RCB and LSG players after the match in Bengaluru. (Pic credit: IPL)
NEW DELHI: Royal Challengers Bengaluru surged to the top of the Indian Premier League 2026 points table after a commanding five-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Wednesday. It was the defending champions’ fourth win in five games, taking them to 8 points and pushing them ahead of Rajasthan Royals on net run rate in a tightly packed early-season race.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!RCB now boast the best net run rate in the league at +1.503, underlining their dominance in both batting and bowling so far this season. Rajasthan Royals remain close behind with +0.889, keeping the race for the top spot wide open after just over two weeks of action.
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For Lucknow Super Giants, the defeat — already their third in five matches — meant they remain stuck at seventh place, unchanged from where they started the day. However, the loss further dented their campaign as their net run rate slipped to -0.804, putting additional pressure on their inconsistent start.Punjab Kings remain the only unbeaten side in the competition so far, sitting third with 7 points from four matches, including three wins and one rain-affected no result. Their steady form has kept them firmly in contention at the top end of the table.The middle table remains tightly congested, with Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, Gujarat Titans, Lucknow Super Giants and Chennai Super Kings all locked on four points each. SRH currently sit fourth due to a superior net run rate, while DC, GT, LSG and CSK follow in that order based on marginal differences in their standings.Mumbai Indians occupy ninth place with just one win from four matches, collecting two points so far. At the bottom of the table are Kolkata Knight Riders, the only winless side this season, with a solitary point coming from a washed-out contest against Punjab Kings.
Latest IPL 2026 Points Table after RCB vs LSG match
At the end of January 2026, gold prices hit an all-time high of $5,600. Post that, there was a big correction of around 20%. At the end of February 2026, Israel and the US attacked Iran, leading to a lot of economic uncertainty. Yet, gold prices haven’t seen much of an up move. In this article, we will examine why gold prices have corrected and continue to trade at lower prices despite the ongoing US-Iran War.
During times of high inflation, when paper money loses its purchasing power, people turn to gold. (Bloomberg)
Gold’s role in times of uncertainty and inflation
Investors allocate money to gold for various reasons. However, two of the important reasons include:
Safe haven during times of uncertainty
Hedge against inflation
With its past performance track record, gold has earned a reputation as a safe haven during times of uncertainty and as a hedge against inflation. In the past, during times of war, pandemic, sovereign debt crisis, global financial crisis, etc., gold has performed well and rewarded investors who put their faith in it. Outperformance during such times has earned gold the tag of a safe haven during times of uncertainty.
Similarly, during times of high inflation, when paper money loses its purchasing power, people turn to gold. During such times, gold acts as a store of value. That has earned gold the tag of a hedge against inflation.
How has gold performed?
In the past, while gold has acted as a safe haven during times of uncertainty and a hedge against inflation, this time, it is not playing that role to its full potential. The US-Iran War, which has driven crude prices higher, has created significant uncertainty. Also, the high crude oil prices have started stoking inflation across the global economy. Yes, despite the global uncertainty and higher inflation, gold prices have corrected and have stayed subdued.
The chart above shows how gold prices peaked out at the end of January 2026. At the end of February 2026, the US-Iran War began and has been ongoing for the last more than 6 weeks. Yet, gold prices are subdued, trading in the $4,500 to $4,800 range.
Due to high crude oil prices, inflation has begun to rise in many countries. As a result, many global central banks that were in an interest rate-cutting cycle have either paused or are indicating that future interest rate hikes are likely. However, despite inflation rising, gold prices, which act as a hedge against inflation, haven’t moved up much.
Why are gold prices not moving up?
In the earlier section, we discussed how the US-Iran War has created economic uncertainty and how high crude oil prices are driving inflation higher. Yet, gold prices are not rising, as they have reacted in similar scenarios in the past. Some reasons why gold prices are not moving up include the following.
1. Central bank buying has slowed
Over the last few years, central banks of various countries have been the biggest buyers of gold. Over the three years from 2022 to 2024, central banks cumulatively bought more than 1,000 tonnes of gold every year. In 2025, they bought around 860 tonnes of gold.
