Indian stock markets are expected to open on a negative note due to tensions in West Asia and weak global cues. GIFT Nifty suggests a cautious opening with a 0.29% drop. Investors should pay attention to global factors, institutional flows, sectoral trends, and recent momentum in specific businesses. On June 18, the Sensex and Nifty closed with slight losses.
Cybersecurity experts warn of increased scam activity during the 2025 holiday shopping season in the US, with criminals using AI and dark web fraud kits to create convincing fake storefronts, delivery notifications, and online stores. Victims risk losing money and personal data by clicking on these fraudulent links.
Google's Gemini AI is quickly gaining ground on OpenAI's ChatGPT in terms of reach, adoption, and capabilities, posing a real threat to its dominance in the AI world. With a growing user base and strong integration with Google's platform, Gemini is closing the gap with ChatGPT. Other competitors, such as Perplexity and Anthropic's Claude, are also gaining momentum, indicating a shift in industry.
Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp joined forces to produce the X 440, a budget-friendly motorcycle. But its lack of classic Harley appearance resulted in poor sales. The upgraded X440 T features ride-by-wire throttle, switchable traction control, and a sleeker design. It's perfect for city riding, with a fuel efficiency of 30 km/l and a range of 350 km.
Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is considering a €10 billion offer to buy FC Barcelona in a bid to gain total control of the historic team and expand the country's influence in global sports. However, a full takeover faces major obstacles due to the club's debt and ownership structure.
Flu shots range from $20 to $130 for uninsured individuals, but there are affordable or free options for those with low income or no insurance. Public health departments and seasonal flu clinics offer these options. It is recommended for everyone over 6 months to get vaccinated, as advised by public health officials.
Indian oil companies are attempting to negotiate crude oil settlements in rupees, but foreign suppliers are reluctant due to trade imbalances. A parliamentary committee has recommended the use of rupees to conserve foreign exchange reserves and urged the oil ministry to address bottlenecks and promote rupee-based settlements.
A person has been arrested in connection with a mass shooting at Brown University that left two students dead and nine others injured. The individual, who is not a Brown University student, was detained based on a tip and is being investigated. The university has lifted its lockdown order, but police are still investigating the crime scenes. The motive for the shooting is still unknown.
South Korean actor Byun Yo Han and American actress-singer Tiffany Young, known for their work on Uncle Samsik, have confirmed their serious relationship with marriage in mind. Their intimate scene in the series and Tiffany's role as Byun's English tutor have gained attention. Byun, a graduate of Korea National University of Arts, has received multiple awards for his work in films and dramas.
Despite a weekly gain of 148 points, the Nifty index is facing resistance and cautious sentiment due to lower tops and bottoms. Russia's investment in Indian equity markets could boost liquidity. Mixed global cues, with uneven US markets and expected BOJ policy rate increase. RBI cuts rates and injects liquidity, while India's CPI remains stable.
India and Russia have set a goal to increase their bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030 by identifying 300 high-potential products in sectors like engineering, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and agriculture. The trade gap is mainly due to India's oil imports, but there is potential for growth in other sectors.
The government plans to lower customs duties in the upcoming Budget to promote domestic value creation and attract investments, despite challenges from Trump tariffs and free trade negotiations. Digitization and faceless processing will streamline customs procedures. Experts suggest reducing India's average customs duty from 14% to 2% in line with other major countries.
Streamer of the Year, Speed, is making headlines again after reacting to Lionel Messi's GOAT India Tour 2025 during a livestream. However, his misunderstanding of the situation led to him spreading misinformation and receiving backlash from social media users. The truth behind Messi's visit to India reveals a chaotic event with fans disappointed and angry at the organizers for mismanagement.
NTA has released the notification for CUET (PG)-2026, inviting applications for masters' courses in Central Universities and other participating institutions. Forms can be filled from Dec 14, 2025 to Jan 14, 2026, with exams in March 2026. Exams will be held in 292 cities in India and 16 cities abroad. Candidates must follow instructions and submit only one application with correct information.
Crunchyroll's Executive VP, Mitchel Berger, celebrates the artistry and human creativity behind anime amidst discussions of artificial intelligence. Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle's success at the box office has led to global earnings of $750 million and nominations for a Golden Globe and Oscar. Crunchyroll's dedication to bringing anime into fans' daily lives through content remains strong.
A woman from Delhi filed a complaint to the MCD about her home's CCTV camera being smashed, expressing fear for her family's safety and her son's distress. The incident, she claimed, was in retaliation for her complaint. She alleged that she dialled the police helpline, but no "concrete action" was taken by the police. Delhi Police has forwarded her complaint to the relevant authorities.
John Cena, after a 24-year career, has retired from WWE with a loss to Gunther, keeping his promise to retire in 2025. With a net worth of $80 million, he ranks in the top 5 richest wrestlers, while WWE co-founder Vince McMahon holds the top spot with a net worth of $3.2 billion. Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson also makes the list.
