India
Sebi: India's domestic strength shields markets but global risks persist
India's economy is projected to see significant growth in 2026-27, supported by robust domestic demand and higher government expenditure. However, Sebi has flagged external threats, including the ongoing Middle East conflict and volatile oil prices, as key risks to this outlook. The previous year witnessed an unprecedented withdrawal of foreign investment from Indian equity markets. Despite this outflow, strong domestic fundamentals are expected to help cushion the impact of global headwinds.
Brothers of Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder Victim Face Police Action Over Liquor Serving
The brothers of Raja Raghuvanshi, the victim in the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case, are facing police action. Sachin Raghuvanshi and Vipin Raghuvanshi, Raja's elder brothers, own a food establishment that has come under scrutiny. The eatery falls under the jurisdiction of the Rau police station. Authorities are taking action against the brothers for allegedly serving liquor at their establishment.

Turkey Signs Military Pact With Pakistan and Saudi Arabia Akin to NATO Treaty
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced a new trilateral military alliance between Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia. The minister described the agreement as comparable in nature to NATO's collective defence framework. Fidan clarified that the pact is not targeted at Iran or any other nation. The alliance is intended as a broad mutual security commitment among the three partner countries.

How Chess Gave Stateless Grandmasters a Neutral Flag to Compete Under
Writer Aarav Dengla examines the stories of chess players who have been caught between their sport and the political realities of their home countries. Historical cases such as Viktor Korchnoi's defection from the Soviet Union are explored alongside modern examples like Alireza Firouzja's departure from Iran. Ian Nepomniachtchi's decision to compete under the FIDE flag after opposing Russia's war in Ukraine is also highlighted. In each case, FIDE provided a neutral platform that allowed players to continue competing when representing their nations was no longer viable. Dengla argues that playing under a stateless banner preserved these athletes' freedom without erasing their personal identities.
US Senate Passes Key Crypto Bill Ahead of August Recess
The US Senate has advanced a significant cryptocurrency bill before lawmakers departed for their August recess. The legislation includes provisions related to the Clarity Act and stablecoin regulation, marking a major step forward for the crypto industry. The crypto sector had invested over $119 million supporting pro-crypto candidates during the 2024 elections to help push such legislation forward. The move signals growing political momentum for establishing clearer regulatory frameworks around digital assets in the United States.

Pilot and Three Family Members Die in Rio de Janeiro Helicopter Crash
A helicopter crash near Vista Chinesa in Rio de Janeiro claimed four lives, including the pilot and three members of the same family. The aircraft went down close to a well-known landmark — a Chinese pagoda replica situated at a high-altitude forest viewpoint. The site is popular for its panoramic views of the city from within a forested area. Authorities have not yet publicly confirmed the cause of the crash.

Maharashtra Milk Prices Rise by Rs 2 Per Litre After Industry Meeting
Milk prices in Maharashtra have been increased by Rs 2 per litre following a decision by the Milk Producers and Processors Welfare Association. The resolution was passed at a formal meeting chaired by association president Gopalrao Mhaske. The hike will directly impact consumers across the state who purchase milk regularly. The decision reflects ongoing cost pressures faced by milk producers and processors in the region.

De Paul scores long-range goal, reveals Messi's No. 10 jersey in tribute to grieving friend
Inter Miami midfielder Rodrigo De Paul opened the scoring with an impressive long-range strike during a recent match. After celebrating his goal, he lifted his shirt to reveal Lionel Messi's iconic number 10 jersey underneath. The gesture was a heartfelt show of support for Messi, who was absent from the game. Messi missed the match following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68. De Paul's tribute was widely seen as a powerful display of solidarity with his close friend during a difficult time.
British Columbia Declares Emergency as Bald Range Wildfire Forces 20,000 to Flee
British Columbia has declared a state of emergency following the rapid spread of the Bald Range wildfire. Strong winds late Friday accelerated the fire's growth, driving flames into the Summerland area. The blaze has impacted multiple communities across the surrounding valleys. As a result, approximately 20,000 residents have been forced to evacuate their homes.

Car bomb hits Colombia toll plaza a day after new president takes office
A car bomb exploded at a toll plaza in southwestern Colombia on Saturday, injuring two security guards. The blast occurred just one day after Abelardo de la Espriella was inaugurated as the country's new president. The Colombian army attributed the attack to dissident factions of the FARC rebel group. President de la Espriella responded swiftly, issuing a firm warning to armed groups and calling on them to respect the rule of law.
Joe Biden Diagnosed With Bone-Metastatic Prostate Cancer Four Months After Leaving Office
Former U.S. President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones. The diagnosis was revealed in May 2025, approximately four months after Biden left the presidency. Biden had served as the oldest sitting president in U.S. history before leaving office. His son described the condition as painful, highlighting the serious and advanced nature of the illness.

PCB warns ex-Pakistan cricketers of 2-year ban over unauthorised Zambia T20 league
Former Pakistan cricketers are facing potential two-year bans after participating in an unsanctioned T20 league in Zambia. The Pakistan Cricket Board responded firmly, stressing that players must secure official clearance before joining any overseas competition. Several participants reportedly faced problems related to unpaid fees and inadequate accommodation during the event. The incident comes as the ICC increases its oversight of franchise cricket tournaments operating around the world.
Delhi woman, 70, killed as Mercedes rams WagonR into parked vehicle; driver detained
A 70-year-old woman in Delhi died after a Mercedes collided with her WagonR, forcing it into a stationary vehicle. The Mercedes driver, identified as Subham Sharma, was detained at the spot by authorities. Family members have alleged that Sharma was drunk and speeding at the time of the crash. Sharma was reportedly returning from a party, and a blood sample has been collected for alcohol testing. The other occupants of the WagonR escaped with minor injuries.

