Top stocks to buy (AI image)

Stock market recommendations: According to Bajaj Broking Research, the top stock picks for December 12, 2025 are Eternal, and Divi’s Laboratories. Here’s its view on Nifty and Bank Nifty:Index View: NiftyBenchmark indices traded in a range with corrective bias and is currently placed around 25,900 levels as domestic markets tracked the global risk-off tone, pressured by persistent FII selling, a softer rupee, and ongoing uncertainty around US–India trade talks. In the short term, market direction will hinge on central bank commentary and clarity on trade-related developments. In the near term, market trajectory is likely to be dictated by currency stabilization dynamics, especially whether the rupee can find a durable floor. Moreover, clarity on evolving India–US trade negotiations could influence sector-specific outlooks, particularly in export-linked and tariff-sensitive industries. Nifty has key support placed at 25,700–25,800, which aligns with the bullish gap from November 12, the 50-day EMA, and a key retracement zone of the prior uptrend. Sustaining this band will be crucial for continuing the positive momentum of the last 3 months.We expect the Nifty to consolidate in the range of 25,700–26,200. A clear breakout or breakdown will determine the next directional move.A close below the key support area of 25,700 will signal extension of the corrective decline towards the 100 days EMA placed around 25400 levels. On the higher side, a move above the recent swing high of 26,200 will signal extension of the rally towards 26,500 levels in the coming weeks. Nifty BankBank Nifty traded in a range, digesting its recent strong gains. The index consolidated in a 700-points range oscillating in a positive and negative territory.We expect the index to extend consolidation and form a base in the range of 58500-60100 in the coming sessions. A follow-through strength above recent high 60,100 will open further upside towards 61,000 levels in the coming weeks.The entire up move of the last 2 months is well channelled signaling sustained demand at elevated levels. Key support is placed at 58,300-58,600 levels being the confluence of the last two weeks lows and recent breakout area. Holding above the support area will keep the short-term bias positive.

Stock Recommendations:

EternalBuy in the range of ₹ 285-292

Eternal has been in a corrective phase over the past two to three months and is now consolidating around a major demand zone. This technical setup points to a favorable risk-reward profile, suggesting the potential for a bullish reversal and a rebound from its current oversold levels.The current corrective phase seems to be losing momentum, with price action hinting at a possible rebound toward the ₹323 area in the coming months. This zone aligns with the 50% Fibonacci retracement of the entire drop from ₹368 to ₹280 and also matches the November 2025 high, strengthening its significance as a major resistance level.Divi’s LaboratoriesBuy in the range of 6350-6450

The stock is at the cusp of generating a breakout above a falling channel signaling resumption of up move thus offers fresh entry opportunity.The stock has already taken 6 weeks to retrace just 50% of its preceding 5 weeks rally (5636-6904). A shallow retracement signals a higher base formation and an overall positive structure.We expect the stock to head towards 6850 levels being the trendline resistance joining the highs of July and November 2025.(Disclaimer: Recommendations and views on the stock market, other asset classes or personal finance management tips given by experts are their own. These opinions do not represent the views of The Times of India)

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: All eyes will be on young batters Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre during India’s Asia Cup U-19 campaign, but a key point of attention will be whether the BCCI permits the players to shake hands with the Pakistan team, a gesture seen as basic sporting courtesy at the junior level.The India U-19 team, captained by Mumbai and CSK opener Mhatre, will start its campaign against the UAE on Friday. The match against Pakistan on Sunday is expected to draw the most attention in a tournament viewed as preparation for next year’s U-19 World Cup.

In the senior men’s Asia Cup, the Women’s ODI World Cup and the Rising Stars Asia Cup T20, Indian players did not shake hands with Pakistan players as a gesture of support for the Indian Army and victims of the Pahalgam terror attack.For the U-19 players, it is understood that the ICC prefers that political issues not be linked with junior cricket and that regular protocols of sportsmanship be followed.“The boys haven’t been told anything. But obviously BCCI has given explicit instructions to its manager Anand Datar. Now if Indian boys don’t shake hands with Pakistan team then match referee will have to be informed in advance. We know for a fact that ICC doesn’t want politics to take front seat when it comes to junior cricket. So it is a case of both bad optics and public sentiment,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by the news agency PTI.In the tournament, India and Pakistan are expected to make the semi-finals as the top two teams from Group A. Malaysia and the UAE are the other group members and have limited experience in 50-over cricket.Both Sooryavanshi and Mhatre enter the event after strong performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Mhatre contributed with consecutive centuries and a fifty in the group stage, while Sooryavanshi became the youngest player to score a SMAT century, against Maharashtra.In India’s 15-member squad, these two players have played more than 30 senior matches across formats and have a combined total of nine centuries. This is the highest number of senior-level centuries when compared to all the other seven teams together, making India strong contenders in the tournament.India U19 squad for Asia Cup:

