US stocks traded in a narrow range on Wednesday even as crude oil prices resumed their upward move amid continued uncertainty over the conflict with Iran, according to an Associated Press report. The S&P 500 edged up 0.1% in early trading after a period of sharp volatility driven by energy price swings, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 21 points and the Nasdaq composite rose 0.3%, AP reported.Crude prices climbed more than 3%, despite several governments indicating plans to release emergency oil reserves to stabilise global markets. US benchmark crude was up 2.8% at $85.76 per barrel, while Brent crude rose 2.6% to $89.99 a barrel after being up more than 5% earlier in the session.Wall Street had pointed to modest gains in premarket trade as energy prices showed signs of stabilising. Futures for the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average and Nasdaq were each up about 0.1% before the opening bell.Oil prices remain significantly below their recent peak near $120 per barrel, but continued concerns about disruptions to global supply flows have kept markets volatile. The United States said it had destroyed more than a dozen Iranian vessels suspected of laying mines, while Iran vowed to block regional oil exports, warning it would not allow “even a single liter” to be shipped to its enemies.“With Iran continuing to threaten vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the focus will be on how the U.S. and other major economies will ensure the flowing of crude oil via this narrow passage and alternative routes to help stabilise prices,” Fawad Razaqzada of Forex.com said in a market report. He added that a large release of strategic reserves may offer only temporary relief.Germany’s economy minister also announced plans to release part of the country’s emergency oil stockpiles following a request by the International Energy Agency to member states to release about 400 million barrels to cool prices.Market participants are also awaiting the latest US consumer price data due later in the day, which is expected to show a renewed uptick in inflation. Analysts widely expect the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates unchanged at its upcoming policy meeting, particularly if elevated fuel costs continue to push prices higher.In corporate developments, shares of Oracle surged nearly 10% in premarket trading after the company reported quarterly earnings and revenue growth of 20%, exceeding analysts’ expectations.Global markets remained mixed. Germany’s DAX fell 0.8%, France’s CAC 40 declined 0.3%, and Britain’s FTSE 100 dropped 0.8% in midday trade. In Asia, Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 1.4%, South Korea’s Kospi advanced 1.4%, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng slipped 0.2%. The Shanghai Composite index gained 0.3%, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 climbed 0.6%, and Taiwan’s benchmark surged 4.1%. India’s Sensex, however, fell 1.8%.Stocks have historically rebounded relatively quickly from military conflicts, provided oil prices do not remain elevated for prolonged periods. However, sustained high energy costs could strain household budgets and corporate margins, raising fears of “stagflation” — a mix of slowing growth and persistent inflation.
The 98th Academy Awards are upon us. The biggest night in Hollywood is this Sunday (Monday morning in India), when the best performers, technicians, and films of 2025 will receive due recognition. The Oscars are the culmination of Hollywood’s awards season, which comprises other major awards like the Golden Globes, the Actors (formerly SAG Awards), and, to an extent, the BAFTAs.
Leonardo DiCaprio-starrer One Battle After Another is projected to win three major awards at the 2026 Oscars.
Every year, pundits and publications make predictions for the Oscars based on their expertise, the grapevine, and sometimes just vibes. But what if all that could be collated into hard numbers? HT attempts to look at the trends, based on previous winners (and their track records), how contenders fared at the other big four – Golden Globes, SAG, BAFTA, and Critics’ Choice, along with the predictions from Hollywood bookmakers.
All this gives us a probability for each nominee, with some scoring higher than others, allowing us to make predictions for this year’s Academy Awards. A top finish in any table gets maximum chance of winning, followed by positions 2 and 3. For instance, if Jessie Buckley leads in 9 out 10 predictions/awards, she gets a 90% probability. And if Jacob Elordi finishes third in five tables, it gives him a 15% chance of winning, and so on. Combined, this gives us a mathematical probability of each contender’s win.
Best Picture: One Battle After Another with 60% chances
Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another has a 6 in 10 shot at winning the Best Picture this year. However, Sinners has closed the gap with a chance of around 30%. Yet, most predictions (barring Variety) believe that it has left too much to do in the fag end of the awards season.
Best Actor: Michael B Jordan with 40% chances
Who would have thunk that opera and ballet would cost Timothee Chalamet an Oscar? The actor was the favourite for the top acting honour for his performance in Marty Supreme when the awards season began. But now, with recent controversy and a growing chorus around the exploits of Michael B Jordan, the scales have tilted in the Sinners star’s favour. Jordan, the winner of Best Actor at the SAG Awards, leads with a 40% probability, with Chalamet close behind at 35%.
Best Actress: Jessie Buckley with 90% chances
If there is one award that is a foregone conclusion at this year’s Oscars, it is the Best Actress. For her riveting act in Hamnet, Jessie Buckley is the odds-on favourite with 90% chances of winning. Rose Byrne trails way behind at 5%.
Best Director: Paul Thomas Anderson with 50% chances
It is quite common for the director of Best Picture to win the Best Director award at the Oscars, and Anderson is primed for that. As per bookmakers, he remains the favourite even as Ryan Coogler is closing in (25% and increasing). But with only a few days to go, it looks like the odds are in Paul Thomas Anderson’s favour.
