CALGARY (TIP)- Oil prices jumped almost 3% on Thursday as a week-old air war between Israel and Iran escalated and uncertainty about potential U.S. involvement kept investors on edge. Brent crude futures settled up $2.15, or 2.8%, to $78.85 a barrel, its highest close since January 22. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude for July was up $2.06, or 2.7%, to $77.20 at 1330 EST (1730 GMT).
Trading volumes were light on Thursday, June 19, due to a U.S. federal holiday. Israel bombed nuclear targets in Iran on Thursday, and Iran fired missiles and drones at Israel after hitting an Israeli hospital overnight.
There was no sign of an exit strategy from either side, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tehran’s “tyrants” would pay the “full price” and Iran warned against a “third party” joining the attacks.
The White House said on Thursday that President Donald Trump will decide whether the U.S. will get involved in the Israel-Iran conflict in the next two weeks. That prospect has crude prices grinding higher, said Rory Johnston, analyst and founder of the Commodity Context newsletter.
“Consensus (in the market) is increasingly forming that we will see U.S. involvement in some way,” Johnston said. Iran is the third-largest producer among members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, extracting about 3.3 million barrels per day of crude oil. About 18 million to 21 million bpd of oil and oil products move through the Strait of Hormuz along Iran’s southern coast, and there is widespread concern the fighting could disrupt trade flows.
The risk of major energy disruption will rise if Iran feels existentially threatened, and U.S. entry into the conflict could trigger direct attacks on tankers and energy infrastructure, said RBC Capital analyst Helima Croft. On Thursday, JP Morgan said an extreme scenario, in which the conflict widens to the broader region and includes a Strait of Hormuz closure, could result in oil prices surging to $120 to $130 per barrel.
Goldman Sachs said on Wednesday that a geopolitical risk premium of about $10 a barrel is justified, given lower Iranian supply and risk of wider disruption that could push Brent crude above $90.
Even if Middle East tensions were to cool off in the coming days, oil prices are probably not headed back to the low $60 range they were trading at a month ago, said Phil Flynn, senior analyst at the Price Futures Group.”I think this (conflict) knocks oil out of its complacency,” said Flynn. “I would argue that the market has been underplaying geopolitical risk.”
But DBRS Morningstar said in a note on Thursday that it expects any sudden oil price surge to be temporary. A higher oil price will exacerbate tariff-related headwinds to the global economy and oil demand, so as long as the conflict recedes, the war premium will deflate and prices will cycle lower, DBRS said.
Russia’s top oil official said on Thursday OPEC+ oil producers should proceed with plans to increase output, noting rising summer demand. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said at an economic forum in St. Petersburg that OPEC+ should calmly execute its plans and not scare the market with forecasts.
Month: June 2025
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Oil prices jump as Israel-Iran conflict keeps markets on edge
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Amazon to infuse over Rs 2K-cr in bid to boost pan-India ops
Amazon will invest over Rs 2,000 crore in 2025 to scale up its all-India operations network, the e-commerce giant said on Thursday. Investments will support network expansion and upgrades to serve customers faster and more reliably, advance technology and innovation, and improve employee and associate well-being, Amazon said in a release.
The investment announcement comes at a time when India’s e-commerce market is booming, fuelled by broadband penetration, affordable smartphones and digital payments.
India’s e-biz landscape is poised to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21 per cent and reach USD 325 billion in 2030.
It is also simplifying delivery workflows by making the app more self-guided and improving navigation for unstructured addresses. -
Indian funds in Swiss banks triple, banking routes see sharpest surge
New Delhi (TIP)- Indian money parked in Swiss banks more than tripled in 2024 to 3.5 billion Swiss francs (nearly Rs 37,600 crore) on the back of a huge jump in funds held through local branches and other financial institutions, annual data released by Switzerland’s central bank showed on Thursday, June 19. However, money in customer accounts of Indian clients rose by only 11 per cent in the year to 346 million Swiss franc (nearly Rs 3,675 crore) and accounted for just about one-tenth of overall funds.
The sharp increase in the overall funds follows a 70 per cent decline in funds parked by Indian individuals and firms in Swiss banks, including through local branches and other financial institutions, in 2023 to a four-year low of 1.04 billion Swiss francs.
This is the highest since 2021, when the total Indian money in Swiss banks had hit a 14-year-high of CHF 3.83 billion.
These are official figures reported by banks to the Swiss National Bank (SNB) and do not indicate the quantum of the much-debated alleged black money held by Indians in Switzerland. These figures also do not include the money that Indians, NRIs or others might have in Swiss banks in the names of third-country entities.
The total amount of CHF 3,545.54 million, described by the SNB as ‘total liabilities’ of Swiss banks or ‘amounts due to’ their Indian clients at the end of 2023, included CHF 346 million in customer deposits (up from CHF 310 million at 2023-end), CHF 3.02 billion held via other banks (up from CHF 427 million), CHF 41 million (up from CHF 10 million) through fiduciaries or trusts, and CHF 135 million as ‘other amounts’ due to customers in form of bonds, securities and various other financial instruments (down from CHF 293 million).
The total amount stood at a record high of nearly 6.5 billion Swiss francs in 2006, after which it has been mostly on a downward path, except for a few years including in 2011, 2013, 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023, as per SNB data.
According to the SNB, its data for ‘total liabilities’ of Swiss banks towards Indian clients takes into account all types of funds of Indian customers at Swiss banks, including deposits from individuals, banks and enterprises. This includes data for branches of Swiss banks in India, as also non-deposit liabilities. On the other hand, the ‘locational banking statistics’ of the Bank for International Settlement (BIS), which have been described in the past by Indian and Swiss authorities as a more reliable measure for deposits by Indian individuals in Swiss banks, showed an increase of nearly 6 per cent during 2024 in such funds to USD 74.8 million (nearly Rs 650 crore). It had dropped by 25 per cent in 2023, by 18 per cent in 2022 and by over 8 per cent in 2021, after rising by nearly 39 per cent in 2020.
