MUMBAI: Business inflation expectations in India have inched up modestly in October, even as companies continue to report subdued sales but brighter profit outlook, according to the latest round of the Business Inflation Expectations Survey (BIES) conducted by the Misra Centre for Financial Markets and Economy at IIM Ahmedabad.The one-year-ahead business inflation expectation rose 18 basis points to 3.97% in October 2025, up from 3.79% in September. Over the past year, expectations have held near 4.14%, suggesting an anchored medium-term view among firms despite uneven demand conditions. Uncertainty levels remained unchanged, with the variance-based measure of expected unit cost increases steady at 1.90%, indicating no meaningful shift in perception of input-price volatility.Conducted monthly since 2017, BIES polls business leaders — the price setters in the economy — rather than consumers, seeking probabilistic assessments of inflation, input costs, sales, and profit sentiment. The October 2025 round marks the 102nd edition, drawing responses from around 900 manufacturing-sector firms.A supplementary question — included in alternate months to coincide with the RBI’s bi-monthly policy cycle — asked respondents to project one-year-ahead CPI headline inflation. Businesses now expect it at 3.83%, sharply lower than the 4.27% reported in August 2025, signaling a notable softening in retail inflation outlook. CPI expectation uncertainty eased as well, down to 0.87% from 0.95%.On cost dynamics, October data showed little evidence of intensifying pressure. The share of firms expecting a significant or very significant cost increase (>6%) declined slightly to 24% from 25% in September, maintaining a gentle downward trend. The reading reinforces the survey’s broader finding — pricing stress remains contained, and firms do not foresee an escalation in input costs in the near term.Sales, however, tell a more sobering story. Between June and October 2025, over 60% of companies reported sales ‘much less than normal’ or ‘somewhat less than normal’. Only around 38% reported ‘about normal’ or better sales levels during September–October, a proportion that has largely flatlined in recent months.Yet, the mood on profits has brightened. The proportion of firms expecting ‘about normal’ or higher profit margins surged to 37% in October, up sharply from 26% in September. Respondents attributed the improvement to easing cost burdens rather than stronger demand. With input prices less threatening, businesses appear more confident about retaining margins even as sales recover slowly.Taken together, the October readings paint a picture of steady inflation expectations, softening retail inflation projections, and improving profitability despite lacklustre sales. The survey points to muted cost-push risks, offering comfort to policymakers amid the RBI’s ongoing balancing act of growth and price stability.The coming months will reveal whether firms’ optimism on margins hardens into a broader recovery — one that lifts sales alongside profits. For now, businesses see inflation staying within manageable bounds, even as they wait for demand to pick up pace.

The much-anticipated 2nd Test of the Ashes series between Australia and England kicked off at the iconic Brisbane Cricket Ground on December 4, 2025. Playing a day-night match under pink-ball conditions, the two cricketing giants clashed again, with intense battles unfolding both with the bat and ball. The Gabba pitch offered fair assistance to the bowlers early on, leading to a gripping contest that captivated fans worldwide. Australia aimed to capitalize on their momentum after the first Test, while England looked to stabilize and build on their innings.​

Alex Carey grabs a screamer to dismiss Gus Atkinson on Day 1

One of the standout moments came late in the day when Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey showcased exceptional athleticism and reflexes to pluck an extraordinary catch. At 66.2 overs, Mitchell Starc delivered a full-length delivery to England’s Gus Atkinson, who top-edged the ball. Both Carey and Marnus Labuschagne sprinted back shoulder-to-shoulder, diving for the flying ball. In a spectacular display of skill and composure, Carey secured the catch running backwards, wrapping his gloves firmly around the ball despite the challenging trajectory and high speed.

The catch was so exceptional that officials even checked if the ball had clipped the Spidercam wires above the field, but it was deemed clean. This pivotal wicket gave Starc his fifth of the innings and shifted the momentum firmly in Australia’s favour as they bowled England out for 264/8 at that stage.​

Here’s the video:

#MitchellStarc bags his fifth wicket but what a take from Alex Carey, sprinting back, diving full stretch and holding on under pressure! 🤯💪
Even Marnus couldn’t believe it! #AUSvENG | THE ASHES | 2nd Test, Day 1 | LIVE NOW 👉🏻 https://t.co/w23M3vjJal pic.twitter.com/h09gZuO1Cz

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 4, 2025

Also WATCH: Josh Inglis’ stunning direct hit sends Ben Stokes packing on Day 1 of the Pink-Ball Test

England dominate with Joe Root’s maiden ton in Australia on the opening day

On the batting front, England dominated the majority of the day at the Gabba, reaching a commendable 325/9 at stumps. Joe Root was the standout performer, crafting a patient and masterful innings of 135 runs off 202 balls, including 15 boundaries, which marked his maiden Test century in Australia and his 40th overall. Root’s innings stabilized England after an early scare where key batters Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope fell cheaply to Mitchell Starc. Root adeptly married defense and attack, rotating the strike and punishing loose deliveries while partners around him struggled to build partnerships.

