 5 pm on March 6. Results expected between March 20 and 25, 2026. Evaluation process ongoing, results to be announced on biharboardonline.com. Exam held from Feb 2-13, 2026, with

The United States has issued a special license that allows certain Russian oil shipments to be sold to India, Bloomberg reported. The step comes at a time when tensions in the Persian Gulf are rising and threatening supplies from one of the world’s most important oil-producing regions, the Strait of Hormuz

President Donald Trump had reportedly been losing patience with his Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for some time. But people familiar with the matter told NBC that things finally reached a breaking point this week after her appearances at two congressional hearings drew criticism and left the president deeply unhappy. 

Zepto's new Real Lens feature in their app provides customers with actual photos of fruits and vegetables from nearby dark stores, giving them a visual understanding of their online purchases. This tackles the problem of inconsistent quality and lack of freshness information in fresh produce deliveries.

28-year-old Rachita Ramesh dismissed her exhaustion as part of new motherhood until she experienced heavy menstrual bleeding. A routine check-up revealed dangerously low blood counts and a diagnosis of high-risk acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. After months of intensive chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, she is now in remission.

India's rice exporters are struggling with reduced profits due to high ocean freight rates, leading to shipment delays and halted bookings for ports connected to the Strait of Hormuz. The situation is especially concerning for those exporting to Iran, where geopolitical tensions have caused operational challenges and delays.

India's commercial vehicle industry is facing uncertainty due to Iran's missile strikes in the Gulf, a major market for exports. The ongoing tensions could delay shipments and affect growth, but analysts believe the industry's strong fundamentals and infrastructure projects in the GCC will help mitigate the impact.