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The financial services company does not have any immediate plan to get into the unsecured and consumer durable lending businesses.

“We hope to start insurance manufacturing in 2026, subject to regulatory approvals,” its chief executive and managing director Hitesh Sethia told PTI recently.

The company, which recently entered the reinsurance business, along with its equal joint venture associate Allianz, will partner with the French company for general and life insurance businesses as well.

Sethia said in parallel, the company is working towards building the necessary teams for the insurance foray.

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JFS, which is promoted by entities linked to the richest Indian Mukesh Ambani, has entered lending businesses, like assisting home buyers, asset management, wealth management and reinsurance, either by itself or through partnerships.
Explaining its strategy in the lending business, Sethia said JFS also has its own boundaries based on risk and capital, and at present, it is concentrating on serving secured lending products to prime or near-prime customers.Given this strategy, it has a presence in about 20 cities, which offer the best of customers in the segments.

Sethia pointed to a higher incidence of non-performing loans in the consumer durable and unsecured categories, and added that the same in home loans is a fraction of it.

When asked about plans on unsecured lending and consumer finance, Sethia hinted that there are no immediate plans and increasing the profitability will be the focus for now.

“As our NBFC’s business and profitability grow in line with our current risk appetite, and we learn more about our customers and the business, we will, at the appropriate time, evaluate exploring newer lending solutions at different levels of the risk spectrum,” he said.

The company is already distributing third-party unsecured lending products, including personal loans and credit cards, through its agentic neural marketplace on the Jiofinance App.

When asked about the newly expanded offerings on the app, Sethia said that it is showing very good traction, with users owing to the hyper-personalised nature of the offerings and the new conversational user interface.

The case pertained to two companies – Future Corporate Resources and Liz Traders and Agents. BSE froze their demat accounts as these companies, which are undergoing an insolvency process, allegedly failed to pay the annual listing fee to the stock exchange, among others.

The resolution professionals assigned for both companies approached NCLT, as they planned to sell shares held in the companies to recover money. The Mumbai-bench of NCLT in October 2025 and July 2024 passed two separate orders, directing BSE to take back the freeze on the accounts.

BSE subsequently moved to NCLAT and filed two separate appeals against the orders. The stock exchange challenged the power of the NCLT to defreeze the demat accounts of businesses undergoing insolvency resolution and the liquidation process.

Passing a common order on the two petitions by BSE, a two-member NCLAT bench said that NCLT has the jurisdiction under section 60 (5) of the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code (IBC) to entertain applications for defreezing of the Demat accounts during insolvency and pass a direction also.

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“The fate of these appeals was dependent on the issue as to whether NCLT was having jurisdiction under Section 60 of the IBC to pass impugned orders, we do not find it relevant to discuss this aspect of the matter at length, as we have already held that NCLT was having jurisdiction under section 60 (5) of the Code to entertain such applications and the impugned orders have been passed in valid exercise of such jurisdiction,” the NCLAT said.
The appellate tribunal noted that the ownership of the companies regarding the shares held in those demat accounts has not been disputed. The NCLAT said accounts were frozen due to dues, which have become debt under the insolvency process. In that case, NCLT would have jurisdiction to deal with those dues (debt) under the IBC framework, as they are connected to the insolvency of those companies, it explained.(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)

NEW YORK — “Judge Stone,” a new legal thriller co-authored by Academy Award-winning actress Viola Davis and bestselling novelist James Patterson, debuted at No. 1 on the New York Times combined print and e-book fiction best-seller list for the week ending March 29, 2026, capturing readers with its gripping courtroom drama set in a small Alabama town.

The novel follows Judge Mary Stone as she navigates an ethically complex case that tests the boundaries of justice, personal bias and community secrets in Union Springs. Its swift rise to the top spot reflects strong early sales driven by Davis’s star power and Patterson’s proven track record in the genre, marking one of the most notable debuts of early 2026.

