🌍 US-Iran talks gain traction amidst regional chaos

Diplomatic efforts to resolve the Strait of Hormuz crisis showed momentum with a draft US-Iran peace agreement circulating. Officials from Iran and Oman reported positive progress on maritime navigation talks near the region. Brent crude crossed the $79 mark as investors weighed peace talks against supply vulnerabilities on August 5, 2026. UAE-based carriers are still facing cancellations due to fluid airspace restrictions and operational challenges. Residents are waiting for clarity on when domestic fuel prices will start to normalize. ✈️

🧠 Low-sugar diet cuts dementia risk by 46%

Eating less sugar during pregnancy and the first two years of life might boost long-term brain health significantly. This was found in a study of 33,465 individuals from the UK Biobank. The research, published in Nature npj Aging, showed a 46% lower risk of Alzheimer's disease for low-sugar exposed people. Health experts like WHO advise limiting free sugars throughout life to prevent chronic diseases. Further studies are needed to confirm cause and effect, stressing early nutrition importance. 🧠

🏦 RBI keeps repo rate steady at 5.25%

The RBI's Monetary Policy Committee unanimously kept the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25% on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. This decision was made by the MPC in Mumbai after assessing the evolving macroeconomic and financial conditions. Real GDP growth for 2026-27 is now projected at 6.7%, up from the earlier forecast, while CPI inflation is projected at 5.0%. Governor Sanjay Malhotra noted that domestic demand remains strong but agriculture faces risks due to the monsoon. The MPC maintains a neutral stance while monitoring global headwinds. 📈

⚖️ Karnataka HC drops detention of bus driver

The Karnataka High Court cancelled the detention order for a school bus driver in Bengaluru. The driver, Rafikul Biswas, was held after police claimed he was an undocumented Bangladeshi migrant. The Election Commission confirmed his voter ID was genuine, noting his family had lived in India for generations. Biswas, 32, has birth records proving he is an Indian citizen. The court criticized the West Bengal government for delaying the review process. 🚌

💡 Gap between campus and industry stalls India's green talent

Masters' Union noted at the Mint Sustainability Summit 2026 that a disconnect exists between university teachings and industry needs for sustainability talent in India. Anushree Poddar highlighted that companies struggle to find professionals blending sustainability knowledge with strong business acumen. This gap forces employers to hire specialists lacking the other crucial skill set. Masters' Union is addressing this via a 16-month program integrating live industry projects with academic study. This initiative aims to merge ESG, climate finance, and business models, meeting rising green job demands. 💡

📱 Apple Pay rolls out in the Philippines

Mastercard and Visa have officially brought Apple Pay to cardholders in the Philippines. This enables users of iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac to make secure payments in-store, in-app, and online. Both services emphasize security by not storing actual card numbers on the device. This rollout supports the nation's push towards a cash-lite economy for locals and tourists. Users can now enjoy seamless and protected transactions across various merchants. 💳

🎬 Awarapan 2 shares date with Sunny Deol's Batwara 1947

Awarapan 2, featuring Emraan Hashmi, is set to release on August 14th, facing a box office clash with Sunny Deol's Batwara 1947. Producer Vishesh Bhatt stated that sharing the release date is considered their fortune and luck. The film is coming out during the Independence Day holiday weekend, which he felt was the best timing. Awarapan 2 continues the legacy of the 2007 film and will have a fresh soundtrack. The makers see the holiday period as an opportunity for audiences to watch multiple movies.

🎬 'Adipurush' writer admits failure, praises Yash in 'Ramayana'

Manoj Muntashir stated there is no shame in admitting that 'Adipurush' failed to meet expectations. He made these remarks while being in Mumbai on Tuesday, praising Yash for his Ravana role in Nitesh Tiwari's 'Ramayana'. The film, made on a Rs 550 crore budget, fell short of breaking even by over Rs 200 crore after its release. Muntashir hopes 'Ramayana's' music surpasses the success of 'Adipurush's' soundtrack. 'Ramayana: Part 1' is scheduled for Diwali 2026, followed by Part 2 in Diwali 2027.

🤔 Mamata Banerjee questions Census fairness in West Bengal

Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee raised concerns over the ongoing Census exercise in West Bengal on Tuesday. She questioned if the census was turning into another Special Intensive Revision (SIR), referencing past issues where over 90 lakh voters were deleted. The TMC accused the BJP of targeting Muslims and trying to push CAA through the census process. Ms. Banerjee called for a mass movement, criticizing the BJP's actions and alleged harassment of her party. She urged the younger generation to stay vigilant against what she perceives as political anarchy. 😠

📱 OnePlus N6x lands in India with new specs

OnePlus officially launched the N6x in India as the newest member of its N series lineup. This entry-level smartphone is available through the company website and a major e-commerce platform. It starts at Rs 18,999, with the 4GB+128GB option priced at Rs 20,999. The phone boasts a 6.8-inch 120Hz display and is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6360 Apex chipset. Customers can also get an instant Rs 1,500 bank discount on eligible cards. 📱

🛡️ US THAAD stocks almost gone amid Iran talks

The US military has depleted nearly 80% of its THAAD interceptors since the conflict began. This usage was noted by reports citing inventory figures, with prior stocks estimated at 452 THAAD missiles. Gulf allies are worried that low US air-defense stocks could weaken their response capabilities to Iranian threats. Meanwhile, US, Iran, and Oman are reportedly nearing an interim agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Washington aims to announce this deal as early as Wednesday, following discussions that paused planned strikes.