Weather updates for October 20: IMD forecast warns of rain and thunderstorms, check state-wise updates

France: Couple sips drinks unfazed as flames rise in background during Paris student riots

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Global Markets: French markets tumble as riots add to political crisis

Protests across France have led to significant declines in the country's financial markets and stocks. French government officials requested local authorities to consider imposing curfews amid the unrest. The rise in bond yields suggests increasing investor concern over France's budgetary challenges and economic outlook. Major French banks have experienced stock declines, reflecting the heightened risk of insuring French debt.

US Treasury yields nudge higher as AI fears ebb

US Treasury yields experienced a rise alongside a boost in equities, particularly driven by AI stocks, which has mitigated earlier anxieties among investors. The 10-year Treasury yield saw a modest rebound after a steep decline, indicating a shift in market mood. Moreover, oil prices declined, easing inflation fears related to global tensions.

I4C warns of rising financial fraud involving deepfake PM Modi videos, fake welfare schemes, cashback scams

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre has warned about rising fraudulent advertisements on social media platforms. These deceptive ads feature manipulated videos of public officials and promote non-existent welfare schemes. Victims are lured with false promises of financial rewards, which leads to significant financial losses. The advisory encourages individuals to verify any claims related to government schemes through official sources.

I4C warns of rising financial fraud involving deepfake PM Modi videos, fake welfare schemes, cashback scams

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre has warned about rising fraudulent advertisements on social media platforms. These deceptive ads feature manipulated videos of public officials and promote non-existent welfare schemes. Victims are lured with false promises of financial rewards, which leads to significant financial losses. The advisory encourages individuals to verify any claims related to government schemes through official sources.

Bajaj Finance Q2 consolidated net profit rises 29% to Rs 6,367 crore

Bajaj Finance expects AUM to grow 26-27% in FY27 as it accelerates customer acquisition and loan disbursements. The lender plans to book 60-62 million new loans and add 18-20 million customers during the year. Consolidated AUM grew 26% to Rs 5.85 lakh crore in the September quarter, aided by broad-based loan growth. The gold-loan portfolio more than doubled to Rs 24,195 crore, although short-tenor schemes caused a transitional increase in Stage 2 assets. Management does not expect this movement to affect credit costs. Lower funding costs, improving asset quality and a strong liquidity buffer should support growth.

Waaree Renewable Technologies Q2 Results: Net profit falls 29% to Rs 81 crore

Waaree Renewable Technologies experienced a notable 29 percent drop in net profit for the quarter ending September. Their consolidated profit stood at Rs 81.48 crore, a decrease from Rs 116.36 crore year-on-year. While expenses surged, revenues rose to Rs 1,057.84 crore. The company boasts an unexecuted order book over Rs 5,500 crore and a robust bidding pipeline, striving for long-term value through efficiencies and scaling.

India-New Zealand FTA kicks in October 20, gives all Indian goods zero-duty access

India's free trade agreement with New Zealand will begin on October 20 and provide duty-free access for Indian goods. This agreement aims to boost bilateral trade significantly by 2030, increasing it from $2.4 billion to nearly ₹35,000 crore. New Zealand will grant 100% market access, while India will provide tariff concessions on 70% of its tariff lines. Customs clearance timelines will be expedited, enhancing trade efficiency and reducing costs.

Could treating AI like a human make you more vulnerable to manipulation? Experts warn how believing chatbots have feelings could be a threat

Artificial intelligence systems like chatbots are becoming more emotionally engaging, prompting concerns over manipulation by users. The recent policy change by Anthropic restricts cruelty towards AI models, which has reignited debates on AI welfare and consciousness. Researchers are divided on whether AI systems deserve moral consideration, reflecting uncertainty within the industry. There are fears that recognizing AI rights may weaken human accountability for harmful actions.

French prime minister calls for limited curfews to curb rioting and looting

France Protests news: After violent protests across France resulted in extensive damage to businesses and public buildings, Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced curfews. Thousands of individuals were arrested during the unrest that followed rising living costs. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez resigned amid criticism of the government's handling of law enforcement. Significant property damage occurred, especially in Marseille and Limoges, where city halls were attacked.

Brazilian man sells belongings, travels 2,000 km to meet woman he hoped to marry, but she was not real

A Brazilian bricklayer sold his belongings and travelled nearly 2,000 km to meet a woman he believed was his future wife, only to discover that she was an AI-generated character on TikTok. Edimar Martins, 49, ran out of money after failing to find her and received assistance to return home. The person behind the account denied speaking to him or inviting him to travel.