💻 Declining Apple's Offer Pays Off Big

In 1978, Steve Jobs offered engineer Fred Hatfield $400 to return his Apple-1 for destruction. Hatfield declined the deal, choosing to keep his original machine despite the upgrade offer. Nearly 50 years later, this Apple-1 is set to auction for potentially up to $800,000. The sale is part of Bonhams' History of Science, Technology & Computing event from October 4 through October 14. This rare, operational computer showcases a major turning point in tech history. 🕰️

🤔 Expat notices social hierarchy in Indian intros

A European expat working in India observed an unexpected pattern in initial conversations. He noted that people quickly move beyond basic introductions to discuss status markers. Details like education, profession, and family background are often brought up. This suggests an inclination to 'place' individuals within a social hierarchy. The online discussion reflects varied views on this cultural nuance.

📈 Smallcap Stocks Rally for Five Days

Despite the Sensex dropping 2.27% to 74,781 by September 11, about 17 stocks in the BSE SmallCap index went up every session. Twelve of these stocks managed to gain across all five consecutive trading sessions, spanning from September 7 to September 11. These top performers delivered cumulative returns ranging between 10% and 30% over this period. For instance, Spectrum Electrical Industries saw a 28% gain, while ZF Steering Gear (India) achieved a 15% increase. Investors are now watching these consistent gainers for further market movement. 📈

🎬 Modha Rathri: A witty look at healing and society

Modha Rathri is a film that offers a deep commentary on society while focusing on themes of healing and grief. It is set with a premise involving two people about to marry, featuring characters in various complex situations. Rishikanth and Anishma Anilkumar portray individuals battling different forms of loss in the narrative. The film skillfully avoids gender shaming and delivers situational humor within its emotional scope. Ultimately, it suggests that empathy and good conversations can resolve life's toughest issues.

🌍 BRICS: What each country really wants

The BRICS grouping, formed during the 2008 global financial crisis, is gaining more international focus amidst current global chaos. Russia leverages BRICS for trade, with 90% of its $330 billion turnover conducted in national currencies. China uses the platform to boost its global standing, despite having a significant trade deficit with the US. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are interested in alternatives to the US petrodollar system. Ultimately, each nation approaches the bloc with distinct strategic goals.

🗓️ CBSE 2027 Date Sheet coming soon for 10th and 12th

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is expected to release the Class 10 and Class 12 board exam date sheet 2027 in November or December 2026. These crucial exams are anticipated to take place between February and March 2027. Students must wait for the official schedule, as unofficial timetables circulating online should be ignored. For reference, the Goa Board SSC exams are set for March 15 to April 10, 2027. Always check the official CBSE website for the confirmed subject-wise dates and details.

🌸 Local flowers are booming in south-west England

Demand for homegrown cut flowers has caused a huge growth in businesses across south-west England. Flowers from the Farm noted that about 240 of its 1,100 members were from Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset. This sector is estimated to contribute £30m annually to the UK economy as of recent times. Customers are now prioritizing high quality and sustainability, boosting local farms. These local efforts help keep money in rural communities and support biodiversity. 🌸

📉 Oracle deepens layoffs amid AI spending crunch

Oracle is increasing its planned job cuts as it faces a cash crunch linked to developing large AI data centres. The company announced a new share trading program for Chairman Larry Ellison, allowing him to sell 50 million shares until October 24. The total estimated cost for the '2026 Restructuring Plan' is now around $2.8 billion, up from $2.1 billion already accrued. This financial pressure stems from the expensive build-out of AI infrastructure for major clients like OpenAI. As of the end of May, the company had approximately 49,000 US workers and 92,000 international employees.

🌍 Africa is now the world's top terrorism hotspot

Africa has emerged as the globe's most active terrorism theatre, according to a new US House Homeland Security Committee report. Seven out of ten countries with the highest terrorism deaths are located in Africa, with five centered in the Sahel region. During the first half of 2025, over two-thirds of ISIS's global activity was recorded on the continent. This shift poses new challenges for US counterterrorism as it moves away from Middle East focus. The report suggests a shift towards preventing attacks based on individual behavior. 🌍

🇮🇳 Ethiopia, Malaysia want stronger ties with India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meetings with Ethiopian and Malaysian leaders boosted India's relations in defense and business. Ethiopia and Malaysia expressed interest in deeper defense cooperation, including joint training and equipment procurement. Discussions covered defense partnerships, semiconductor sector collaboration, and investment opportunities in both nations. India aims to expand its defense exports and economic reach, particularly within the Global South. This push positions India as a key, cost-effective defense and economic partner globally. 🤝

♟️ Ganges Grandmasters dominate chess in Bengaluru

Ganges Grandmasters and APL Pipers secured strong positions in the Global Chess League after big wins in Bengaluru. On Friday, Ganges Grandmasters beat Mumba Masters 16-1, while the Pipers won 9-7 against American Gambits. Both teams now have 18 match points, with Ganges leading in game points at 88. Magnus Carlsen was POTM but gave the trophy to Vidit Gujrathi for his decisive victory. The teams need a win on Saturday to qualify for the final clash. 🏆