Abhishek Negi, founder of Eggoz, responded to viral claims of using antibiotics in their eggs, stating that they are shocked and disappointed by the misinformation and fear-mongering. He clarified that their eggs are safe for consumption and that they have implemented strict safety measures, including no use of antibiotics.
Ranveer Singh, the popular Bollywood actor, is not only famous for his films but also for his bold fashion sense. With a net worth of Rs 430 crore, Singh has invested in his own protein snack brand and a new spirit label. However, his extravagant watch collection, worth Rs 15 crore, from top brands like Frank Muller and Rolex, is what steals the show.
Rajinikanth, the South superstar, has had a stellar year at the box office and recently turned 75. His illustrious career spans 50 years and he has acted in several films across languages. Born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, he had a quiet dream of acting, which was realized after a chance encounter with a driver named Raj Bahadur, who pushed him towards pursuing acting as a serious profession.
Several attorney generals have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the new $100,000 fee imposed on H-1B visas. Vice President JD Vance criticized the move, but the attorney generals argue that the fee will harm the economy and hinder the hiring of highly skilled foreign workers. Oregon, for example, relies on H-1B workers in its universities and institutions.
A man's uncle found an old retirement document from 1995, which he bought for Rs 20,000. Curious, the man turned to Reddit, asking the community to calculate its current value. Many claimed that the bond could be worth crores now. However, the numbers tell a very different story. Read on to find out the "current" value.
A tragic shooting at Brown University's engineering building leaves two dead and eight critically injured. The school was put on lockdown, and students shared their terrifying experiences. The shooter is still at large, and the incident occurred during final exams. The building was a popular spot for students and contained classrooms and labs.
A United Airlines flight bound for Tokyo was forced to return to the United States after it suffered an engine failure shortly after takeoff. The Boeing 777-200ER was carrying 275 passengers and 15 crew members when the incident took place.
The FAA is investigating the incident.
Two people were killed and eight were injured in a shooting at Brown University during final exams. The suspect, a male dressed in black, is still at large and authorities do not have an image of him yet. The university sent out two incorrect alerts, causing chaos and confusion among students and faculty as the search for the shooter continues.
The partnership between ICE and TSA has led to the arrest and deportation of a college student with no criminal record, raising concerns about privacy and delays for passengers. ICE is using TSA data to identify and detain individuals for deportation at airports, sparking controversy over the collaboration between immigration authorities and TSA.
The US Transportation Department is threatening to withhold $73 million from New York state due to improperly issued commercial driver licenses to non-US citizens. Secretary Sean Duffy stresses the importance of well-trained drivers and has made similar threats to other Democratic-run states.
England's Ashes plans were flawed, relying on hope and bravado rather than practical analysis. Australia's experienced team, dubbed 'Dad's Army', has proven to be a tough opponent due to England's overestimation of their own strength and players. Despite talented leaders, England lacks team unity and struggles with adapting to conditions.
Walmart, the US' biggest retailer, will shut down all stores for 24 hours on Christmas to prioritize employee family time. Limited hours will be available on December 24, with emphasis on planning ahead for gift shopping and dinner preparations. Online shopping and delivery will continue with extended deadlines and "dark stores" for faster service.
In December 2025, the SSA in the US will adhere to its regular payment schedule for beneficiaries, with deposits being made on specific dates depending on birthdates. The schedule is divided into three groups, with the second group receiving payments on December 17 to ensure timely delivery before the holidays.
The US Department of Homeland Security has ended the Biden-era Family Reunification Parole programs for nationals from seven countries and their immediate family members. This aligns with President Trump's "America First" approach and aims to address security concerns and misuse of the parole system.
Usha Vance, the US Second Lady, has addressed rumours about her marriage to Vice President JD Vance, stating that she doesn't pay attention to them and prefers to focus on her family. The speculation was fuelled by Usha's missing wedding ring, but official responses dismissed it as unintentional. Vance has also dismissed the rumours and reaffirmed the strength of their marriage.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has ordered the State Department to return to using Times New Roman instead of Calibri for official communications, sparking a debate on the role of typography in larger ideological conflicts. This decision has been viewed as a reversal of diversity and inclusion efforts, with past instances demonstrating how writing systems and fonts have been used.
Seed oils, rich in omega 6, can lead to inflammation if not balanced with omega 3. But they have heart-protective benefits when replacing saturated fats. Consuming omega 3 from fish or plants can restore balance and promote health. Blood tests can measure omega 3 levels, but maintaining intake through diet or supplements is crucial for overall wellbeing.
