Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will visit Brussels and Liechtenstein to push negotiations on the free trade agreement with the EU before the India-EU Summit next month. The EU's top leaders will attend India's Republic Day celebrations and co-share the summit with PM Modi. Talks on the FTA, which began in 2022, are at a crucial stage with issues like carbon tax and technical deadlines.
BESTIU and India Foundation have launched the School of Global Leadership (SoGL) with a one-year PGP-GL program that offers international residencies and a curriculum focused on systems thinking, ethical responsibility, and real-world decision-making. The institution aims to shape inclusive leaders for the 21st century through a practical and academic approach to leadership.
Starbucks has found its new chief technology officer, Anand Varadarajan, who will also serve as executive vice president starting January 19, 2026. Varadarajan has a strong background in technology and operations, with 19 years at Amazon, and will report directly to CEO Brian Niccol. His appointment comes amid the company's tech-focused "Back to Starbucks" initiative and a digital overhaul.
Filing a revised return is crucial to ensure compliance with tax laws and prevent discrepancies, even if there are no tax dues under Section 143. Freelancers earning up to Rs 50 lakh can benefit from presumptive taxation, resulting in no tax under the new regime. Tax deduction for education loan interest is available for up to eight years from the year of repayment.
Parliament passed the Insurance Amendment Bill, capping agents' commissions to promote needs-based advice and reduce policy lapses and claim disputes. The regulator gains more authority to regulate commissions and impose higher penalties. A policyholders' education and protection fund will reduce mis-selling. The Bill also allows 100% foreign direct investment, promising more choices.
Several airports in northern and eastern India are experiencing flight disruptions due to dense fog and low visibility. Major airlines have issued travel advisories and urged flyers to stay alert during the holiday travel season. Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet have released advisories and are working to mitigate disruptions.
The US Justice Department has released the first set of records from its investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, as mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act. President Trump, who previously dismissed the scandal, signed the law pushing for the release. The files, which include over 300,000 pages, have redacted victim names. Trump is barely mentioned.
Disney+ and Hulu have built a life-size gingerbread replica of the Home Alone house in LA to celebrate the film's 35th anniversary. Made with 5,700 pounds of flour and 4,200 eggs, visitors can see the 25.6 foot tall house and donate toys for Toys for Tots. The franchise continues to surprise, with a script written in just 9 days.
The markets have been quiet this week, with the Nifty closing below the 26,000 mark. Despite a mix of strong profits and sharp misses from companies, brokerages have fine-tuned their outlook on key stocks. UBS initiated coverage on Meesho with a ‘Buy’ rating, Motilal Oswal on Aditya Birla Real Estate, Jefferies on Hero MotoCorp, PL Capital on ICICI Prudential AMC, and more.
As we reach 50, a quiet sense of loneliness sets in due to empty nests, aging parents, and distant friends. Our society no longer provides built-in communities, leaving us emotionally depleted. To combat this, we must actively seek connections through activities like walking, reading, and volunteering.
The MINI Convertible is India's most affordable open-top car, priced at Rs 58.5 lakh. Its unique design, tight cabin, and small boot are compensated by a standout round OLED display and a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. It offers three driving modes and a soft top roof that can be opened in 18 seconds, providing infinite headroom.
Winter poses challenges for both conventional and electric cars, with cold temperatures causing battery failures, reduced range, and longer charging times. Neglected maintenance can result in rejected insurance claims, making it important to regularly check battery health and maintain correct tyre pressure.
India's crude import bill for April-November 2026 decreased by 11% to $80.9 billion, thanks to lower prices. The country imported 163.4 MT of crude oil, with a reliance of 80.2% on imports. Domestic production declined by 1.5%, while imports from Russia peaked in November due to US sanctions on two Russian oil firms.
ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company had a strong debut, settling at Rs 2586.70, slightly lower than its opening price. The stock climbed as much as 23% intraday to Rs 2,662 apiece. The Rs 10,600 crore IPO was third in terms of listing gains among large IPOs. Its overall subscription was 39.17 times. The company received bids of nearly Rs 3 lakh crore.
The Reserve Bank of India has granted permission to Russia's SBER Bank to import gold for domestic use, adding it to the list of authorized banks. SBER Bank plays a key role in currency trade between Russia and India and has plans for expansion in India after President Putin's visit.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a national gun buyback scheme following a mass shooting at Bondi Beach that killed 15 people. Increased patrols and policing have been implemented to prevent future violence. The scheme, similar to one after the Port Arthur massacre, will target surplus, banned, and illegal firearms with costs shared between federal and state governments.
The MPC voted unanimously for a 25-basis-point cut in the policy repo rate at the December meeting due to signs of a slowdown in economic momentum. While Q2 FY26 GDP growth was strong, members warned of a potential peak and loss of traction. Concerns over growth moderation were highlighted, with trade disruptions and external risks being a key factor.
