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Gold's Record Run May Push India's Organised Gold Loan Market To Rs 15 Trillion By FY26: ICRA

The steady uptrend in gold prices marked by scaling of new highs can take the organised gold loan (GL) market to a high of Rs 15 trillion in the current financial year, FY2025-26. If the escalation in the prices of the precious metal continues, the GL market could touch the Rs 15 trillion mark by March 2026, a year earlier than previously expected, according to rating agency ICRA. Further on, the GL size may rise to Rs 18 trillion in FY2027, on the back of the sharper-than-envisioned expansion, and the gold loan asset under management (AUM) of NBFCs is likely to expand by 30-35 per cent in FY2026, says Senior Vice President and Co-Group Head Financial Sector Ratings, ICRA,  AM Karthik.  The stage is set as gold prices have extended their rally by reaching new highs in the past few days, which has set a benchmark for the rising volatility in stock markets and geopolitical issues. A major factor which impacts the decrease in the demand for gold jewellery is the price, which results in a notable tonnage decline and an increase in investment demand, which ultimately pushes the gold prices higher. The prices of gold in India surged from INR 55,375 to 66,532 per 10 grams (22 carat) between November 2023 to May 2024. With global prices up nearly 30 per cent in 2025 and Indian rates crossing INR100k/10g, organised gold loans may well reach the Rs 15-trillion mark by March 2026. Triggers For Gold Price Rise This will be fuelled, as Chintan Mehta, CEO, Abans Financial Services, agrees, by growing expectations of possible further rate cuts, the cautious and mixed stance among Federal Reserve members and the ongoing US government shutdown, which will cause delays in key economic data releases. These combined risks are weighing on the US dollar and heightening investor caution, making gold increasingly attractive as a hedge against market volatility and geopolitical unrest, says Nomura analysts Mihir P. Shah, who is of the view that gold is likely to find solid support around Rs 1,00,000, with the potential to climb toward Rs 1,20,000 if the current macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions continue.  Rising gold prices are, however, a double-edged sword, but net beneficial for organised players, according to Shah and fellow Nomura analyst Riya Patni. “Gold prices rose by 8 per cent quarter on quarter and more than 43 per cent on year." Gold price inflation seems to be putting pressure on volumes and footfall of jewellery players. Also, there is a high base effect from the customs duty cut, limiting overall growth. While higher gold prices increase the sales value and inventory value for jewellers, leading to potential inventory gains for unorganised jewellers, they can also dampen consumer demand/volume if the price increase is sharp. Higher gold prices also increase the working capital requirement for a jeweller who then taps gold loans, which are a secured financial product, offered by banks and nonbanking financial companies (NBFCs) in the regulated environment and local money lenders in the unregulated space. In this arrangement, customers provide their gold jewellery as collateral and, in return, the lending institution disburses the loan based on the prevailing market value of the pledged gold. Amidst the uptick in yellow metal prices, gold loans had expanded at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 26 per cent during FY2024-FY2025 and stood at Rs 11.8 trillion as of March 2025, with banks showing a slightly higher expansion rate vis-à-vis non-banking finance companies (NBFCs). This growth in overall GLs was primarily fuelled by agriculture and other loans secured by gold jewellery, which were extended by banks. These two segments of loans contributed to more than 70 per cent of the overall GL as of March 2024. In the preceding years of FY2020–FY2025 (six years), banks held sway with GL asset under management growing faster at around 26 per cent relative to the 20 per cent increase recorded by NBFCs, which lost share in the overall organised GL AUM.  