Business

F&O Talk | Nifty crosses 100-DMA, but consolidation looms; Sudeep Shah highlights 2 rally triggers

Published

5 hours ago

7 February 2026

F&O Talk | Nifty crosses 100-DMA, but consolidation looms; Sudeep Shah highlights 2 rally triggers

Indian stock markets ended the week on a strong note buoyed by the India-US trade deal and with an interim trade agreement between the two countries made on Saturday, the domestic markets are set to enter next week trade on strong footing. President Donald Trump issued an executive order scrapping an additional 25% levy imposed over New Delhi’s purchases of Russian oil while also slashing “reciprocal” tariffs from an earlier 25% to 18%.

Nifty ended its two-week losing streak ending above the crucial 100-day moving average. Meanwhile, fear index India VIX has cooled-off sharply by 20% during the week to close near 12 and any further decline in volatility is expected to offer additional comfort to the bulls.

With this, analyst Sudeep Shah, Vice President and Head of Technical & Derivatives Research at SBI Securities, interacted with ETMarkets regarding the outlook for the Nifty and Bank Nifty, as well as an index strategy for the upcoming week. The following are the edited excerpts from his chat:

Q: Nifty ended with weekly gains of 1.4% led by the India-US trade deal managing to close just shy of 25,700. What do Nifty charts suggest for next week of action?

The past week proved to be a high-voltage one for the benchmark index, with Nifty navigating an environment of elevated volatility. The index swung within a massive 1,662-point range, marking its widest weekly movement since June 2024.

On Union Budget day, Nifty slipped sharply to an intraday low of 24,571, weighed down by concerns over the increase in STT on F&O transactions. However, the weakness was short-lived. A sharp 1,770-point rebound followed as global risk sentiment improved after U.S. President Donald Trump announced an immediate reduction in reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18%. This positive trigger propelled the index to an intraday high of 26,341, reviving hopes of a fresh all-time high.
That optimism, however, faded quickly. Within the very first minute of trade, Nifty witnessed a sharp 600-point intraday cut, reflecting aggressive profit booking amid heightened volatility. Despite supportive global cues, the index failed to decisively scale new highs, underscoring the fragile sentiment prevailing in the market.
In the latter half of the week, Nifty moved into a phase of sideways consolidation. Intense selling pressure in IT stocks capped broader market gains, as rising concerns around recent developments in artificial intelligence triggered apprehensions over the sector’s long-term growth outlook. Consequently, the Nifty IT index emerged as the worst-performing sector, ending the week with a sharp decline of 6.91%.
From a technical perspective, momentum indicators point towards consolidation, suggesting that the index may continue to oscillate within a defined range before a decisive directional move emerges.

Looking ahead, the 100-day EMA zone of 25,500–25,550 is expected to act as immediate support, followed by 25,200. On the upside, the 25,850–25,880 region will remain a critical resistance band. A sustained move above 25,880 could open the door for further upside toward 26,000, followed by 26,200 in the near term, setting the stage for another attempt at higher levels.

Q: February has traditionally been a week month but the start has so far been quite encouraging. What will be your advice to investors who have a positional view on the markets and would like to make trades based on this. Based on the seasonality data and post-budget trends, are there specific sectors which stand a higher chance to deliver gains for the investors?

Despite February being seasonally weak, post-Budget trends support a cautiously positive positional approach. In the week following the Budget, Sensex has closed positive 11 out of 15 times with an average gain of 2.10%, while Nifty has ended positive 12 times with an average gain of 2.04%.

From a 3-month perspective, both Sensex and Nifty have delivered positive returns 9 out of 15 times, with average gains of 6.77% and 7.40% respectively.

Sectorally, Pharma has been the strongest performer. In the week post Budget, Pharma has closed positive 14 out of 15 times with an average gain of 3.20% and a negligible average loss of just 0.24% in the lone negative instance. Over three months, Pharma has delivered positive returns 10 times with an average gain of 7.45%, while losses averaged only 1.90%.

Financial Services has also shown consistency, closing positive 11 times in the week post Budget with an average gain of 2.93%, while the 4 negative instances saw an average loss of 3.21%. From a 3-month view, Financial Services ended positive 9 times with an average gain of 10.85%, while losses averaged 8.81%.

Q. What is your view on Bank Nifty?

The banking benchmark index Bank Nifty registered a fresh all time high of 61764 on Tuesday, reflecting continued strength in the financial space. However, the index failed to hold on to higher levels, as profit booking emerged sharply in the latter half of the week. Despite this pullback, Bank Nifty ended the week on a strong note at 60120, delivering nearly 3% weekly gains and forming a bullish candle accompanied by a long upper shadow on the weekly chart — a sign of intraday volatility and selling pressure at elevated zones.

