Managing director Chris MacGregor said a 6.4% increase above inflation tariff adjustment would “begin correcting that long-term imbalance”, help the company speed up its use of renewable energy and “ensure the long-term stability” of the electricity system.

This article was written by

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

The 98th Academy Awards, held Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre, delivered a night of first-time winners, emotional tributes, and a dominant performance by Paul Thomas Anderson’s epic “One Battle After Another,” which took home the best picture Oscar along with five other awards.

Hosted by Conan O’Brien for his second consecutive year, the ceremony blended sharp humor, heartfelt moments, and a celebration of cinema amid a competitive field that included Ryan Coogler’s record-nomination “Sinners” and Chloé Zhao’s “Hamnet.”

“One Battle After Another,” Anderson’s wry exploration of nativism and activism, emerged as the evening’s biggest winner with six Oscars. The film secured best picture, best director for Anderson (his first win in the category), best adapted screenplay (also for Anderson), best supporting actor for Sean Penn, best film editing, and best casting.

Penn, absent from the ceremony, became a three-time Oscar winner, tying a record for male actors in supporting roles. Anderson’s long-awaited hardware marked a breakthrough after previous nominations without victories.

“Sinners,” which entered the night with a record-tying 16 nominations, earned four awards, including best actor for Michael B. Jordan in his dual role as twin brothers Smoke and Stack. Jordan’s win was a career milestone, and he used his acceptance speech to honor predecessors in Black cinema. The film also claimed best original screenplay for Ryan Coogler, best original score for Ludwig Göransson, and best cinematography for Autumn Durald Arkapaw — the first woman to win in that category.

Jessie Buckley won best actress for her lead performance in “Hamnet,” directed by Chloé Zhao, becoming the first Irish winner in the category. Buckley’s portrayal in the adaptation earned praise for its emotional depth.

Supporting actress went to Amy Madigan for “Weapons,” while other notable wins included a historic first for a K-pop song in best original song.

The ceremony featured emotional tributes, including an In Memoriam segment honoring late Hollywood figures, and standout performances. “Sinners” and other films brought high-energy moments, with risqué jokes from O’Brien and appearances from past winners like Adrien Brody, Zoe Saldaña, and Mikey Madison as presenters.

Red carpet highlights included bold fashion choices, with stars embracing dramatic looks ahead of the show.

“One Battle After Another” producer Adam Somner, Sara Murphy, and Anderson accepted the best picture award, capping a sweep that reflected the film’s critical and industry acclaim.

The night’s historic elements — from Arkapaw’s cinematography win to Buckley’s breakthrough — underscored a diverse slate of films and performers.

As the 2026 awards season concluded, “One Battle After Another” stood out as the defining achievement, blending Anderson’s signature style with timely themes in a film that resonated deeply with Academy voters.

In a world where digital privacy feels harder to find, many people are looking for a messaging app that doesn’t just work well but also keeps their data safe.

If you have been looking for a fast, secure, and flexible way to stay in touch with friends or manage large communities, you have likely heard of Telegram. It is more than just a simple instant messaging app; it is a complete ecosystem for communication.

However, getting started can sometimes feel a bit confusing, especially if you are looking for specific features like the Telegram Chinese version or want to use the app without a phone via the browser-based web interface. In this guide, we will break down exactly how to set everything up, solve common login headaches, and make sure you are getting the most out of this powerful cross-platform tool.

Why Users are Moving Away from Traditional Messaging Apps

Many users feel stuck with apps that limit their file sizes or, worse, compromise their privacy. One of the biggest pain points for modern users is the lack of true message synchronization. It is frustrating to start a conversation on your phone and find that it hasn’t updated on your laptop.

Telegram solves this by being a cloud-based service. Unlike other apps that store data only on your physical device, this platform keeps your chats in a secure cloud. This means you can switch from your phone to your tablet or desktop client without missing a single word. Furthermore, for those who prioritize security, the end-to-end encryption used in voice calls and the secret chats feature provide peace of mind that your private business stays private.