This uptrend rode on the Indian jewellery market, which grew from USD 48 billion in FY18 to USD 90 billion in FY25 (a 9 per cent CAGR), and is expected to expand to an estimated USD 150 billion by FY33, according to Shah and Patni. Over FY18-25, the organised players grew 1.5x faster than the industry at a 14 per cent CAGR, with their share rising from 30 per cent in FY18 to 40 per cent in FY24, and this is expected to reach 45 per cent by FY30E.  While the continued rise in gold prices can be challenging, NBFCs have made the gold loan market competitive by offering flexible interest rates and faster turnaround times. This competition has spurred growth in the sector, with both banks and NBFCs expanding their gold loan portfolios to capitalise on the lucrative market opportunity. Banks have seen a significant slowdown in GLs driven by this segment - agriculture and other loans secured by gold jewellery extended by them - in FY2025 as they imposed stricter eligibility criteria and reclassified some of these loans under the retail/personal category. As a result, the share of retail/personal gold loans by banks increased to 18 per cent of the overall GLs in March 2025 from 11 per cent in March 2024, and the share of agriculture and other loans secured by gold jewellery declined to 63 per cent.  Karthik expects the gold loan AUM of NBFCs to expand in FY2026, taking into consideration elevated gold prices and lower growth in the unsecured loan products. “Taking into consideration diversification by players into this space and a sizeable estimated free gold-hold in the country, offers visibility for achieving this growth in the GL AUMs of NBFCs,” says Karthik. Based on the data of large players in the NBFC space, the GL AUM increase in the recent past has been largely driven by an uptrend in gold prices, and the current trend portends well for NBFCs. Besides, as Karthik points out, NBFCs focused on GLs are maintaining their robust lending spread, supported by improving operational efficiencies and moderate credit losses, which sustain their earnings.  An interesting trend observed in the increasing share in gold credit of NBFCs in recent years is attributed by a PwC study to their specialisation in customer reach and strategic flexibility. Over the years, NBFCs have enhanced their process efficiency, expanded their branch networks and adopted digital platforms, making loans more accessible. Strategic initiatives, including aggressive marketing, partnerships and innovative loan products tailored to the customers’ needs, have also played a crucial role in increasing the gold credit of NBFCs. Nevertheless, competitive intensity is steadily increasing from new entrants and the ongoing expansion of banks in this segment. Banks remain the dominant player with 82 per cent market share in overall GLs, with NBFCs contributing to the rest. The overall GL AUM of NBFCs stood at about Rs 2.4 trillion as of June 2025, growing by 41 per cent on a YoY basis.  The gold loan market is poised to see moderate growth over the next two years, as gold lenders are facing increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities about the evaluation process for lending activities through FinTech start-ups. The increased regulatory scrutiny and revised guidelines have led to a dip in the share prices of leading NBFCs. Fitch Ratings believes that the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) draft regulatory enhancements for gold-backed loans offer greater clarity to market participants, which should reduce regulatory uncertainty and variability in lender compliance. Some changes could raise operational complexity for lenders, but large companies with adequate resources should be able to navigate them. (Mukherjee is a contributing writer for ABP Live English. A business journalist for more than 15 years, she has written extensively on the economy, policy, and international relations in Indian newspapers and magazines)