Best Supporting Actor: Sean Penn with 40% chances
This is a category that has turned from having a clear favourite to one a with three-horse race. Sean Penn is still the frontrunner, but Stellan Skarsgard (25%) and Delroy Lindo (20%) have also increased their chances. Even Jacob Elordi (15%) has an outside chance here.
Best Supporting Actress: Amy Madigan with 40% chances
Amy Madigan’s win for Weapons, if it happens, will be special, because her film Weapons is not predicted to win any other award. That is the only reason bookmakers are giving her lower than usual chances, even though the track record is in her favour. Both Teyana Taylor and Wunmi Mosaku (both 25%) are hot on her heels.
Best Animated Feature: K Pop Demon Hunters with 70% chances
Another category where the winner is all but decided is the animated feature. Despite Zootopia 2’s success, K Pop Demon Hunters is an odds-on-favourite here as the first choice of almost all major bookmakers. It has a 60-point lead, indicating almost certain victory.
Best International Feature: The Secret Agent with 33% chances
The closest category after the Best Actor is Best International Feature, where two films have almost similar chances. Brazilian film The Secret Agent is only slightly ahead of Norwegian drama Sentimental Value (30%), and The Voice of Hind Rajab is also in the running. The category is usually hard to predict, which makes for some stunning upsets on the awards night.
The 98th Academy Awards ceremony, presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, will take place on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles
Brazzaville, Republic of Congo – On main roads and public squares across the Congolese capital, posters are up featuring the seven main candidates vying for president.
But at the Moukondo Market in Brazzaville’s fourth district – between lively discussions, people jostling for space and saleswomen trying to attract customers – many voters are less than enthusiastic about this weekend’s election.
Recommended Stories
list of 3 itemsend of list
Fortune, a 27-year-old unemployed university graduate who did not want to give his last name, said he does not expect much to come from the polls.
“When you see how money is spent during the campaign, you wonder if those in power really care about the living conditions of the population,” he said.
While Congo is the third largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa, about half the country’s population of about six million people live below the poverty line.
A few metres away, Gilbert, 44, shared similar sentiments. The civil servant explained that his salary is not enough to cover all his household expenses.
“I do odd jobs to supplement my income. At my age, believing that these elections will change our daily lives would be almost suicidal,” he said.
“I’ve known practically the same leader all my life,” Gilbert added. “Some call it stability. Others say that nothing changes.”
It’s a sentiment shared by many in the country: That after 40 years under a single leader, political continuity has become the norm.
President Denis Sassou Nguesso, 82, who is once again standing in the election, first came to power in Congo in 1979. After a period of political transition in the early 1990s, he returned to the presidency in 1997 after a civil war and has ruled the country without interruption ever since.
Two major constitutional revisions have marked his political trajectory. The 2002 constitution and the one adopted in 2015 notably changed certain eligibility requirements, allowing the head of state to continue to run for office.
For Nguesso’s supporters, this political longevity is primarily attributed to the stability the country has managed to maintain in a region often marked by conflict.
Congo’s neighbours include the conflict-racked Central African Republic; Gabon, which witnessed a coup in 2023; and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the government is facing armed groups, most notably M23.
In official discourse, peace and institutional continuity are regularly presented as the main achievements of the Nguesso government.
However, several foreign observers painted a more nuanced picture of the political situation. The pro-democracy organisation Freedom House classified Congo as a “not free” country while the Ibrahim Index of African Governance highlighted limited progress in democratic participation and political accountability.
Supporters of Nguesso, who is running for re-election, take part in a campaign rally in Brazzaville before the March 15, 2026, presidential election [Roch Bouka/Reuters]
‘Asymmetrical political competition’
In the last presidential election in 2021, the official results gave Nguesso more than 88 percent of the votes cast with a reported voter turnout of 67 percent.
Nguesso is widely expected to win again when the country goes to the polls on Sunday.
Some analysts said the president’s political longevity can be partly explained by the country’s political structure.
Charles Abel Kombo, a Congolese economist and public policy observer, described the political system as a hybrid model.
“The Congolese political system combines formally pluralistic institutions – elections, political parties, parliament – with a high degree of centralisation of executive power,” he explained. “Nguesso’s political longevity can be explained in part by the structure of the institutional apparatus and the predominant role of the executive branch in the management of the state.”
According to him, the continuity of power is also linked to perceptions of stability in a country marked by the conflicts of the 1990s.
“In this historical context, this continuity can be seen as a factor of stability. But it is also accompanied by asymmetrical political competition.” In other words, political change remains theoretically possible but politically difficult.
For the economist, however, the issue goes beyond political change alone.
“The central challenge remains the ability of political actors to propose a credible plan for economic transformation. Countries dependent on natural resources need a strategic state capable of diversifying the economy and guiding productive transformation.”
Other observers took a more critical view of this political longevity.
For economic and political analyst Alphonse Ndongo, the stability often touted by the authorities must be examined with caution.
“There is indeed a stabilising regime because it has succeeded in maintaining peace. This is what is being sold today as the main recipe for success: There is no war, so the country is at peace. But this peace also allows those in power to remain there. We are in a kind of democratic illusion where elections often resemble a deal,” he said.