Syrian refugee Ahmed al-Ahmed bravely stopped a shooter in the Bondi Beach attack, earning him hero status. He received a generous AU$2.5 million donation from 43,000 people, including a large contribution from an American. Despite being injured, Ahmed's message is to keep going and save lives, as he believes Australia is the best country in the world.
Indian electronics exports to China have surged by 90% this financial year, thanks to the government's push for local manufacturing. However, the trade imbalance between the two countries is a cause for concern, with a projected record deficit in 2025. There are suspicions of under-invoicing to evade customs duties, which requires further investigation.
80 Tibetan villagers were allegedly abducted by Chinese officials in Kashi village after protesting illegal gold mining. The arrests were marked by a communications blackout, increased security, and intrusive searches. Residents were warned against discussing the incident and reportedly faced physical and psychological trauma during intense questioning.
The 2025 Melon Music Awards, South Korea's biggest K-pop awards show, will be held this weekend, hosted by Kakao Entertainment. Fan favorites like BLACKPINK's Jennie, EXO, and G-Dragon will perform under the theme "Play the Moment." Presenters include actor Park Eun Bin and figure skater Cha Jun Hwan. The four Daesang prizes will be awarded, and the show can be watched on Melon's YouTube channel.
Centre spends only 10.5% of PMGSY budget, resulting in savings of Rs 15,000 crore. Underspending due to states' limited capacity to utilize funds and delays in fund transfers. New RBI-routed mechanism aims to prevent fund diversion and ensure timely releases. PMGSY nearing saturation in some areas, receiving less attention from states.
The Centre's direct tax receipts for Q3 of FY26 increased by 4.27% but fell short of Budget projections. Corporate tax grew by 8%, while non-corporate tax declined by 6.5%. Experts predict a shortfall in personal income tax collections due to tax relief measures. ICRA suggests that higher dividends could offset some of the missed tax collections.
RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra advocates lower real interest rates to boost demand and aid growth, leading to a 25 bps rate cut by the MPC. Inflation is expected to remain at 2% for the year, while the growth projection has been revised to 7.3%. Delaying the rate cut could negatively impact GDP growth.
India's pulses imports to decrease by 45% in current fiscal year due to sufficient stocks and strong domestic crop prospects. Data shows a 33% decline in imports and 45% drop in value during April-October 2025-26. Government aims to increase pulses production to 35 MT by 2030-31 under 'mission for Aatmanirbharta'.
New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani faces controversy as a top appointee, Catherine Almonte Da Costa, resigns due to her past antisemitic online posts. Da Costa was the director of appointments and promised to create a diverse government. Mamdani has condemned her remarks and expressed his commitment to making the city safe for all residents, including Jews.
In 2025, unconventional sleeping techniques were popular due to the growing need for self-care and the rise of insomnia. A global sleep survey revealed that people only experience 4 nights of good sleep per week, with stress, anxiety, and financial pressure being top disruptors. Crazy trends like mouth taping and potato bed sleep emerged, but also the concept of sleep divorce for couples.
President Trump plans to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the US in 2026 with the Patriot Games, a televised four-day athletic competition featuring athletes from every state and territory. Other events include a UFC fight on the South Lawn and a new arch monument in DC. Democrats have criticized the games, likening them to a dystopian event.
The Japanese government is implementing stricter immigration controls, including requiring Japanese language proficiency for permanent residency. Permanent residency can be revoked for neglecting public obligations, and rules for part-time work by international students are being reviewed. The number of foreign residents has reached a record high, raising concerns about unskilled foreign workers.
ADB commits $4.26 billion for various projects in India, with a focus on human and social development, renewable energy, urban development, and healthcare. This includes financing for the PM-SETU skilling program and the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. ADB also supports India's urban transformation agenda and provided financing for regional rapid rail and metro networks.
The latest film starring Sanjay Mishra and Mahima Chaudhary, Durlabh Prasad Ki Dusri Shadi, has received positive reviews from netizens on X (formerly Twitter). The movie explores themes of love in later life, second chances, and remarriage, with a strong ensemble cast led by Mishra.
AAHL, a major airport operator, will invest Rs 1 lakh crore in the next five years for airport infrastructure and development. They plan to go public between 2027 and 2030, with three triggers being the start of operations at NMIA, financial self-sufficiency, and leasing a large city-side development project. NMIA will be their largest airport with a capacity of.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has attached properties worth Rs 7.93 crore belonging to high-profile celebrities, including Yuvraj Singh, Sonu Sood, and Urvashi Rautela, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The probe into illegal offshore betting platform 1xBet revealed that the celebrities knowingly endorsed the platform.
Ola Electric's shares rose 10% after its founder Bhavish Aggarwal clarified that he had completed a one-time, limited monetisation of his personal shareholding. The transactions, totaling over 96 million shares, were to repay a loan and release pledged shares.