Top Diwali Tech Gifts Under Rs 10,000: Realme NARZO 80 Lite, Marshall Minor IV, Noise Endeavour Pro & More

Top Diwali Tech Gifts Under 10000: Diwali is almost here, and it’s the perfect time to surprise your friends and family with cool tech gifts without spending a fortune. From Realme to Marshall, we’ve rounded up the top gadgets under Rs 10,000 that are fun, useful, and sure to make everyone smile. Whether it’s stylish earbuds, powerful Bluetooth speakers, or smartwatches for fitness and adventure, these Amazon picks combine practicality with excitement. With these budget-friendly gadgets, you can make this Diwali memorable while keeping your wallet happy. Marshall Minor IV Wireless Earbuds Price: Rs 9,999 The Marshall Minor IV brings that iconic Marshall signature sound in a compact wireless design. With over 30 hours of playtime, water resistance, and wireless charging, these earbuds are built for all-day music lovers.  Designed for comfort, they feature touch controls, Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, and app-based sound customisation.  Plus, with OTA updates and replaceable parts, these earbuds are made to last longer and sound better. Titan Celestor AMOLED Smartwatch Price: Rs 7,500 The Titan Celestor packs a vibrant 1.43” AMOLED display with 750 nits brightness and customizable AOD watch faces.  Built for outdoor enthusiasts, it features built-in GPS, Altimeter, Barometer, and Compass for precise tracking.  You also get BT calling, an AI voice assistant, SOS alert, and 100+ sports modes. Its swim mode with water eject, long battery life, and dual-tone sweat-resistant strap make it stylish and adventure-ready. Realme NARZO 80 Lite 4G Price: Rs 6,298 The Realme NARZO 80 Lite comes with a massive 6300mAh battery for all-day power and a slim 7.94mm design for easy handling.  Its Pulse Light offers 9 colours and 5 glow modes for notifications, calls, and music.  With 300% Ultra Volume, IP54 water and dust resistance, and AI Assist, this phone delivers immersive sound, smart features, and reliable protection for everyday use. Mivi Superbox Classic Bluetooth Speaker Price: Rs 8,610 The Mivi Superbox Classic delivers 120W of powerful sound with deep bass and clear treble for an immersive audio experience.  Its built-in subwoofer ensures punchy, balanced bass, while top-mounted bass and treble controls let you fine-tune your music.  Enjoy easy playback with dedicated Play, Pause, Rewind, and Forward buttons, and Bluetooth v5.3 connectivity for seamless streaming from smartphones, laptops, or tablets. Portable and proudly Made in India. Boat PartyPal 390 Bluetooth Speaker Price: Rs 9,999 The Boat PartyPal 390 delivers 160W Boat Signature Sound for high-energy parties. Flame LEDs add a vibrant visual touch, while up to 6 hours of playback keeps the music going all night.  With Bluetooth v5.3, AUX, USB, and TF card support, connectivity is seamless. Features like EQ modes, 2 microphone input ports, and a guitar input make it perfect for Karaoke, duets, and live jam sessions, ensuring endless fun. Sennheiser Accentum True Wireless Earbuds Price: Rs 9,990 The Sennheiser Accentum earbuds deliver rich, detailed sound tuned by acoustic experts. Their lightweight, breathable design ensures all-day comfort at just 4.35g per earbud.  Enjoy up to 28 hours of battery life with quick 10-minute charging for 1 hour of playtime.  Bluetooth 5.3 multipoint connectivity pairs with 8 devices, while smart touch controls and IPX4 splash resistance make these earbuds perfect for seamless, worry-free listening anywhere. Portronics Nebula X Party Speaker Price: Rs 8,499 The Portronics Nebula X delivers 150W of powerful sound, perfect for house parties and outdoor events.  It comes with a wireless karaoke mic, Bass Boost technology, and up to 6 hours of playtime. TWS mode lets you pair two speakers for double volume, while RGB LED lights sync with your music for a lively vibe.  With Bluetooth v5.3, USB/AUX input, Type-C charging, and sturdy metal handles, it’s built for portable, nonstop fun. Marshall Willen II Portable Bluetooth Speaker Price: Rs 9,999 The Marshall Willen II delivers the iconic Marshall signature sound with enhanced bass and balanced frequencies. Enjoy 17+ hours of portable playtime on a single charge, while its IP67 dust and waterproof rating protects it from rain and spills.  The rubber fastening strap allows versatile placement, and a built-in microphone lets you take hands-free calls. Compact, durable, and powerful, this speaker is perfect for any setting, indoors or outdoors. Lava Storm Play 5G Price: Rs 9,999 The Lava Storm Play 5G packs blazing-fast performance with the MediaTek Dimensity 7060 chipset, 6GB LPDDR5 RAM (expandable to 12GB), and 128GB UFS 3.1 storage.  Its 50MP AI camera with SONY IMX752 sensor captures sharp, vibrant photos, while the 6.75" HD+ display with 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals.  Powered by a 5000mAh battery with fast charging and running Android 15, this phone delivers speed, clarity, and a clean user experience. Noise Endeavour Pro Outdoor Rugged Smartwatch Price: Rs 9,999 The Noise Endeavour Pro combines a durable titanium alloy bezel with 164ft water resistance and extreme temperature tolerance.  Its dual-band L1+L5 GPS and ABC sensors provide precise tracking for all outdoor activities. Featuring a 1.5” AMOLED display with 1000 nits brightness, built-in flashlight, and up to 28 days of battery life on standby, this smartwatch is rugged, reliable, and packed with smart features for iOS and Android users. These Amazon tech gifts under Rs 10,000 are perfect for Diwali. From smartwatches and earbuds to powerful speakers and phones, there’s something for everyone. Affordable, fun, and useful, they make great surprises for friends and family. This festive season, give gadgets that bring joy, music, and memories without breaking the bank.