According to him, the current political architecture makes a change in leadership unlikely in the short term.
“It is difficult for the institutions responsible for managing elections to produce a result that differs from what everyone already expects. Everything is structured, from voter registration to the organisation of the ballot. Under these conditions, a surprising result seems unlikely,” he said.
A campaign billboard touts candidate Uphrem Dave Mafoula in Brazzaville [Roch Bouka/Reuters]
‘Political alternatives exist’
As the debate continues in Congolese society over whether the country’s political continuity is a mark of stability or a system that is hard to change, the opposition appears fragmented and weakened.
Some established parties are boycotting the vote while some prominent potential candidates are in prison or exile.
In June, the party of opposition leader Clement Mierassa was removed from the official list of recognised political parties.
For him, the conditions for a truly democratic election are not in place.
“We have always called for essential reforms: a truly independent national electoral commission, reliable voter rolls and a law regulating campaign spending,” he said. “Without these guarantees, it is difficult to talk about free and transparent elections.”
Other political actors, however, have chosen to run in the election.
Christ Antoine Wallembaud, spokesperson for candidate Destin Melaine Gavet, said participation remains a way of defending the political space.
“The electoral system has flaws, but that does not mean that those who participate in it condone fraud. Participating also serves as a reminder of the need for reform and shows that a political alternative exists.”
For many observers, access to the media is also a key issue during election campaigns.
“Access to public media remains a recurring problem for opposition candidates. The ruling party candidate always gets the lion’s share even though the High Council for Freedom of Communication has established a list of appearances on state media so that all candidates can present their programmes,” said a Congolese journalist who requested anonymity.
Faced with these difficulties, opposition candidates often turn to private media outlets to spread their messages.
Congolese authorities, for their part, insisted that civil liberties are fully guaranteed for all.
The prime minister and spokesperson for Nguesso, Anatole Collinet Makosso, recently said freedom of opinion and expression “is doing very well”.
“Freedom of expression is alive and well in Congo. The proof is the multitude of foreign journalists here to cover this election. No journalist has been arrested because of their work or prosecuted,” he said.
For the government, this international media presence is evidence of the transparency of the electoral process and the ability of the media to work freely in the country.
However, some press freedom organisations paint a different picture. In its World Press Freedom Index, Reporters Without Borders regularly highlights the difficulties faced by local journalists, particularly in terms of access to public information, political pressure and economic constraints.
People shop at a market in the Republic of Congo days before the 2026 presidential election [Al Jazeera]
Adapting to circumstances
In the working-class neighbourhoods of Brazzaville, reactions to Sunday’s election range from resignation to pragmatism.
In Bacongo, a young man on the street explained that he has learned to adapt to circumstances.
“When the country goes left, we go left. When it goes right, we go right. Doing the opposite can be dangerous,” he said while refusing to give his name.
Beyond the political debate, economic concerns remain central.
The Congolese economy is heavily dependent on oil, which accounts for about 70 percent of its exports and nearly 40 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP), according to the World Bank. This dependence exposes the country to fluctuations in international energy prices.
Public debt has also reached high levels in recent years, exceeding 90 percent of the GDP before being partially restructured under agreements with international creditors.
In this context, several economists said the electoral stakes go beyond the single issue of political change.
Diversifying the economy, creating jobs for a predominantly young population and improving public services are major challenges in the years ahead.
But many Congolese aren’t hopeful that Sunday’s election will make a difference to their material reality because political and economic power will likely remain in the same hands.
“We all understand the system in this country,” Fortune said. “The [economic] crisis doesn’t affect everyone, nor does poverty.”
The first match of the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will be played between defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 28 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 ⏳@RCBTweets to take on @SunRisers in the season opener in Bengaluru ❤️🧡
After concluding the first match, the tournament will witness Mumbai Indians (MI) play their first game against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 29 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. On March 30th, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will lock horns with Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Assam Cricket Association Stadium in Guwahati.
Punjab Kings (PBKS) will clash against Gujarat Titans (GT) on March 31st at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will take on Delhi Capitals (DC) on April 1 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. Eden Gardens in Kolkata will host the match between KKR and SRH on April 2nd. CSK will then face PBKS on April 3rd at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chepauk.
Double-decker weekend
The “Paltan” will then take on the Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on April 4th. On the same day, GT will host RR at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
On April 5th, SRH will clash against LSG at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad. One of the famous rivalries in the history of the tournament, RCB vs CSK, will be played on the same date at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
PBKS will take on KKR in their backyard, Eden Gardens, on April 6th. Later, the Royals will clash against the Mumbaikars on April 7th at the Assam Cricket Association Stadium. GT will then lock horns with DC on April 8th in New Delhi.
KKR is all set to face LSG on April 9th at the Eden Gardens. The battle of the Royals (RCB vs RR) will be played on April 10th in Guwahati. The Kings will then clash against the Sunrisers on April 11th in New Chandigarh, followed by the match between CSK and DC in Chennai.