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Panaji: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is nowhere close to finding a solution to the crisis that has brought the sport to a standstill, and in the absence of a commercial partner, its plans of joining hands with clubs to organise the top tier league seem disjointed.In response to the clubs’ suggestion, the AIFF had reached out to the Indian Super League (ISL) clubs saying it can explore the possibility of jointly organising the league. The federation wanted a conference call “to work towards a mutually agreeable solution” before next week’s general body, but the clubs aren’t convinced.“The implication that clubs must find solutions without regulatory support is both inaccurate and unhelpful,” Mohun Bagan director Vinay Chopra wrote to AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey, on behalf of the clubs, on Thursday. “Your response appears to deflect responsibility onto the clubs while simultaneously citing constitutional restrictions as justification for the federation’s inaction. Such an approach is neither reasonable nor conducive to resolving matters of existential importance.”The clubs said if the AIFF is unwilling or unable to support the necessary amendments to the new constitution or provide a commercially viable framework for the league, then the only logical solution is for the federation to transfer the long-term rights of the league to the clubs, who would then “collaboratively create a tenable roadmap that reflects the commercial realities of Indian football.”“What Indian football needs now is leadership and decisive action, not rhetoric, not deflection, and not further attrition of the ecosystem,” said the clubs while requesting clear direction, constitutional resolution, and a commercially viable long-term framework without further delay.In response later on Thursday, AIFF deputy secretary general M Satyanarayan said their “options are limited”.“At present, there are two possible approaches: 1. To await the final directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court; or 2. To collectively explore an amicable alternative solution,” said Satyanarayan.The clubs fear that another round of talks with the AIFF “without removal of commercially restrictive clauses in the constitution” would end just like the previous three meetings: without a positive outcome or a way forward.“From the very beginning, the clubs have made themselves fully available, willing to cooperate, contribute, and find solutions for the good of Indian football. Yet, to this day, the AIFF has not offered a single concrete pathway forward.“Instead of taking responsibility and providing leadership, the federation has repeatedly chosen to retreat into silence, hiding behind the Supreme Court process and now the govt, rather than engaging directly with the stakeholders who sustain the sport. This continued inaction has placed clubs, players, staff, and fans in an extremely vulnerable position. Indian football deserved better,” said a club official.

In a gripping contest at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, India produced one of the standout moments of the 2nd T20I when wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma executed a lightning-fast MS Dhoni-esque run out to dismiss a rampant Quinton de Kock on 90. The moment arrived just as South Africa were threatening to surge towards an even bigger total, and it became an instant highlight of the match, drawing massive reactions across social media.

Jitesh Sharma’s sharp work cuts short Quinton de Kock’s masterclass

India, having won the toss and opted to bowl, were under pressure as De Kock dominated proceedings with clean, authoritative strokeplay. But on the very first ball of the 16th over, Varun Chakravarthy induced a rare error. Bowling a flatter ball outside off, he forced de Kock into an under-edge that trickled towards the wicketkeeper. Thinking he had safely played it out, De Kock momentarily stepped out of his crease.

That was all the time Jitesh needed. With immaculate presence of mind and razor-sharp glovework reminiscent of Dhoni at his peak, Jitesh collected the ball cleanly and whipped off the bails in one swift motion. De Kock’s desperate attempt to stretch back into the crease was in vain as the third umpire confirmed he was short. The South African opener, who was marching towards a well-deserved century, had to walk back for a scintillating 90, greeted by a standing ovation from the Mullanpur crowd.

Here’s the video:

Smart glovework from #JiteshSharma ends Quinton de Kock’s knock, perfect timing to break South Africa’s momentum. ⚡#INDvSA, 2nd T20I, LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/BI0R1pksPm pic.twitter.com/eHOkcQzYzR

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 11, 2025

Also WATCH: IND vs SA – Varun Chakaravarthy castles Reeza Hendricks with a stunning carrom ball in 2nd T20I

De Kock leads South Africa to a massive total in Mullanpur

Despite the heartbreak at falling short of a century, De Kock’s knock proved pivotal in powering South Africa to a formidable total (213/4) in the venue’s debut men’s international fixture. His early aggression neutralised India’s disciplined start, especially after Varun Chakravarthy dismissed Reeza Hendricks inside the PowerPlay.

De Kock then consolidated and accelerated, forging a crucial partnership with skipper Aiden Markram. Their stand laid the foundation for a potential 200-plus score before Chakravarthy returned to break the alliance in the 12th over. India found a brief opening thereafter, removing de Kock and Dewald Brevis in quick succession, hinting at a comeback.