Pakistan issue warning before India clash: 'If India don't shake hands '

Pakistan's hockey federation has cautioned its junior team against engaging with Indian players during their Sultan of Johor Cup match. Following a similar incident in cricket, Pakistani players are instructed to ignore potential non-handshakes and avoid any on-field altercations. The federation stresses maintaining focus on the game amidst these diplomatic tensions.

First Tranche Of India–US Trade Pact Likely By Fall Deadline, Say Sources

India and the United States are moving steadily towards the conclusion of the first tranche of their Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), with both sides expressing optimism about sealing the deal by the fall deadline, government sources told ANI on Monday. According to government officials, a high-level Indian trade delegation is set to travel to Washington this week for another round of negotiations aimed at resolving pending issues and finalising the initial segment of the agreement. "The discussions with the US are progressing on a positive path. Both sides are hopeful that the first tranche of the Bilateral Trade Agreement will be concluded within the stipulated fall timeline," a senior government source told ANI. The upcoming talks are expected to focus on key market access issues, regulatory cooperation, and expanding trade in energy and technology sectors. India is also looking at scaling up imports of natural gas and renewable energy technologies from the United States as part of the evolving trade relationship. Sources noted that energy cooperation remains an area of mutual interest, with India keen to enhance its long-term LNG procurement and renewable energy collaboration with US firms. "India is exploring avenues to buy more gas and renewables from the US. This aligns with our clean energy transition goals and helps diversify energy sources," the official added. Meanwhile, India's parallel negotiations with the European Union for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are also making headway, though some key issues remain unresolved. "Talks with the EU are progressing well. However, there are still pending matters related to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), as well as trade concerns in the steel, auto, and agriculture sectors," sources said. An Indian trade team is expected to head to Brussels by the end of this month for another round of discussions to bridge differences and push the FTA process forward. Officials indicated that both sides are working to address regulatory and tariff concerns in a balanced manner. "The Indian side has been constructively engaging with the EU on all outstanding matters, including sustainability-linked trade measures," said an official. The EU is India's third-largest trading partner, and both sides are keen to conclude an agreement that will provide greater market access and regulatory predictability. Both trade tracks with the US and with the EU are part of India's broader strategy to strengthen its global economic partnerships and secure more resilient supply chains amid shifting geopolitical and trade dynamics. (This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

Silver ETF surge: Domestic prices hit record highs; festive demand and global inflows drive 53% rally in 2025

India's silver market is experiencing an unprecedented surge, with prices climbing 53% in 2025, outperforming gold. This has fueled a tripling of investment inflows into silver ETFs, reaching record global holdings. Robust festive demand and global supply constraints are driving domestic prices to significant premiums, prompting some fund houses to temporarily halt subscriptions.

Massive prediction! 'Virat Kohli will score two centuries vs Australia'

Legendary spinner Harbhajan Singh expressed confidence in Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's prolific run-scoring in the upcoming ODI series against Australia. Singh highlighted Kohli's exceptional fitness and predicted he would score at least two centuries in Australia, his favored batting ground. He anticipates both stalwarts will perform exceptionally well, contributing significantly to India's victories.

Varun Mayya's Much-Hyped 'Unleash The Avatar' Finally Reveals Gameplay Trailer. WATCH IT HERE FIRST