On April 12th, LSG will face GT at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. The evening match on the same day will be played between arch-rivals, Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
🚨 News 🚨
Presenting the schedule for the first 20 matches of #TATAIPL 2026, to be played from March 28 to April 12, 2026 🗓️
Full schedule will be announced once poll dates are announced for three states set to undergo State Assembly elections.
Television actress Pranali Rathod has seemingly confirmed her relationship with actor Aashay Mishra, sparking excitement among fans after a recent Instagram post hinted at their romance. The actress, who rose to fame through the popular television show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, had largely kept her personal life private. However, her latest social media activity has now put her relationship in the spotlight.
Pranali recently shared a series of pictures on Instagram that appeared to subtly acknowledge her bond with Aashay. The post included candid moments of the two actors spending time together with friends and enjoying relaxed outings. Though the caption was simple and did not directly address their relationship, fans quickly noticed the warmth and chemistry between them.
Soon after the post went live, it began circulating widely on social media. Fans flooded the comments section with congratulatory messages, heart emojis and supportive reactions. Many followers interpreted the photos as a soft confirmation that the two actors are indeed dating. Screenshots of the post were also shared across fan pages, further fuelling conversations about the pair’s relationship.
All about Pranali and Aashay
Speculation about Pranali and Aashay’s romance had been circulating for some time. The two reportedly grew close while working together on the television show Durga – Ek Atoot Prem Kahani. Their on-screen pairing received positive feedback from viewers, who often praised their natural chemistry. Over time, their frequent appearances together in social media posts and at public gatherings strengthened rumours that their connection went beyond friendship.
Earlier this year, pictures and videos of the duo celebrating festivals and spending time together had also gone viral online, adding to speculation about their relationship status. Although neither of them publicly confirmed the rumours at that time, their interactions kept fans curious and engaged.
With Pranali’s latest Instagram update, many admirers now believe the couple has finally made their relationship official, even if in an indirect way. Fans have continued to share the pictures online while calling the two actors an adorable pair.
Pranali gained widespread popularity for playing Akshara in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai and has also appeared in shows like Kyun Utthe Dil Chhod Aaye and Durga – Ek Atoot Prem Kahani. While the actress has not issued a formal statement about her relationship, the recent post has certainly delighted fans who have long supported the rumoured couple.
Justice may be blind, but it definitely has a sense of humour at Patparganj District Court. After the first season of Maamla Legal Hai proved that courtrooms can be just as hilarious as they are dramatic, Season 2 expands this world with even more ajab (peculiar) cases, but with the gajab (amazing) team that everyone loved. The newly unveiled trailer offers audiences a sneak peek into the maamle (matters) to come, promising bigger battles, sharper wit, and even more delightful unpredictability.
All about the new season
V.D. Tyagi may have finally secured the judge ki kursi (judge’s chair), but how heavy is the head that now has to preside over this madness? And he’s not the only one in for a spin. The lawyers of Patparganj are back, tackling everything from electrifying gates and sting operations that sting a little too hard, to secret love affairs that threaten to shake up the courtroom in more ways than one, all while juggling interpersonal dynamics that can spark a fire of their own.
Produced by Posham Pa Pictures, the series is helmed by showrunner Sameer Saxena, with Rahul Pandey returning to direct the new season. The world and characters are created by Saurabh Khanna and Kunal Aneja, with the new season written by Syed Shadan, Mohak Aneja, and Tatsat Pandey, led by Kunal.
Ravi Kishan shares excitement on returning with season 2
Actor Ravi Kishan, who steps back into the role of V.D. Tyagi adds, “Coming back as VD Tyagi in Maamla Legal Hai Season 2 feels like coming home to a very crazy, very lovable courtroom. The response to the first season was overwhelming, and as actors, we dream of roles that stay with people, and Tyagi has become that for me. With Season 2 of Maamla Legal Hai, the humour is richer and the relationships are deeper. The audiences will find more honesty, warmth and emotion in the chaos and comedy of this world. This is one of the best collaborations between Posham Pa Pictures and Netflix, and I hope that viewers will see a bit of their own everyday battles and quiet victories reflected in this new chapter.”
Maamla Legal Hai Season 2 also welcomes Kusha Kapila and Dinesh Lal Yadav, who bring a fresh dynamic to the courtroom alongside returning favourites Ravi Kishan, Nidhi Bisht, Naila Grrewal, Anant Joshi, and Anjum Batra.
Packed with satire, heart, and a steady stream of delightful courtroom chaos, Maamla Legal Hai promises another season of entertainment where the arguments are dramatic, the verdicts are unpredictable, and the laughs never stop.
For years, Yograj Singh, the father of Yuvraj Singh, has publicly blamed former India captain MS Dhoni for his son being dropped from the national team. However, former India cricketer Sandeep Patil has now addressed the issue and shared his version of events.Patil served as the chairman of selectors for four years, during which his committee made several high-profile decisions, including dropping some of the biggest names in Indian cricket. Among those were Yuvraj Singh, Gautam Gambhir and legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar.