From a trend perspective, the index remains comfortably positioned above all its crucial moving averages, reaffirming the resilience of the medium term uptrend. That said, momentum indicators and oscillators have started to flatten out, signalling a likely consolidation phase or sideways movement as the market digests recent gains and awaits fresh triggers.

Looking ahead, the 20 day EMA placed between 59600-59500 is expected to act as the immediate and most important support zone for the index. Holding above this region will be critical for maintaining the current bullish structure. On the upside, the band of 60400–60500 continues to act as a strong supply zone. A decisive and sustained breakout above 60500 could reignite bullish momentum, paving the way for a swift rally towards 61200, and potentially extending further to 62000 in the short term.

Q: FIIs have remained net buyers this week while INR has also managed to deliver its best weekly closing in nearly three years. Do you expect these reversals to sustain for markets to benefit?

While FIIs have turned net buyers this week and the INR has posted its best weekly close in nearly three years, it is still premature to assume that the reversal will sustain. A major portion of the FII inflow came from a single large buying session after the India–US trade deal announcement, rather than a steady flow trend. On the currency front, the dollar index has eased marginally from its recent high of 92.19 recorded on 28th January, but it has largely moved in a narrow range over the last few sessions, indicating that the weakness is not yet decisive. A sustained dollar decline is typically needed to drive durable EM inflows.

Importantly, most key domestic triggers namely the India–US trade deal, Union Budget, RBI policy decision, and Q3 earnings season are already behind us, yet broad-based FII participation has not meaningfully returned. In addition, elevated FII index futures shorts have not seen expected unwinding.

For markets to build a stronger uptrend, consistent FII cash buying and visible short covering will be two crucial triggers, going forward.

Q: Tech stocks were worst hit this week with Nifty IT index falling more than 6%. How should one trade in this pack?

The Nifty IT index was among the worst performers this week, falling over 6%, largely triggered by renewed global concerns around AI-led disruption after Anthropic launched an advanced legal-focused AI tool. This development intensified fears that AI could increasingly replace or compress high-value software and consulting work, a risk not limited to Indian IT firms but also impacting US technology and software companies. The selloff reflects worries about future billing models, pricing power, and demand visibility across the global IT services space.

Technically, the setup has weakened further. The IT index is trading below its key short- and long-term moving averages and has confirmed a double-top neckline breakdown, with the measured downside target placed near the 35,050–35,000 zone. RSI has slipped below 40, indicating bearish momentum, and the MACD line has moved below the zero line. Unless the index reclaims and sustains above 36,000, weakness is likely to persist. Traders should avoid aggressive bottom fishing and look at rallies toward resistance as potential sell-on-rise opportunities until momentum stabilizes.

Q: Defence stocks struggled this week despite a largely positive budget for this sector. Where do you see opportunities?

Defence stocks underperformed this week despite a budget that was broadly supportive for the sector, mainly because price action continues to lack momentum. The Defence index has been moving in a wide 8,359–7,459 range since Budget day and, in fact, has remained largely range-bound since September last year with no sustained directional trend. The only phase of notable outperformance was during the post–Operation Sindoor rally from early April to late June 2025, after which most gains were retraced and momentum faded.

Technically, the 8,300–8,400 zone remains a strong resistance band. Only a decisive breakout above this area with volumes can revive buying interest at the index level. Until then, opportunities appear selective rather than broad-based. Among the pack, Data Patterns and MTAR Tech currently display relatively stronger price structures, while most other defence names continue to show weak or sideways setups. Traders may focus on stock-specific strength instead of the entire theme.

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Q: Apar Industries, Aarti and Nykaa have been star performers this week while BDL, Hindustan Copper and GRSE have been big losers. What should investors do with them?

Apar Industries, Aarti Industries and Nykaa have shown relative strength this week, but the approach should remain level-based rather than chasing momentum. After the post-Budget gap-up, APARINDS has moved in a tight range, with 9,750–9,800 acting as a strong resistance; only a sustained breakout above this zone can trigger fresh move higher. AARTIIND has given a downward-sloping trendline breakout with a rising RSI, and the bullish bias holds as long as it sustains above 420–415 zone. Nykaa has given a volume-backed horizontal trendline breakout, with RSI rising and DI+ crossing DI-, indicating continued upside potential on follow-through.