This figure takes into account deposits as well as loans of Indian non-bank clients of Swiss-domiciled banks and had shown an increase of 7 per cent in 2019, after declining by 11 per cent in 2018 and by 44 per cent in 2017.
It peaked at over USD 2.3 billion (over Rs 9,000 crore) at the end of 2007. -
Google revives Snapseed on iPhone with major update and new editing tools
Google has rolled out a major update to Snapseed, its photo editing app for iOS devices. The new version 3.0 brings a redesigned interface for both iPhone and iPad users. This update introduces a grid view displaying all edited images, making it easier to browse through past work. Navigation now relies on three distinct tabs: Looks, Faves, and Tools. The Faves tab is new and allows users to save frequently used editing tools for quick access.
Snapseed offers over 25 editing tools and filters, including recently added film-style filters. Google also updated the app’s icon to a simpler design.
Snapseed has been part of Google since 2012, but it has seen little development over recent years. The last significant update came in 2021, followed by minor changes in 2023 and 2024. Because the app processes images locally on the device and does not depend on cloud services, Google appeared to have deprioritised its development. The sudden release of version 3.0 signals renewed attention to the app.
The updated interface focuses on ease of use. Users begin editing by tapping a circular plus button at the bottom of the screen. The new tab system separates editing functions clearly: Looks provides preset styles, Faves stores user-selected tools, and Tools offers the full range of editing features. The export option moved to the top-right corner for easier access.
Editing tools include options to adjust image details, correct tonality and white balance, and apply effects like lens blur and vignette. Retouch features allow selective editing, brushing, healing, cropping, and perspective changes. The Style tab includes film filters along with options such as black and white, HDR, and drama effects. Creative tools cover double exposure, frames, and text additions.
In addition to the interface overhaul, Snapseed now features a simplified app icon and a “More to come, stay tuned” message, which indicates further developments may follow. However, Google has not confirmed whether the 3.0 update will be available on Android. -
Apple unveils software redesign while reeling from AI missteps, tech upheaval
After stumbling out of the starting gate in Big Tech’s pivotal race to capitalise on Artificial Intelligence, Apple tried to regain its footing during an annual developers conference that focused mostly on incremental advances and cosmetic changes in its technology.
The presummer rite, which attracted thousands of developers from nearly 60 countries to Apple’s Silicon Valley headquarters, subdued compared with the feverish anticipation that surrounded the event in the last two years. Apple highlighted plans for more AI tools designed to simplify people’s lives and make its products even more intuitive. It also provided an early glimpse at the biggest redesign of its iPhone software in a decade.
In doing so, Apple executives refrained from issuing bold promises of breakthroughs that punctuated recent conferences, prompting CFRA analyst Angelo Zino to deride the event as a ‘dud’ in a research note.
More AI, but what about Siri?
In 2023, Apple unveiled a mixed-reality headset that has been little more than a niche product and last year WWDC trumpeted its first major foray into the AI craze with an array of new features highlighted by the promise of a smarter and more versatile version of its virtual assistant, Siri — a goal that has yet to be realised.
“This work needed more time to reach our high-quality bar,” Craig Federighi, Apple’s top software executive, said at the outset of the conference. The company didn’t provide a precise timetable for when Siri’s AI upgrade will be finished but indicated it won’t happen until next year at the earliest.
“The silence surrounding Siri was deafening,” said Forrester Research analyst Dipanjan Chatterjee said. “No amount of text corrections or cute emojis can fill the yawning void of an intuitive, interactive AI experience that we know Siri will be capable of when ready. We just don’t know when that will happen. The end of the Siri runway is coming up fast, and Apple needs to lift off.”
Is Apple, with its ‘liquid glass’, still a trendsetter?
The showcase unfolded amid nagging questions about whether Apple has lost some of the mystique and innovative drive that has made it a tech trendsetter during its nearly 50-year history. Instead of making a big splash as it did with the Vision Pro headset and its AI suite, Apple took a mostly low-key approach that emphasised its effort to spruce up the look of its software with a new design called ‘Liquid Glass’ while also unveiling a new hub for its video games and new features like a ‘Workout Buddy’ to help manage physical fitness. Apple executives promised to make its software more compatible with the increasingly sophisticated computer chips that have been powering its products while also making it easier to toggle between the iPhone, iPad and Mac.
“Our product experience has become even more seamless and enjoyable,” Apple CEO Tim Cook told the crowd as the 90-minute showcase wrapped up.
IDC analyst Francisco Jeronimo said Apple seemed to be largely using Monday’s conference to demonstrate the company still has a blueprint for success in AI, even if it’s going to take longer to realise the vision that was presented a year ago. “This year’s event was not about disruptive innovation, but rather careful calibration, platform refinement and developer enablement — positioning itself for future moves rather than unveiling game-changing technologies,” Jeronimo said.
Apple’s next operating system will be iOS 26
Besides redesigning its software. Apple will switch to a method that automakers have used to telegraph their latest car models by linking them to the year after they first arrive at dealerships. That means the next version of the iPhone operating system due out this autumn will be known as iOS 26 instead of iOS 19 — as it would be under the previous naming approach that has been used since the device’s 2007 debut. The iOS 26 upgrade is expected to be released in September around the same time Apple traditionally rolls out the next iPhone models.