However, the momentum shifted again as David Miller and Tristan Stubbs‘ replacement, Ferreira, unleashed a ferocious assault in the final overs. The duo targeted India’s seamers with brutal precision. Arshdeep Singh endured a particularly tough outing, conceding seven wides in a single over and struggling to regain rhythm. Jasprit Bumrah, uncharacteristically expensive, leaked 45 runs from his four overs, further aiding the visitors’ late surge.

In stark contrast, Chakravarthy emerged as India’s standout performer with the ball. His composed, probing spell not only yielded two wickets but also applied pressure during crucial phases, preventing an even bigger score.

Also READ: Robin Uthappa slams Gautam Gambhir for overlooking Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s heroics against South Africa

The data for this weather forecast has been sourced from AQI.in, providing residents with comprehensive information to plan their daily activities and weekly schedules accordingly.On December 12, 2025, Mumbai is experiencing a sunny morning with clear skies and a gentle breeze, setting the stage for a pleasant day. Temperatures are expected to range from a comfortable 22.4°C in the morning to a pleasant 29°C by the afternoon. The city’s air quality, recorded yesterday with an AQI of 100, falls into the “moderate” category, which marks a “slight improvement” from earlier in the week when conditions were “poor” and “very poor.” This favorable weather is projected to continue throughout the upcoming week, with temperatures fluctuating between 22.5°C and 30.7°C under clear skies, making it an ideal period for outdoor activities, though residents are advised to remain mindful of air quality in congested areas.Mumbai woke up to a sunny morning today, December 12, 2025, characterized by clear skies and a gentle breeze. This combination makes for a perfect start to the day.The temperature is expected to hover around a comfortable 22.4°C in the morning. It is then projected to rise to a pleasant 29°C by the afternoon.The day promises to be warm and sunny, with no chances of rain anticipated throughout the period. The maximum temperature will reach 29°C, while the minimum will settle at 22.4°C, ensuring a mild evening.Humidity levels are relatively low at 35%, which contributes significantly to the comfortable feel of the weather. Winds will be light, blowing at around 15.8 km/h, adding a refreshing touch to the day.The skies are projected to remain clear throughout, with no significant changes expected in the evening. This makes it an ideal day for various outdoor activities, whether it is a morning jog or an evening stroll by the sea.

Today’s Air Quality

Yesterday, Mumbai’s air quality was in the “moderate” category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 100. This means that while the air was not hazardous, sensitive groups might have felt slight discomfort.The primary pollutants identified were PM2.5, measured at 56 µg/m³, and PM10, at 72 µg/m³. These specific levels are typical for urban areas that experience high vehicular and industrial activity.While the air was not severely polluted, those with respiratory issues might have experienced mild discomfort. Today’s weather, featuring its clear skies and light winds, could potentially help disperse pollutants slightly.However, it is still advisable for residents to avoid prolonged exposure to outdoor air in congested areas. With today’s weather looking stable, the air quality is likely to remain similar, so carrying a mask is a good idea if heading to traffic-heavy areas.Given the sunny and clear weather conditions, it is considered a great day to step out and enjoy the outdoors. However, if planning to be in high-traffic zones, wearing a mask can help reduce exposure to pollutants.The low humidity and mild temperatures make it a good day for outdoor workouts or even a picnic in the park. Residents are reminded to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen if they are spending extended time outside.

The Week Ahead

Looking ahead, the next week in Mumbai is forecast to continue with warm and sunny conditions. Temperatures are expected to range between 22.5°C and 30.7°C.The skies will remain clear throughout the week, and there is no rain in the forecast. December 16 is specifically anticipated to be the warmest day, with temperatures peaking at 30.7°C.Evenings during the week will stay mild, making it a great time for outdoor dinners or late-night walks. If planning any outdoor activities, the entire week looks favorable, with no significant weather disruptions expected.

Air Quality Improvement

Interestingly, yesterday’s AQI of 100 represented a “slight improvement” compared to earlier in the week. During those previous days, the city had experienced “poor” and “very poor” air quality.This improvement in air quality, coupled with today’s pleasant weather, makes it a good time to enjoy the outdoors. Residents are encouraged to do so while staying mindful of air quality conditions.Data referenced in this article is taken from AQI.in.

The United States on Thursday imposed new sanctions on Venezuela, targeting three nephews of President Nicolas Maduro’s wife, along with six crude oil tankers and associated shipping companies. The action coincided with a large-scale US military buildup in the southern Caribbean and President Donald Trump’s campaign for Maduro’s ouster. On Wednesday Trump said the US had seized a sanctioned oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, Reuters reported.