Zak Crawley provided strong support with a well-compiled 76 before succumbing to Michael Neser. Other contributions came from Harry Brook (31), Ben Stokes (19), and Will Jacks (19), but the lower order, including Atkinson and Brydon Carse, faltered under Starc’s relentless bowling. England’s innings saw several critical partnerships, including a 117-run stand for the third wicket between Crawley and Root, but Starc’s six-wicket haul and Carey’s spectacular wicketkeeping ensured Australia kept the pressure on.​

With Jofra Archer unbeaten on 32* and Root still at the crease at stumps, England ended the day with solid momentum on the scoreboard but facing a powerful Australian bowling attack under lights. The pink ball’s influence and the Gabba’s fast, bouncy conditions promise an enthralling contest in this Ashes battle for supremacy.

Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: Fans go wild as Joe Root smashes maiden Test ton on Australian soil

Top 5 richest NFL players of all-time

The NFL has grown into a financial powerhouse where players turn their on-field success into long-term business wins. Many stars earn far beyond their salaries through smart investments, brand deals, and ventures that keep paying even after retirement. Their financial journeys show how discipline, strategy, and timing can redefine an athlete’s legacy.This list dives straight into the league’s wealthiest names and how they built their fortunes. From record-setting quarterbacks to players who mastered the business world early, each story proves that money in football comes from far more than trophies. These athletes combined talent with opportunity and turned their careers into thriving financial empires.

Richest NFL players of all-time

Tom Brady – 300 million dollarsTom Brady may have retired in 2023, but his financial reach continues to grow. Celebrity Net Worth places him at 300 million dollars, a figure built on decades of elite play and smart business decisions. In 2022 alone, he earned 75 million dollars from salary and endorsements with Aston Martin, Under Armour, and TAG Heuer. After leading the New England Patriots for 19 seasons and winning a seventh Super Bowl with Tampa Bay, he expanded his empire through a deal with Fox Sports and his wellness company TB12. Brady’s choices show how a player can turn fame into a long-term business platform.

Aaron Rodgers – 200 million dollarsAaron Rodgers remains one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in the NFL and one of its sharpest earners. Celebrity Net Worth estimates his wealth at 200 million dollars. His three-year, 150 million dollar extension with the Green Bay Packers in 2022 made him the highest-paid quarterback at that time. He later signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 worth an estimated 10 million dollars. Rodgers boosts his income with partnerships that include State Farm, Adidas, Pizza Hut, and Bose. He also invests in tech startups and real estate and is a minority owner of the Milwaukee Bucks.Kirk Cousins – about 180 million dollarsMinnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins built his fortune through consistent play and a focus on guaranteed money. Celebrity Net Worth places him near 180 million dollars. His steady rise comes from major contracts, brand deals like Tostitos, and smart investments. One source noted, “Cousins has had large guaranteed contracts, and endorsement deals.” His approach matches his own words: “I’m going to keep my head down and just keep working — that’s how I control my outcome.” Cousins may not generate as many headlines as others, but his financial discipline makes him one of the league’s strongest earners.Russell Wilson – 165 million dollarsRussell Wilson signed a one-year, 10.5 million dollar deal with the New York Giants in 2025, but his largest payday came from a five-year, 245 million dollar contract with the Denver Broncos in 2022. Celebrity Net Worth estimates him at 165 million dollars. His endorsements include Nike, Bose, Amazon, and Mercedes-Benz. Wilson also invests actively, holding stakes in Seattle Sounders FC and his own clothing brand, Good Man Brand. Alongside his wife Ciara, he supports education and health initiatives through the Why Not You Foundation.Matthew Stafford – 150 million dollarsMatthew Stafford helped deliver a Super Bowl win for the Los Angeles Rams in 2022 and strengthened his financial standing with a 160 million dollar contract extension the same year. The team restructured his deal in 2025 to guarantee more money for the upcoming seasons. With a net worth of 150 million dollars, he also profits from endorsements with Nike, Pepsi, and Ford. Stafford invests heavily in real estate, including a nearly 20 million dollar home in Los Angeles. His charitable work supports Detroit communities by providing medical care, food, and housing to families in need.Also Read: Jason Kelce Shares Raw Truth About the Heartbreaking Pregnancy Loss He and Kylie Suffered in 2018

Palesh Muchhal, Smriti Mandhana (left), and Palak Muchhal

Singer Palak Muchhal has spoken for the first time about the postponement of her brother Palash Muchhal and India women’s cricket team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana’s wedding, saying both families are trying to stay positive after unexpected health emergencies forced a delay in the ceremony. The wedding, scheduled for November 23, was put on hold after Mandhana’s father and Palash were hospitalised on consecutive days.Smriti Mandhana and music composer Palash Muchhal’s wedding, scheduled for November 23, was postponed after health-related issues in the family.