However, so far in 2026, the gold purchases from central banks have slowed significantly. Infact, some central banks have sold gold. For example, the central banks of Russia, Turkey, and some others have sold some gold from their reserves in 2026. The central bank of Poland has indicated that it plans to sell some gold from its reserves.
So, when demand from the largest gold purchasers slows significantly, and some of them sell gold, it is bound to have an adverse impact on the gold prices.
2. US Dollar strength
There is an inverse relation between the US Dollar Index and gold prices. The strengthening of the US Dollar makes it expensive for foreign currency holders to buy gold, thereby reducing demand. Thus, when the US Dollar Index strengthens, gold prices fall.
Since the start of the US-Iran War, the US Dollar Index has strengthened. The strengthening of the index may have partly contributed towards the fall in gold prices.
3. Rise in Government bond yields
The US-Iran War led to a spike in crude oil prices, raising fears of increase in inflation. As a result, US 10-year Treasury yields climbed from around 3.96% at the start of the war to levels of 4.44%, before cooling to some extent. Along with the US, the yields on Government bonds increased in many other countries.
When the yields increase, some investors prefer to shift money from gold to Government bonds. With attractive yields available, some investors prefer allocating fresh money to Government bonds rather than gold. Gold is a non-interest earning asset. The rotation of some money from gold to Government bonds, and allocation of some fresh money to Government bonds rather than gold, may have partially contributed to the fall in gold prices.
4. Price correction after 2 years of rise
Over the last 2 years, gold prices have risen sharply. In April 2024, gold prices traded around levels of $2,300. From there, over the 2 years, the prices more than doubled, topping out at around $5,600 before cooling down to the current $4,500 to $4,800 range.
So, while the current around 20% price correction may look huge, one should note it has come on the back of a more than 100% rise. After such a huge rise, giving up some gains is expected. Even after the recent correction, the gold prices are far higher than last year or the last couple of years.
The current scenario of the US-Iran War, US trade war, economic uncertainty, and fears of rising inflation, among other factors, creates a perfect environment for gold prices to rally. Yet, gold prices have corrected due to the combination of factors we have discussed. If and when central banks, the biggest gold buyers, start purchasing gold in adequate quantities cumulatively, the gold price may start rising again.
What should investors do?
As an investor, you must follow the asset allocation strategy. You may allocate a small portion (5% to 15%) of your overall investment portfolio to gold. If you are accumulating a specific quantity of gold for a financial goal, such as marriage, consider buying gold ETF units regularly or starting a SIP in a gold mutual fund.
Dhurandhar 2 makers have been accused of using Trichhi Topiwale song without permission.
Delhi HC asks Rajiv Rai to refrain from comments on Dhurandhar 2
Bar and Bench reported that the court noted that Rajiv had made multiple public statements on the merits of the case. It was emphasised that restraint is expected in public commentary when matters are sub judice to avoid escalation outside court.
Super Cassettes’ advocate told the court, “They are calling us thieves while the very issue is before this Court for consideration.” The company that holds the audio rights of Dhurandhar 2 also argued that such comments were causing damage to the film, which was running in theatres. The advocate for the music label also submitted that Rajiv cannot pursue remedies before the court while making public allegations and commentary on the dispute. He contended that the filmmaker’s statements amounted to conducting a parallel narrative.
Rajiv’s lawyer argued that the Dhurandhar 2 team should be able to take criticism, saying, “They get praise every day for being a box office hit. Equally, two people criticising them is not going to bring down heavens,” she stated that the filmmaker was willing to refrain from further commentary and was committed to working it out in mediation. The court observed on Wednesday that while both parties are free to hold opinions, make imputations, and comment on the dispute, publicly making remarks wasn’t appropriate.
What is the dispute?
