The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq fell on Friday as artificial intelligence stocks came under pressure after Broadcom’s weak sales forecast fueled concerns about an AI bubble. By 9:47 a.m. ET, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 154.56 points, or 0.31%, at 48,856.46, the S&P 500 was down 12.58 points, or 0.18%, at 6,888.92 and the Nasdaq Composite was down 5,119, or 0.5 points. 23,478.83. Key Stock Movers Broadcom shares tumbled 8.4% after the chipmaker warned of slimmer future margins on its AI system sales. Advanced Micro Devices stock lost 1%. Oracle stock extended its decline by 2.3% on Friday. The cloud company recorded its biggest daily decline since January in the previous session. Nvidia shares rose 0.3% after a report said the AI ​​chip giant is evaluating an increase in H200 chip production to meet strong demand from China. Lululemon Athletica stock rose 12% after the apparel maker raised its annual profit forecast. Cannabis stocks rose after a report said US President Donald Trump is trying to ease restrictions on marijuana through a planned executive order. Canopy Growth climbed 23% and Tilray Brands rose 30%.

Dal, paneer and curd are some of the most popular food items in India. These items are prepared and consumed almost regularly in every Indian household. Here is everything you need to know about the ideal consumption and benefits of dal, paneer and curd. Lentils are often overlooked, even though they are an inexpensive way to get a wide variety of nutrients. They are packed with B vitamins, magnesium, zinc and potassium. One cup (about 198 grams) of cooked lentils gives your body 230 calories, 39.9 grams of carbohydrates and 17.9 grams of protein. Lentils consist of more than 25% protein, making them an excellent meat alternative. They are also a great source of iron, a mineral that is sometimes lacking in vegetarian diets. Lentils are high in fiber, which supports regular bowel movements and the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Eating lentils can improve your overall bowel function. Furthermore, lentils contain a wide range of beneficial plant compounds called phytochemicals, many of which protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Paneer Less than 2 grams of carbohydrates and 20 grams of fat and protein make up an average of 100 grams of paneer. For your body, it is a good meat substitute for a diet high in proteins. Paneer is a high-protein, low-carbohydrate food that can help you lose weight. It reduces cravings for unhealthy snacks and prolongs feelings of fullness. Tryptophan, an amino acid found in paneer, helps in the synthesis of insulin. In addition, it helps to avoid a sudden rise in blood sugar levels. However, you may need to consult a doctor and change your diet to better control your blood sugar. High zinc content in paneer helps to strengthen the immune system. In addition, it reduces the chance of catching infections, colds and flu. Curd Curd is known to have a high calcium content, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. You can get 49% of your daily calcium needs from one cup (245 grams) of plain, low-fat curd. In addition, it has many B vitamins, including B2 and B12, which can help prevent heart disease and some neural tube birth abnormalities. One cup (245 grams) of curd has about 13 grams of protein, making it a high-protein food. One of the three macronutrients that your body needs in significant amounts to maintain essential physiological processes is protein. Among other benefits, curd manages cholesterol levels, relieves digestive symptoms, such as diarrhea, bloating and constipation. It also strengthens the immune system. Frequently Asked Questions What type of B vitamins does curd have? Korn contains vitamins B2 and B12. Does paneer strengthen the immune system? Yes, zinc in paneer helps to strengthen the immune system. Does it prevent heart disease? Yes, plant compounds called phytochemicals in dal prevent heart disease.

