February 18, 2026

Israel Plans First Jerusalem Border Expansion into West Bank Since 1967

Israel is set to expand Jerusalem’s border into the West Bank for the first time since 1967. Around 2,780 new homes will be built in the Geva Binyamin settlement, raising concerns from NGOs and international critics about annexation.

February 18, 2026

Dilip Buildcon Bags Rs 702 Crore Gujarat Flood Protection EPC Contract

Dilip Buildcon has been named L-1 bidder for a Rs 702 crore flood protection project on the Narmada River in Gujarat. The two-year EPC contract boosts investor confidence despite mixed stock signals.

February 18, 2026

India's Minister Urges Big Tech to Follow Laws; Tightens Content Rules

India’s Information Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said Google, YouTube, Meta, X, and Netflix must follow India’s laws. New rules require quick removal of illegal content. AI and deepfake issues also on the table at a Delhi summit.

February 18, 2026

US Strikes 3 Drug Boats in Latin America, 11 Killed in Deadliest Day of Trump's Anti-Trafficking Campaign

The US military struck three alleged drug boats in Latin American waters, killing 11 people. This is the deadliest day in the Trump administration's anti-drug drive, raising total deaths to 145.

February 18, 2026

US Details Secret 2020 China Nuclear Test, Plans to Resume Testing

The US accuses China of a secret 2020 nuclear test and announces it will resume nuclear testing to keep pace. This comes as President Trump pushes for a new nuclear deal with China and Russia.

February 18, 2026

Asian Paints Q3 decorative volume growth slips to 8%, EBITDA margin improves to 20.1%

Asian Paints reported slower 8% decorative volume growth in December quarter with steady international revenue. EBITDA margin rose to 20.1% aided by lower raw material costs. FY26 growth forecast is cautious at 5% value growth amid subdued pricing and demand.

February 18, 2026

Hong Kong Workers Brace for Unpaid Lunar New Year as Scaffold Net Rules Halt Projects

Hong Kong construction workers face unpaid months and may skip Lunar New Year breaks due to new scaffold net safety rules. Hundreds of jobs are stalled as projects pause.

February 18, 2026

New Mexico Probes Epstein Ranch; Hillary Hits Trump, LA Mayor Demands Olympics Chief Quit

New Mexico lawmakers launch first full probe into Epstein's Zorro Ranch abuse claims. Hillary Clinton slams Trump for cover-up. LA mayor demands Olympics chief resign over Epstein ties. Hyatt CEO also quits amid scandal.

February 18, 2026

Pakistan Moves Toward AI in Public Sector, But Reform and Time Needed

Experts say Pakistan needs time, reforms, and strong data laws to adopt AI in public services. Huawei highlights the country’s IT talent and the need for local cloud for data security.

February 18, 2026

Nomura, UBS Say IT Stock Sell-Off Overdone; Adaptability and AI Key for Growth

Nomura and UBS say fears about IT services stocks are exaggerated. Transition pains are front-loaded. High cash flows and dividend yields support stock floors. Adaptability to AI and new models will decide winners. Top picks include Infosys, Coforge, and eClerx.