The developments began when Mandhana’s father, Shriniwas, became unwell on the day of the ceremony and was taken to a hospital. A day later, groom-to-be Palash Muchhal was also admitted to a hospital in Sangli, Mandhana’s hometown. He was later shifted to Mumbai for treatment and rest.Singer Palak Muchhal has now commented publicly for the first time on the postponement of her brother Palash Muchhal and Smriti Mandhana’s wedding. In a conversation with Filmfare, Palak spoke about how both families are dealing with the situation.What did Palak say?When asked how the family is managing the circumstances, Palak said, “I think the families have been through a very tough time. Like you just said, I would just want to repeat that we would like to believe in positivity at this time. We would like to spread positivity as much as we can. We are also trying to stay strong.”How the events unfoldedSmriti Mandhana and Palash Muchhal were set to get married on November 23. The couple and their families had taken part in pre-wedding functions and were seen dancing together during the celebrations. On the wedding day, however, Smriti’s father fell ill and was moved to the hospital.Mandhana’s manager later confirmed that the wedding had been postponed and said the families decided to delay the event due to these health issues. After the announcement, Mandhana deleted all wedding-related posts from her Instagram account. Some photos of the two are still visible on Palash’s social media pages.Both Shriniwas and Palash have since been discharged from hospital care and are recovering. The families have not yet announced a new date for the wedding.

Ten hours on plastic chairs, midnight boarding, pre-match heebie-jeebies. Mumbai City FC’s journey to a Super Cup semi-final became the face of a nationwide air travel meltdown as IndiGo cancellations and delays left thousands stranded across India.The former ISL champions reached Goa Thursday morning after their Wednesday afternoon flight was cancelled amid widespread disruption. “After nearly 10 hou-rs at the airport, endless que-ues, and enough chaos to test anyone’s match-day patience, the boys stuck together,” the club posted on social media.They were far from alone. At least 14 IndiGo flights to Goa were cancelled and over 25 delayed. Across Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Lucknow and Bhubaneswar, terminals overflowed with stranded passengers, rescheduled departures collapsed without warning and airfares spiked to international levels.“My mother-in-law passed away this morning. We paid Rs 40,000 for two one-way tickets to Trivandrum,” said Gopan Nair, stuck at Mumbai airport’s boarding gate after a four-hour delay. “The funeral was postponed so we could attend, but we’re stuck here.”As cancellations mounted, fares turned punishing. One-way economy tickets from Kolkata to Bengaluru surged to between Rs 21,000 and Rs 1 lakh. Same-day fares from Mumbai to Delhi touched Rs 23,000. Kolkata-Delhi fares rose to Rs 25,000–Rs 84,000. “A UK round trip costs around Rs 80,000. People paid nearly that for a one-way domestic ticket,” said Anjani Dhanuka of Travel Agents Association of India.In Kolkata, MBA student Nishita Chowdhury learned her Mumbai flight was cancelled only after reaching the airport, a day before an exam. Avik Sarkar, flying from Bengaluru to Kolkata for travel to Arunachal Pradesh, had his flight cancelled mid-evening. “The rebooking link didn’t work. I had to pay Rs 24,000 for a new ticket. Now I may miss my next connection,” he said.Others arrived — without luggage. Rakesh Rastogi landed in Kolkata after a 14-hour delay only to find his bags still in Delhi. “We came for a wedding. We arrived without our clothes,” he said. CISF reinforcements were called in as tensions rose at the terminal.At Pune airport, 19 delayed and 11 grounded aircraft occupied most parking bays. Some passengers were trapped inside planes for up to five hours after landing. “The captain said even ATC had no clue when we would deboard,” said Megh Gandhi.In Lucknow, passengers shouted slogans against IndiGo. “No updates, no communication, no responsibility,” posted Dhruv Choudhary. Travel agent Sarvesh Pandey discovered his rescheduled flight had departed without notification, costing him two days and a family function.At Chennai airport, there was similar chaos. “People are sitting on the floor. There’s no proper communication,” said advocate Brahma Puthran, whose Kochi-bound flight was pushed back by hours after being cancelled the previous night.In Guwahati, passengers bound for Aizawl said they were told no flights were available for two days. “They promised refunds but no food or hotels,” one traveller said. Some tried humour to cope. “Getting a flight to Mumbai this weekend is like finding a last-minute Coldplay ticket,” one passenger posted.