Doctors and nutrition experts say a simple habit — eating two bananas a day — can support gut protection, heart health and steady energy, with research supporting core benefits. Know several health benefits of eating two bananas on a daily basis. (Pixabay) Two bananas a day doesn’t sound like a health strategy. Even so, the advice keeps coming up in clinics and nutrition discussions. Specialists say the fruit contains enough protective compounds and minerals to affect the stomach, the heart and basic energy levels. Studies point to fibers, minerals and protective compounds that act in several parts of the body simultaneously. That mix has led to cardiologists and nutritionists talking about the fruit again – but with a focus on how routine consumption can support core functions. How bananas affect the stomach Some experts point to the natural compounds in bananas that help strengthen the stomach’s protective lining. This lining acts as a barrier against acid and certain bacteria. Dr. Tarang Krishna highlights one in particular: Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium linked to long-term ulcer risk and, in some cases, stomach cancer. Regular banana intake, he says, can reduce its activity and relieve irritation. Bananas also carry flavonoids and antioxidants. These compounds limit oxidative stress, a process that can inflame tissues and make the gut more vulnerable. By lowering this tension, research suggests that the fruit creates a more stable internal environment, especially for people prone to discomfort. Studies also mention the fruit’s ability to increase mucus production. More mucus creates a buffer between the stomach wall and rising acid. It’s a simple mechanism. Still, it minimizes direct contact and can calm symptoms before they develop into something persistent. Gut function, immunity and steady energy Bananas carry prebiotic fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria. This contributes to smoother digestion and, indirectly, broader immune power. Their natural sugars release energy slowly, which is why the fruit is often recommended before basic activity or as an afternoon lift. Eating bananas helps maintain heart health One medium banana provides about 10% of the daily potassium requirement. Diets with higher potassium levels have been repeatedly linked to lower blood pressure. A 2021 study found reduced cardiovascular risk among individuals consuming more than 3,000 mg per day. How bananas support energy levels in everyday performance The fruit has also been compared to simple sports drinks because of the combination of potassium, magnesium and vitamin B6, all useful for muscle function, as noted in this research. Two bananas aren’t a cure-all, but they provide consistent, documented support for gut, heart, and energy functions.

The government has clarified that the recently introduced Labor Codes will not reduce take-home salaries as PF deductions will continue to follow the ₹15,000 wage ceiling, with additional contributions being optional. In a post on social media platform X, the Ministry of Labor and Employment informed: “The new Labor Codes do not reduce take-home if PF deduction is at the statutory wage ceiling. PF deductions remain based on the wage ceiling of ₹15,000 and contributions above this limit are voluntary, not mandatory.” Since the Labor Codes were announced last month, there have been concerns about a reduction in net salary, as the new rule requires basic pay and related components to make up at least 50% of total wages with the new definition of ‘wage’. This has raised concerns about higher PF contributions and lower take-home pay, according to various reports. According to an earlier Mint report, the change in definition is expected to affect the calculation of various social security contributions, including Provident Fund (PF), Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), Workmen’s Compensation, and maternity benefits, which may also impact take-home salaries. Read the full report here. However, the EPF wage ceiling is ₹15,000, which means contributions are mandatory only up to this amount. According to the Ministry, there is no change in take-home if deductions are based on this ceiling. Employees and employers can voluntarily contribute beyond this limit, but it is not compulsory. An illustration The ministry further explained with an illustration – An employee earns ₹60,000 per month, with a basic salary and DA totaling ₹20,000 and allowances of ₹40,000. If the EPF contribution of ₹1,800 with 12% contribution is accepted under the ₹15,000 ceiling, the take-home pay remains unchanged under both the new and old labor codes. PF contribution is applicable only up to the statutory wage ceiling of ₹15,000 irrespective of actual basic pay. Take-home pay before the labor codes Employer PF (12%) = ₹1,800 Employee PF (12%) = ₹1,800 Take-home pay = ₹56,400 Take-home pay after the labor codes Employer PF (12%) = ₹1,800 Employee = ₹1.0%) salary = ₹56,400 (unchanged) The new Labor Codes require allowances to be limited to 50% of total wages become If allowances exceed this limit, the excess must be included in wages for statutory calculations. However, PF remains linked to the ceiling of ₹15,000 unless it is voluntarily increased. New labor codes The government released new codes by consolidating 29 laws into four labor codes on 21 November, with the aim of promoting ease of doing business while protecting workers’ rights. These include the Wages Code, Industrial Relations Code, Social Security Code and Occupational Safety Code. Several key provisions have been introduced under the latest Labor Codes, which are likely to affect more than 400 million workers across both the formal and informal sectors.