On the laggard side, BDL and GRSE remain weak as the defence pack underperforms. Both trade below key short- and long-term moving averages. BDL has broken below the 1,305–1,300 swing low, while GRSE failed near 2,800 and slipped. Trend reversal is unlikely unless these resistance levels are reclaimed. Hindustan Copper has corrected about 24% after a parabolic rally and is now consolidating in a 658–555 band since last 7 sessions. Traders should wait for a decisive range breakout for fresh directional signals.

Q. Which Sectors you feel can outperform from here on & stocks within them?

From a technical perspective, several sectoral indices are showing signs of relative strength and are poised to outperform in the near term. Notably, the Nifty CPSE, Nifty PSE, Nifty Metal, and Nifty Oil & Gas indices are displaying sustained momentum, favourable price structures, and strong sector specific tailwinds. These indices continue to trade above key moving averages, and their short term indicators point toward continued outperformance as long as current trend supports hold.

On the contrary, pockets such as Nifty IT, Nifty Pharma, and Nifty Healthcare appear comparatively weaker on the charts.

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

Business

Pressure mounts on American Airlines CEO as carrier lags rivals

Published

3 minutes ago

7 February 2026

NewsAdmin

Pressure mounts on American Airlines CEO as carrier lags rivals

A snow removal machine is seen working while a Boeing 737 American Airlines passenger aircraft is parked at gate on the tarmac of LaGuardia airport in New York on January 25, 2026.

Charly Triballeau | Afp | Getty Images

American Airlines‘ promised turnaround is off to a rocky start this year.

Pilot and flight attendant unions have called CEO Robert Isom’s leadership into question as the airline’s performance has trailed its rivals by a wide margin, a trend that has translated to lower profit-sharing for American’s more than 130,000 employees. Adding to employee frustration, the airline struggled to recover from major winter storms in recent weeks and crews were left stranded — some without a place to sleep beside the airport.

Late Friday, the pilots’ union wrote to the airline’s board, seeking a meeting to discuss the carrier’s financial and operational challenges.

“Our airline is on an underperforming path and has failed to define an identity or a strategy to correct course,” the board of directors of the Allied Pilots Association wrote. The union called for “leaders who are willing, equipped, and empowered to get the house in order.”

American made $111 million last year, an amount eclipsed by profits from Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, which brought in $5 billion and more than $3.3 billion, respectively, even though American flew similar capacity in 2025.

“I know that it is a meager profit-sharing, a very small profit-sharing pool this year. Again, when you break even, that’s the kind of profit-sharing you have,” Isom told employees after releasing earnings results on Jan. 27, according to a recording of the event that was reviewed by CNBC. “I’m disappointed in that.”

‘2026 can’t just feel different’

American is trying to catch up to rivals with premium products that bring in higher fares, a bright spot in the industry as coach cabin revenue growth has been elusive. It has also worked to reverse the damage from a failed direct-to-traveler business-travel strategy, whose architect American ousted in May 2024.

2026 is crucial for the carrier.

The Fort Worth, Texas-based airline issued an upbeat outlook for the year on Jan. 27, and Isom told crews that he was optimistic about improvement this year. He also noted that many staff, like flight attendants, make more than their counterparts at United, where cabin crews and other employees are in contract negotiations.

Isom is leading what he has pitched as a major transformation of American. The strategy includes improving customer service, the network and revenue management.

This week, he took his message to about 6,000 leaders at a conference the airline held at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.

“We’ve had conversations as a senior leadership team about how we can’t pass up any opportunity … how we need to hold ourselves accountable,” Isom said at the event, according to a transcript which was seen by CNBC. “It starts with us at the top, but it’s all of us here today and how you lead your teams. 2026 can’t just feel different. It has to be different.”

American issued its 2026 outlook as it was juggling the aftermath of a late January winter storm that walloped much of the U.S. with snow, ice and sleet and preparing for another storm that ended up hitting its major hub of Charlotte, North Carolina, while competitors dug out faster.

The financial results, coupled with the slow storm recovery, drew anger from both pilot and flight attendant union leaders, which together represent about 40,000 crew members.

This week, two American Airlines flight operations leaders met with the union and discussed recent problems, with the union telling members that “our pilots will not accept platitudes, empty words, and the absence of decisive action any longer.”

Association of Professional Flight Attendants President Julie Hedrick said on Jan. 27 that Isom, who became CEO in 2022, “is missing the human factor” and that “many of us have been here for a very long time, and we don’t see an ending that puts us in a better place.”

Isom acknowledged the trouble American’s crew members faced during the late January storm that paralyzed a large swath of the United States and called the weather “probably the most impactful” during his decades-long tenure at the airline.

