Times of India

Montreal's search for offensive help has naturally expanded into the trade market, bringing Rickard Rakell into the conversation after Elliotte Friedman's latest report. The veteran winger remains productive and carries a team-friendly contract, making him an appealing option on paper. However, his age, Pittsburgh's expected asking price, Montreal's long-term roster strategy, and Rakell's limited trade protection all complicate negotiations. At this stage, the connection appears to reflect routine due diligence rather than an indication that a deal is imminent, with other win-now contenders arguably better positioned to complete a trade.

Economists say that the world’s fastest growing economy may even end up clocking a 7% GDP growth number this year. But, domestically a poor monsoon caused by El Nino is painting a grim picture for inflation. Is the worst really over for the Indian economy?

Ukraine’s forces executed drone strikes that targeted eight Russian fuel tankers during the night. These tankers were supposedly supplying fuel to Crimea in the Sea of Azov. The operation aimed to impede Russian military supply routes and logistics. This move is a continuation of a series of Ukrainian assaults on Crimea's infrastructure, which has led to significant fuel shortages on the peninsula.

Chinese officials are discussing restricting overseas access to advanced artificial intelligence models. These talks involve major technology firms like Alibaba and ByteDance. The government views cutting-edge AI as a strategic national asset amid global competition. Discussions also covered strengthening legal protections for proprietary AI technology. This move follows China's increasing global traction in the AI sector.

Atlanta stages a blockbuster World Cup clash between Lionel Messi and Mohamed Salah, with only one advancing. Messi, 39, already a world champion, has seven goals in four matches, a record eight straight World Cup scoring games, and 124 goals in 203 Argentina appearances. Salah, 34, Egypt's talisman, has 66 goals in 118 caps and has led the Pharaohs to Cup milestones.

Belgium outplayed the hosts to book a place in the quarter-finals, with Charles De Ketelaere scoring twice and setting up another goal.

In Spain and Portugal, the housing market is hitting new highs, with property prices climbing steeply and leaving many potential buyers priced out. The surge is driven by a mix of high demand and scant supply. Although mortgage approval rates are increasing, challenges like rising borrowing costs and stricter lending rules in Portugal pose risks.

Police are investigating claims that Siya Goyal secretly married Chetan Chaudhary four months prior to the murder. This alleged marriage occurred after Goyal's engagement to businessman Ketan Agarwal. Investigators are verifying marriage registration and examining digital evidence for proof. Deleted photographs and chat messages are crucial elements in the ongoing probe.

A landslide near Wayanad's tunnel project site caused significant destruction and panic. Two people died and seven others sustained injuries in the sudden debris flow. Several individuals remain missing after the devastating incident occurred near Meenakshi Bridge. Heavy rainfall and construction debris are under scrutiny as contributing factors. Rescue operations are ongoing to locate the missing and clear the affected area.

Microsoft's Xbox division is eliminating approximately 3,200 jobs as part of a major business restructure. The company is resetting its strategy after experiencing slower-than-expected growth and rising costs. Xbox is also simplifying its management structure, reducing layers from fourteen down to five. Four studios, including Compulsion Games, will move to new independent ownership. Xbox expects to return to growth in 2027 and entertain over a billion people daily.

A day after the Ram Mandir Trust accepted the resignation of Champat Rai from the position of general secretary, Yogi accused the rival political parties, Congress and the Samajwadi Party, of "making a mockery of Hindu faith" -- the same allegation the opposition has been levelling against the BJP. Yogi futher asked why the anti-NDA bloc remained muted when hectares of land across the nation were "sold off in the name of the Wakf".

BlackRock CEO Larry Fink voiced concerns about New York City's business climate. He noted that 47% of city tax revenue comes from the top 1% of taxpayers. Fink stated that inadequate services do not justify the current tax burden for residents. He believes economic growth should be prioritized over tax policy by policymakers. Fink suggested that BlackRock might deploy US resources elsewhere if conditions weaken.

Belgium decisively defeated the United States 4-1 in the World Cup Round of 16. Folarin Balogun, whose suspension was controversially overturned, struggled to impact the match. He registered few touches and failed to score during the game. The United States faced elimination in the Round of 16 once again. This defeat concluded their home World Cup aspirations after much scrutiny.

A senior Trump administration official said Netanyahu had repeatedly made optimistic predictions about the course of the war that ultimately failed to materialise. The official's comments reflected growing scepticism within the administration over Netanyahu's assessments of the conflict and signalled that Washington intends to independently verify future claims before acting on them.

Avalahalli police arrested Shekhappa for his infant daughter's murder. The child's death was not accidental, as initial reports suggested. Investigations revealed injuries inconsistent with a fall from a cot. The post-mortem indicated extensive internal injuries and respiratory failure. Shekhappa's wife, Vijayalakshmi, is currently absconding from authorities.

Luka Dončić turned heads by repeatedly choosing Nikola Jokić over LeBron James and other NBA legends in a rapid-fire "ultimate teammate" challenge. The viral clip surfaced shortly after James' Lakers exit, fueling fan speculation. While reports indicate no tension between the former teammates, many viewed Dončić's choice as a reflection of ideal 2-on-2 chemistry rather than a slight against James.