Music maestro AR Rahman will receive the Lakshminarayana International Award on December 15 during the curtain raiser of the Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival 2025. The Lakshminarayana International Award, presented to distinguished figures in the arts, will this year recognize the Oscar-winning composer and singer for his remarkable contribution to music. According to a press release, the honor will be conferred during a special ceremony to mark the launch of the 35th edition of the Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival. The event will take place at Rasika Ranjani Sabha in Chennai on Monday, December 15, at 2 pm. A two-time Oscar winner, Rahman is widely credited with redefining the soundscape of Indian cinema. Over his career, he has sold more than 150 million records across more than a hundred film albums and soundtracks. His celebrated works include Roja, Bombay, Dil Se, Taal, Lagaan, Slumdog Millionaire and 127 Hours. Trained in Western classical music at Trinity College, he founded the pioneering Panchathan Record Inn in Chennai and made a historic debut with Roja, winning the National Award and later earning six more, the most for any Indian composer. He is also a recipient of the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. Apart from film, Rahman continues to innovate through projects like his VR film Le Musk and by nurturing new talent with the KM Music Conservatory, the Sonsky Orchestra, the Firdaus Orchestra and his recent ensembles Rooh-e-Noor and Jhalaa. Through the AR Rahman Foundation, he remains committed to education and philanthropy. Featured in Time’s “100 Most Influential People” and named Honorary President of Trinity Laban in 2024, Rahman is at the forefront of world music, seamlessly bridging tradition, technology and culture. In January 2023, Dr. L. Subramaniam & AR Rahman collaborated with three generations and produced a new version of Don’t Leave Me, one of Dr. L. Subramaniam’s soulful compositions, which he composed for his father in 1985. The song is from one of the most acclaimed albums, Conversations. This version was done as a tribute to prof. V. Lakshminarayana for his 111th birth anniversary. (With inputs from news agency ANI)

A Chennai-based techie has gone viral after she revealed that she resigned from her ₹30 lakh-a-year job at Oracle to prioritize travel and a life more in line with her personal aspirations. In a candid Instagram post, Vanathi S described the move as the “biggest decision” she’s ever made, stressing that her choice is deeply personal and not a blanket call for others to leave established careers. Reflecting on her journey, she said she had long followed the conventional road map — earned her degrees, secured a well-paying role in the tech industry, got married, raised a family and built a home. Even as she checked each box, she felt a persistent pull for something else. Weekdays were spent in a demanding 9-to-5 routine, and weekends disappeared into treks and short trips, which she says kept her passion for the outdoors alive. Over time, the gap between her corporate life and her personal fulfillment widened. She wrote that the monotony of the job — repetitive meetings, coding cycles and deadlines — left her feeling trapped and emotionally drained. Despite the security and status associated with her position, she found herself facing burnout. In her post, she explained that the decision to quit came from an honest assessment of what she wanted her life to look like. She stressed that she didn’t quit for an easier lifestyle or social media glamour, but simply because she no longer wanted to stay on a path that didn’t resonate with her sense of purpose. Her caption read, “Biggest decision of my life. Quit my 30 LPA job. This video is not an inspiration for anyone to quit. It’s just my story – something I’ve been pondering for five years. I followed every rule that society set for me, but somewhere along the way I realized my passion wasn’t in the corporate loop I was in otherwise, and I was living off the one that burned out. the bills and one that made me made me feel alive, I finally mustered up the courage to choose the one that felt true to me.” The post struck a chord with many young professionals who relate to the stress of corporate burnout and the desire for a more balanced or passion-driven life. Several users commented in support, praising her courage and reflecting on their own struggles with work, pressure and personal dreams. The conversation her story sparked continues to grow, joining a larger debate about career expectations, wellness, and redefining success in a fast-paced professional world. A user wrote: “Yay!! Welcome to the club, I miss working for corporate but after quitting.. it’s such a best decision of my life.. you’re going to have amazing fun.” Another user wrote: “Yes, the best decision.” The third user wrote: “More power to you! So glad you chose ‘YOU'”.