The list, compiled from sales data across multiple formats and retailers, highlights a mix of established franchises, returning favorites and fresh celebrity entries that continue to shape American reading habits amid growing interest in legal thrillers, fantasy series and introspective memoirs.

Top 10 Combined Print & E-Book Fiction Best Sellers (Week of March 29, 2026)

1. Judge Stone by Viola Davis and James Patterson (Little, Brown and JVL Media) — New this week. The high-profile collaboration delivers a taut courtroom tale centered on moral dilemmas and small-town dynamics.
2. The Wings That Bind by Briar Boleyn (MIRA) — New this week. The third installment in the popular Bloodwing Academy fantasy series features a awakening dragon and shifting school power structures, appealing to young adult and adult fantasy readers.
3. The Correspondent by Virginia Evans (Crown) — Holding strong after multiple weeks. Letters from a past acquaintance force the protagonist to confront unresolved history and pursue forgiveness in this emotionally layered literary novel.
4. Theo of Golden by Allen Levi (Atria) — Approximately 15 weeks on the list. The Southern literary fiction standout, in which a man trades pencil drawings for personal stories in a small town, remains a consistent performer with its quiet charm and character-driven narrative.
5. Kin by Tayari Jones (likely continuing strong sales from earlier momentum) — The acclaimed author’s exploration of family and identity sustains interest among readers seeking thoughtful contemporary fiction.

Other notable entries in the broader fiction category included lingering strength from C.J. Box’s “The Crossroads” (the 26th Joe Pickett novel, which topped earlier March lists after a dramatic shooting incident involving the protagonist), Andy Weir’s enduring sci-fi hit “Project Hail Mary,” and various romance and fantasy titles showing steady performance.

Nonfiction Landscape Reflects Celebrity and Personal Reflection

The nonfiction side featured prominent celebrity voices and timely cultural commentary.

“Kids, Wait Till You Hear This!” by Liza Minnelli (as told to Michael Feinstein with Josh Getlin and Heidi Evans) debuted at or near the top of combined print and e-book nonfiction or hardcover nonfiction charts. The EGOT winner shares candid highs and lows from her storied career and personal life, drawing significant attention from fans of classic Hollywood and Broadway.

“Getting Naked” by Valerie Bertinelli offered another high-profile memoir entry, with the actress and television personality recounting challenges and her journey toward self-acceptance following her multiple sclerosis diagnosis.

Earlier in March, titles such as “Stripped Down” by Bunnie Xo (host of the “Dumb Blonde Podcast”) and “Nobody’s Girl” by the late Virginia Roberts Giuffre maintained visibility, with Giuffre’s account of her experiences tied to high-profile figures continuing to spark discussion. Conservative commentary titles like Peter Schweizer’s works and personal political memoirs also appeared in rotating positions.

Long-running staples in paperback nonfiction, such as Bessel van der Kolk’s “The Body Keeps the Score,” demonstrated remarkable staying power with hundreds of weeks on the list, underscoring ongoing public interest in trauma, mental health and psychology.

Trends Shaping the March 2026 Best Sellers

The March 2026 lists illustrate several broader patterns in publishing and readership. Celebrity collaborations and memoirs continue to drive strong opening-week sales, as seen with Davis-Patterson and Minnelli entries. Readers appear drawn to stories blending high-stakes drama (legal thrillers, fantasy academies) with intimate character studies.

Fantasy and series books maintained a firm foothold, with entries from established universes like Bloodwing Academy performing well alongside perennial children’s and young adult series such as “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” by Jeff Kinney and “Wings of Fire” by Tui T. Sutherland, which routinely dominate dedicated category lists with hundreds of weeks of cumulative presence.

Literary fiction with strong regional or emotional resonance, exemplified by “Theo of Golden,” showed that slower-burn narratives can compete effectively against fast-paced genre fare when word-of-mouth and critical acclaim align.

