Times of India

Indian markets brace for a volatile week, with the US-Iran conflict and soaring crude oil prices dominating investor sentiment. A weakening rupee, coupled with inflation concerns, adds to the pressure. Analysts anticipate heightened sensitivity to geopolitical developments, especially concerning the Strait of Hormuz, and will closely watch foreign investor activity and upcoming economic data.

USCIS now has the power to reject or deny immigration applications, even keeping fees, if an invalid signature is found months or years later. This new rule, effective July 10, 2026, applies broadly to most benefit requests, including visas and Green Cards. Applicants cannot usually fix signature errors after submission.

Tensions flared in Kaiserbagh as police lathi-charged protesting advocates during a Municipal Corporation demolition drive. The operation targeted chambers near the Civil Court, ordered by the Lucknow Bench of the High Court to remove illegal encroachments. Police stated the situation is under control.

Shreyas Iyer is set to captain Punjab Kings in his 100th IPL match, a significant milestone. He joins an elite group of captains with this achievement. Iyer boasts an impressive win percentage and has led three different franchises to IPL finals. This landmark game comes as PBKS battles to revive their playoff hopes after a string of defeats.

A social media post by Karim Janat mistakenly led fans to believe Afghanistan batter Rahmat Shah had passed away due to an inaccurate Instagram translation. The post was actually a condolence message for the death of Rahmat Shah's mother, not the cricketer himself. The confusion was clarified, confirming Rahmat Shah is alive.

JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon, at the 2025 Reagan National Economic Forum, urged professionals to "talk to everybody" to foster growth and learning. He emphasized stepping out of comfort zones, observing, and listening to diverse perspectives. Dimon also warned companies against bureaucracy, calling it a "silent killer" that breeds complacency and inefficiency, especially in large organizations.

The Bill Gates Foundation Trust sold its entire Microsoft (MSFT) stake in Q1 2026, offloading the final 7.7 million shares worth $3.2 billion. The exit caps a two-year wind-down from 28.5 million shares, funding Gates' plan to spend the endowment by 2045. Microsoft stock slipped to $422.07 even as Pershing Square's Bill Ackman disclosed a fresh $2.3 billion MSFT buy the same day.

Shubman Gill etched his name in IPL history, becoming one of the few captains to achieve multiple 500-run seasons. Despite Gujarat Titans' loss, Gill's 85 against Kolkata Knight Riders secured his second such milestone. He joins legends like Tendulkar and Kohli in this elite club, showcasing consistent batting prowess while leading his team.

Veteran actor Rajinikanth clarified his political stance, stating he is no longer active in politics and was shocked by speculation about actor Vijay becoming Chief Minister. He defended his meeting with MK Stalin, emphasizing their friendship transcends politics and that he addressed criticism to prevent it from being perceived as truth.

Persistent mouth ulcers that lasts over two to three weeks or unexplained voice changes can signal serious underlying health issues, including head and neck cancers. While often dismissed as minor ailments, these lingering symptoms warrant medical attention. Early diagnosis is very crucial for the effective treatment and improved survival rates.

The Taliban regime in Afghanistan has enacted a new family law regulation, "Principles of Separation Between Spouses," which has drawn international criticism. A particularly controversial article interprets a virgin girl's silence after puberty as consent to marriage. The decree also addresses child marriage, divorce, and other marital disputes, granting fathers and grandfathers significant authority.

Delhi commuters face a double blow as CNG prices surged by Re 1, pushing the cost to Rs 80.09 per kg, the second hike in 48 hours. This follows a Rs 2 increase on Friday. The price hikes impact private vehicle owners, cabbies, and public transport users.

Prime Minister Modi's Netherlands visit concluded with a strategic partnership upgrade, marked by 17 key outcomes. A significant development includes Tata Electronics' pact with ASML for a semiconductor facility in Dholera, boosting India's ambitions. Modi also lauded the Indian diaspora's role in strengthening bilateral ties.

CNG prices in Delhi and NCR have seen another hike, with the latest increase of Re 1 per kg on Sunday. This follows two previous hikes, totaling Rs 3 in just two days after elections concluded. The Congress criticised the government, calling it a "cash collection" drive. This comes amid broader fuel price increases and ongoing global energy market volatility.

India has moved silver imports to a "restricted" category, requiring government approval, to prevent traders from exploiting a duty gap created by a recent 15% import tax hike. This move aims to curb arbitrage opportunities through the India-UAE free trade agreement, protect foreign exchange reserves, and control precious metal inflows, while exempting export-oriented industries.

Rajasthan's deputy chief minister highlighted Prime Minister Modi's suggestions for sustainable practices, emphasizing their benefits for the environment and public health. She stated that integrating these measures into daily life would be a significant step forward, promoting healthier living and environmental consciousness.

Rajasthan Royals' 15-year-old batting sensation, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, is drawing significant fan attention with his aggressive style and impressive strike rate of 236.55. He has amassed 440 runs and smashed 40 sixes in 11 IPL games. Coaches emphasize letting him enjoy his batting while acknowledging the challenges of evolving against future opposition.

A Marshall Islands-flagged LPG carrier carrying nearly 20,000 tonnes of fuel safely docked in Kandla, having crossed the Strait of Hormuz. This marks a crucial energy supply movement amidst ongoing Middle East conflict, which has disrupted India's crude reserves by nearly 15%.