Playing catchup in AI
Apple opened the proceedings with a short video clip featuring Federighi speeding around a track in a Formula 1 race car. Although it was meant to promote the June 27 release of the Apple film, “F1” starring Brad Pitt, the segment could also be viewed as an unintentional analogy to the company’s attempt to catch up to the rest of the pack in AI technology. While some of the new AI tricks compatible with the latest iPhones began rolling out late last year as part of free software updates, the delays in a souped-up Siri became so glaring that the chastened company stopped promoting it in its marketing campaigns earlier this year. While Apple has been struggling to make AI that meets its standards, the gap separating it from other tech powerhouses is widening. Google keeps packing more AI into its Pixel smartphone lineup while introducing more of the technology into its search engine to dramatically change the way it works. Samsung, Apple’s biggest smartphone rival, is also leaning heavily into AI. Meanwhile, ChatGPT recently struck a deal that will bring former Apple design guru Jony Ive into the fold to work on a new device expected to compete against the iPhone. -
Nature’s lip balm: Coconut and argan oil to the rescue
Besides drinking water it is important to use coconut and argan oil based products like lip balms, scrubs, lipsticks with the natural oils as its base to save your lips from chapping, suggest experts.
Don’t lick your lips
This common practice is quite harmful for your lips as when you put saliva on the lips, it dries out and make our lips even more dry.
Use coconut oil
Coconut oil is very good for lips as it acts as a good nourishing moisturiser and will give you cracked free lips. For a deep hydrating result we recommend butterstick lip treatment which has coconut oil and lemon butter and comes with SPF.
Use argan oil
The thin skin of your lips loses moisture rapidly, especially in the winter. So make sure lips are covered with lip balm as often as possible. Argan oil is your lips best friend. Make sure you use lipsticks with argan oil or shea butter so that your lips don’t crack in the cold.
Try lip scrub
Our lips are not protected by hair or sebaceous glands (oil glands), so they start to chap, therefore weekly exfoliation is a must. Lip scrub works great to gently exfoliate dry lips. For a homemade lip scrub, mix brown sugar and honey and gently scrub lips until the sugar crystals melt. Wash and pat dry.
Keep a gloss handy
If you’re a matte enthusiast, and your lips begin to feel dry, always keep a gloss handy. Start your make-up routine by moisturising your lips for which you can use the good old Vaseline. Keep it on for a minute, blot the excess and go ahead with the lipstick application.
Use a lip balm
This will lock in the moisture and help to heal cracks and splits in the skin. Look for a healing ointment that contains petrolatum, essential oils or glycerin. Another important ingredient is sunscreen — there still is sun in the winter.
Avoid lip balms containing camphor, eucalyptus and menthol. These substances actually dry out your lips and make the problem worse. In response, you apply more of this kind of lip balm, and the cycle continues. Avoid brushing or rubbing your lips when they are flaky or peeling. It’s better not to scrub your lips or pick the peeling skin off with your teeth or your fingers. That just creates cracks and sores on your lips and can make things worse. Instead, apply a very heavy ointment-based balm that will be soothing and help to heal your lips.
Treat cracks right away
If you let them go, they can become worse and possibly get infected or lead to a cold sore.
At night, apply lip balm before you go to bed. Many people sleep with their mouths open. Eight hours of breathing in and out through your mouth can dry your lips. -
Global Virus Network issues guidance on new Covid-19 variant, vaccine protection
The newly identified Covid-19 variant, named NB.1.8.1, is spreading rapidly across parts of Asia including India and other regions such as the United States.
While the variant has sparked concern due to its rising numbers, global health experts are urging caution, not panic.
The Global Virus Network (GVN) – an international coalition of top virologists and research centres – which is closely tracking the situation, says there is no current evidence that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe illness than earlier variants.
However, its growing presence has led the World Health Organisation (WHO) to list it as a ‘Variant Under Monitoring.’
The variant, a sub-lineage of the Omicron family, was first detected in January 2025 and has now been found in 22 countries.
As of May 18, 2025, NB.1.8.1 accounted for 10.7% of global Covid-19 virus samples submitted to the international database GISAID, global science initiative and primary source for freely sharing genomic data of viruses, especially influenza viruses.
This is a sharp rise from just 2.5% four weeks earlier. In India, active Covid-19 cases have climbed to 6,491 (as of June 9), with more than 500 new infections reported in the past 24 hours.
States such as Delhi, Kerala, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal are reporting steady increases in cases.
Other countries are also seeing a rise. In Taiwan, hospital visits due to Covid-19 symptoms rose by 78% in one week, with nearly 6,000 people seeking care between April 27 and May 3.
In the United States, more than a dozen cases of NB.1.8.1 have been reported, initially detected through airport screenings in California, Washington, Virginia, and New York. The variant has since been found in Ohio, Rhode Island, and Hawaii. -
European drugs regulator flags rare eye risk with Ozempic use
The European Medicines Agency’s safety committee has concluded that the use of Novo Nordisk’s popular weight-loss drug Wegovy and its treatments for type 2 diabetes may cause rare occurrences of a potentially dangerous eye condition. Called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), the condition may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people taking semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy and Novo’s diabetes drugs Ozempic and Rybelsus, the regulator said.
The EMA, which started its review in December, said the use of the drugs is linked to about twofold increase in the risk of developing the condition compared to people not taking the medicine.
NAION develops from insufficient blood flow to the optic nerve and causes sudden painless vision loss in one eye. It is the second most common cause of blindness due to optic nerve damage, after glaucoma.
Studies have linked semaglutide to NAION in the past. But this is the first time a regulator has made the link.
Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which work by helping control blood sugar levels and triggering a feeling of fullness.
A large study of nearly 350,000 diabetics published earlier this year had showed that the risk of developing NAION more than doubled after long-term use of semaglutide, compared to patients taking medicines from other classes.
The EMA said it has reviewed all available data on NAION with semaglutide, including data from non-clinical studies, clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance. It has recommended the drugmaker to update prescribing information for medicines containing semaglutide to include NAION as a side effect with a frequency of “very rare”. -
Warning signs of liver damage you should never miss
Liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body, responsible for detoxifying harmful substances, producing bile for digestion, and regulating blood composition. However, liver damage can develop silently and progress to serious conditions such as liver cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or even liver failure if left unchecked. Early detection is crucial. Here are the key warning signs of liver damage that should never be ignored.