Robert Isom, chief executive officer of American Airlines Group Inc., speaks during a Bloomberg Television interview in New York, US, on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025.

Christian Monterrosa | Bloomberg | Getty Images

Tale of two Texas airlines

American had an especially difficult 2025, which started with the collision of an Army Black Hawk helicopter into one of the carrier’s regional jets that was arriving at Washington, D.C.’s Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, killing all 67 people on both flights. The airline, and its rivals, were also hit by the U.S. government shutdown late last year.

“We’re off to a fast start based on the booking trends we’ve observed in January, all-time records for the first three weeks of the year,” Isom told analysts on the Jan. 27 earnings call.

But investors also want to the airline to prove its progress.

American’s stock is roughly flat this year. Its competitor 20 miles away in Dallas, Southwest Airlines, is also trying to remake itself, and its stock is up more than 30% in 2026. Shares of United and Delta are up more than 3% and more than 8%, respectively, for the year.

Southwest’s forecast that it could quadruple earnings this year has had investors in a bullish frenzy. That carrier recently sealed its biggest transformation in its nearly 55 years of flying (to some travelers’ chagrin): assigning seats last month for the first time, adding its first-ever bag fees, and rolling out basic economy tickets and other changes. Investors’ confidence boosted Southwest’s stock to a nearly four-year high last month after it reported results.

Fight over Chicago

Several planes wait in line to taxi down a runway after a winter snow storm affected the area at O’Hare International airport on Nov. 30, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

Jim Vondruska | Getty Images

One major battle for American is at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, where United CEO Scott Kirby, whom American fired in 2016, has vowed to keep his old employer at bay.

Both carriers are ramping up their schedules there next summer. Deutsche Bank estimated in a note Monday that United generates about $10 billion in revenue at O’Hare and that American generates more than $5 billion.

Around the time American reported earnings, United posted a digital billboard in Chicago that read “More on time, less canceled flights. Aadvantage, United,” using the same spelling as American’s AAdvantage loyalty program. Bankrupt Spirit Airlines is also seeking to transfer two gates at Chicago O’Hare to United for $30 million, which would give United more ground at the airport.

But from Chicago to Charlotte, questions still remain for American.

“It’s unclear if the current strategy will close the margin gap to its peers,” Melius Research airline analyst Conor Cunningham said about American. “It will take a lot of time to execute. You can’t just turn premium revenue on.”

Cunningham added, “It took Delta over a decade to cultivate a premium image,” pointing to the U.S. profit leaders’ transformation.

Italian police investigating possible sabotage to rail network near Bologna, official says

Published

11 minutes ago

7 February 2026

NewsAdmin

Italian police investigating possible sabotage to rail network near Bologna, official says

Business

Here’s When to Expect Your Money

Published

17 minutes ago

7 February 2026

NewsAdmin

IRS Tax Refunds Expected to Be Record-Breaking in 2026: Here's

Millions of Americans are poised to receive some of the largest federal tax refunds in recent history during the 2026 filing season, with average amounts potentially rising by $1,000 or more compared to prior years, thanks to retroactive tax cuts enacted under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed by President Donald Trump.

The Internal Revenue Service officially opened the 2026 tax filing season on Jan. 26, allowing taxpayers to begin submitting their 2025 federal income tax returns. The agency expects to process around 164 million individual returns by the April 15 deadline, with most filers opting for electronic submission.

Experts and administration officials project this year’s refunds could mark the largest cycle ever, driven by provisions in the landmark legislation that extended and expanded elements of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, introduced new deductions for overtime pay, tips, certain car loan interest and an additional standard deduction boost for seniors, among other changes. The White House has highlighted the bill’s impact, noting that many workers saw continued higher withholding during 2025 despite the retroactive reductions, leading to larger overpayments that will now return as refunds.

The average refund issued in the 2025 filing season was approximately $3,167, according to IRS data, up slightly from $2,939 in the prior cycle. Analysts from firms like Piper Sandler, Morgan Stanley and the nonpartisan Tax Foundation estimate the 2026 average could climb to between $4,000 and $4,167 or higher for many filers, with some projections suggesting increases of 15% to 30% depending on individual circumstances. The Tax Foundation has calculated that the bill could deliver up to $129 billion in total individual tax relief for 2025, with a significant portion — potentially $60 billion to $100 billion — manifesting as higher refunds rather than reduced withholding throughout the year.