Mumbai: Three monkeys enter Powai Cosmopolitan Housing Society almost every other day, spending hours inside environmental activist Anamika Sharma’s flat, exploring her home, nibbling on offerings, and then departing without disturbance. The gentle pair, named Nandini and Nandgram, and their playful baby, Nandu, prompted a fresh alarm over Mumbai’s vanishing forests.Sharma viewed the family’s repeated visits as a warning of collapsing ecological buffers around the city. “These animals aren’t invading our spaces out of malice. Their forests are shrinking. Their habitats are being encroached upon. They’re simply coming to us because they have nowhere left to go,” said Sharma. She added, “Nandu’s frustration when hungry is a universal cry for survival. If we want safety for our families, we must also protect the families of the wild.” Conservation platform NatConnect Foundation warned that such sightings were part of a wider human–animal conflict spiral. NatConnect director B N Kumar, a Mumbai–Navi Mumbai resident for over 48 years, recalled a vastly different Powai. “This was once a lush, wooded valley with thousands of trees. Now it’s concrete end-to-end. When you erase forests, wildlife will spill into homes, roads, and campuses,” said Kumar and cited recent leopard attacks in the northern suburbs, the panic killing of a leopard in Pune, and the ongoing uncertainty over Konkan elephant Omkar’s fate as evidence of a system in distress. Both Sharma and Kumar have tried to contact the forest department to ensure the monkeys are safely rescued and relocated to their natural habitat rather than forced to survive in human homes and residential flats. NatConnect’s petition to the PM, under process with wildlife division of the union environment ministry, urged reforms in forest-edge regulation, corridor protection, garbage management, and scientific conflict response. The petition noted that Omkar’s case exposed structural gaps, including shrinking forests, broken corridors, and knee-jerk wildlife captures, according to the PMO grievance record. “The monkey issue may look trivial. But it’s part of a national ecological crisis. PM Modi, being an animal lover, must take a serious view,” said Kumar. Their departures leave a question over who will protect wildlife as urban spaces expand into natural habitats.

BENGALURU: The relentless pressure of a neighbourhood dispute, a looming civic notice, and a Rs 20-lakh demand he said he could not meet — a combination that pushed a 45-year-old techie to end his life inside the very house he was trying to build. Hours before his scheduled appearance before Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) officials, Murali Govindaraju was found hanging on the second floor of his under-construction home in Nallurahalli on Wednesday morning, leaving behind a 10-page death note accusing a neighbouring family and civic officials of driving him to suicide.

Murali, a software employee at ITPL and father of two minor girls, lived in Brookbong Layout, Whitefield. Police have arrested his neighbours Shashi Nambiar (64) and Usha (57) on charges of abetment and are searching for their son, Varun. The couple has been sent to 14-day judicial custody.Neighbourhood feud, civic notice, and a crushing Rs 20L demand

Harassed, Tortured And Repeatedly ThreatenedAccording to police, the contents of Murali’s lengthy death note mirror the allegations in a criminal complaint filed by his mother, Lakshmi Govindaraju (61). She stated that her son had been “harassed, tortured and repeatedly threatened” by the Nambiars, who allegedly demanded Rs 20 lakh to stop accusing him of plan violations. She said Murali told her that Wednesday was the deadline the couple had set.Murali had bought the 40×60 sqft plot in 2018 from a close relative of the Nambiars. The relationship soured soon after construction began, with Usha and Shashi repeatedly accusing him of deviation from the approved plan. Lakshmi alleged that when Murali refused to pay, Usha lodged complaints with BBMP officials, prompting them to visit the site frequently and harass him.On Wednesday morning, Murali left home around 6am, telling his family he was under pressure and that Usha and Shashi were “torturing” him. He went to the under-construction house and killed himself.Police have booked the couple under Sections 108 (abetment of suicide) and 308 (extortion) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). A senior officer said preliminary inquiries show the Nambiars had filed multiple complaints since 2018, making Murali “run around BBMP offices, the police station, and local courts.”GBA officials confirmed they had issued Murali a notice asking him to appear before them on Wednesday. “Usha approached BBMP alleging violations. After a spot inspection, BBMP issued a notice,” the officer said. “The couple allegedly demanded Rs 20 lakh to stop harassing him.”Police said several locals have now come forward alleging that the Nambiars regularly filed complaints to extort money under the pretext of activism. “People in the area say many homes have faced similar harassment,” the officer said. “We request all affected residents to file complaints.”The friction between Murali and the Nambiars began soon after he purchased the land in 2018 — a conflict that, according to investigators, escalated over the years and ended with a devastating outcome.