Jaundice (Yellowing of Skin and Eyes)
One of the most classic symptoms of liver trouble, jaundice occurs when the liver fails to properly process bilirubin-a yellow pigment created from the breakdown of red blood cells. The accumulation of bilirubin in the blood leads to yellowing of the skin and eyes. This is a red flag for conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct obstruction.
Persistent Fatigue and Weakness
Chronic tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest could be an early sign of liver damage. As the liver’s ability to process toxins declines, the build-up of waste products in the body can lead to fatigue, mental fog, and reduced stamina.
Dark-Colored Urine
While dehydration or medication can cause dark urine, when it becomes persistent-especially if accompanied by jaundice-it may be a sign of excess bilirubin being expelled due to impaired liver function.
Pale, Bloody, or Tar-Colored Stools
The liver plays a role in digesting fats by producing bile. Pale or clay-colored stools can suggest a bile flow obstruction. On the other hand, black or tar-colored stools may indicate internal bleeding due to liver-related complications such as varices.
Abdominal Pain and Swelling
Pain in the upper right abdomen-where the liver is located-can be a sign of inflammation or an enlarged liver. Ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen) is another common sign, usually linked to advanced liver disease or cirrhosis.
Easy Bruising and Bleeding
The liver produces proteins responsible for blood clotting. When damaged, it fails to synthesize these proteins efficiently, leading to frequent bruises, nosebleeds, or bleeding gums.
Nausea and Vomiting
Digestive symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and a loss of appetite may be early indicators of liver dysfunction. The liver’s inability to filter toxins effectively can impact the digestive process, leading to gastrointestinal distress. -
Grounds for a glow: Revitalize your skin with coffee
Coffee can perk up your skin. The caffeine in coffee has a number of benefits for your skin, from treating redness and inflammation, to reducing the appearance of under-eye circles, to getting rid of cellulite. By incorporating caffeine into your skin care routine, you can reveal evenly toned, smooth skin all over your body.
Reduces Inflammation
Caffeine has potent anti-inflammatory properties that make it ideal for reducing inflammation and redness in your skin. In a 1981 study performed at the Seoul National University, researchers found that caffeine is able to reduce inflammation almost as well as aspirin in rats; in a 1978 performed at the University of Tennessee, researchers found that adding caffeine to anti-inflammatory creams significantly increased their effectiveness. Overall, use of skin care products containing caffeine will reduce and prevent inflammation and redness, leaving you with a beautiful, even skin tone.
Helps get rid of under-eye circles
Dark under-eye circles can be caused by a number of factors, including dehydration, allergies, lack of sleep or genetics. Although caffeine cannot completely erase hereditary dark circles, applying caffeine under your eyes will reduce the puffiness and inflammation associated with dark circles. Additionally, caffeine reduces the build-up of blood under your eyes which contributes to dark shadows. Several eye creams contain caffeine, or you can apply moist tea bags to your eyes for five minutes to reduce puffiness and give you a more alert appearance.
Gets rid of cellulite
Caffeine can also reduce the appearance of cellulite. In a 2008 study performed at the University of São Paulo, researchers found that an application of skin cream containing caffeine to cellulite reduced the size of cellulite fat cells by 17 percent. -
Mango Custard
Ingredients
Ripe Mangoes – 3 to 4 (approximately 200 gms), Vanilla Flavoured Custard Powder – 1 tblsp, Milk – 500 ml, Fresh Cream – 500 ml, Sugar – 1/4 cup (adjust as per taste)
Method
– Peel and finely chop the mangoes into small pieces. Reserve a few pieces for garnishing and grind the remaining to a thick pulp. No need to add water.
– Mix the custard powder with 100 ml (1/2 cup) of milk and stir until fully mixed without any lumps. Boil the remaining milk over medium flame. Add the custard mixture and stir gently.
– Ensure no lumps form and keep stirring constantly. Add sugar and switch off the flame.
– Add the mango puree, cream and mix well.
– Stir gently for a minute and keep it in the fridge for 4 to 6 hours.
Paneer samosa
Ingredients
Paneer – 250 gms, finely chopped, Maida – 2 cups
Onion – 1, finely chopped, Green chillies – 2, finely chopped, Red chilli powder – 1 tsp, Cumin seeds – 1/2 tsp, Lemon juice – 1 tsp, Butter – 50 gms, melted, Salt as per taste, Oil as required
Method
– Combine the maida, butter and salt in a bowl, Mix well to a puri dough consistency. Fry the cumin seeds for 30 seconds.
– Add the onions, green chillies and saute for a minute or two, Add red chilli powder, lemon juice, salt and paneer, Mix well and stir-fry
– Remove from flame. Make small balls of the dough and roll them in small/ medium puris. 10.
– Shape the prepared puris into cones and add 1 or 2 tblsp of the paneer mixture. -
Scarlett Johansson says she felt cagey working with enormous Marvel cast
Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson opened up about challenges while working with a massive ensemble cast on the sets of Marvel films. Scarlett played Natasha Romanoff in films including The Avengers, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Avengers: Infinity War, and her solo spin-off, Black Widow. The actor said that working with an enormous cast made her feel that she wasn’t doing any engaging work as an actor.
The 40-year-old actor in a conversation with Interview magazine said, “Some of the films that I did for Marvel engaged my character more than others. Like in Captain America: The Winter Soldier with Chris (Evans), we were really dynamic,” she said.
“In some of the other films, the cast was so enormous and there was so much plot to serve that you start to feel like you’re a device to move it along. And if you’re committed to five and a half months of that, it’s like, ‘Okay. I can’t paint my nails, I can’t get a haircut.’ These sound like silly problems, but your identity is wrapped up in this job for a long time, and if you’re not doing engaging work as an actor, you feel a little cagey sometimes,” she added. -
How Sandra Bullock turned Dakota Johnson’s infamous Razzie win for Madame Web into something positive
Rumors have been swirling that Dakota Johnson and Coldplay’s Chris Martin have ended their eight-year relationship. Adding to a challenging few months, Dakota also took home a Razzie Award for her role in Madame Web (2024), a film that failed to impress audiences and critics alike. In a recent episode of Amy Poehler’s Good Hang podcast, Johnson opened up about a surprising message she received from none other than Sandra Bullock. The Hollywood icon reached out after Dakota’s Razzie win for Worst Actress, an infamous award that Bullock herself once won.