Middle-income households earning between $50,000 and $150,000, families claiming dependents, workers with tip or overtime income, and seniors qualifying for enhanced deductions stand to see the most noticeable boosts. The changes include expanded Child Tax Credit benefits, Adoption Credit adjustments and education-related provisions that could further increase refunds for qualifying families.

To receive refunds as quickly as possible, the IRS strongly recommends electronic filing with direct deposit. Most refunds for e-filed returns with direct deposit are issued within 21 days of acceptance, often faster — sometimes in as little as 10 business days for early filers. Paper returns typically take six weeks or longer, and the IRS has phased out paper refund checks under an executive order modernizing federal payments, meaning those without direct deposit information on file may face temporary holds until they provide banking details or request alternatives.

For early filers who submitted returns shortly after Jan. 26, refunds could have begun arriving as early as Feb. 6. Those accepted in early February might see funds by mid- to late February. The IRS provides estimated timelines based on acceptance dates: returns accepted by Feb. 2 could arrive by Feb. 13, while those from mid-February might land by late February or early March.

Special rules apply to certain credits under the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act. Refunds claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) face a mandatory review period to prevent fraud. The IRS lifts this hold after Feb. 15 (or the next business day), with most qualifying refunds expected to be available by March 2 for direct deposit filers with no other issues. The “Where’s My Refund?” tool on IRS.gov will show projected deposit dates for most early EITC/ACTC claimants by Feb. 21.

Taxpayers can track their refund status using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool, which updates within 24 hours of e-filing or about four weeks after mailing a paper return. It provides real-time information on processing stages, any holds and expected issuance dates. The agency advises checking with your financial institution if a refund appears processed but funds are not yet visible, as some banks may take additional time to post deposits.

Several factors can delay refunds beyond the standard timeline. Returns requiring manual review — such as those with identity verification issues, math errors, claimed credits needing substantiation or potential fraud flags — may take longer. Amended returns or those involving large refunds over certain thresholds could trigger additional scrutiny from the Joint Committee on Taxation.

New direct deposit rules introduced in 2026 aim to streamline processing but could cause temporary freezes for returns filed without valid bank information. The IRS will hold such refunds until taxpayers update their details via the agency’s online portal or request a paper check, which may take six weeks or more after a 30-day response window. To avoid this, experts urge filers to double-check routing and account numbers before submission.

The filing deadline remains April 15, 2026, for most taxpayers, though extensions to Oct. 15 are available for those needing more time — though any taxes owed must still be paid by April to avoid penalties. The IRS Free File program and other online tools remain accessible for eligible filers, with resources on IRS.gov detailing changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill.

Administration officials, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, have described the upcoming refund wave as potentially historic, injecting significant funds into the economy during the spring. Economists note that while larger refunds provide a short-term boost for consumer spending, the retroactive nature means many Americans effectively loaned the government interest-free money through higher withholding in 2025.

As more returns are processed in the coming weeks, the IRS will release weekly filing season statistics showing actual refund amounts and volumes. Early indicators suggest strong participation, with electronic filing rates historically around 94%.

Tax professionals advise reviewing pay stubs, W-2s and other documents early to maximize credits and deductions. Those unsure about eligibility for new provisions can use interactive tools on IRS.gov or consult a tax preparer.

The combination of tax law changes and efficient processing promises a smoother — and more lucrative — experience for many this year, though patience remains key for those claiming complex credits or facing reviews.

Business

Olympics-Alpine skiing-Switzerland’s Von Allmen wins downhill gold

Published

25 minutes ago

7 February 2026

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Olympics-Alpine skiing-Switzerland’s Von Allmen wins downhill gold

Business

MSTX: Might Get De-Listed

Published

31 minutes ago

7 February 2026

NewsAdmin

MSTX: Might Get De-Listed

Business

Olympics-New IOC chief meets Vance ahead of 2028 L.A. Games

Published

38 minutes ago

7 February 2026

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Olympics-New IOC chief meets Vance ahead of 2028 L.A. Games

Business

America’s Greatest Cross-Country Skier Prepares for Final Olympics

Published

44 minutes ago

7 February 2026

NewsAdmin

As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina approach, Jessie Diggins stands as the most accomplished cross-country skier in United States history, entering her fourth and final Games with momentum, a glittering resume and plans to retire at season’s end.

The 34-year-old from Afton, Minnesota, has transformed American cross-country skiing, breaking barriers with historic victories and inspiring a new generation. With three Olympic medals in every color, multiple World Cup overall titles and a record number of podiums, Diggins has elevated the sport’s profile in the U.S. Here are 10 key things to know about the trailblazing athlete as she nears the close of her remarkable career.

