🤖 US vs China AI race: who's ahead? 🤖

A high-stakes AI race is underway between the US and China as both superpowers push their technology limits. The US currently dominates in computing power, holding nearly three-quarters of the world's total AI capacity, while China is gaining ground in model usage. Despite the US spending significantly more, China's capital expenditure is increasing at a faster rate. China leads in producing AI research publications, accounting for over 27 percent globally in 2024. The US remains the biggest magnet for top AI researchers, though many educated in China now work in the US.

🏏 Sooryavanshi might ditch Tilak or Dube in six months

Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif predicts a major selection issue for India's T20I team within the next six months. He suggests Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's rise could push either Tilak Varma or Shivam Dube out of the playing XI. Sooryavanshi has scored 193 runs in his first six T20Is of 2026 with a strike rate of 189.22. His recent IPL season saw him score 776 runs at an average of 48.50, boosting his claim for a regular spot. The selectors will soon face the difficult task of managing this rapidly escalating talent. 🚀

📶 Vodafone Idea updates its 5G network map across India

Vodafone Idea has released an updated 5G Network Deployment Map to show where it has launched 5G services nationwide. The map details locations using the 3300 MHz band separately from those using both 3300 MHz and 26 GHz. This visual tool lets customers check Vi's reported rollout footprint across various parts of India. It is important to note that a marked location does not guarantee 5G coverage at every single nearby address. The company has not specified which locations were added in this latest map update.

🩺 India eyeing chip and soda ban near schools

India is moving to restrict the sale of high-fat and sugar foods within 50 meters of schools to fight rising obesity rates. This rule would affect family stores and restaurants near India's 1.5 million schools, impacting brands like PepsiCo and Coca-Cola. The authority published thresholds in August, inviting public feedback until October 6 for the proposed law. This initiative aligns with global trends, similar to regulations in Chile and Mexico. Future changes aim to nudge companies to reformulate their recipes for healthier options. 🍎

📉 PB Fintech stock tanks, but check out worse falls

PB Fintech shares dropped 28% on Thursday, September 24, marking its largest single-day loss. This happened in relation to the IRDAI draft paper on distribution norms, hitting a 52-week low. Historically, Yes Bank fell over 80% in March 2020, and PC Jeweller dropped 60% in February 2018. Dewan Housing saw a 55% to 60% intraday drop on September 21, 2018, due to liquidity panic. These examples show that while PB Fintech took a hit, others have experienced much bigger market crashes. 📉

⛽ Saudi pumps oil to Asia amidst Middle East tension

Saudi Arabia has shipped nearly 100 million barrels of oil to Asian buyers since the middle of last week to prevent a regional supply crunch. Buyers include refiners in China, India, Japan, and South Korea, with deliveries set for October and November via the Strait of Hormuz. This surge is more than double recent flows because the East-West pipeline is still down after the Sept. 10 attack. Iranian supply has stopped due to a US blockade, pushing demand elsewhere. Aramco is now managing logistics to help secure this crucial oil for Asian markets. ⛽

🏆 Zlatan backs Lamine Yamal in Ballon d’Or heat

Football legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic openly endorsed Lamine Yamal during the Netflix show 'Cold as Balls'. This came as the Ballon d’Or 2026 discussion heats up with multiple contenders involved. Key rivals mentioned include Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe, while Yamal has already registered eight goals and six assists. This support joins backing from Joan Laporta, Rafa Yuste, and Victor Munoz. Ultimately, the final award will be decided by votes from respected football journalists globally. 🏆

🧐 Tharoor to challenge ECINet app

Shashi Tharoor plans to poll the body regarding the controversial ECINet application. This move is targeted at the Election Commission of India (ECI). The discussion is set to happen soon, though specific dates were not provided in the report. The app has faced criticism for various operational issues and design flaws. Tharoor's intervention aims to push for immediate review and potential cancellation of the software.

✨ Salma Hayek on being a late bloomer in life

Salma Hayek shared an inspiring quote stating that success is possible at any time and age. She spoke about her journey from working in Mexico to building a career in Hollywood. This sentiment was expressed in a 2011 conversation with REDBOOK, addressing life pressures. The actress suggests that taking more time allows for better self-understanding before big milestones. Her path shows that a delayed opportunity is not necessarily a lost one. 🌟

🎬 Salman Khan's Monster lands Rs. 100 crore deal

Salman Khan's upcoming movie, Monster, has secured a massive Rs. 100 crore distribution deal. PVR INOX has officially acquired the All India Distribution rights for the film. This major deal is structured as a refundable advance, reflecting the big investment in modern cinema. The movie, directed by Vamshi Paidipally, stars Salman Khan and Nayanthara, and is currently in the shooting phase. The film is slated for an Eid 2027 release and is expected to be a big hit.

⚖️ Essex Batter Robin Das Charged With Rape

Essex batter Robin Das has been formally charged with rape following serious allegations regarding his conduct. The charges were filed against him in Essex, UK. The alleged incident reportedly occurred sometime prior to August 2023. This legal action follows intense scrutiny of his behaviour within the cricket community. Further court proceedings are now expected to determine the final outcome of this case. ⚖️