Gautam Gambhir reflects on India’s World Cup win and backing Sanju Samson in the tournament
Patil largely remained silent about those calls for years but recently spoke about them during an appearance on The Vicky Lalwani Show on YouTube.Patil, who chaired the selection meetings at the time, dismissed the claims that Dhoni played a role in Yuvraj’s exclusion and insisted the decision was taken solely by the selection committee.“Not once — not during selection meetings, not on tour, not during matches — did Mahendra Singh Dhoni say drop Yuvraj Singh. I am going on the record.”When asked whether Dhoni had objected after the selectors decided to move on from Yuvraj, Patil said the former India captain fully trusted the committee’s decisions.“He had total confidence in the selection committee. He didn’t say anything.”Patil also responded to Yograj Singh’s repeated criticism of Dhoni, acknowledging the emotions of a father but stressing that the blame was misplaced.“A father feeling strongly about his son is not wrong. But the blame is being placed in the wrong place.”Dhoni enjoyed a remarkable international career, playing 90 Tests, 350 ODIs and 98 T20Is for India. Under his leadership, India won three major ICC trophies — the ICC T20 World Cup 2007, the ICC ODI World Cup 2011 and the ICC Champions Trophy 2013.
New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah Leader of opposition launched sharp attack on Wednesday Rahul Gandhi During the discussion in the Lok Sabha on the opposition’s motion seeking removal of Speaker Om Birla, the Congress leader was accused of spreading misinformation about his low attendance and not being allowed to speak in the House.Amit Shah said Rahul Gandhi’s absence from parliamentary proceedings coincided with several foreign trips, claiming that the Congress leader was often abroad during key sessions such as the budget discussion.“Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi is a senior Congress leader and is often active in public life. During the Lok Sabha session, there are major party events and elections, and senior leaders naturally interact with the public and express their views. This is normal and has happened with many leaders, not just Rahul ji. But the question is, if he was absent from the House, where was he? He will be visiting Germany, Vietnam, England, Singapore, Malaysia and other countries in the winter of 2025 for a total of 60 days. Were on foreign trips. It is a complete coincidence that these visits coincided with the budget session. Whenever the budget is discussed, he is seen abroad. Then he complains that he is not allowed to speak. How can he talk to another country? There is no video-conference facility; Otherwise, he could have participated from a distance…Should I even comment on the conduct of the opposition? For example, when the Prime Minister was sitting on the Treasury bench, some opposition members ran up and hugged him, which had never happened before. It never happened that members of opposition parties gave flying kisses or winked at members of the ruling party. To be honest, I hesitate to even speak about this.Amit Shah said data from previous Lok Sabhas showed that Rahul Gandhi’s attendance was consistently below the national average.Addressing the House, Amit Shah said, “In the 17th Lok Sabha, his attendance was 51%. The national average was 66%. In the 16th Lok Sabha, his attendance was 52%. The national average was 80%. In the 15th Lok Sabha, his attendance was 43%. The national average was 76%.”He also accused Rahul Gandhi of failing to participate in several major parliamentary discussions during the previous term.“…In the 16th Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi did not participate in the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address in 2014, 2015, 2017 or 2018. He did not participate in any discussion on the Union Budget in the 16th Lok Sabha. In fact,…he did not participate in the discussion on any Government Bill. He did not participate in the discussion on the President’s address in the 16th, 17th, 19th, 20th and 21st sessions. In the 19th, 20th, 22nd and 23rd sessions, he did not participate in the discussion on the Union Budget and, except for one bill, he did not participate in any other legislative discussion. In the 18th Lok Sabha, he did not participate in the discussion on the Union Budget… After four decades, it is regrettable that his party has come up with a resolution that questions the integrity of the Speaker, who has always upheld the dignity of the House.The opposition’s motion demanding the removal of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was later rejected by voice vote in the House, effectively defeating the no-confidence motion.Amit Shah described the move against the Speaker as unprecedented in recent decades and said such actions harm parliamentary traditions.“This is not normal. A no-confidence motion has been moved against the Speaker of the Lok Sabha after almost 4 decades.” This is unfortunate for parliamentary politics and this House,” Amit Shah said.Defending the role of the Speaker, the Home Minister said that raising questions on the office of the Speaker weakens the credibility of India’s democratic institutions.“I wish to inform the entire House that when the present Speaker was appointed, the leaders from both sides of the House together elevated him to the Speaker. This shows that both the ruling party and the opposition should provide a free and fair environment to the Speaker to perform his duties and support him in fulfilling those responsibilities. Today, while disagreement with the Speaker’s decisions can be expressed, the rules of the Lok Sabha consider the Speaker’s decision as final. However, contrary to this tradition, the opposition has raised questions about the integrity of the Speaker.Amit Shah also criticized Rahul Gandhi for demanding a debate on the basis of comments made in a press conference.“…He suddenly got an idea – debate his own press conference. This is not a market. This is the Lok Sabha…From your great grandfather to your grandmother and your father, there were tall leaders in India. There was no debate on anyone’s press conference in the Lok Sabha. If he expected his “great press conference”, which was based on lies, to be debated in the House, Om Birla did him a favor by not letting the standards of the House fall.“Responding to allegations that opposition leaders were not allowed to speak, Shah said the claims were misleading and pointed to the time allotted to Congress MPs to speak.