Historic Olympic Breakthrough Diggins and teammate Kikkan Randall made history at the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics by winning gold in the women’s team sprint freestyle — the first-ever Olympic medal in cross-country skiing for the United States. Their dramatic come-from-behind finish ended a drought dating back decades and sparked widespread interest in the endurance sport.
Most Decorated U.S. Cross-Country Skier Diggins holds the distinction as America’s most successful cross-country skier ever. She has secured three Olympic medals: gold in 2018 (team sprint), silver in the 30km freestyle and bronze in the individual sprint at the 2022 Beijing Games. She also boasts seven FIS Nordic World Ski Championships medals, including two golds.
Multiple World Cup Overall Titles Diggins has claimed the FIS Cross-Country World Cup overall Crystal Globe three times (2021, 2023, 2025), a feat unmatched by any other American woman. She also won the distance Crystal Globe three times and became the first American — and first non-European — to win the prestigious Tour de Ski in 2021, repeating the triumph in 2024 and 2026.
Record World Cup Victories and Podiums Heading into the 2026 Olympics, Diggins has amassed 33 World Cup wins and 88 podium finishes, with additional victories pushing her totals higher in the current season. In the 2025-26 campaign, she leads the overall standings with 1563 points, ahead of Sweden’s Moa Ilar, and dominates the distance category as well.
Early Life and Multi-Sport Background Born Aug. 26, 1991, in Saint Paul and raised in Afton, Minnesota, Diggins began skiing at age 3, encouraged by her outdoor-loving parents, Deb and Clay. A versatile athlete, she participated in dancing, soccer, violin, swimming (specializing in the 100m fly) and track before committing to cross-country skiing in high school. She joined the U.S. Ski Team in 2011 and made her World Cup debut that year.
Advocacy for Mental Health and Climate Beyond racing, Diggins uses her platform to advocate for mental health through her ambassadorship with The Emily Program, which supports eating disorder recovery. She has spoken openly about her own challenges and promotes body positivity in sports. She also champions climate action as an ambassador for Protect Our Winters and Share Winter, emphasizing environmental stewardship in winter sports.
Signature Style: Glitter and Grit Known for applying sparkles to her cheeks before every race, Diggins combines flair with fierce competitiveness. Her strength lies in endurance and a powerful finishing kick rather than flawless classic technique, allowing her to outlast rivals in grueling events. She thrives in pain, often describing races as tests of mental fortitude.
Resilience Through Challenges Diggins has overcome setbacks, including food poisoning during the 2022 Olympics yet still medaling. Her consistent training and recovery focus — emphasizing fueling, hydration and rest — have sustained a long career. In recent interviews, she credits loving the grind and pushing physical limits for her success.
Retirement Announcement and Final Season In November 2025, Diggins announced the 2025-26 season would be her last, culminating in retirement after the World Cup Finals in Lake Placid, New York, in March 2026. She plans to transition to public speaking and ambassadorships. Entering Milano Cortina, she remains world No. 1 and eyes strong performances across all six women’s events, starting with the skiathlon.
Legacy and Impact on U.S. Skiing Diggins has raised the bar for American cross-country skiing, inspiring youth participation and spikes in programs like the Minnesota Youth Ski League. Her achievements have normalized excellence in a European-dominated sport, proving U.S. athletes can compete at the highest level. As she approaches her final Olympics, she emphasizes racing for values like love, acceptance and compassion.

With the Milano Cortina Games underway — her first event, the skiathlon, scheduled early in the program — Diggins arrives in peak form, leading World Cup rankings and carrying the hopes of a nation she has represented with distinction. Her journey from Minnesota trails to global podiums exemplifies perseverance, joy in sport and advocacy off the snow.

As one chapter closes, Diggins leaves an indelible mark: a pioneer who brought gold to America and showed that endurance, heart and a bit of glitter can conquer the world.

Business

US housing shortage drives builders to 3D printing technology

Published

52 minutes ago

7 February 2026

NewsAdmin

US housing shortage drives builders to 3D printing technology

FOX Business’ Jeff Flock joins ‘Mornings with Maria’ live from Austin, Texas, showcasing 3D-printed homes.

The United States’ growing housing shortage, rising construction costs and a limited supply of skilled labor are pushing builders to look beyond traditional methods. Three-dimensional printing is quickly moving from concept to real-world use.

Once confined to small pilot projects, 3D-printed homes are now being built and sold in active U.S. neighborhoods. The technology replaces much of the framing process by using large-scale printers that extrude layers of concrete, allowing walls to take shape in a fraction of the time required with standard construction.