“I recently actually exchanged texts — well, I got a voice note — from Sandra Bullock, because I don’t know if you know, but I won the Razzie for Worst Actress,” Johnson revealed. “There’s a lot of good people who have won that… but Sandra Bullock sent me a voice note, being like ‘I heard you are in the Razzie club and we should have brunch, we should have a monthly brunch.’ Because I guess she won that the year that she won the Oscar as well. It was in the same year, I think.” Johnson shared how special the message felt: “I freaked out getting this message from her because she’s so iconic to me, as like a movie star. I was like, ‘Oh my God.’ I was just crazy.”
The Razzie sweep wasn’t just a blow to Johnson personally; Madame Web itself was a major disappointment, taking home Worst Picture and Worst Screenplay awards. The film, which stars Johnson as Cassandra Webb — a paramedic who gains precognitive abilities after a near-death experience — fell flat with audiences. Earlier, Dakota stood firm in an interview with the Los Angeles Times, asserting that the film’s failure was not her fault. -
Tom Cruise to finally get an Oscar, 35 years after his first nomination
Thirty-five years after Tom Cruise received his first Oscar nomination, he’s finally getting a trophy. It’s not for his death-defying stunts, either. At least, not exclusively.
Cruise, choreographer Debbie Allen and “Do The Right Thing” production designer Wynn Thomas have all been selected to receive honorary Oscar statuettes at the annual Governors Awards, the film academy said Tuesday. Dolly Parton will also be recognized with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her decades-long charitable work in literacy and education.
Most recipients of the prize historically have not yet won a competitive Oscar themselves. Cruise, 62, has been nominated four times, twice for best actor in “Born on the Fourth of July” and “Jerry Maguire,” once for supporting actor in “Magnolia” and once for best picture with “Top Gun: Maverick.” He’s also championed theatrical moviegoing and big-scale Hollywood production through the coronavirus pandemic.
Yang spotlighted Cruise’s “incredible commitment to our filmmaking community, to the theatrical experience, and to the stunts community.” Allen, 75, has never been nominated for an Oscar. But the multi-hyphenate entertainer — she also acts and produces — has played an integral role in the Oscars show, having choreographed seven ceremonies over the years. Four of those were nominated for prime-time Emmy awards.
A nomination had also eluded Thomas, a leading production designer whose films have often gone on to best picture nominations and even one win, for Ron Howard’s “A Beautiful Mind.” Thomas is most known for his long-term collaboration with filmmaker Spike Lee, from “She’s Gotta Have It” and “Malcolm X” through “Da 5 Bloods.”
Parton has been nominated twice for best original song, for “9 to 5” and, in 2006, “Travelin’ Thru” from the film “Transamerica.” But her honor celebrates her humanitarian efforts over the years, through organizations like the Dollywood Foundation and the literary program “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.” -
Housefull 5 X reviews: Fans call it entertaining yet illogical Bollywood masala
Akshay Kumar’s much-awaited comedy film ‘Housefull 5’ finally hit theatres today, June 6, and early audience reactions are already flooding social media. Directed by Tarun Mansukhani and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, the star-studded film has opened to largely positive reviews, with fans calling it one of the most entertaining entries in the franchise.
Audiences who watched morning shows praised the film’s blend of comedy, chaos, and a fresh murder mystery twist. One fan posted on X, “A madcap entertainer that gets you giggling, yelling, whistling and applauding in your seat. Akshay Kumar’s comic timing and one-liners are top-notch. He delivers his best in this installment.”
The user also called Riteish Deshmukh and Abhishek Bachchan “spectacular.” Jacqueline Fernandez and Nargis Fakhri were described as a delight to watch, while Sonam Bajwa was appreciated for her glamorous presence. The user also wrote, “Sanjay Dutt’s role has a suspense that will be revealed in the climax.”
Reacting to the film’s first half (Housefull 5A), fans were thrilled with its murder mystery twist wrapped in comedy. One user wrote, “Interval: Masttt! Entertaining till now! Kya setup kiya hai murder ka (What a setup for the murder mystery!)– really fun. Can’t wait for the second half!”
‘Housefull 5B’, the second part of the film, also saw early reactions. A viewer shared, “Housefull 5B brings chaos, comedy, and confusion with a murder mystery twist. Performances shine, but the story feels stretched. It’s entertaining Bollywood masala – illogical but fun!”
Another fan summed up the vibe perfectly: “Audience is loving every joke! Akshay’s comic timing is the highlight.” Meanwhile, another X user encouraged viewers to watch it themselves, writing, “Movie bahut acchi hai, jao dekho, enjoy karo – log kuch bhi bolenge (The movie is really good, go watch it, enjoy – people will say anything).”
With a massive ensemble cast that includes Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan, Nana Patekar, Shreyas Talpade, Jackie Shroff, Dino Morea, and many more, ‘Housefull 5’ is tipped to be a complete entertainer packed with laughs, glamour, and surprises. -
Nikita Roy trailer: Sonakshi, Arjun Rampal confront evil in supernatural thriller
The trailer of ‘Nikita Roy’, a supernatural thriller starring Sonakshi Sinha and Arjun Rampal, was unveiled on Wednesday, June 11. Directed by Kussh S Sinha and written by Pavan Kirpalan, the film also features Paresh Rawal and Suhail Nayyar in key roles. The trailer showcases chilling visuals, beginning with Sonakshi Sinha stepping into a mysterious house deep in the woods at night, only to encounter supernatural forces.