“The LOP complains that they are not allowed to speak, that the voice of the LOP is suppressed. I want to ask him, who will decide who should speak? The Speaker? No, you have to decide that. But when there is a chance to speak, you are seen in Germany, in England. Then he complains…Congress MPs spoke for 157 hours and 55 minutes in the 18th Lok Sabha. How much did the LOP speak? Why not you Said? No one stopped you? Can do. “Misinformation is spread to defame the Lok Sabha.”The Home Minister said parliamentary rules empower the Speaker to maintain order in the House, including the power to remove unparliamentary language from official records.“The list of unparliamentary terms used in this House was not created during any one term. It has evolved over time, through the efforts of many eminent persons who have presided over this high office, since the beginning of the existence of the House. The rules of conduct of the House and the list of unparliamentary words are binding on all members. It cannot be said that these rules do not apply to us. The Constitution has given certain rights to the members, but has not given any special privileges to anyone. There is no emergency, and no one has extraordinary powers beyond those provided by the Constitution.”He said that the functioning of Parliament is governed by established rules and traditions developed over decades.Shah said, “The House is not a fair. Parliament runs according to the rules. Everyone speaks according to the rules. No one has the right to speak and disregard the rules of Parliament. Those who say that this is happening because of the BJP, let me tell them that these rules were not made in our time; they have been in place since Nehru ji’s time. I am ready to debate that Congress has broken the rules of Parliament many times.”Emphasizing the importance of trust between the ruling party and the opposition, Amit Shah said that the Speaker acts as the neutral guardian of the House.“I will speak later about the questions raised by the Opposition today, but first I would like to say that the spirit and long-standing tradition of this House is based on mutual trust. The House functions on the basis of trust between the ruling party and the opposition. For both parties, the Speaker of the House acts as the guardian of its functioning. However, there are established rules as to how the Lok Sabha is to be conducted, and these rules are made by the House itself. Under these rules, we can raise issues related to our rights and members of the opposition can also do the same.He also noted the procedural history of motions against the Speaker and said such measures were extremely rare.“Under Article 96, when the motion for removal of the Speaker is discussed, the presiding officer concerned shall not preside over the House. What had happened earlier? This has happened three times before, each time when the motion was brought the Congress party was in power. The tradition has been that when the no-confidence motion against the Speaker is discussed, the Speaker does not sit in the chair. In all three cases, the House was presided over by other officials for 14 days. Om Birla is the only president who has displayed moral courage…”Amit Shah also accused the opposition of trying to weaken parliamentary institutions and said the allegations against the Speaker harm India’s democratic image internationally.“…the world recognizes the strength and prestige of India’s democratic system. When allegations are made against the Head of this House, questions are raised on our democratic processes not only within the country but also globally. That is why, generally, a no-confidence motion is rarely brought against the Speaker. Members can go to the Speaker’s chamber and discuss their concerns. The Speaker listens to members from both sides. However, a very strange situation has arisen here, when the members go into the chamber, an atmosphere is created as if the speaker’s safety is in danger. Nothing could be more unfortunate than this. What kind of arrangement do they want? The post of Chairman is placed above party lines and is intended to act as a neutral arbiter. Yet, questions are now being raised about the person who has been entrusted with this intermediary role. I will explain later why such questions are being raised. For 75 years, both Houses of Parliament have deeply strengthened the foundations of our democracy. However, today the opposition has raised serious questions on this.He further alleged that the opposition’s motion itself contained procedural errors and had to be corrected before it could be accepted.“…The Speaker’s office gave him the opportunity to correct several mistakes in his presentation. When he realized he had to make improvements, the notice was accepted. This reflects both the high moral ground and seriousness in the House. The high moral ground is reflected in the fact that on two occasions, despite the no-confidence motion not being in accordance with the rules, Speaker Om Birla gave him a chance to submit the notice properly. The proposal was not fundamentally in accordance with the rules, yet the Chairman maintained impartiality. Some members have complained about microphone problems claiming that they are not being allowed to speak…Anyone who does not follow the rules or maintain discipline will have his microphone switched off, and that is the way it should be.’Amit Shah also criticized the opposition for alleged mistakes in the notice submitted for the proposal.“…Perhaps they presented the proposal half-heartedly. The entire country and the world knows that the year is 2026, yet they have mentioned 2025 on the notice. They might have thought that the Speaker might reject it. Appropriate proposal should be attached with the notice, but they did not do so. Once this was brought to their notice, they withdrew the notice, and another notice was submitted. In respect of the second notice, except for genuine Xerox. As per the rules, a member must submit a notice with genuine signature. Let us assume that there is an extraordinary circumstance and the opposition members want to move a no-confidence motion before the Speaker… The House will run as per the rules of the Lok Sabha, not as per the rules of any party.The Home Minister also rejected allegations that the government had suppressed opposition voices pointing towards the period of emergency.“We never suppressed the voice of opposition, the voice of opposition was suppressed during the Emergency when leaders were put in jail,” he said.
choose the right one Trading Platform with Demat Account Integration It is the foundation of informed investing. For beginning investors and active traders, find a trading platform Which connects trading and holding accounts, saves time, reduces errors, and supports the overall investing experience. This guide reviews five trading platform that proposal demat accountThe integration of services helps readers make informed decisions about where to invest their money.