Nonfiction reflected a hunger for personal authenticity — from redemption arcs and health journeys to reckonings with power, trauma and public life. Political and cultural commentary titles also found audiences amid ongoing national conversations.

Sales methodology for the New York Times lists incorporates data from a wide range of retailers and formats while applying proprietary adjustments to reflect broader market trends. Rankings represent aggregated sales for the reporting week and can shift rapidly with new releases, media appearances or viral moments.

Publishing Industry Context in 2026

As the book industry navigates evolving retail landscapes, digital consumption and competition from other entertainment forms, best-seller performance remains a key indicator of cultural resonance. Celebrity-driven titles often provide a boost to publishers, while genre stalwarts like Patterson’s collaborations and long-running series ensure steady revenue.

Independent bookstores and library circulation data frequently mirror or slightly diverge from national lists, with local preferences sometimes elevating literary or regional voices. Digital and audiobook formats continue to influence combined lists, expanding access for readers who prefer flexible consumption.

For book lovers, the March 29, 2026, edition offers a snapshot of diverse tastes: high-concept thrillers, heartfelt memoirs, imaginative fantasy and enduring classics. Whether seeking courtroom tension with “Judge Stone,” dragon-filled academy intrigue or candid life reflections from entertainment icons, the lists highlight titles capturing widespread attention.

Readers can explore the full New York Times Best Sellers — including dedicated hardcover fiction, nonfiction, paperback and children’s categories — on the newspaper’s website, where weekly updates and archival lists provide additional context. Many titles are available through public libraries, independent bookstores and major retailers.

As spring reading seasons approach, the current best sellers suggest audiences are balancing escapism with introspection. Future weeks may see further shifts with new releases from major authors, but the strong debuts and sustained runs in late March underscore the vibrancy of American book culture heading into the second quarter of 2026.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.

Last week, the BSE benchmark Sensex lost 949.74 points or 1.27 per cent, and the NSE Nifty tanked 294.9 points or 1.27 per cent.

“Markets ended the week on a weaker note, reflecting heightened volatility amid fluctuating global cues and escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The week was marked by sharp swings, with early losses driven by concerns over energy supply disruptions, a weakening rupee, which touched a record low, and rising volatility,” Ajit Mishra – SVP, Research, Religare Broking Ltd, said.

This was followed by a mid-week recovery on hopes of a temporary de-escalation in US-Iran tensions, he noted.

“However, renewed selling pressure on Friday erased the gains, dragging indices lower,” Mishra added.

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The market valuation of Reliance Industries eroded by Rs 89,720.3 crore to Rs 18,24,515.62 crore.
HDFC Bank‘s valuation tanked by Rs 37,248.59 crore to Rs 11,64,018.69 crore.State Bank of India lost Rs 35,399.42 crore from its market valuation, which stood at Rs 9,41,569.15 crore.

The market capitalisation (mcap) of ICICI Bank dropped by Rs 8,121.76 crore to Rs 8,83,551.30 crore, and that of Bharti Airtel declined by Rs 2,480.42 crore to Rs 10,50,413.33 crore.

Hindustan Unilever’s mcap diminished by Rs 2,091.13 crore to Rs 4,87,540.19 crore, and that of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) dipped by Rs 271.35 crore to Rs 8,64,668.65 crore.

However, the market valuation of Larsen & Toubro surged by Rs 18,051.68 crore to Rs 4,90,536.19 crore.

The mcap of Bajaj Finance jumped Rs 8,680.36 crore to Rs 5,25,395.48 crore.

Infosys added Rs 6,245.3 crore, taking its valuation to Rs 5,15,034.67 crore.

Reliance Industries retained the title of the most valued firm, followed by HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel, State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, TCS, Bajaj Finance, Infosys, Larsen & Toubro and Hindustan Unilever.

MONACO — Charles Leclerc, the 28-year-old Monegasque Ferrari driver, continues to captivate Formula 1 fans in March 2026 with his blend of raw talent, resilience and off-track charm as he navigates the radically new 2026 regulations alongside teammate Lewis Hamilton.