Paresh Rawal appears to play a Godman in the film, and he seems to manipulate people psychologically, while Sonakshi’s character is determined to expose his truth within a week. Sinha is seen joining forces with Arjun Rampal’s character to uncover the truth behind a series of murders. The trailer keeps the plot largely under wraps, adding to the intrigue.
‘Nikita Roy’ explores the fragile boundary between perception and reality, unravelling themes of paranoia, buried truths, and the human mind’s darker recesses. -
Chitrangda Singh to star opposite Salman in Apoorva Lakhia’s next
Salman Khan is gearing up for his next film with director Apoorva Lakhia. As per latest reports, Salman will team up with actress Chitrangda Singh in the upcoming film.
According to sources cited by India Today, Chitrangda has been chosen to play the female lead opposite Salman Khan in the action drama that has not yet been given a title. The film’s intense and realistic tone is further enhanced by rumours that it takes inspiration from actual military events.
The project, which was directed by Apoorva Lakhia, is said to be based on actual events. The film has already created buzz for its intriguing premise and stellar cast, even though specifics regarding the plot are still being kept under wraps.
Notably, this marks the first on-screen collaboration between Salman Khan and Chitrangda Singh, adding an element of freshness to the pairing and heightening anticipation around the film.
According to an earlier report by Pinkvilla, Salman Khan is set to collaborate with director Apoorva Lakhia for an upcoming army thriller inspired by the book India’s Most Fearless 3. Based on the actual events of the 2020 Galwan Valley conflict, the movie is anticipated to show the Indian Armed Forces’ incredible bravery and sacrifices during that time.
The project is expected to start filming in July 2025, according to sources the publication cited. It was revealed that the filming would begin in July and would span about 70 days, shooting in various locations in Mumbai and Ladakh. The 70-day schedule has been planned to meet the logistical and narrative demands of the film, which is said to centre on a story that develops over two nights. Additionally, according to the source, this would be Salman Khan’s first official role in a feature film as an army officer. Three younger actors are rumoured to be joining him, giving the cast a multigenerational dynamic.
Meanwhile, Salman was last seen in Sikandar which released on March 30, 2025. It also starred Rashmika Mandanna, Shreyas Talpade, Pratik Smita Patil, and others. Whereas Chitrangda was recently seen in Housefull 5, currently running in theatres. -
Waqf law rules drafted, may be approved in 15-20 days: Officials
New Delhi (TIP)- The Union minority affairs ministry has drafted rules to operationalise the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 and sent it to the Union law ministry, officials told HT on Thursday, adding that the rules could be approved within 15-20 days, paving the way for their presentation in the upcoming monsoon session from July 21. The contentious amendments to the central waqf law, which aims to make sweeping changes in the regulation and management of Islamic charitable endowments, was cleared by Parliament in April. The Supreme Court has reserved its judgment on a raft of petitions asking for a stay on some of the law’s controversial provisions. A senior minority affairs ministry official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the rules were drafted in “record time” following the law’s passage on April 4. “We have recently sent it to the law ministry and solicitor general Tushar Mehta for final approval and finishing touches,” the official said. “Once approved there, it goes to the Centre for final sign-off, then notification in the public gazette.”
Former secretary general PDT Achary told HT that there is “absolutely no rule and requirement for the government to first notify the parliament about the rules and then notify.” “As soon as the rules are approved, they can be uploaded and publicly notified through the gazette and come into effect. The government has to table it in the Parliament but there is no rule about the rules being notified to the parliament first,” he said.
Union Minister for minority affairs Kiren Rijiju separately confirmed that the rules are with the law ministry for finishing touches.
A waqf is a Muslim religious endowment, usually in the form of landed property, made for purposes of charity and community welfare. The draft bill, introduced by the government last year and amended after recommendations by a joint parliamentary committee, proposed major changes in the regulation and governance of India’s waqf boards.
The law accords more power to the government and allows for the appointment of non-Muslims and women to waqf boards, but the Opposition alleged it is unconstitutional. The rules are crucial because they will not only operationalise the changes but also clarify key procedures in registration of waqf properties, working of the central portal, and norms guiding the picking of members in the council.
The law scraps the waqf by user provision – where a property is acknowledged as waqf because it has been used for religious activities for some time, despite there being no official declaration or registration as waqf – with prospective effect, permits women, Shia sects and government officials to be members of waqf bodies, and gives overriding power to senior officials to determine if a government property belongs to a waqf. -
Cash stash proves Justice Yashwant Varma guilty, must go: SC panel
New Delhi (TIP)- The Supreme Court-appointed inquiry committee has recommended the removal of Justice Yashwant Varma of the Allahabad High Court after concluding that “bundles of cash” were indeed recovered from the storeroom of his official residence in Delhi and later removed under suspicious circumstances.
The report, accessed by The Tribune, stated, “This committee is firmly of the view that there is sufficient substance in the allegations raised in the letter of Chief Justice of India dated March 22 and the misconduct found proved is serious enough to call for initiation of proceedings for the removal of Justice Yashwant Verma, judge of the Allahabad High Court.” Notably, the SC panel had submitted its findings to the then CJI on May 4.
The controversy began with a fire at Justice Varma’s Tughlaq Road bungalow on March 14, which prompted the dispatch of two fire tenders. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze but discovered burnt currency notes amidst stationery and domestic items in a storeroom. The discovery triggered national outrage and judicial scrutiny.
The three-member inquiry panel, comprising Chief Justices Sheel Nagu (Punjab & Haryana High Court), GS Sandhawalia (Himachal Pradesh High Court), and Anu Sivaraman (Karnataka High Court), found that the cash, reportedly stacked up to 1.5 feet high, was kept in the storeroom and removed from the premises during the early hours of March 15, hours after the incident. -
Have difference of opinion with some Congress leaders: Tharoor
New Delhi (TIP)- Senior Congress leader and MP Shashi Tharoor said on Thursday he did not campaign for the Nilambur bypoll in Kerala because the party leadership never invited him to do so.