A Complete Guide to the Telegram Download and Setup

Setting up the app is the first step toward better communication. Whether you are an Android fan or an iPhone loyalist, the process is designed to be user-friendly.

Installing the Mobile Version on iOS and Android

For most, the mobile app is the primary way to stay connected.

1. Find the App: Open the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
2. Download: Search for the official app. When you telegram下载, make sure you are selecting the official version with the blue paper plane icon to avoid third-party clones.
3. Account Creation: Use your phone number to register. You will receive a verification code via SMS.
4. Permissions: The app will ask for access to your contacts. This is optional but helps you find friends who are already using the service.

If you are in a region where the Play Store is restricted, you can always find the official Telegram APK on their website. This ensures that everyone has access to real-time messaging regardless of their location.

Setting Up Telegram for Desktop (Windows and Mac)

For professionals, typing on a phone all day isn’t ideal. The desktop version is a game-changer for productivity.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official website and download the setup file for your specific operating system.
2. Installation: Run the file and follow the simple on-screen instructions.
3. Fast Login: Instead of typing your number again, you can use the QR code login feature. Just open the app on your phone, go to settings, and scan the code on your computer screen. Your entire chat history will appear instantly.

Accessing the Telegram Web Version Without Installation

One common pain point is wanting to check messages on a computer where you aren’t allowed to install new software, like at a library or a shared office. The telegram网页版 is the perfect solution here.

The web-based interface works directly in your browser. You don’t need to download a single file. There are actually two versions available, often referred to as Web K and Web Z.

• Web K is optimized for speed and works exceptionally well even on a slower internet connection.
• Web Z offers a more polished user interface with modern animations and a look that mirrors the mobile app.

Using the web version is great for quick file sharing or sending a link from your browser. It keeps your data security intact by allowing you to “Log out of all other sessions” directly from your phone if you forget to sign out on a public computer.

How to Set Up the Telegram Chinese Version for Better Localization

Localization is key to a good user experience. If your primary language is Chinese, navigating an English menu can be a bit of a chore. While there isn’t a separate “app” specifically called the telegram中文 version, the platform makes it very easy to switch your language settings.

To change your interface to Chinese Simplified or Traditional, you can follow these steps:

1. Search for Language Channels: There are many verified communities that provide localization files.
2. Apply the Link: When you click a dedicated language link, the app will prompt you to “Change Language.”
3. Instant Update: Once you confirm, the entire navigation experience, from settings to notification alerts, will be in your native tongue.

This level of multilingual support is one of the reasons the app has grown so quickly in global markets. It allows for a more intuitive design that feels natural to the user.

Essential Tips for Managing Your Telegram Experience

Once you are logged in, you might find the number of messages overwhelming. This is a common issue for new users joining large group chats or following popular channels.

Organizing with Chat Folders

If your chat list is getting messy, use the folders feature. You can create a “Work” folder and a “Personal” folder. This simple organization tip reduces digital clutter and ensures you never miss an important notification from a family member or a colleague.

Strengthening Your Privacy and Security

Since we are dealing with a cloud-based app, you should take an extra minute to lock down your account.

• Enable 2FA: Activate Two-Step Verification in the privacy settings. This requires a password whenever you log in from a new device, preventing unauthorized access even if someone intercepts your SMS code.
• Privacy Controls: You can choose who sees your “Last Seen” status or your profile picture. These privacy settings give you full control over your digital footprint.

Troubleshooting Common Connection and Login Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly. A common pain point is not receiving the verification code. If this happens, wait for the timer to end and choose the “Get code via phone call” option.

Another issue is when the app won’t connect due to local network restrictions. In these cases, you can use the built-in proxy settings. By adding a SOCKS5 or MTProto proxy, you can bypass blocks and maintain a stable release connection. This is a vital feature for users in regions where access to global social media is limited.

Conclusion: Why Telegram is the Future of Communication

Whether you are using it for the encrypted chat features or just because you need to send large files that other apps won’t allow, Telegram offers a level of freedom that is hard to find elsewhere. From the convenience of the browser-based web version to the localized ease of the Chinese interface, it is an app that truly adapts to the user.