While battling for podiums in the early season — including recent results in Melbourne and Shanghai that left him third in the championship — Leclerc has shared candid thoughts on the lighter, more agile 2026 cars, admitting they are “not the funniest” he has driven yet finding enjoyment in the chaos and energy management battles. Beyond the cockpit, the Scuderia star balances high-speed racing with family life, music and entrepreneurial ventures that reveal a multifaceted personality.

Here are five fun facts about Charles Leclerc that highlight his journey from Monaco’s streets to the pinnacle of motorsport and the personal touches that make him one of F1’s most relatable stars.

1. He Plays Piano and Collaborated With a Renowned Pianist

One of Leclerc’s lesser-known talents is his musical ability. The Ferrari driver is an accomplished pianist and guitarist who has performed publicly on occasion. In recent years, he collaborated with French pianist Sofiane Pamart on a track, blending classical influences with modern sounds that reflect his creative side away from the racetrack.

Leclerc has spoken about using music as a way to unwind after intense race weekends. In interviews, he described how playing piano helps him process the highs and lows of a demanding season. Fans were treated to glimpses of this passion during quieter moments, including social media posts showing him at the keys. This artistic outlet contrasts sharply with the precision and aggression required in Formula 1, offering a window into a more introspective side of the driver nicknamed “il Predestinato” by Italian media.

2. He Launched His Own Ice Cream Brand Called “Lec”

In a sweet business move, Leclerc debuted his own low-calorie ice cream brand, “Lec,” in April 2024, and it has continued gaining traction into 2026. The line features five flavors — chocolate, vanilla, pistachio, salted caramel and peanut caramel — designed to appeal to health-conscious fans while delivering premium taste.

The venture reflects Leclerc’s entrepreneurial spirit and connection with supporters. He has promoted the brand during race weekends and through personal channels, turning his fame into a consumer product that fans can enjoy. It also ties into his broader interests in lifestyle and wellness, showing that the driver thinks beyond lap times and podium celebrations.

3. He Married Longtime Partner Alexandra Saint Mleux in Early 2026

Leclerc tied the knot with influencer and partner Alexandra Saint Mleux in a private civil ceremony in Monaco on Feb. 28, 2026, following their engagement announcement in late 2025. The couple, who began dating publicly in 2023, celebrated with close family and friends in the picturesque principality where Leclerc was born and raised.

The wedding added a joyful chapter to Leclerc’s personal life amid a demanding 2026 season. Alexandra has been a steady presence at races, and the pair often share glimpses of life together, including time with their dog Leo. Family remains central for Leclerc, who welcomed the New Year 2026 surrounded by relatives and frequently emphasizes balance between his racing career and home life.

4. He Comes From a Racing Family and Lost His Father Before His F1 Debut

Racing runs deep in the Leclerc bloodline. His late father, Hervé Leclerc, competed in European Formula 3 in the 1980s and 1990s, instilling a passion for the sport from an early age. Charles began karting at seven and rose rapidly through the junior ranks, winning GP3 in 2016 and Formula 2 in 2017.

Hervé passed away in 2017 after a long illness, just days before a key Formula 2 race. Leclerc has often spoken about his father’s influence and the emotional weight of fulfilling the family dream at Ferrari, the team he joined in 2019. His younger brother Arthur also races, while older brother Lorenzo supports from the sidelines. This tight-knit family dynamic has shaped Leclerc’s grounded approach despite his superstar status.

5. He Holds the Record for Most Pole Positions Without a World Title — and Loves Street Circuits

As of early 2026, Leclerc holds the record for the most pole positions in Formula 1 history without winning a Drivers’ Championship (27 poles). His qualifying prowess is legendary, with standout performances on street circuits where he feels most at home.

