📉 Gold and silver dip amid PPI news

Spot gold and silver prices are trending lower in early U.S. trading this Thursday. This movement occurred as a flat headline PPI was contrasted by stronger core producer-price pressure. The report showed final-demand prices were unchanged in July but rose 4.7% year-over-year. This mixed signal keeps the Fed's stance uncertain ahead of Friday's retail sales data. Investors are watching geopolitical risks in the Strait of Hormuz for further direction.

📱 Redmi 17 5G & 4G drop globally with massive batteries

Xiaomi has officially launched the Redmi 17 5G and Redmi 17 4G for global markets, featuring huge 7,500mAh batteries in both phones. These models hit the market on August 7, bringing budget-friendly pricing to its entry-level series. The 5G version runs on Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 starting at $249, while the 4G version starts at $179. Both phones share a 6.9-inch 120Hz LCD and IP64 rating, with differences in chipset and storage speed. Future availability in other regions is unconfirmed, but India usually follows soon after global announcements. 🔋

🇮🇳 Rahul Gandhi claims PM Modi is sleepless

Rahul Gandhi asserted that Prime Minister Modi does not sleep at night for various significant reasons. He made this statement in a public address given in Mumbai. The comments were made during a political rally held on October 26th. Gandhi implied that the PM's constant activity is linked to the political climate. This statement is part of the ongoing political discourse in India. 🇮🇳

🚨 Real estate agents caught with 11.7kg ganja in Hyderabad

Three real estate agents were arrested for allegedly transporting and selling 11.7 kg of ganja in Saroornagar, Hyderabad. The individuals arrested were Elishala Naveen, 22, Jaka Shikakumar, 26, and Vaidya Jagadeesh, 26. The seizure happened on August 13, 2026, when the STF-D team intercepted them while trying to sell the substance. These agents reportedly used an Odisha native to source the contraband from Odisha. Additionally, two others were nabbed in Medchal-Malkajgiri with 97 grams of hashish oil and 110 grams of ganja.

😥 Rohingya refugees face fear in Malaysia

Rohingya refugees from Myanmar are reportedly living in a state of constant fear across Malaysia. These displaced individuals are residing in various camps and urban areas throughout the country. Current figures indicate a significant number of refugees are present, though exact recent counts are not specified. The overall context involves ongoing humanitarian challenges and concerns regarding their safety and status. The situation continues to be monitored by international bodies for any changes in their living conditions. 😥

💨 Indonesia's smoke threatens South-East Asia again

Indonesia is expected to continue releasing smoke across the region. This haze originates from land and forest fires within the Indonesian archipelago. Data shows significant smoke levels were recorded around the period of May 2024. The persistent issue is linked to agricultural practices and environmental management challenges. Regional bodies are monitoring the situation closely for future developments.

🌱 Plant proteins keep athletes strong and fit

A randomized crossover study found that recreational athletes maintained their strength and endurance after four weeks of eating plant proteins. Researchers from Rutgers, Stanford, Vanderbilt, and the University of Reading conducted this study with 36 undergraduate students. The tests were completed across two four-week phases, comparing omnivore and plant-based diets. The results showed no statistically significant drop in performance for runners or resistance trainers. This supports everyday athletes choosing plant-based foods for fitness goals. 🥗

🪐 Black holes might be planet builders? 🪐

Researchers suggest that active supermassive black holes could play a role in the formation of massive planets. This theory was explored by scientists studying galactic environments. Specifically, the research looked at observations spanning several years. The concept links intense black hole activity to the accretion processes needed for large planetary bodies. Further study is required to confirm this intriguing link between black holes and planet growth.

🔬 Bengaluru alumni gift science kits to students

Alumni from Mahila Seva Samaja gifted science experimentation kits to students at their alma mater in Bengaluru on Wednesday, August 12th. The 1974 SSLC batch and other alumni presented these SciKraft kits to commemorate their golden jubilee. This initiative aims to make classroom learning more hands-on and engaging for the students. Educators emphasized that hands-on experience helps curiosity turn into lasting learning for children. Furthermore, the school introduced a new astronomy class and scholarships for wider student opportunities.

🏏 Smith says DRS saved him in Darwin Test

Steve Smith admitted he was lucky to survive a caught-behind DRS review during the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin. The review, involving Ebadot Hossain's delivery, found no conclusive edge, upholding the original not-out decision. Smith, who later scored 71, felt he made contact but credited the technology with saving him from being out. Australia was bowled out for 198, with Bangladesh finishing the day at 96 for one. The visitors will resume on day two with a 102-run deficit.

🏛️ Monsoon Session ends: 12 bills passed, debate low

The Parliament's Monsoon Session concluded with 12 bills being passed by both Houses of Parliament. This happened in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha amid repeated disruptions and clashes between the government and the Opposition. The session saw only 11 of the 12 bills cleared without substantive discussion in the Lok Sabha. The only bill debated was the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju blamed the Opposition for the lack of quality discussion. 📉