HOMEBUILDERS REPORTEDLY DEVELOPING ‘TRUMP HOMES’ PROGRAM TO IMPROVE AFFORDABILITY

3D-printed home in Austin, Texas. (Nick Wagner/Xinhua via Getty Images / Getty Images)

FOX Business’ Jeff Flock joined Maria Bartiromo on “Mornings with Maria” from a 3D-printed housing development in Austin, Texas, where the technology is already being put to work.

Supporters say the approach offers more than just speed. Jason Ballard, co-Founder and CEO of ICON, says the technology addresses multiple pain points facing the housing market, including affordability and durability.

Ohio GOP gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy discusses his economic vision for the state, calling for deregulation and expanded housing on ‘Kudlow.’

“It is more energy efficient… stronger, resilient to natural disasters… it is like measurably better in every way that we care to measure buildings,” Ballard said.

JUST 17% OF VOTERS THINK NOW IS A GOOD TIME TO BUY A HOME AS AFFORDABILITY CONCERNS WEIGH: POLL

The appeal is already reaching buyers. Developments featuring 3D-printed homes have drawn interest from first-time homebuyers looking for solid construction and long-term efficiency. The concrete walls are designed to resist pests, weather and structural wear, while curved interiors allow builders greater flexibility in layout and design.

One early buyer, Vicky Pridgen, suggested the material itself helped shape her decision.

“It would take a lot to like break down these walls or have like ants funnel through the layers of concrete, so it seems sturdy to me,” Pridgen said.

The Corcoran Group broker Noble Black breaks down President Donald Trump’s housing affordability plans proposals and the state of the market on ‘Varney & Co.’

As housing demand continues to outpace supply in many parts of the country, builders are focusing on methods that reduce building time without sacrificing quality. With labor shortages and construction costs remaining high, some builders are turning to alternative construction methods, including 3D printing.

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Business

Carrick Chases Fourth Straight Win

Published

58 minutes ago

7 February 2026

NewsAdmin

Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur Premier League Preview

Manchester United welcome Tottenham Hotspur to Old Trafford on Saturday for a Premier League clash that pits a revitalized home side against a Spurs team mired in a prolonged slump, with interim manager Michael Carrick aiming to extend his perfect start in charge.
The match kicks off at 12:30 p.m. GMT (7:30 a.m. ET), refereed by Michael Oliver with Paul Tierney on VAR. Broadcast options include TNT Sports in the U.K. and various international feeds, with live streaming available on platforms carrying Premier League rights.

United enter the fixture in fourth place in the table with 41 points from 24 matches (11 wins, 8 draws, 5 losses), boasting a goal difference of +8 after scoring 44 and conceding 36. Their recent resurgence under Carrick — who took over following a managerial change — has seen three consecutive Premier League victories against high-profile opponents: Manchester City, Arsenal and most recently a 3-2 home win over Fulham on Feb. 1, where Benjamin Sesko’s stoppage-time strike sealed the deal.

That triumph extended United’s unbeaten run to seven matches across all competitions, lifting them firmly into the Champions League qualification spots, just five points behind third-placed Aston Villa. Carrick, a former United midfielder and coach, has instilled confidence and tactical discipline, with the team showing improved defensive solidity and clinical finishing. Key contributors include Bruno Fernandes, whose creativity and set-piece threat remain central, alongside emerging talents like Kobbie Mainoo in midfield and forwards such as Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.

The Red Devils have named an unchanged starting lineup for the match, signaling trust in the group that has delivered recent results. Defenders like Lisandro Martínez, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw provide a robust backline, supported by Diogo Dalot and full-back options. Casemiro anchors the midfield, allowing Amad Diallo and Fernandes freedom to link with attackers.

At Old Trafford, United have been particularly strong this season, winning seven of 12 home league games (3 draws, 2 losses) while scoring 23 goals. Their home advantage — bolstered by a passionate crowd — has been a factor in the turnaround, with the team unbeaten in their last several matches at the Theatre of Dreams.

Tottenham, meanwhile, sit 14th with 29 points from 24 games (7 wins, 8 draws, 9 losses), a +2 goal difference from 35 scored and 33 conceded. Their form has been poor, especially at home where they have won just two of 12 league matches, but they show slightly better away resilience (5 wins, 4 draws, 3 losses on the road).