Leclerc particularly shines at Monaco — his home race — and secured a historic victory there in 2024, becoming the first Monegasque winner since 1931. He also loves Monza’s high-speed layout, where he has tasted victory twice. In 2026, he has adapted to the new regulations, praising the lighter cars for their lively balance and oversteer while noting the challenge of energy deployment in races. He defended the 2026 cars against criticism, saying racing does not feel “artificial” from inside the cockpit and that he finds fun in the evolving chaos.

These five facts only scratch the surface of Leclerc’s story. Born Oct. 16, 1997, in Monte Carlo, he stands 1.80 meters tall and weighs around 68 kg. Trilingual in French, English and Italian, he brings elegance and intensity to Ferrari’s garage. Off-track, he enjoys architecture, fashion, real estate and spending time with loved ones, including yacht escapes and family gatherings.

In the 2026 season, Leclerc has shown adaptability alongside Hamilton, securing podiums despite Ferrari facing early challenges from Mercedes. He has expressed excitement for the new regulations’ potential while acknowledging they are not the most enjoyable to drive. His ability to find pleasure in development and racing battles underscores a mature mindset as he pushes to bring Ferrari back to title contention.

Fans admire Leclerc not just for his speed but for his authenticity. Whether battling for poles, sharing piano sessions or celebrating personal milestones like his recent marriage, he embodies the passion that defines Formula 1. As the season unfolds, expect more standout moments from the Monegasque who turned childhood dreams into reality behind the wheel of a red Ferrari.

Leclerc’s journey reminds enthusiasts that success in motorsport extends far beyond lap records. It includes family bonds, creative outlets and the quiet determination to evolve with every challenge — on and off the track.

PHOENIX — Arizona will not rename the Loop 202 freeway after conservative activist Charlie Kirk following Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs’ veto of a Republican-backed bill on Friday, March 27, 2026, in a move that reignited partisan tensions over public memorials and the legacy of the slain Turning Point USA founder.

Hobbs rejected Senate Bill 1010, which sought to designate the entire 78-mile Loop 202 — also known regionally as the Red Mountain Freeway, Santan Freeway and Congressman Ed Pastor Freeway — as the “Charlie Kirk Loop 202.” The legislation, sponsored by Senate President Warren Petersen, would have required the Arizona Department of Transportation to install a “reasonable amount” of new signage bearing the name while retaining existing regional designations.

In her veto message, Hobbs acknowledged Kirk’s assassination as “a tragic and horrifying act of violence” but argued that renaming roadways should remain a nonpartisan process rather than “the center of political games.” She emphasized adherence to existing traditions for highway naming, which typically involve broader consensus and avoid direct legislative overrides of established protocols.

The bill passed the Republican-controlled Senate on Feb. 18 and the House on March 18 along party lines, with no Democratic support. It arrived on Hobbs’ desk shortly before the veto, marking the second recent rejection of Kirk-related legislation after she blocked a specialty license plate proposal earlier in March.

Background on Charlie Kirk and the Proposal

Charlie Kirk, who founded Turning Point USA in 2012 as a college student, built the organization into a major conservative youth movement with headquarters in the Phoenix area near portions of Loop 202. Kirk, 32 at the time of his death, was assassinated in September 2025 in what authorities described as a targeted attack. His killing drew widespread condemnation across political lines while intensifying debates over political violence and free speech.

Supporters of the renaming, primarily Republicans, viewed the measure as a fitting tribute to Kirk’s influence on young conservatives and his Arizona roots. They argued the freeway’s proximity to Turning Point USA’s operations made the honor symbolically appropriate and that swift legislative action honored his memory without unnecessary delay.

Critics, including Democrats and some transportation advocates, contended that the bill bypassed standard naming procedures, which often require community input, time for public reflection and avoidance of politicizing infrastructure. Opponents noted that Loop 202 already carries multiple sectional names honoring diverse figures, including the late Democratic Congressman Ed Pastor, and warned against setting a precedent for rapid, partisan-driven renamings.