By following this guide, you now have the tools to telegram下载 and set up your account like a pro. Remember to keep your security settings tight and use folders to keep your conversations organized. In an era of constant connectivity, having a reliable and secure platform is not just a luxury; it is a necessity.

International brokerage firm Nomura has slashed the Nifty target for December 2026 to 24,900, a sharp 15% cut from its initial target of 29,300 it gave last year. Further, analysts have cautioned that the 50-share index could fall another 5% after already declining 8% since the onset of the US, Israel-Iran war on February 28.

“We think an additional 5% correction (similar to the correction during the Russia-Ukraine war) is a distinct possibility in the near term, with small and midcap stocks at relatively greater risk,” Nomura said in a report dated March 16. “Adverse flow dynamics can drive markets even lower in the short term. Domestic equity inflow growth has slowed down in the recent past. The valuation threshold for FIIs is lower, aggravated by concerns about the impact of AI and higher oil prices,” it added.

The sustained geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following the attack on Iran present a material risk to the oil and gas supply chain. Shipments through the critical Strait of Hormuz have come to a standstill. These shipments are primarily related to oil and gas. The oil and gas shipments through the chokepoint account for more than 20% of global trade in these commodities.

Also Read | Flexi cap mutual funds record highest inflows for 7 consecutive months. Will the trend continue?

India remains heavily dependent on imports for crude oil, natural gas and LPG, making it particularly vulnerable to external shocks. The Strait of Hormuz alone accounts for around 43% of the country’s crude oil imports and nearly 63% of its LNG imports, highlighting the scale of exposure to this critical route.

Any disruption in supplies can have a broad impact on the economy, as most manufacturing industries are closely linked to the oil and gas supply chain. A sustained rise in oil and gas prices could derail the nascent growth recovery, push inflation higher and put additional pressure on the country’s external balance, Nomura said.
The Indian markets, with the Nifty as a proxy, have corrected 8% over the past two weeks. Such a sharp decline has been seen only twice in the past decade, during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and at the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022.Valuations have also moderated meaningfully. In terms of price-to-earnings multiples and the spread over bond yields, the market is now at the lower end of the range seen over the past four years, the brokerage said.

“Therefore, a correction beyond 5% from current levels should present a buying opportunity from a long-term perspective, in our view,” analysts added.

Earnings at risk?

A sustained high energy price environment is likely to weigh on FY27 earnings. If oil prices remain around $100 per barrel, aggregate corporate earnings could see a downward revision of 10-15% compared to current consensus estimates.

At present, consensus expectations factor in earnings growth of around 16% for FY27 (BSE 200+). However, such cuts could bring growth down sharply, resulting in flat to mid-single-digit earnings growth for the year.

FII selling to worsen?

FIIs have been net sellers, particularly in the secondary market, over the past two years. To start with, elevated valuations were a concern. This was followed by the emergence of the AI trade, where India is perceived as a net loser. Investors are concerned about the IT outsourcing business model, which could impact the broader economy. Elevated oil prices now present an additional headwind to sentiment. “Against this backdrop, we think the valuation threshold for FIIs is likely lower than in the past.”

Domestic inflows have been the bulwark of the equity markets in India. SIP flows have remained resilient, driving consistent positive inflows into mutual funds. However, Nomura says there has been a slowdown in inflow growth rates in the recent past. If the crisis prolongs, domestic inflow growth may slow further.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times.)

FTSE 250 bank will cut fifth of workforce following £300m provisions for car finance mis-selling redress scheme

Close Brothers has announced it will cut up to a fifth of its workforce as the bank presses ahead with its aggressive cost-cutting drive amid mounting losses tied to the motor finance scandal.

The FTSE 250 lender revealed it would slash 600 full-time positions by the end of the 2027 financial year, representing approximately 20 per cent of the firm’s total workforce. The redundancies come as the bank aims to trim costs by roughly £85m.