Aeos Games, the studio co-founded by brothers Varun and Rohan Mayya, has dropped the first major gameplay reveal for Unleash the Avatar, an upcoming action Soulslike steeped in Indian mythology and designed for PC. The Bengaluru-based developer showcased a gripping (and extensive) new trailer that offers a glimpse into the game’s sprawling landscapes, menacing enemies, and high-intensity combat sequences. Showing off its heavily stylised combat (that very Bollywood-y slow motion flare mid-attack is pretty cool and refreshing), the trailer teases what all you can expect from Unleash the Avatar, including gore-crazy aghoris as well as a Vishnu-inspired alter ego of the protagonist, promising a Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones-esque combat that could click.  Set in an alternate version of India, Unleash the Avatar transports players to a world thrown into turmoil after the barrier between Earth and Naraka, the realm of hell, is shattered. As demonic forces flood the mortal world, players must channel the divine essence of Lord Vishnu to restore balance and confront the chaos unleashed. Unleash the Avatar, slated for release next year, is now available to wishlist on Steam. You can check out Unleash the Avatar gameplay trailer (early alpha build) below: Avatars & Demons The newly released Unleash the Avatar gameplay trailer introduces players to Vishwapur, a once-thriving coastal town now overrun by demonic creatures known as Nisthari Rakshas. The footage highlights detailed environments built using Unreal Engine 5 and powered by Aeos Games’ in-house photogrammetry systems. From sprawling ruins to storm-swept shores, every frame captures a world teetering between beauty and devastation. Players can expect a blend of traditional Soulslike combat mechanics, including dodging, parrying, and stagger systems, alongside innovative twists such as a ranged chakra weapon and a dynamic “feather prism” combat form.  Just like any other Soulslike, each battle on the Unleash the Avatar appears designed to test both reflexes and patience, promising the kind of precision-heavy gameplay that genre fans crave. Handcrafted Challenge, Indian Heart Aeos Games CEO and co-founder Rohan Mayya emphasised that Unleash the Avatar was “painstakingly built up from first principles.”  He explained, “We’re big fans of soulslikes thanks to their challenging combat and storytelling. And while it could be easy enough to reskin existing efforts and call it a day, our team has painstakingly built up everything from first principles. From our in-house, best-in-class photogrammetry to full-body mo-cap and even our bespoke enemy AI systems, every single bit of Unleash the Avatar has been lovingly hand-crafted to make a game you, and us, would be happy to play.” The studio, made up of about 40 developers, including veterans who have worked on several reputed titles, including the likes of Ghost of Tsushima (the moonlit beach scene at the beginning of the trailer did remind me of Tsushima), Path of Exile 2, and Hogwarts Legacy, has self-funded the entire project, an uncommon move in today’s gaming landscape.  Mayya noted that wishlisting the game on Steam plays a crucial role in helping independent teams like theirs stand out in a crowded market. Building a Universe Unleash the Avatar reimagines ancient Indian lore through a high-fantasy lens. The story unfolds in a timeline where the forces of Asuras and Rakshasas roam the mortal plane, and it’s up to the player, imbued with a fragment of divine power, to restore cosmic order. The game also features handcrafted environments inspired by real Indian architecture, recreated through detailed photogrammetry scans of heritage towns across the country. The team confirmed that the title is currently optimised for PC but may expand to other platforms closer to launch. Built using custom gameplay systems, including a sophisticated parry model and AI that adapts to player strategy, Unleash the Avatar aims to redefine the Soulslike genre with a distinctly Indian soul.

Diwali 2025: Lakshmi Puja To Be Performed On October 21, Know The Ausoicious Timing And More

In Hinduism, the festival of Diwali holds great significance. On this auspicious day, devotees especially worship Goddess Mahalakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. According to scriptures, the most appropriate time for Lakshmi Puja is when the Amavasya Tithi (new moon day) prevails during Pradosh Kaal, which is the period around sunset. ALSO READ: Chhath Puja To Be Celebrated From October 25 To 28: Check Out The Four Day Puja Schedule Date And Tithi Of Lakhsmi Puja As per the Hindu Panchang, Kartik Krishna Chaturdashi will end at 3:45 PM on October 20, 2025, after which Amavasya Tithi will begin. The Amavasya will remain in effect until 5:55 PM on October 21, 2025. This means that the Amavasya Tithi will be present during sunset on October 21. Moreover, the duration of Amavasya extends beyond 10 hours and 30 minutes (three and a half prahar). Since the following Pratipada will also last for a considerable time, October 21, 2025, is determined as the most auspicious day for Diwali and Lakshmi Puja, as per the scriptures. Scriptural Basis Ancient texts such as Dharmasindhu, Purushartha-Chintamani, and Nitya Nirnaya state that when Amavasya Tithi prevails during Pradosh Kaal and the night, the Lakshmi Puja should be conducted on that day. Therefore, according to scriptural consensus, Tuesday, October 21, 2025, is the universally accepted and auspicious day for Mahalakshmi Puja. Regional Observations North India (Delhi, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, etc.): Sunset will occur around 5:45 PM, and Amavasya Tithi will be in effect at that time. Western India (Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, etc.): Sunset will be around 5:55 PM, with Amavasya still prevailing during Pradosh Kaal. Lakshmi Puja Muhurat The Pradosh Kaal is considered the most sacred period for Mahalakshmi Puja, beginning approximately 24 minutes before sunset and lasting up to 2.5 hours after sunset. Based on this, the best time for Lakshmi Puja in 2025 will be from 5:15 PM to 8:19 PM on October 21, 2025. [Dislaimer: The content of this article is based solely on beliefs and should be taken as general guidance. Individual experiences may vary. ABPLive.com does not assert the accuracy or validity of any claims or information presented. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified expert before considering or implementing any information or belief discussed herein.]