Trimurti Films, which was once headed by Gulshan Rai and is now headed by Rajiv, alleges that the song Trichhi Topiwale from the 1989 film Tridev was used in Dhurandhar 2 without permission in the song Rang De Lal (Oye Oye). Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar’s B62 Studios, and Jyothi Deshpande’s Jio Studios have also been named, apart from Super Cassettes. The case was referred to mediation last week.
Dhurandhar was released in theatres in December last year and collected over ₹1300 crore worldwide. The sequel has crossed the ₹1700 crore mark worldwide, becoming the first franchise in India to reach ₹3000 crore collectively. The film stars Ranveer Singh, Sara Arjun, R. Madhavan, Rakesh Bedi, Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, and others.
Ram Charan plays the lead in Buchi Babu Sana’s sports drama Peddi.
Peddi new release date announced
The Peddi team released press notes on social media, stating that the film’s release has been pushed to June. The note reads: “Firstly, thank you all for the wonderful response to our songs and glimpses. We’re truly happy to see the love and excitement for Peddi. The talkie part of the film is complete, and we only have one song left to be shot. We’ve seen the edit of the film, and we’re extremely happy with the output.”
It further reads: “With such great content in our hands, we want to present it in the best possible way. For that, we feel it’s important to give our technicians and post-production team a little more time to bring out their best with absolute perfection. It is our duty to give you nothing but the best theatrical experience. So, we’ve decided to push the release of the film to June.” The team, however, did not announce an exact date yet, writing, “The exact date will be announced very soon. Thank you for your continued support and patience. It truly means a lot to us.”
When Ram Charan assured no postponement
Earlier in April, Ram was promoting his cousin’s sister, Niharika Konidela’s production, Rakasa. In a promotional video, he addressed rumours of the film’s postponement when he said, “It was the last day of talkie today, we wrapped up the film today. In case anyone’s feeling otherwise, it’s done. The talkie is done, and we have only one song left to shoot.” He also said later in the video, “Everyone, please promote that Peddi isn’t postponed. I’ve been hearing this rumour lately, but don’t worry, because the shooting is done.”
Initially, Peddi was supposed to be released on March 27, just days after Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar: The Revenge would hit the screens. However, the release was postponed to April 30 in February, with Ram writing, “#PEDDI will see you on 30th APRIL, 2026.”
Peddi is directed by Buchi Babu Sana of Uppena fame and produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru under Vriddhi Cinemas, and co-produced by Ishan Saksena under IVY Entertainment, and presented by Mythri Movie Makers and Sukumar Writings. Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, and Jagapathi Babu also star in the film with music by AR Rahman.
As the IPL 2026 season commenced, all eyes were on Virat Kohli and his strategy for the tournament. Kohli’s final T20 appearance was during the IPL 2025 final, and since then he has retired from Test cricket. This season, however, Kohli has demonstrated a style that aligns well with modern T20 cricket.
In the initial three matches, Kohli maintained a strike-rate exceeding 150, notably achieving over 180 against SRH. Against RR, he achieved a strike-rate of 200. Although there was a slight dip in performance against MI, where he struggled to match Phil Salt’s pace, he quickly regained form against LSG.
The chase expert read the conditions accurately on a sticky wicket, different from the usual Chinnaswamy track. He aggressively targeted the bowlers early, setting the tone for RCB’s innings. Despite being dismissed for 49, his efforts contributed significantly to RCB’s five-wicket victory.
Post-match, Kohli emphasised the importance of smart play, acknowledging that not every game will involve high scores. He stated, “It depends on the conditions and situations as well. Not every game is going to be 230-240. You have to keep your eye on the players. In the second half, the games are going to be tighter. When the freedom goes away and the pressure kicks in, you have to play smart cricket. The teams that play well and adapt will succeed,” said Kohli.
The RCB star said that he is doing his best to adapt to the modern ways of T20 cricket.
I think I have done okay so far in adapting. Last two games, I haven’t been at my best but always trying to raise the bar,” said Kohli.
Reflecting on the match, Kohli expressed disappointment at not finishing the game.