At the same time, he downplayed speculation of a rift with the Congress brass while acknowledging “some differences”, coming off the back of a five-nation diplomatic outreach during which his remarks left some party leaders peeved.
“I wasn’t invited by the party. But that’s alright,” Tharoor told reporters, responding to a question about his absence from the campaign trail in Nilambur. Voting for the crucial byelection is underway there today.
“First of all, I was gone for much of the time on this official diplomatic mission. When I came back there was no insistence, no missed call from the leadership saying I should come,” he said with an enigmatic smile.
So he used the time to honour prior commitments, including chairing a committee meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs in Delhi. “Now I’ve come to Kerala. Today is voting day and I’ve been urging everyone to vote for my party’s candidate. He is a good candidate,” he said.
Tharoor rejected suggestions that his absence signalled a rift with the party leadership or cadre. He stated that Congress workers, including those from his Thiruvananthapuram constituency, had been toiling hard on the campaign.
“My close relations with party workers have seen me through four elections in my own constituencies,” he added. “Congress party workers have been by my side everywhere.” Tharoor, who has been with the Congress for 16 years and won four consecutive elections from Thiruvananthapuram, said there are occasional differences with the party brass, but these issues should be resolved internally. He asserted that he remained committed to the party’s values.
“Values of the institution of the Congress party are the institutional values that have kept me in the party,” he said. “Yes, there may have been differences with the party leadership on some issues. Those can be sorted out in closed-door conversations and I don’t see any reason to discuss them now.”
Tharoor recently returned from a diplomatic mission, where he led an all-party delegation to the US and four other countries to communicate India’s stance following Operation Sindoor, which was in response to the Pahalgam attack carried out by Pakistan-backed terrorists.
His appointment by the government to the delegation and some of his remarks during the tour, including praise of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, drew criticism from sections of the Congress. Tharoor also came under fire from party colleagues for not highlighting the surgical strikes carried out during the UPA era, while praising the Modi government’s handling of the situation. -
Rahul Gandhi begins moving to new official residence on 55th birthday
New Delhi (TIP) – Congress leader Rahul Gandhi started moving into a new spacious Type-8 official bungalow-5, Sunehri Bagh Road, New Delhi-on his 55th birthday on Thursday, June 19. He will fully shift before the Monsoon Session of Parliament begins on July 21st.
A Gandhi aide said he started shifting even as he is likely to continue meeting people at 10 Janpath, his mother Sonia Gandhi’s residence, and Indira Bhavan, the Congress headquarters, even after settling in. Gandhi was entitled to the new residence as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. “He has done it up with a lot of passion, and hence it took a year,” said the aide.
The aide said Gandhi has sought to recreate “a private space” like 12, Tughlaq Lane, the house where he lived earlier. Gandhi has resided at 10, Janpath since 2023, when he vacated 12, Tughlaq Lane, following his disqualification from the Lok Sabha.
In August 2023, Gandhi’s Lok Sabha membership was restored 137 days after he was disqualified as the Supreme Court stayed his conviction in a criminal defamation case filed by a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader in Gujarat.
Parliament’s Estate Directorate offered Gandhi the Sunehri Bagh residence in 2024 following his return to the Lok Sabha and election as Leader of the Opposition. BJP leader and former Union minister A Narayanaswamy previously occupied the bungalow.
Gandhi’s sister and Congress leader, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, oversaw the decoration and furnishing of the new house. Gandhi will move into the new home with canine companions, Pidi Gandhi and Yassa, a Jack Russell Terrier. He also gifted his mother, former Congress President Sonia Gandhi, a Russell Terrier puppy, Noorie.
The aide said it remains to be seen whether Gandhi’s office will be at the new residence or Indira Bhavan, indicating that logistical decisions are pending. “[The shift] might herald a new time for RG [Rahul Gandhi…[The new address] will become the nerve centre as we go towards winning the 2029 election.” -
President to lead International Yoga Day celebrations from Dehradun
President Droupadi Murmu will visit Uttarakhand’s Dehradun from June 19 to 21, and lead the International Yoga Day celebrations from there. During the visit, she will inaugurate and lay foundation stones for various projects at Rashtrapati Niketan.
On June 19, the President will inaugurate an amphitheater and lay foundation stones for staff quarters, stables and barracks at Rashtrapati Niketan. On June 20, she will grace the opening of Rashtrapati Niketan for public visit and inaugurate public amenities including the visitor facilitation centre. Rashtrapati Niketan and Rashtrapati Tapovan will be open for public viewing from June 24. The same day, the President will also visit the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities in Dehradun and release a postage stamp on the Raj Bhavan, Nainital, on the completion of its 125 years later in the evening. On June 21, the President will participate in a mass yoga demonstration at the Uttarakhand State Police Line Maidan, Dehradun, on the International Yoga Day. -
Op Sindhu: India decides to evacuate its nationals from Israel too
Bengaluru (TIP)- India announced on Thursday, June 19, that it will begin evacuating Indian nationals who want to leave Israel in view of the clashes with Iran, with arrangements being made for them to leave via land borders because of airspace restrictions.
The evacuation of Indians from Israel will be done under Operation Sindhu, initially launched by the Indian government on Wednesday for getting Indian citizens in Iran to safety.
“In view of the recent developments between Israel and Iran, the Government of India has decided to evacuate from Israel those Indian nationals who wish to leave,” the external affairs ministry said in a statement.
“Their travel from Israel to India will be facilitated through the land borders and thereafter by air to India,” the statement added. This is being done in view of airspace restrictions over Israel since the clashes with Iran erupted over the past weekend.
The Indian embassy in Tel Aviv will be responsible for arrangements for evacuating the Indians. All Indian nationals in Israel were requested to register with the embassy in Tel Aviv. The embassy has also set up a 24×7 control room to assist the Indians.