Israel's PM Netanyahu Declines Egypt Summit Invite After Meeting With Trump, Cites This Reason

Tel Aviv [Israel], October 13 (ANI): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday stated that he wouldn't be travelling to Egypt's Sharm El-Sheikh to attend the Gaza Peace Summit with global leaders, citing "time constraints" ahead of the start of the Shemini Atzeret-Simchat Torah holiday, which begins tonight. According to The Times of Israel, following reports that Netanyahu had accepted Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's invitation to join the summit, his office announced that he would not be making the trip. Netanyahu was with US President Donald Trump in the Knesset Chamber when he spoke to the Egyptian President. In a post on X, the Office of the Prime Minister of Israel stated that Trump also invited Netanyahu for the summit, but he stated that he "will be unable to attend due to time constraints ahead of the start of the holiday." "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been invited by US President Donald Trump to attend today's conference in Egypt. The Prime Minister thanked President Trump for the invitation but said he will be unable to attend due to time constraints ahead of the start of the holiday," the post read. As per the Times of Israel, Israeli leaders traditionally refrain from travelling on Jewish holidays and the Sabbath, unless there are exceptional circumstances. Notably, Netanyahu made no mention of Sisi, who personally extended an invitation by phone earlier today. Netanyahu also thanked the US President for "his efforts to expand the circle of peace - peace through strength." Israel also endorsed the US President for the Nobel Peace Prize next year, saying, "There is no one more deserving than you, Mr President." The announcement was made ahead of Trump's address at the Knesset after all 20 living hostages were released by Hamas earlier today. Trump arrived in Israel on Monday as the exchange of hostages continued. He was welcomed by the top brass of Israel, and upon entering Israeli airspace, the Air Control thanked Trump, saying that his visit carries deep meaning for the people. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that the remaining 13 hostages freed by Hamas are on their way back to Israel after being handed over to the Red Cross in southern Gaza's Khan Younis. According to the IDF, the hostages are being accompanied by personnel from the IDF and the Israel Security Agency (ISA) as they make their way to Israel for an initial medical assessment. The freed hostages have been identified as Elkana Bohbot, Avinatan Or, Yosef-Haim Ohana, Evyatar David, Rom Braslavski, Segev Kalfon, Nimrod Cohen, Maxim Herkin, Eitan Horn, Matan Zangauker, Bar Kupershtein, David Cunio, and Ariel Cunio. "The commanders and soldiers of the IDF salute and embrace the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel," the IDF said in a statement. Earlier, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that seven hostages had already been transferred to the Red Cross and were on their way to Israeli forces waiting inside Gaza. The IDF said the first group of seven, identified as Gali and Ziv Berman, Matan Angrest, Alon Ohel, Omri Miran, Eitan Mor, and Guy Gilboa-Dallal, was safely escorted out of the Gaza Strip by special Israeli forces. All seven hostages released in the first batch had arrived at an IDF facility near the border community of Re'im for a physical and mental checkup. (ANI) (This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

‘Historic Dawn In Middle East’: Trump At Israeli Knesset After Gaza Truce, Repeats Claim Of ‘Settling 8 Wars’