Key features include user-friendly design, speed, analytical tools and transparency, meeting the needs of a variety of investors from beginners to active traders.
Why trading platform and demat account integration matters
Understanding the Difference Between a Trading Account and a demat account The first step towards smart investing. A trading account is where investors place buy and sell orders for stocks, commodities, and other securities. A demat account A digital vault that stores purchased securities in electronic form.
When these two work together, investors can experience several operating benefits:
Fast Transactions: Orders are executed instantly without manual settlement delays
Real-time portfolio updates: View holdings and profits or losses instantly on one dashboard
Operational errors reduced: No need to transfer funds or securities between different accounts
Better User Experience: One login, one interface, complete control over investments
Automated Corporate Actions: Dividends, bonus shares and stock splits are handled automatically
For active traders and long-term investors, the integration means less frustration and more focus on building portfolios through informed decisions.
Key Features to Look for in a Modern Trading Platform
not all trading platform are equal. When comparing options, focus on these essential features that directly impact investment success:
user-friendly interface
A clean, intuitive design helps users execute trades without any confusion. Find platforms that newcomers can easily navigate.
quick order execution
Momentum matters in markets. choose an option trading platform With servers designed to handle peak market hours without slowdown or delay.
Advanced charts and analysis
Modern investors need technical analysis tools. Charts, indicators and research data should be accessible to investors to support trading decisions.
Mobile and web access
a good one trading platform Works flawlessly on phones, tablets and desktops. Investors should be able to trade anytime, anywhere with consistent performance.
Low brokerage and transparent pricing
Hidden fees can impact returns. Compare brokerage rates, account maintenance charges and other costs in advance. Transparency helps investors evaluate costs.
Security and Regulatory Compliance
Investors’ money and data must be kept safe. verify that trading platform Is registered with SEBI, uses encryption, and follows all regulatory guidelines.
Trading Platform with Integrated Demat Accounts
1. Zerodha
Zerodha introduced discount broking in India and remains a widely used choice for traders. Zerodha is known for its flat brokerage model and zero account opening fees trading platform integration with demat account Is convenient and reliable. The Kite platform offers charting, API access, and a robust mobile experience. Fund transfers and security holdings are synced instantly, making portfolio tracking easy. Zerodha’s educational resources through Varsity and its community support make it useful for learning investors. The platform’s speed and low costs attract high-volume traders. Suitable for cost-conscious traders and those who value trading tools as well as educational resources.
2. Samco Securities
Samco Securities is a fintech company that offers integrated trading platform with demat account Services. The platform combines a user-friendly interface with real-time market data, charting tools, and seamless order execution. SAMCO provides recommendation data for stocks, commodities, F&Os, indices and more, helping traders make informed decisions. Integrated system allows investors to open a demat account Start trading instantly and in minutes with online KYC. Samco’s mobile app and web platform sync together, giving users consistent access whether they trade from home or on the go. Brokerage rates are competitive, and the platform discloses transparency on all charges. Suitable for beginners who want simplicity and traders who want analysis in one place.
3. Angel One
Angel One combines trading features with a user-friendly experience. trading platform becomes integrated with him demat accountOffering real-time portfolio monitoring and instant settlements. Angel One’s angel broking platform includes charting, robo-advisor tools and research reports to support trading decisions. The mobile app is responsive and includes features suitable for small screens. Account opening is quick with digital verification, and fund management is straightforward. Angel One’s algorithmic trading support may appeal to technical traders. Suitable for traders looking for a complexity-free tool and investors looking for a robo-advisor option.
4. ICICI Direct
ICICI Direct brings to itself the backing of the financial strength of ICICI Bank trading platform And demat account Integration. The platform is considered secure, reliable and offers integrated banking-brokerage services. Traders can benefit from real-time market data, research tools, and fund transfers between bank and brokerage accounts. ICICI Direct’s platform is known for customer support and regulatory compliance. Opening an account is simple, and the mobile app offers extensive functionality. Suitable for investors who value institutional support, who have an existing ICICI Bank relationship, and traders seeking a long-term partnership.
5. Motilal Oswal
Motilal Oswal’s trading platform integration with demat account The services offer a mix of features and competitive pricing. The platform offers technical analysis tools, research insights, and competitive brokerage rates. Portfolio management is simplified through integrated dashboards, and corporate functions are handled automatically. The mobile app is well designed, and customer support is responsive. Motilal Oswal’s mutual fund integration is a feature of diversified investing. Suitable for traders seeking comprehensive investment solutions, those interested in stock trading as well as mutual funds and investors seeking strong research support.
What is a good demat account for investors?
A demat account That’s where securities live digitally. Beyond integration with A trading platformSee these qualities in one demat account Provider:
Zero or low account opening fees: Fees should not have much impact on initial investments
Online KYC Process: Complete verification in minutes from one phone
Secure Holdings Management: Advanced encryption and two-factor authentication protect assets
Automated Corporate Action Tracking: Dividends, stock splits and bonus issues are credited instantly
Spontaneous Fund and Stock Transfer: Move securities in and out without paperwork or delays
Detailed transaction details: Clear records for tax filing and investment tracking
no hidden charges: Transparent pricing for dematerialization, rematerialization and other services
a good one demat account Should work efficiently in the background. Investors open it once, and it works while they focus on managing their portfolio.