The US Treasury Department said in a statement it imposed sanctions on six shipping companies moving Venezuelan oil, and on six crude oil tankers that it said “have engaged in deceptive and unsafe shipping practices and continue to provide financial resources that fuel Maduro’s corrupt narco-terrorist regime.” Four of the tankers, including the 2002-built H. Constance and the 2003-built Lattafa, are Panama-flagged, with the other two flagged by the Cook Islands and Hong Kong. The targeted vessels are supertankers that recently loaded crude in Venezuela, according to internal shipping documents of state oil company PDVSA. Franqui Flores and Efrain Antonio Campo Flores, nephews of Venezuelan first lady Cilia Flores, were also sanctioned. The two were detained in Haiti in 2015 in a US Drug Enforcement Administration operation, convicted in 2016 of attempting a multimillion-dollar cocaine deal and sentenced to 18 years in prison, but released in a 2022 prison swap with Venezuela. A third nephew, Carlos Erik Malpica Flores, sanctioned for his alleged role in a corruption plot at PDVSA, was also designated. Wednesday’s seizure of a Venezuelan oil cargo was the first under US sanctions in force since 2019 and the first known tanker action by the Trump administration since the military buildup. The administration plans further tanker seizures, according to sources. US Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on X that the FBI, Homeland Security and Coast Guard, backed by the US military, carried out a warrant authorising the seizure of a crude tanker transporting sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran. The move sent oil prices higher and sharply escalated tensions between Washington and Caracas.President Maduro on Thursday slammed the US seizure of an oil tanker from his country, calling it an act of “naval piracy” that escalated tensions between Washington and Caracas.“They kidnapped the crew, stole the ship and have inaugurated a new era, the era of criminal naval piracy in the Caribbean,” Maduro said at a presidential event, adding “Venezuela will secure all ships to guarantee the free trade of its oil around the world.” Trump has repeatedly raised the possibility of military intervention in Venezuela, accusing it of sending narcotics to the United States. The US has already conducted more than 20 strikes against suspected drug vessels, raising concerns among lawmakers and legal experts.

NEW DELHI: The choice is between an artificially sustained painful life and peaceful death. As a medical board of four specialised doctors told Supreme Court about the condition of 31-year-old Harish Rana who has been living with 100% disability in a permanent vegetative state for 13 years and stressed the negligible chance of his recovery, the court Thursday decided to set in motion the next stage of the process for passive euthanasia.A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and K V Viswanathan asked the director of AIIMS Delhi to set up a secondary medical board, the second step as per the procedure laid down by the apex court in 2018, and simplified in 2023, on euthanasia pleas. The plea was filed by Harish’s father, Ashok Rana. Going through the report of the primary medical board set up by Noida District Hospital, the bench noted there was no hope of recovery. “The bare reading of the letter would indicate Harish is in a pathetic condition. He was found to be lying on a bed with tracheostomy tube for respiration and gastrostomy for feeding. The photographs attached with the letter would indicate he has suffered huge bed sores. The team of doctors are of the opinion that the chance of his recovery from the present state is negligible. Harish appears to be in this vegetative condition for the past 13 years. In such circumstances…we should now proceed to the next stage in the process,” the bench said. We can’t allow 31-yr-old to live like this, that’s for sure, says SCAs per the apex court’s guidelines, a secondary medical board comprising one registered medical practitioner nominated by the chief medical officer (CMO) of the district and at least two subject experts with at least five years’ experience in the specialty concerned has to be constituted after a primary medical board approves withdrawing artificial life support for a patient in a vegetative state. Though advocate Rashmi Nandakumar, appearing for the petitioner, said that there was no need for a secondary board as the CMO was involved in the primary medical board itself, the bench decided to adhere to the procedure.It said this would be in accordance with the decision of the SC in the ‘common cause’ case. “We request the director, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi to constitute a secondary board, as referred to above, and give us a report by next Wednesday, ie Dec 17. Let the matter come up for hearing on Thursday,” the bench said.At the end of the hearing, the court remarked, “We will have to do something now. We can’t allow him to live like this. That’s for sure.”Harish’s case will be the first to see a court monitor the process on a euthanasia plea since SC framed guidelines and the procedure to allow it. In 2018, the court legalised passive euthanasia by allowing withdrawal of life support for terminally ill patients and ruled that the “right to die with dignity” is a part of the fundamental right to life.The court subsequently modified its order in 2023 to simplify the process and put in place two-tier medical board to take the call on a plea for passive euthanasia and also allowed the kin of the patient to move the high court concerned in case of denial of the same.Harish had fallen from the fourth floor of his paying guest accommodation on Aug 20, 2013, while he was pursuing a B Tech degree at Punjab University. He was treated at various hospitals, but his condition did not improve. His father had first moved Delhi HC, which refused his plea to refer the case to a primary medical board.Challenging the HC order, the father said Harish’s existence in his current state is a violation of his fundamental right to dignity, and the HC had erred in not adhering to apex court guidelines.