The final T20I between India and South Africa will take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on December 19. The match will start at 07:00, with the toss happening 30 minutes earlier. Fans can watch it on Star Sports Network or JioHotstar.
An anonymous tip on Reddit led to the identification of the suspect in the Brown University shooting and the killing of an MIT professor. The suspect, a former Brown University student, entered the US through the diversity lottery immigrant visa program, which has been suspended by Trump. The motive for the attacks is still unknown.
Nick Jonas and his brothers Joe and Kevin shared a video on Instagram of them dancing to a Bollywood song, "Shararat". The video went viral with over 15 million views and received love from fans. Nick, known for his connection to Bollywood through his wife Priyanka Chopra Jonas, is now affectionately called 'Jiju' by fans. This cultural crossover has delighted fans worldwide.
Dhurandhar storm has hit recent film releases, with Ranveer Singh-starrer drawing massive crowds to theatres. Ikkis, slated for Christmas release, has been shifted to New Year due to the competition. The film, based on the true story of India's youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient, features Amitabh Bachchan's grandson Agastya Nanda and is the last film of Dharmendra.
Elon Musk denies being fired as PayPal's CEO in 2000, calling it a "palace coup" orchestrated by the executive team and board members. A podcast claimed Thiel handled his removal, but Musk clarifies he was the largest shareholder. Reports suggest concerns about his risky decisions and a push to change PayPal's infrastructure led to his ousting.
India and South Africa will clash in the final T20I at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium with India aiming for another series win. However, doubts loom over the T20 World Cup squad, with Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill's performances being closely watched and Jasprit Bumrah's return uncertain. South Africa have a chance to level the series.
Indian-origin cricket lover Nitin Murkute tragically passed away in the US while playing a league match. The 41-year-old amateur athlete was described as a beloved friend, teammate, husband, and father. A fundraiser has been launched to support his family, who are facing financial challenges, including a mortgage. His wife, an H-4 visa holder, may face difficulties.
The 50th-anniversary re-release of Sholay, titled "The Final Cut," disappointed at the box office despite its restored 4k version and extended runtime. Despite nostalgia, the film failed to compete with modern blockbusters and only earned Rs 1.98 crores in its first week. This showcases the uncertainty of re-releases in theatres.
In 2025, Bollywood saw a shift towards action-packed dramas, with rom-coms failing to impress. The highest-grossing movies were dominated by action and thriller genres, with only two light-hearted romantic films making it to the top. The top 10 list included films like Chhaava, Dhurandhar, Saiyaara, Sitaare Zameen Par, Raid 2, Housefull 5, War 2, Sikandar, and Sky Force,
David Brooks, a long-time columnist at the New York Times, has come under scrutiny as new photos from Jeffrey Epstein's estate implicate high-profile figures like Bill Gates and Noam Chomsky. Brooks, who was pictured with Google's Sergey Brin at a 2011 event, has denied any involvement with Epstein. In a recent op-ed, he condemned Democrats for their focus on the scandal.
Scientists are concerned about the H5N1 bird flu strain due to its potential to mutate and cause a global pandemic. A study in India suggests that early interventions, such as quarantining households, can effectively contain the virus, but waiting until 10 cases are reported may lead to widespread transmission.
Hindustan Construction Company (HCC) has won a Rs 901 crore contract from Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) to build a 3.5-kilometre railway tunnel. The project, awarded to the HCC-VCCL Joint Venture, includes design, engineering, and commissioning services, as well as the construction of approach roads and other ancillary works.
India's second-largest software services exporter, Infosys, is set to announce its Q3FY26 earnings on January 14, 2026. The company's Board of Directors will meet on January 13 and 14 to approve the financial results for the quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2025. Infosys has narrowed its revenue growth forecast for FY26 to 2%–3%, while its operating margin guidance remains at 20%–22%.
Ram Gopal Varma praises Aditya Dhar's Dhurandhar, calling it a "quantum leap in Indian cinema" and a "carefully engineered experience." Dhar's vengeful spy-thriller explores the different conflicts India has faced over the years and has become the biggest blockbuster of 2025. Varma commends Dhar for not diluting the film or copying Hollywood.
"Happy Patel Khatarnak Jasoos trailer is out, directed by Vir Das and produced by Aamir Khan. The comedy-drama stars Vir Das as Happy Patel, a wannabe international spy with hidden roots in India. With a star-studded cast including Mithila Palkar and Imran Khan's comeback, the film promises to be a hilarious ride. Set for a January 2026 release, it is sure to be a hit among Bollywood fans."
Hindustan Zinc's stock fell 2.4% due to profit booking after a surge in silver prices. The stock had hit a 52-week high of Rs 594.35 a day ago. Silver prices are expected to remain volatile but with a positive outlook, driven by industrial demand and its role as a "digital-age metal". Jefferies rates Hindustan Zinc as 'Buy'.