Benefits of choosing an integrated platform
when a trading platform And demat account By working as a system investors can gain the following benefits:
A dashboard for trading and holdings
Investors can view positions, pending orders and completed trades in a single screen. No switching between apps or logging into different accounts.
Better portfolio tracking
See updated profits, losses and asset allocation in real time. Integrated platforms calculate returns instantly, helping investors understand portfolio performance.
time efficiency
Every second saved on logging in, navigating, or verifying status is time that can be used for research and decision making. Integrated systems reduce administrative friction.
cost savings
An account means a set of fees. Faster settlement means capital can remain available for investment.
Suitable for beginners and active traders
Beginners may benefit because integration reduces confusion. Active traders can benefit as it speeds up operations.
How to Choose the Right Trading Platform for Different Needs
election of trading platform Depends on investing style and goals. Here’s a simple outline:
for beginners: Prioritize ease of use, good customer support, and educational resources. Both Samco and Zerodha provide these features.
For active traders: Look for speed, advanced charting and low brokerage. Zerodha, Angel One and Motilal Oswal offer robust tools.
For long term investors: Focus on reliability, security, and transparent pricing. ICICI Direct and SAMCO provide institutional level protection.
For cost-conscious traders: Compare brokerage rates and account fees. Zerodha’s flat model often compares competitively in terms of cost.
Start by listing key priorities. then test each trading platform With your paper trading or demo account before investing real money. Most platforms offer a free trial facility. Use it to evaluate the interface, speed and support quality.
Future of Integrated Trading Platform and Demat Services
As of February 2026, the online investing landscape in India is constantly evolving. Digital adoption has increased, with many new retailers opening accounts annually. trading platform are responding by adding AI-powered recommendations, robo-advisor tools, and advanced portfolio analysis.
integration of trading platform with demat account Becoming the industry standard. Brokers that fail to offer seamless integration capabilities may face competitive pressure.
Expect to see more real-time portfolio rebalancing, automated tax optimization and straight-in-built mutual fund integrations trading platform. The future of investing is about simplicity, speed, and intelligent tools.
conclusion
choosing the right one Trading Platform with Demat Account Integration It is one of the important decisions taken by investors. A well-integrated system saves time, reduces errors and helps investors focus on portfolio management and investment decisions.
Five trading platform Included in this guide represent current options for integrated demat account Services. Each offers different strengths, so their features, fees, and user experience should be compared for specific needs. Take advantage of demo accounts to test the platform before investing real money.
Whether a novice taking the first steps into stock investing or an active trader executing many trades, a reliable trading platform with demat account Integration forms the foundation of informed investing.
This article has been compiled by Samco Securities Limited, an Indian stock market trading company. To know more please visit: https://www.samco.in/about-us
Note to reader: This article is part of Hindustan Times’ promotional Consumer Connect initiative and has been created independently by the brand. Hindustan Times does not take any editorial responsibility for the content.
Actor Kathryn Hahn has confirmed that she will play the villain Mother Gothel in Disney`s upcoming live-action adaptation of the animated hit Tangled. She took to her social media account on Tuesday to share the news.
Kathryn Hahn confirms she is Mother Gothel
The Tiny Beautiful Things star shared the news through a video on Instagram. She shared an OOTD (outfit of the day) video with a twist.
She said, “Hey, OOTD, I just found out what that stands for. So here’s my outfit of the day.” The actor then stepped back to reveal that she was wearing a black t-shirt featuring multiple cutouts of Mother Gothel. “Simple jeans, glasses, T-shirt. This is easy. You know, just another day,” Kathryn quipped.
The caption of the post, which was shared in collaboration with Disney Studios, read: “OOTD, Mother Gothel.”
The post was met with excited and enthusiastic reactions from fans, as it was a dream come true for many of them who had envisioned Hanh as the villain.
Mother Gothel is the central antagonist in Tangled, a manipulative woman who keeps Rapunzel hidden away in a secluded tower to harness the healing magic of the princess`s long blonde hair.
Reports of Hahn`s casting as Mother Gothel had first surfaced earlier this year. At one point, the two-time Oscar nominee Scarlett Johansson had reportedly been in early discussions about the role. However, she was unable to pursue the role due to scheduling commitments related to The Batman Part II and a reboot of The Exorcist.
About the Tangled live-adaptation
Disney`s original animated Tangled was released in 2010 and became a major box-office success, earning more than USD 590 million worldwide. It featured Mandy Moore as the voice of Rapunzel, Zachary Levy as Flynn Ryder and Donna Murphy as Mother Gothel. The live-action adaptation was announced in 2024.
In the live-action film, Rapunzel will be played by Teagen Croft, while Milo Manheim of The Zombies franchise will essay the role of Flynn Ryder, the charming thief who becomes Rapunzel`s ally.
The project is set to be directed by Michael Gracy, known for helming the musical The Greatest Showman. The screenplay comes from Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, whose previous credits include Do Revenge and Someone Great. Producer Kritin Burr will oversee the project through Burr! Productions.
