Traders are rushing to offload Maldives' Islamic bonds as the risk of default grows. The dollar-denominated sukuk due in 2026 dropped below 70 cents, hitting a record low. The Bank of Maldives has capped foreign currency spending, and Fitch has issued its second downgrade since June. "Without a last-minute foreign exchange infusion from China, the GCC, or India, the non-payment of the October coupon is a plausible scenario," said Purvi Harlalka, an emerging-market strategist. The Maldives Monetary Authority is negotiating a $400 million currency swap with India, but reserves remain critically low.

India and Singapore have elevated their relationship to a "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit. Modi held talks with Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, leading to the signing of four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in semiconductors, digital technologies, healthcare, and skill development. The leaders reviewed progress in trade, defence, and technology cooperation, with a focus on future growth. Singapore is a major investor in India, with over $160 billion in investments. Modi invited Wong to visit India, which he accepted. The visit strengthens India's Act East policy and the two nations' bilateral ties.

A 14-year-old boy appeared in Leicester Youth Court, charged with the murder of 80-year-old Indian-origin man Bhim Kohli, who was fatally attacked while walking his dog in Braunstone Town, UK. Kohli, a beloved family man, passed away from a neck injury sustained during the attack. Four other children, aged 12 to 14, were arrested but released without further action. Kohli's family expressed heartbreak, recalling him as a loving and active individual. The case remains under investigation, with Leicestershire Police offering support to the grieving family.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a two-day visit to Singapore, visited AEM Holdings Ltd, a leading semiconductor and electronics company, with Singapore PM Lawrence Wong. The leaders discussed collaboration opportunities in the critical industry, exploring ways to strengthen ties in advanced manufacturing. Modi was briefed on the company's global semiconductor value chain, operations, and India plans. The visit aims to enhance cooperation between India and Singapore in the semiconductor sector, a key area of focus for India's economic growth and technological advancement. The meeting marked a significant step towards deepening bilateral ties.

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong hosted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a private dinner on Wednesday at the Istana, ahead of their official talks. The meeting, part of Modi’s Southeast Asian tour, focused on boosting cooperation in areas like digitalisation and semiconductors. Modi, who arrived in Singapore after a historic visit to Brunei, expressed his commitment to strengthening India-Singapore ties. The two leaders will hold discussions on Thursday, expected to result in several agreements, including one on semiconductor cooperation. Singapore is a key trade partner and the largest source of foreign investment for India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Singapore on September 4, 2024, receiving a warm reception from the Indian diaspora. At his arrival, PM Modi engaged with the crowd and demonstrated his dhol-playing skills. He was welcomed by Indian High Commissioner Shilpak Ambule and Singapore’s High Commissioner Simon Wong. During his visit, Modi will discuss the India-Singapore Strategic Partnership with Singaporean counterpart Lawrence Wong, and meet with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and local business leaders. The visit follows Modi’s official trip to Brunei, where he discussed expanding bilateral ties and inaugurated the new Indian High Commission Chancery.

Four Indians tragically died in a car crash in Texas, USA, when a speeding truck rear-ended their SUV, causing it to burst into flames. The victims, identified as Aryan Raghunath Orampati, Farooq Shaik, Lokesh Palacharla, and Dharshini Vasudevan, were carpooling to Arkansas. Authorities are using DNA testing to confirm their identities. Aryan Orampati was an accounting intern from Hyderabad, Farooq Shaik had recently completed his MS degree, Lokesh Palacharla worked at Bank of America, and Dharshini Vasudevan was visiting family. Dharshini's father had earlier posted an emotional plea on social media seeking help to locate her.

The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) has launched the "Indo-American Votes Matter" campaign to increase Indian-American voter participation in the upcoming US presidential election. The campaign aims to register one million Indian-American voters and survey their policy preferences to ensure their voices are heard by both the Democratic and Republican parties. With 4.5 million Indian-Americans in the US, their votes could be decisive, especially in key swing states like Florida, Georgia, and Texas. FIIDS emphasizes the importance of Indo-American votes, urging both parties to consider their policy concerns in this close race.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Singapore on Wednesday, following a two-day visit to Brunei. He is on a two-day visit to Singapore to strengthen India-Singapore friendship and attract investment. Earlier in the day, he held bilateral talks with Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and attended a banquet. PM Modi highlighted India's reforms and young talent, making it an ideal investment destination. He also looks forward to deeper cultural ties. The visit aims to deepen the strategic partnership between India and Singapore.

A devastating multi-vehicle crash in Texas, USA, has claimed the lives of four Indians, including a woman. The victims, who connected through a carpooling app, were traveling to Bentonville, Arkansas, when a speeding truck rammed their SUV, causing it to burst into flames. The deceased have been identified as Aryan Raghunath Orampati, Farooq Shaik, Lokesh Palacharla, and Dharshini Vasudevan, hailing from Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. DNA testing is being used to confirm their identities due to severe charring. Three others were injured in the accident, which occurred on August 30.