The Indian embassy reiterated its earlier advisories urging Indian citizens in Israel to remain vigilant and strictly follow safety guidelines issued by Israeli authorities and the Home Front Command.
The number of Indians in Israel has swelled to more than 32,000 in recent months as Israeli authorities stepped up the recruitment of blue collar workers, primarily for the construction sector, to replace Palestinian labour. Indian workers, including care-givers and professionals, are spread across Israel.
The Indian government accords the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals and will continue monitoring the situation closely. “The embassy remains continuously in touch with the community with a view to extending all feasible assistance,” the statement said.
There have been no reports so far of casualties among the Indian nationals in Israel. A few Indian students in Tehran were injured earlier this week when an Israeli air strike hit a students dormitory.
Hostilities between Israel and Iran continued for the seventh day, with Iranian missiles hitting four sites in central and southern Israel, including Soroka hospital, while Israeli forces attacked Iran’s Arak heavy water reactor.
Iran launched some 20 ballistic missiles at Israel on Thursday. Israeli defence minister Israel Katz has said that “eliminating” Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is one of his country’s objectives.
Back from war-torn Iran, J&K students head to home towns
Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday, June 19, confirmed the arrival of 110 Indian students, including 94 from Kashmir, in Delhi and said that the government had made transport arrangement for their journey back to Kashmir. Out of the 94, 20 students have already reached Kashmir via flights.
As many as 94 students from Jammu and Kashmir were among the 110 people evacuated from war-affected Iran on Wednesday. They were taken to Armenia before being flown to Doha. The students arrived in Delhi from the Qatari capital early Thursday.
“94 of our students evacuated from Iran have safely reached Delhi. The Government is making transport arrangements to ensure their smooth journey home, which will be in place within the next few hours,” Omar Abdullah wrote on X.
However, after reaching at Delhi Airport the students claimed that no one from J&K government was there to receive them and also criticised the state government for making poor transport arrangement.
New buses were arranged by the government on the intervention of chief minister Omar. “The chief minister has taken note of the request of the students evacuated from Iran regarding the quality of buses arranged to transport them from Delhi to J&K. The resident commissioner has been tasked with coordinating with the JKRTC to ensure proper deluxe buses are arranged,” wrote office of J&K chief minister on X.
Kashmiri students usually opt for Iranian universities because of their affordability and similar cultural milieu. The students are spread in Tehran, Shiraz and Qom. Iran is home to more than 4,000 Indian students, half of them from J&K, who are enrolled in medical and other professional courses. -
Crashed Dreamliner well-maintained, next major check was due in Dec: Air India CEO
Mumbai (TIP)- The crashed Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was “well-maintained” and had undergone a major check in June 2023 with the next scheduled for December this year, said Air India CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson on Thursday, June 19. In a message to flyers, the Air India chief also said the 15 per cent reduction in Air India’s international wide-body fleet operations for the next few weeks is a temporary move, and it may affect its customers’ travel plans.
“The plane was well-maintained, with its last major check in June 2023 and the next scheduled for December 2025. Its right engine was overhauled in March 2025, and the left engine was inspected in April 2025. Both the aircraft and engines were regularly monitored, showing no issues before the flight,” he said.
The airline chief further said the loss of 241 passengers and crew members, along with 34 people on the ground, has “left us all in deep sorrow”.
“Words cannot express the pain we feel for the families and loved ones affected by this devastating event. We are fully committed to doing all we can to support the families impacted and are also working closely with authorities to understand the cause of this tragedy. Our thoughts are with everyone touched by this loss,” Wilson said in the message.
He said that the airline as well as the entire aviation industry was awaiting the official investigation report to understand more.
Campbell said that following the June 12 crash and as directed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the airline has been conducting thorough safety inspections on its 33 Boeing 787 aircraft. -
Gandhian Society, Rotary Club of Parsippany, and Zakir Husain Study Circle Honor Indian Member of Parliament, Vivek Tankha for his Philanthropic Leadership in Parsippany, NJ
PARSIPPANY, NJ (TIP): The Gandhian Society, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Parsippany and the Zakir Husain Study Circle, recently hosted a special “Meet and Greet” event in Parsippany to honor Mr. Vivek Tankha, a distinguished Rotarian and Member of Parliament in India. The event celebrated Mr. Tankha’s exceptional philanthropic and humanitarian contributions, particularly his impactful work in rural India.
Mr. Tankha was recognized for his lifelong dedication to service through Rotary, spearheading initiatives focused on healthcare, education, and development in underserved regions. His efforts have positioned him as a symbol of service and justice in public life.
Rajender Dichpally of the Gandhian Society, lead organizer of the event, joined Santosh Peddi, President of the Rotary Club of Parsippany, in presenting Mr. Tankha with formal citations acknowledging his service. Bhadra Butala, Founder of the Gandhian Society, presented a commemorative plaque along with Mahesh Wani, Niren Choudhary and Rajender Dichpally. Rotary Club members, including Santosh Peddi and Mahender Reddy, also honored Mr. Tankha with a Rotary pin and additional accolades.
A major highlight of the evening was a vibrant cultural show featuring traditional Indian dances presented by local youth, which delighted and entertained the guests. This was followed by the announcement of the upcoming screening of “Renaissance Man,” a biopic detailing Mr. Tankha’s life and work. The film will be showcased at the New York Film Festival on June 21, chronicling his inspiring journey and tireless efforts in transforming lives across India’s rural heartlands.
Mr. Vivek Tankha is a Senior Advocate in the Supreme Court of India and a sitting Member of the Rajya Sabha, having previously served as the Additional Solicitor General of India. Attendees lauded his multifaceted contributions to law, governance, and humanitarian service.
The event underscored a shared commitment to leadership rooted in compassion, justice, and public service, ideals central to the missions of the Gandhian Society and Rotary International.