“Yeah, much better than the last game. I’m still not 100%. I was sore last game. I was under the weather for the last four-five days. I started off well today. I was happy with my intensity. Would have loved to carry on and finish the game.”
RCB’s next match is against DC at home on April 18.
Buzz swirls around Jr NTR and Prashanth Neel’s ‘Dragon’ after Tovino Thomas’s exit and Shahid Kapoor’s rumored antagonist role. Reports claim Alia Bhatt is in talks for a pivotal part, possibly announced on NTR’s birthday, marking their RRR reunion. NTR’s gym pic dispels delay rumors; film releases June 25, 2026. Alia eyes ‘Alpha’ and ‘Love & War’.
The buzz around Jr NTR and director Prashanth Neel’s upcoming film, tentatively titled ‘Dragon’, is already high. With Tovino Thomas exiting the project and rumours of Shahid Kapoor stepping in as the antagonist, the film is cornering the spotlight for more reasons than just its star cast.
Alia Bhatt in talks for ‘Dragon’
As reported in Deccan Herald, Alia Bhatt is ready to board the project, set to play a pivotal part in this high‑octane action drama. Her casting may be formally revealed on May 20, coinciding with Jr NTR’s birthday.
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Alia Bhatt and Jr NTR reunion
If the reports are true, Alia and Jr NTR will be reuniting on screen for the second time. They first worked together in SS Rajamouli’s blockbuster ‘RRR’, where Alia was paired with Ram Charan.
Jr NTR gym photo revealed
Recently, the makers have just unveiled a fresh gym photo of Jr NTR. The image shows him flexing his heavily built physique, flaunting his sculpted back and powerful biceps. This comes in the wake of social media rumours about the film’s delay, which the team has dismissed, urging audiences not to believe or circulate unverified news. The large‑scale action drama is still in production and is slated to release on June 25, 2026.
Alia Bhatt upcoming projects
On the work front, Alia is getting ready for the release of her upcoming film ‘Alpha’, in which she plays the female lead in Shiv Rawail’s spy thriller. The movie also features Bobby Deol and Sharvari Wagh and is expected to announce a fresh release date after the delay of its earlier December 2025 plan. Alia is also set to star in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Love & War’, marking her on‑screen reunion with Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal.
Thom Tillis, an influential Republican senator on the committee which oversees nominations for the Federal Reserve chair, has threatened to block Warsh’s confirmation. If Warsh is not confirmed before Powell’s term expires, he plans to stay on temporarily in the post.
Virat Kohli admitted he is still not fully fit despite playing a key hand in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s five-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants, revealing after the match that he had been dealing with soreness as well as illness in the lead-up to the contest.
Virat Kohli during the IPL 2026 match between RCB and LSG. (ANI Pic Service)
Kohli made 49 off 34 balls in RCB’s chase of 147 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Tuesday, helping his side take control of the pursuit before the finishers completed the job with ease. The veteran opener looked fluent through most of his stay and struck six fours and a six, but his post-match comments made it clear that the innings had come in less-than-ideal physical condition.
Speaking during the post-match interview on JioHotstar, Virat Kohli said he was feeling “much better than the last game” but stressed that he was still not at full fitness.
Kohli explains fitness state after key RCB hand
“Yeah, much better than the last game. I’m still not 100%. I was sore last game. I was under the weather for the last four-five days. I started off well today. I was happy with my intensity. Would have loved to carry on and finish the game,” Kohli said.
The remarks add context to an innings that was important without turning into one of his signature match-defining knocks. In a modest chase, Kohli gave RCB early assurance and helped prevent a collapse or panic against an LSG attack that had little scoreboard pressure. His contribution also came at a time when there had already been attention on his fitness after he did not field in the previous game and this one due to injury concerns.
That is what makes this update particularly significant for RCB. Kohli is not only central to the side’s batting plans, but also one of the team’s key on-field presences. Even in a game where the target was manageable, his comments suggested he was assessing the outing as much through his body’s response as through the runs he made.
Kohli also hinted that batting was not quite as straightforward as the final margin might suggest, pointing to a change in the surface as the chase progressed.