Jakarta – The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is holding another audience with representatives of Pati Regency residents. The people of Pati demand that their regent, Sudewo, be immediately named as a suspect in the train line construction case at the Directorate General of Railways (DJKA) of the Ministry of Transport (Kemenhub). KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo said the hearing was held today at the KPK’s Red and White Building, Kuningan Persada, South Jakarta. “Today, the KPK again received an audience from representatives of Pati residents who are members of the United Pati Community Alliance,” Budi told reporters on Friday (12/12/2025). Scroll TO CONTINUE CONTENT During the meeting, the KPK explained the ongoing DJKA process. The Corruption Eradication Commission has indeed sued Sudewo in this case. “Previously we summoned the SDW brother who currently serves as regent of Pati,” he said. “In the case of alleged criminal acts of corruption in the procurement of goods and services, especially related to the construction of the train line, SDW’s capacity was when he was a member of the DPR which is a partner of the Ministry of Transport,” he added. Budi explained that in the DJKA case, the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) continues to investigate the involvement of a number of parties. The Corruption Eradication Commission itself has just detained a suspect in this case from the Medan area. Furthermore, Budi also explained that the continuation of the DJKA bribery case is still focused on investigating the involvement of a number of parties. In addition, the Corruption Eradication Committee has just named and detained a suspect of a project in the Medan area. “How are the conditions, what is the flow of orders from above, and of course also the flow of money. We will trace the alleged flow of money from this project to anyone,” he said. Sudewo was last questioned by the KPK on Monday (22/9). Before that, the KPK questioned Sudewo on Wednesday (27/8). At the time, Sudewo answered questions about the alleged fees he received in this case. Sudewo said it was explained 2 years ago. “When it comes to money, it was also asked and it was explained in the exam about two years ago that it was income from the DPR RI, everything was detailed, there was income, income, there were deductions,” he said after the investigation. (ial/fca)

Jakarta – The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) together with the Special Task Force on Upstream Oil and Gas Business Activities (SKK Migas) continues to distribute humanitarian aid. This aid was distributed to communities affected by flood disasters in a number of areas in Aceh, North Sumatra (North Sumatra) and West Sumatra (Sumbar). This assistance is a form of rapid response from the government and the upstream oil and gas industry to ease the burden on the community after floods and landslides. Scroll TO CONTINUE CONTENT The humanitarian aid was officially released by the Deputy Minister (Wamen) of Energy and Mineral Resources, Yuliot Tanjung, together with the head of SKK Migas, Djoko Siswanto, via the air cargo fleet at the Soekarno-Hatta Airport which was prepared to ensure that the aid access routes could reach difficult access routes. Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Yuliot Tanjung emphasized that this contribution is a concrete manifestation of the presence of the government and the energy sector to help the community in the midst of a disaster. “This assistance is a form of moral responsibility and concern for the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources together with SKK Migas and KKKS (Cooperation Contract Contractors) towards the community. We want to ensure that the state is present to help affected residents, as well as support the acceleration of emergency management and restoration of conditions in the field,” says Yuliot, in a written statement, Friday (12/12/2020). Yuliot added that this support is not only material, but also a symbol of solidarity and long-term commitment of the energy sector to strengthen society’s social resilience. Meanwhile, the head of SKK Migas, Djoko Siswanto, previously said that his party has coordinated the participation of a number of KKKS operating in the North Sumatra region, to jointly provide assistance relevant to current needs at refugee posts and affected points. “We are constantly distributing aid, today we sent 12 tons and 146 kilograms consisting of large tents, generators and jet cleaners. This afternoon it went into the cargo compartment of the plane and flew to the place,” said Djoko. The distribution of aid was carried out after coordination with the regional government, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), as well as emergency response posts in each affected area. The assistance provided includes logistics for basic needs and supporting facilities for disaster management, including generators, basic food packages and ready-to-eat food, mineral water and sanitation equipment, blankets, family tents, mattresses and baby equipment, health equipment and medicine, cleaning equipment for post-disaster recovery, as well as additional logistical support according to field needs. (acd/ega)

