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Dow, S&P 500 close at record highs, rate-cut euphoria lifts Nasdaq

US stocks surged as the Dow Jones Industrial Average crossed 42,000 for the first time, driven by optimism around the Federal Reserve's 50 basis point interest rate cut. The S&P 500 rose by 1.7%, and the Nasdaq Composite led gains with a 2.5% increase. Investors responded positively, believing the rate cut could ensure a "soft landing" for the economy, pushing major indices to record highs after some initial post-announcement volatility.

Are remote workers really working all day? No. Here's what they're doing instead.

A recent survey reveals that many remote workers multitask, handling personal chores like laundry or errands during work hours. Nearly half of them complete household tasks while on work calls, and about 20% admit to taking naps. Some even work from other locations or engage in activities like watching TV or shopping online. Interestingly, managers and executives also multitask frequently, often shopping during calls. The survey highlights different work habits across generations, with younger workers more likely to nap or secretly work from different locations.

Nike CEO John Donahoe is out, replaced by company veteran Elliott Hill

Nike announced that CEO John Donahoe is stepping down on October 13, 2024, with company veteran Elliott Hill returning from retirement to succeed him. Donahoe, who led Nike since January 2020, will remain as an advisor until the end of January 2025. Nike shares rose 8% following the announcement. Executive Chairman Mark Parker praised Hill’s global expertise and leadership as crucial for Nike’s next phase of growth.

Apple Intelligence is now live in public beta.

Apple has launched the public betas for iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, featuring its generative AI platform, Apple Intelligence. Available in U.S. English, it includes new cross-system writing tools, enhanced Siri functionality, and photo-editing features like Clean Up, similar to Google's Magic Eraser. Siri sees major upgrades, including better voice recognition and the ability to type commands. Users can enable Apple Intelligence through the settings or join the public beta via beta.apple.com.

Bengal Doctors End Cease-Work, To Resume Essential Services From Saturday

Junior doctors in Bengal have called off their protest over the rape and murder of a colleague at a Kolkata hospital but will refrain from joining OPD services or elective surgeries until safety assurances from the state government are fulfilled. Their demands include increased security measures like CCTVs, police presence, and panic buttons. The decision follows the state government's acceptance of most demands amid ongoing floods in South Bengal, with Chief Secretary leading negotiations in Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's absence.

Lab Report Out- Beef Tallow, Fish Oil In Tirumala Laddu

Chandrababu Naidu recently claimed that animal fat, specifically beef tallow and fish oils, were found in the ghee used for preparing Tirumala laddu, according to a lab report by NDDB Calf. This has caused concern among the Hindu community, as the Tirumala laddu is considered sacred. The use of low-grade ingredients like animal fat in its preparation has sparked outrage and controversy. The claim is expected to impact the ongoing discussions around the sanctity and management of Tirumala Temple's offerings.

Movie News

Patralekhaa On Pregnancy Rumours, "Every Month You Can't Be Pregnant"

In a recent interview, Patralekhaa addressed the recurring pregnancy rumors, stating that they are untrue and dismissing them as “boring.” She and Rajkummar Rao, who married in November 2021, will announce any pregnancy when it happens. The couple is open to working together again, but only on an exciting project. Patralekhaa also expressed gratitude for the positive reception they receive on social media. She has two upcoming projects: Phule, a biopic, and Gulkanda Tales, a series on Amazon Prime Video.

 Choreographer Johnny Master Arrested In Goa

Renowned choreographer Johnny Master was arrested in Goa under a production warrant and is set to appear before Hyderabad’s Upparpally Court. He faces charges under the POCSO Act and allegations of rape. The complaint was filed by a woman who worked as his assistant choreographer and accused Master of multiple assaults and threats since 2017. The victim alleges harassment on film sets and claims Master hindered her professional opportunities. Police are continuing the investigation, and the victim’s statement has been recorded.

Vijayendra Prasad contributes to 'Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama'

The acclaimed 1993 Japanese anime film Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is set for its Indian theatrical release on October 18, 2024. While the movie did not release in India back in the '90s, it is now coming out in multiple languages, including Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, and English. Acclaimed screenwriter V Vijayendra Prasad contributed to the Indian version as a creative director, helping with the translations. The anime served as an inspiration for the film Adipurush. However, it's unclear how Indian audiences will respond to this version.

Theatre Releases

Source: Filmibeat