"India faces a major issue with menstrual hygiene for adolescent girls, leading to high school dropouts and health problems. However, the menstrual cup, a safe, effective, and eco-friendly product, is gaining popularity among women. Despite myths, doctors recommend it for its convenience and cost-effectiveness, making it a viable solution for India's menstrual hygiene problem."
A San Jose father was given his deceased son's brain instead of requested clothing by an Indian-origin funeral director, causing a traumatic discovery during laundry. The funeral home and director are being sued for gross negligence and emotional distress, with the family seeking $10 million in damages.
"The Land Trap" by Mike Bird, "The Social Life of Indian Trains" by Amitava Kumar, "Speed" by Vaclav Smil, and "Why I Killed My Husband and Other Such Stories" by Anita Nair are thought-provoking books that delve into the complexities of land, transportation, and personal experiences. Each book offers a unique perspective on how these factors shape our world and impact our daily lives.
India's culinary landscape is evolving, with a growing interest in international cuisines like Japanese, Korean, and Thai. This is due to increased global exposure, social media influence, and improved supply chains. In Delhi-NCR, this change is evident in three formats: neighbourhood ambition, lifestyle-driven spectacle, and youth-oriented cultural translation.
"Vaccine Nation" by Ameer Shahul delves into India's history of vaccines and their significant impact on the country's global health efforts. From the 1890s to present, the book covers the challenges and successes of fighting diseases like cholera, smallpox, and polio. It also explores the political and policy aspects of vaccination, including the role of philanthropy and foreign funding.
"Progress: A History of Humanity's Worst Idea" challenges the belief that the world is constantly improving. McDonald argues that progress is a myth used to justify exploitation and inequality. He traces its origins to the Enlightenment and its current form as a justification for endless growth and consumerism.
A survey in five Indian states showed a gap in the usage and understanding of AI among rural learners, particularly marginalized youth. Girls and school students had the weakest grasp, while vocational trainees and boys showed better understanding. The report also noted how students use AI as a confidant, and Amazon Web Services' rebranding of autonomous systems raises accountability questions.
The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's Trophy showcased the growth of esports in India as a part of the state-level tournament with a prize pool of Rs 37 crore. The event featured popular games like EA FC 25, Street Fighter 6, Pokémon Unite, and Battlegrounds Mobile India, and was followed by the Chennai Esports Global Championship with a prize pool of Rs. 1 crore in the state capital.
Google and Apple are both planning to release XR products in 2026, with Google set to launch smart glasses and Apple rumored to have a new XR product. The Google XR prototype for AI glasses will be available to developers, with early testers reporting a better experience than the Meta Ray Ban version.
Chess champion Magnus Carlsen sparked controversy for wearing jeans at a championship, leading to a fine and disqualification. FIDE has since revised its dress code to allow appropriate jeans, but Carlsen had already auctioned his jeans for charity. The organisation has now relaxed the dress code for the upcoming championships, highlighting the ongoing debate over balancing tradition.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation has filed a federal lawsuit against President Trump's plan to add a grand ballroom to the White House, citing illegal demolition and bypassing of required reviews. Supporters see it as decisive leadership, but critics warn of permanent harm to historic elements.
The digitalization of India's power sector has raised concerns about cybersecurity. The Ministry of Power is working with national agencies to monitor and respond to threats. Stakeholders are emphasizing the urgency of upgrading firewalls. Multi-agency coordination and compliance with international standards are vital for future readiness.
Air India has acquired two Diamond DA42NG trainer aircraft for its new pilot training center in Amravati, developed by Maharashtra Airport Development Company. The facility, with a total investment of Rs 400 crore, will have a fleet of 34 trainer aircraft and will train 180 cadet pilots each year. These pilots will then continue their certification at Air India's Aviation Academy in Gurugram.
Lionel Messi's highly anticipated appearance at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium turned chaotic due to serious crowd-control issues, forcing officials to tighten the protective cordon around the football icon. The event, part of his 'GOAT India Tour 2025' organized by Satadru Dutta, sparked questions about large-scale event management.
Shivganga Drillers, an oilfield services provider, has filed for a Rs 400 crore IPO with no offer for sale. The company plans to use the funds for plant and machinery, debt repayment, and general purposes. It may also raise Rs 80 crore through a pre-IPO placement. The company offers a range of services to oil and gas operators in India
Despite facing challenges such as price pressures and demand volatility, SAIL, a state-owned steel maker, saw a 14% growth in sales at 12.7 MT in April-November 2025. This was attributed to a strong sales strategy and ongoing brand promotion campaigns. In November, overall sales rose 27% and retail sales surged by 69%. SAIL owns and operates five integrated steel plants
Lionel Messi's India tour has begun, with plans to visit five cities and meet with Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan. Fans are thrilled as both are considered the 'GOAT'. This is Messi's second visit and includes a statue unveiling and ramp walk. However, some are curious about SRK not greeting Messi's teammate, Luis Suarez.