Jakarta – Deputy Minister of Cooperatives, Farida Farichah, today attended the Thematic Forum Agenda for Oversight of Kopdes Merah Putih, based on member and community participation in Bali. In his speech, he emphasized that the presence of the Red and White Village/Subdistrict Cooperative (Kopdes) is not a threat to local business actors, such as small stalls or Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDs). “On the contrary, this cooperative is expected to become a partner that strengthens and consolidates the town’s economic potential, including local products and local agricultural products,” says Farida in her statement, Friday (12/12/2025). Farida said that cooperative management is carried out democratically by members, in contrast to BUMDes where management is in the hands of the village chief and his apparatus. Scroll TO CONTINUE CONTENT “With cooperatives, the whole community can play an active role in decision-making,” he explained. He also reminded Kopdes/Kel Merah Putih to be exclusive. All town and sub-district residents should have the same right to join and experience the benefits. “The success of the Kopdes Merah Putih program does not only depend on the government, but also requires the active role of all elements of the village and sub-district society,” he stressed. Farida said that to date, about 82,800 legal entity town and sub-district cooperatives have been established and registered in the Cooperative Management Information System (SimkopDes). Of this number, data on physical development such as buildings and warehouses reached 23,000 units. Meanwhile, land data imported has reached about 37,000. “This figure shows the challenge as well as a great opportunity to realize President Prabowo Subianto’s ideals, namely maintaining and realizing food self-sufficiency and building an independent village economy,” said Farida. He also emphasized that the Kopdes Merah Putih program is not only the task of the Ministry of Cooperatives (Kemenkop), but is the responsibility of all elements of society from administrators, supervisors, village governments to the wider community. “The importance of supervision and active community participation in the process of physical development, operationalization and management of cooperatives,” he said. He added that this cooperative is jointly owned by the town and sub-district communities. Every citizen therefore has the right to become a member and participate in overseeing that the cooperative is run professionally, transparently and responsibly. Farida also emphasized that the success of a cooperative is not only measured by the strength of the building or the amount of Residual Business Results (SHU), but also by the active participation of members. “Currently, the average number of village cooperative members is still less than 20 people per cooperative, and we hope this number can continue to increase,” added Farida. He also disclosed that the Ministry of Cooperatives continues to coordinate and provide assistance. “However, the limited number of supervisors at the district and provincial level means that we really hope for community participation to oversee this program,” he said. Farida also hopes that holding a thematic forum in Bali can be an effective forum to convey input and improve oversight. In this way, the Red and White Kopdes can play an optimal role in improving the well-being of villages and sub-district communities in Indonesia. He also hopes that the Red and White Heads can become a strong and independent driving force for the village economy. “We hope that the existing cooperative can become a mentor for the newly born Kopdes Merah Putih and start operational processes,” he said. At the same event, Secretary of the Bali Province Cooperatives and SMEs Service, I Ketut Meniarta, explained the challenges of land availability in dense urban areas. However, his party continues to search for solutions and collaborate with various stakeholders, including the TNI, to support the acceleration of development and operationalization of cooperatives. Apart from that, the central government and the regions are also encouraging the development of business incubators as a key business driver in village cooperatives. “New management must also have an entrepreneurial spirit so that they are not confused in running a cooperative business,” he concluded. For information, thematic forums were held in 10 provinces as pilot projects. This event involves various elements of society, from cooperative assistants, cooperative services, administrators, cooperative supervisors, community organizations, to the general public. (acd/ega)

Jakarta – Banten Governor Andra Soni handed over humanitarian aid directly to West Sumatra (Sumbar) Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah. Apart from that, Andra also checked public kitchens and held discussions with affected communities. This assistance was received by the Governor of West Sumatra Mahyeldi Ansharullah at the Office of the Governor of West Sumatra Province, Padang City on Friday (12/12/2025). Andra was accompanied by Tinawati Andra Soni. Scroll TO CONTINUE CONTENT The assistance provided was in the form of financial assistance worth IDR 1 billion and logistics to be distributed to areas affected by floods and landslides. “We would like to convey our condolences directly to the governor of West Sumatra for the disaster that our brothers and sisters in West Sumatra, North Sumatra and Aceh have faced,” Andra Soni said. “Today we share tasks, I go to West Sumatra, the deputy governor goes to North Sumatra, the regional secretary goes to Aceh. We want to convey the support of the people of Banten directly to our affected brothers and sisters,” he continued. Andra Soni also prayed that Mahyeldi and his staff will get good health and smooth handling of calamities. Andra believes that regional chiefs in West Sumatra are united in post-disaster management. “We have also experienced disasters like this. I am sure that together with the leadership of the Governor and the unity of the regents and mayors we can overcome it,” he said. After handing over the aid, Governor Andra Soni and his entourage visited the disaster-hit site at Surau Gadang, Nanggalo, Padang City. He also visited the public kitchen set up by Banten volunteers in Balai Gadang Village, Koto Tangah District, Padang City. (aic/fca)