US President Donald Trump addressed the Israeli Knesset on Monday, emphasising his approach to global conflicts, saying, “When you settle eight wars in eight months, it really means you don’t like wars.” The remarks highlight Trump’s self-styled image as a deal-maker and peacemaker, contrasting with perceptions of his personality as aggressive or warlike. Speaking before Israeli lawmakers, Trump underscored his focus on diplomacy and conflict resolution while maintaining the readiness to respond decisively if war becomes unavoidable, asserting that his strategy prioritises both peace and strength. VIDEO | Jerusalem: Addressing the Israeli Knesset, US President Donald Trump says, “When you settle eight wars in eight months, it really means you don’t like wars. Everyone thought I was going to be brutal. I remember Hillary Clinton said that I am going to war with everybody.… pic.twitter.com/dyUpOke1Et — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 13, 2025 Trump praised key members of his administration during his address, noting their roles in maintaining US military and diplomatic strength. He singled out Senator Marco Rubio, predicting he would “go down as the greatest US Secretary of State in history,” lauding his intelligence, toughness, and respected leadership. The president also referred to other senior officials, including his young Secretary of War and former Defence Secretary, emphasising that the administration balances experience with fresh perspectives to tackle global challenges effectively. VIDEO | Jerusalem: Addressing the Israeli Knesset, US President Donald Trump says, “A man named Marco Rubio, who is also here - I have a prediction that he will go down as the greatest US Secretary of State in history. He is tough, he is always smart, and people respect him... We… pic.twitter.com/ulz1ttGmXu — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 13, 2025 Addressing Israel’s security concerns, Trump asserted that if the United States were to engage in a military conflict, it would “win it like nobody ever has won it before,” signalling a commitment to unparalleled strategic capability. He also stressed that decisions would not be constrained by political correctness, underscoring a pragmatic and results-oriented approach to both diplomacy and defence. #WATCH | Jerusalem | Speaking in Israeli Parliament, US President Donald Trump says, "... If we go into a war, we are going to win it like nobody ever has won it before...We will not be politically correct..."Source: U.S Network Pool via Reuters pic.twitter.com/FO5qkZ3Q5h — ANI (@ANI) October 13, 2025 Trump highlighted Operation Midnight Hammer, praising the US military’s precision strike against Iran. He described the B2 bombers used in the operation as “beautiful planes” and revealed plans to deploy 28 upgraded versions, alongside 100 additional aircraft and 52 brand-new tanks, underscoring America’s military strength and preparedness. VIDEO | Jerusalem: Addressing the Israeli Knesset, US President Donald Trump says, “…Operation Midnight Hammer - a great name for what we did (against Iran) - from our beautiful B2 bombers. They are pretty planes. I had no idea what they did. We are going to have 28 more of a… pic.twitter.com/gtkf6OIOd8 — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 13, 2025 Trump also stated that the long and difficult conflict has concluded, noting an “unprecedented achievement” in which the region broadly endorsed a plan to demilitarise Gaza and disarm Hamas, ensuring Israel’s security would remain uncompromised. #WATCH | Jerusalem | Addressing Israel's parliament, US President Donald Trump says, "...This long and difficult war has ended...In an unprecedented achievement, virtually the entire region has endorsed the plan that Gaza will be demilitarised and Hamas will be disarmed, and… pic.twitter.com/PCkDhpZJKk — ANI (@ANI) October 13, 2025 President Trump opened his address by commending the “20 courageous hostages,” noting that they are “returning to the glorious embrace of their families. And it is glorious.” He also acknowledged Israel’s Prime Minister for his contribution to the ceasefire agreement, offering praise while adding a subtle, backhanded compliment.

Tears And Relief In Israel As 13 Hostages Freed After 2 Years In Hamas Captivity, Emotional Reunion Awaits