The move follows the bank posting a £65.5m loss in the first half of the year after being compelled to increase its provisions for the motor finance scandal. The figure did represent an improvement from a £102.2m loss in the corresponding period the previous year.

Losses were fuelled by the substantial £135m set aside in October after the UK’s financial watchdog outlined proposals for its industry-wide redress scheme for the car mis-selling saga. The additional funds pushed the bank’s total provisions to £300m, as reported by City AM.

However, the latest update on Tuesday came after a bombshell report from short-seller Viceroy, which cautioned the bank would need to “at least” double its existing provisions following “examination” of the watchdog’s redress scheme.

The note accused Close Brothers of “systematically misrepresenting” its exposure to the motor finance scandal and warned in a worst-case scenario the bank could face regulatory intervention and leave shareholders “substantially wiped out”. The bank maintained its earlier guidance regarding dividends, confirming that reinstatement will not occur until there is greater certainty surrounding the financial regulator’s upcoming motor finance compensation programme.

Operating income dropped to £333.8m, down from £355.4m during the corresponding period last year, affected by a reduced average loan book and the deliberate winding down of certain business operations.

Meanwhile, expenses declined to £359.8m, down from £409.5m, as chief executive Mike Morgan pressed ahead with his cost-reduction restructuring programme.

“We remain focused on delivering our strategic priorities: simplify, optimise, and grow. With the simplification of our business largely complete, we are firmly in the optimisation stage, and have accelerated our cost savings plans,” Morgan said on Tuesday.

Home improvement retailer hits £1.6bn revenue as it positions itself to lead fragmented solar installation market

Home improvement retailer Wickes has seen its profit double as the company aims to become a frontrunner in solar panel installation.

The company reported revenue of £1.6bn, an increase of six per cent, while pre-tax profit rose from £23m to £49m for the year ending December 2025.

Wickes was elevated to the FTSE 250 last year, seeing a turnaround after its revenue had been hit by a decrease in consumer demand for high-value items such as kitchen installations.

The DIY retailer’s share price rose in response to the favourable results, reaching 225p in early trading on Tuesday, a rise of five per cent from Monday’s close.

The company celebrated a record market share in retail, although its overall share in home improvement, kitchens and bathrooms is only at five per cent due to the £35bn size of this market, it stated, as reported by City AM.

Expenditure on DIY is increasing as the UK’s housing stock ages, with the majority of the UK’s 29m homes being over 60 years old, according to the tool seller.

A further one in five British homes are more than a century old, and UK houses are among the least energy efficient in Europe, Wickes said.

The group is banking on its solar installation brand as a route for growth, with the total market predicted to be worth £1.5bn per year by 2028.

The firm is ready to capitalise on this “fragmented” market, which currently lacks a clear leader, it said.

“With a trusted brand and significant experience in design and installation services at scale, Wickes is well placed to be a market leader in solar and other home energy solutions.”

Wickes has witnessed stronger performance in its design and installation offerings following a downturn in big-ticket purchases in recent years, with turnover for this division rising 4.4 per cent year on year.

Shoppers are responding favourably to the modifications implemented by Wickes as part of the transformation which propelled it into the FTSE 250, including making face-to-face design appointments more accessible and replacing its telephone reservation system with an online platform.

The home improvement retailer is also venturing into premium appliances and kitchen styling, such as by introducing a high-end pastel shade collection including “Ohio pink”.

As the company’s DIY retail division continues to deliver, Wickes is investing in its TradePro membership programme, which boasts 643,000 active participants – with transactions from these customers up nine per cent year on year.

Wickes launched five new outlets last year, taking its total number of UK locations to 230. The business intends to open four or five new sites this year, as the firm concentrates on refurbishing up to 20 stores with additional space for kitchen and bathroom displays.

“Continued investment in our proven growth levers positions us well for 2026, notwithstanding the uncertain consumer and geopolitical environment, the firm said. Wickes announced a final dividend of 7.3p, resulting in a total annual dividend of 10.9p, which is consistent with the previous year.