Hobbs’ Veto Rationale and Political Context

In statements accompanying the veto, Hobbs stressed that government acts like highway naming “should remain nonpartisan” and not become tools for political theater. Her message echoed language from the earlier license plate veto, signaling a consistent stance against what she described as rushed commemorations tied to recent tragedies.

The veto comes amid Arizona’s deeply divided political landscape. Republicans hold majorities in both legislative chambers, but Hobbs’ position as a Democratic governor elected in 2022 gives her veto power, which the GOP would need a two-thirds majority to override — a high bar unlikely to be met on this measure.

The Loop 202, a key east-west and southern beltway around metropolitan Phoenix, serves heavy commuter traffic in the East Valley and connects growing suburbs. Daily drivers on segments like the Red Mountain or Santan portions will continue seeing existing signage without the addition of Kirk’s name.

Reactions from Lawmakers and Advocates

Republican leaders expressed disappointment. Senate President Petersen and other sponsors framed the bill as a simple, meaningful honor for a prominent Arizonan whose work inspired thousands. Some conservatives accused Hobbs of politicizing the issue herself by blocking a tribute to a victim of violence.

Democratic lawmakers and progressive groups welcomed the veto, arguing it preserved the integrity of public infrastructure decisions and prevented the freeway system from becoming a battleground for ideological score-settling. Transportation experts noted that frequent renamings can confuse drivers and increase costs for signage and mapping updates.

Turning Point USA issued a statement mourning the veto while reaffirming commitment to Kirk’s vision of engaging young people in conservative principles. The organization stopped short of immediate calls for an override, focusing instead on continuing Kirk’s legacy through programming.

Broader Implications for Memorial Naming in Arizona

The episode highlights ongoing debates in Arizona and nationally over how states commemorate public figures, especially in polarized times. Highway naming has long served as a low-cost way to honor veterans, civil rights leaders, politicians and community icons, but rapid legislative pushes tied to recent events have sparked concerns about precedent.

Arizona maintains processes for naming through the state transportation board, which typically allows for community proposals and review periods. Critics of SB 1010 said the bill short-circuited those safeguards, potentially opening the door to future disputes over other roadways.

Similar controversies have played out elsewhere, with debates over renaming bridges, buildings or parks after polarizing figures. In Arizona, the veto aligns with Hobbs’ pattern of rejecting measures she views as overly partisan, including previous attempts at symbolic legislation.

As of March 29, 2026, no immediate plans for an override vote had been announced, and Loop 202 signage will remain unchanged. The Arizona Department of Transportation confirmed it would not proceed with any modifications related to the failed bill.

Kirk’s Enduring Influence Despite the Veto

While the freeway will not bear his name, Kirk’s impact on Arizona conservatism remains significant. Turning Point USA continues operations from its Phoenix-area base, hosting events, training activists and influencing campus politics nationwide. Supporters point to his role in mobilizing young voters and promoting limited government as reasons his memory deserves public recognition, even if not through infrastructure.

Opponents counter that true legacies are built through ideas and actions rather than government-mandated signage, and that hasty memorials risk diminishing the gravity of public honors.

The veto closes one chapter in the post-assassination discussion around Kirk but is unlikely to end broader conversations about political violence, youth engagement and how Arizona balances commemoration with neutrality in public spaces.

For commuters on Loop 202, daily drives through the East Valley and South Mountain areas will proceed without new tributes or added signage costs. The 78-mile corridor, vital for connecting Phoenix suburbs and relieving traffic on parallel routes like Interstate 10, retains its current mix of regional designations honoring both bipartisan figures and geographic features.

As Arizona’s legislative session continues, observers expect further clashes over symbolic bills, with Hobbs positioned as a check on Republican priorities in a divided state. Whether future proposals for Kirk-related honors emerge — or similar measures for other deceased leaders — remains to be seen.

In the meantime, the Loop 202 freeway stands as a reminder of infrastructure’s role in everyday life and the challenges of assigning symbolic meaning in an era of deep political division.