Tel Aviv (Israel): The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that 13 more hostages freed by Hamas are on their way back to Israel after being handed over to the Red Cross in southern Gaza's Khan Younis. According to the IDF, the hostages are being accompanied by personnel from the IDF and the Israel Security Agency (ISA) as they make their way to Israel for an initial medical assessment. "The commanders and soldiers of the IDF salute and embrace the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel," the IDF said in a statement, welcoming the group after two years in captivity. The Red Cross informed Israeli authorities earlier that the 13 hostages had been collected from Hamas custody in southern Gaza and were en route to Israeli territory. The freed hostages have been identified as Elkana Bohbot, Avinatan Or, Yosef-Haim Ohana, Evyatar David, Rom Braslavski, Segev Kalfon, Nimrod Cohen, Maxim Herkin, Eitan Horn, Matan Zangauker, Bar Kupershtein, David Cunio, and Ariel Cunio.  They will also undergo medical and psychological evaluations before reuniting with their families at designated reception centres in southern Israel. The IDF Spokesperson's Unit urged the public to respect the privacy of the returning hostages and their families during this emotional time. "We ask the public to act responsibly and with sensitivity, to respect the privacy of the returning hostages, and to rely solely on official information," the statement read. Earlier, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that seven hostages had already been transferred to the Red Cross and were on their way to Israeli forces waiting inside Gaza. The IDF said the first group of seven, identified as Gali and Ziv Berman, Matan Angrest, Alon Ohel, Omri Miran, Eitan Mor, and Guy Gilboa-Dallal, was safely escorted out of the Gaza Strip by special Israeli forces. All seven hostages released in the first batch arrived at an IDF facility near the border community of Re'im for a physical and mental checkup. Then they will meet their families, as per Times of Israel. Emotional footage emerged showing Israeli families speaking with their loved ones. Avishai David, the father of hostage Evyatar David, told Channel 12 that he and his family are waiting to "hug, smell, and breathe" their son upon his release, after speaking with him in a video call while he remains in Hamas captivity. In a video, Avi Ohana, the father of hostage Yosef Haim Ohana, is seen speaking with his son, telling him that "everyone is waiting" for the hostages' return.The Prime Minister's Office said in a statement that all families of the seven hostages had been informed that their loved ones were now in the care of IDF forces and would soon arrive in Israel. "The Government of Israel is committed to the return of all hostages held by the enemy and will pursue this mission with determination and persistence," the statement said, adding that the government "embraces our hostages returning home." The release took place as US President Donald Trump arrived in Israel. According to the White House, Trump watched the first moments of the hostage handover from aboard Air Force One en route to Tel Aviv. The White House called the development "history in the making."  (This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

Jaishankar Holds Talks With Canadian FM As India, Canada Aim To Deepen Ties, Calls For 'De-Risking' Global Economy

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a meeting on Monday with his Canadian counterpart, Anita Anand, who is on her first official visit to India after taking charge as Canada's new Foreign Minister. Jaishankar underlined that New Delhi and Ottawa should forge stronger ties across length and breadth, not only to de-risk the international economy but also to shepherd the process of rebuilding bilateral cooperation. He made the remarks during the bilateral talks with the Canadian Foreign Minister Anand. Jaishankar said, "We seek to de-risk the international economy today by forging strong partnerships of growing range and depth. Your visit, Ms. Anand, affords an opportunity to review the global scenario and exchange perspectives." He highlighted how India and Canada have had a long tradition of being active in world affairs, through bring members of the G20 and the Commonwealth. "Our convergences in the Indo-Pacific are notable. We are strong proponents of effective multilateralism, climate action and SDG Agenda 2030", he added. Jaishankar noted that both sides had prepared a comprehensive plan to enhance collaboration in key areas. These include domains such as trade, investment, agriculture, science and technology, civil nuclear collaboration, AI, critical minerals, and energy. Addressing mediapersons after their talks, Jaishankar highlighted that India-Canada relations have seen steady progress in recent months. "We are working to restore and reinvigorate the mechanisms necessary to advance our partnership," he said, pointing to a series of high-level engagements in recent weeks, including meetings between national security advisers, trade ministers, and senior foreign ministry officials. The visit comes against the backdrop of improving diplomatic ties and a mutual push to rebuild trust following recent tensions. "As Prime Minister Modi noted during his meeting with Prime Minister Carney in Kananaskis, India's approach is to move forward with a positive mindset," Jaishankar said, referring to the meeting between the two leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit in June this year. He also welcomed the appointment of new High Commissioners in both countries, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic continuity. "Our responsibility as Foreign Ministers is to shepherd the process of rebuilding our cooperation and to ensure that it delivers on the expectations of our Prime Ministers and the interests of our people," he stated.Jaishankar also underscored the importance of shared values and geopolitical convergence between the two democracies.  "When we look at Canada, we see a complementary economy, another open society, and a partner that shares India's values of diversity and pluralism," he said. Foreign Minister Anand's visit, Jaishankar noted, offers a timely opportunity to review the evolving global landscape and strengthen India-Canada ties with a forward-looking agenda.  (This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

PCB chief Naqvi asks ICC to ready backup plan amid Tri-series uncertainty

Pakistan Cricket Board is developing backup plans for a T20 Tri-Series involving Sri Lanka, as Afghanistan's participation remains uncertain due to bilateral tensions. The series, slated for November, faces potential scheduling conflicts with a proposed series against Sri Lanka in January, impacting Pakistani players' availability for the Big Bash League and potentially causing friction with Cricket Australia.

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