“The wicket slowed down. You have to take conditions into consideration,” he said, suggesting that he had read the pitch well and would have preferred to stay till the end.
For RCB, the immediate positive is that Kohli looked freer than he did in the previous outing and played with intent. But his own words also served as a reminder that, even after another useful contribution in a winning cause, he is still working his way back to full sharpness.
Bollywood is all set to get a fresh new pairing. Ace director Rajkumar Hirani`s son Vir Hirani is going to make his big-screen debut in a rom-com, as reported by Variety India. His leading lady has been confirmed, and it`s none other than actress Raveena Tandon`s daughter, Rasha Thadani. The film is tentatively titled Lagan Laagi Re.
About Lagan Laagi Re
Lagan Laagi Re is going to be a small-town love story that is set in the present time.
The makers wanted to cast a fresh jodi for the film. Hence, while Rukmini Vasanth was earlier in consideration, they chose to go ahead with Rasha Thadani eventually, according to Variety India.
The screenplay has been penned by Karan Vyas, who is best known for writing hit shows like Scam 1992, Scam 2003, Scoop, and the film Raid 2.
Lagan Laagi Re is being directed by Sonali Rattan Deshmukh. Previously, she assisted her husband, Kunal Deshmukh, on popular romantic films like Jannat, TumMile, and Shiddat. It is being produced by Jay Shewakramani under his Northern Lights Films banner.
Northern Lights Films has produced several successful films in the past, such as Jawaani Jaaneman, Freddy, JaaneJaan, and Maalik.
Vir Hirani to make OTT debut with Pritam Pedro
Before his Bollywood debut, Vir is going to make his acting debut with the web series Pritam Pedro, which is produced by his father. It will reportedly release in May 20206.
Pritam Pedro sees Arshad Warsi portray an old-school cop, compelled to team up with Vir’s young officer, who is a computer geekand uses technology to solve cases.
Rajkumar, who serves as the co-producer and showrunner, had originally cast Vikrant Massey in the role of the young cop. The actor, however, had to exit the project. “Vir wasn’t supposed to be launched with Pritam Pedro. But during casting changes, Hirani felt Vir could fit in as a young tech geek,” said an insider.
Another source revealed, “The cyber crime thriller was originally mentioned in the streamer’s 2025-26 slate. But as work on the series went on for long, it is finally arriving this May.”
Veteran investor Mark Mobius, widely regarded as a pioneer of emerging markets investing, has died at the age of 89, marking the end of a decades-long career that helped shape global investment strategies, according to a Bloomberg report.According to Bloomberg, Mobius died in Singapore, with the news confirmed in a LinkedIn post attributed to his spokeswoman.Mobius spent over three decades with Franklin Templeton Investments, where he became one of the earliest and most prominent advocates of investing in developing economies across Asia, Africa, Latin America and Eastern Europe.Hired in 1987 by legendary investor John Templeton, he went on to build one of the first dedicated emerging markets funds and led the Templeton Emerging Markets Group until 2016.Under his leadership, the flagship fund delivered strong long-term returns, averaging 13.4% annually from 1989 until his retirement, according to data cited by Bloomberg.Known for his hands-on approach, Mobius travelled extensively, often visiting companies and markets in person to assess opportunities.“I believe in getting out and kicking the tires,” he wrote in 2015. “I would rather see with my own eyes what’s happening in a company or country.”He was also among the first global investors to identify Africa as a frontier market, launching the Templeton Africa Fund in 2012.Industry peers frequently described him as a defining figure in emerging markets investing. “Mark Mobius is to emerging market investing what Colonel Sanders is to fried chicken,” Peter Douglas of the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association said, highlighting his influence.After leaving Franklin Templeton, Mobius founded Mobius Capital Partners in 2018 and remained active in global markets, continuing to explore investment opportunities until recent years.Mobius is remembered not only for his investment success but also for opening up global capital flows into developing economies at a time when such markets were largely overlooked.
