🚨 US Debt Hits $40T; 5% Yield Triggers Market Fear

US total public debt crossed $40.05 trillion as of August 18, according to Treasury data cited by Jefferies strategist Christopher Wood. He flagged a move above 5% in the 10-year US Treasury yield as a major risk trigger for near-term equity markets. The fiscal deficit widened to $432 billion in July, marking a record monthly level since March 2021. Despite this, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is reportedly trying to prevent the 10-year yield from hitting that 5% mark. Investors are advised by Wood to hedge with oil/energy stocks and gold against market disruption. 📉

📈 Rupee gains against dollar amid oil concerns

The Rupee started Friday gaining 9 paise against the US dollar, strengthening to 95.65 as the American currency weakened overseas. This movement occurred as the RBI anticipates at least $80 billion in foreign currency inflows from earlier measures. Currently, about $56.85 billion has been mobilized, including $52.3 billion via FCNR(B) deposits. However, elevated crude oil prices and geopolitical uncertainty are limiting the rupee's rally. The dollar index dropped 0.15 per cent, while BSE Sensex fell 25.97 points.

✨ iQOO Z11 5G drops in India with AI power

iQOO has launched the iQOO Z11 5G, focusing on enhancing students' daily productivity through AI tools. This new smartphone is available in India, featuring a 6.83-inch 1.5K 144Hz AMOLED display with 2000 nits. Pricing starts at INR 34,999 for the 6 GB + 128 GB variant, with sales beginning on August 25th, 2026. It is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 7500 Turbo and boasts a massive 7050mAh battery. Future updates will continue to refine its AI features based on consumer feedback. 📱

🚗 VW confirms sub-4m SUV launch for India in 2027

Volkswagen has officially announced a new sub-4 metre compact SUV for the Indian market. This accessible model will be locally manufactured and serve as VW's entry point to the segment in India. The SUV will utilize the locally developed MQB-A0-IN platform, following reports based on Skoda Kylaq. The vehicle is aiming to capture significant volume from high-selling models like Tata Nexon and Hyundai Venue. Its success will depend on strong product differentiation to avoid cannibalizing Skoda Kylaq sales. 🚗

😥 1984 riot victim slams Congress over justice

Mohan Singh, a victim of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, gave an exclusive interview to CNN-News18 regarding the lack of justice. He spoke about the horrific violence that occurred in Punjab during that time. Singh alleged that the Congress continues to politically support individuals connected to the 1984 violence. He further accused the party of applying double standards concerning the riots. Decades later, his message remains clear that justice has not been served. 😥

🚀 Tempsens Instruments IPO crushes subscription

Tempsens Instruments IPO saw massive investor interest on its second day of opening. The company was successfully subscribed over 21 times across its various shares. This strong response occurred as the Grey Market Premium (GMP) rocketed to 90%. The IPO is attracting significant attention from the market due to its perceived growth potential. Further updates on the listing process will be announced in the coming days.

🧐 Ex-SC Judge to probe NEET protest police excesses

The Supreme Court formed a five-member High-Powered Enquiry Committee headed by former judge R Subhash Reddy to investigate alleged police excesses during NEET protests. This committee is operating in India and was announced on July 18 but made public on August 20. It must examine 12 issues, including the use of pellet guns, lathicharge, and violence against women protesters. The panel will also assess the police chain of command and consider interim compensation for injured individuals. Finally, the committee will review if blanket prohibitory orders should be restricted to imminent threats. 🧐

🧐 US calls China's detention of scholar 'wrongful'

The US State Department has designated Myanmar-born scholar U Min Zin as wrongfully detained in China, making his release a top priority. He was detained in June while attending an academic conference in Yunnan province. This incident follows his travel to China, where he faces espionage allegations from the Chinese government. Min Zin, a US citizen, was a former student activist in Myanmar before moving to the US. The US will continue to advocate for his freedom as diplomatic relations remain tense. 🧐

💔 Lucknow bank employee kills wife, sister, then commits suicide

A bank employee killed his estranged wife outside an ICICI Bank branch in Gomti Nagar while divorce proceedings were happening. CCTV footage captured the assault and shooting outside the bank premises in Lucknow. The accused confessed on WhatsApp, alleging infidelity, before returning home. He then killed his sister and died by suicide at his residence. Police are currently investigating the sequence of events and all potential motives behind the tragedy. 💔

📉 Europe smartphone sales hit 3-year low

European smartphone shipments dropped to their lowest volume since 2023 during Q2 (April – June). Counterpoint Research estimates that 35 million units were shipped across the region. This marks a 10% decrease compared to the same period last year, influenced by inflation and component price hikes. Apple and Samsung dominated the market, each holding a 34% share of total shipments. Analysts predict further shipment declines as inventory runs low and the budget segment struggles. 📉

💔 Sunita Ahuja claims Govinda wanted to marry Komal Rani Swarnkar

Sunita Ahuja revealed that Govinda and actor Komal Rani Swarnkar were allegedly planning to get married. This claim surfaced during a phone call with Rakhi Sawant in Mumbai. Sunita stated she took back her divorce because of these marriage plans. Rakhi Sawant then advised her to secure her financial interests, specifically focusing on Rs 200 crore. Govinda is also set to return to films with Komal Rani Swarnkar in a project called Roopa.