Spurs have endured a six-match winless run in the league heading into this fixture, though they salvaged a 2-2 draw against Manchester City last weekend, with Dominic Solanke scoring twice to rescue a point. Under manager Thomas Frank — who succeeded in a previous role — the team has struggled with consistency, injuries and defensive vulnerabilities.

Tottenham make three changes for the visit, with Micky van de Ven returning to the starting lineup to bolster the backline alongside Cristian Romero. Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario starts, with midfielders like João Palhinha featuring. The squad has been hampered by injuries, leaving them short in key areas and contributing to their mid-table position.

Head-to-head, recent encounters favor Spurs: they are unbeaten in their last eight meetings with United across all competitions (5 wins, 3 draws), including a 2-2 draw in their most recent league clash and results from last season’s Europa League final. However, United’s current momentum contrasts sharply with Tottenham’s struggles, and many analysts see this as a winnable game for the hosts.

Preview analyses from outlets like Sports Illustrated, The Sun and Evening Standard highlight United’s confidence. Predictions lean toward a home win, with scores like 2-1 commonly suggested. Betting markets favor United, citing their form, home record and Spurs’ injury issues. Key battles include Fernandes vs. Palhinha in midfield, and United’s attackers exploiting Tottenham’s leaky defense.

For United, victory would solidify their top-four push and strengthen Carrick’s case for the permanent role. A loss or draw could halt momentum in a tightly contested race for European spots. Tottenham need points desperately to climb away from the lower mid-table and rebuild confidence.

The fixture is Matchweek 25 of the 2025-26 Premier League season. Both teams played last weekend — United winning at home, Spurs drawing — setting up contrasting moods at Old Trafford.

As kickoff approaches, focus remains on United’s revival and whether Tottenham can end their drought against their rivals. Fans anticipate an entertaining contest between two historic clubs with attacking talent on display.

Business

Australia Ranks Outside Top 10 Again

Published

1 hour ago

7 February 2026

NewsAdmin

World Happiness Report 2026: Australia Ranks Outside Top 10 Again

Australia has once again fallen outside the world’s top 10 happiest nations in the latest World Happiness Report, maintaining its 11th-place position from the previous year amid ongoing discussions about social connections, economic pressures and generational wellbeing trends, according to data released in early 2026.

The annual World Happiness Report, published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford in partnership with Gallup and the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, ranks countries based on how people evaluate their own lives on a 0-10 Cantril Ladder scale. The 2026 edition, building on surveys from 2023-2025, continues to highlight Nordic dominance at the top while noting shifts in other regions.

Finland retained its crown as the happiest country for the ninth consecutive year, with a score of approximately 7.74 out of 10. Denmark followed closely in second, then Iceland, Sweden and the Netherlands rounding out the top five. Costa Rica and Norway held strong positions in the upper ranks, with Israel, Luxembourg and Mexico completing the top 10 in various analyses.

Australia scored around 6.97 to 7.06 in recent compilations, placing it solidly at 11th — just behind Mexico and ahead of New Zealand at 12th. This marks a continuation of a gradual slide: Australia was 10th in 2024 before dropping to 11th in 2025 and holding steady into 2026. The slight dip reflects broader patterns in English-speaking countries, where younger generations have reported declining life satisfaction in recent reports.

The rankings draw from Gallup World Poll data, averaging life evaluations over three years to smooth annual fluctuations. Six key variables explain much of the differences: GDP per capita, social support (having someone to count on in times of trouble), healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity and perceptions of corruption. Additional factors like positive and negative emotions, benevolence acts (donating, volunteering, helping strangers) and caring behaviors featured prominently in recent editions.

In the 2025 report — the most recent full edition widely referenced as of early 2026 — the focus was on “caring and sharing,” examining how acts of kindness and social bonds boost both givers’ and receivers’ happiness. Researchers found people often underestimate others’ willingness to help, leading to missed opportunities for connection. The 2026 edition is anticipated to delve into social media’s complex role in wellbeing, following a call for proposals in mid-2025 to address debates over its impact on youth happiness and global trends.

Experts attribute Nordic success to strong social safety nets, high trust in institutions, work-life balance and access to nature. Finland’s consistent lead stems from robust social support, low corruption perceptions and a culture emphasizing equality and community.
For Australia, the 11th ranking remains respectable among 140+ nations but signals challenges. High GDP per capita and life expectancy bolster its score, yet factors like social isolation among youth, housing affordability pressures and work-related stress may contribute to the slide. Reports note a gradual decline in Australian happiness scores since the early 2010s, mirroring trends in the United States (24th in 2025) and other Anglophone nations where younger people report lower satisfaction.

The report underscores generational divides. In many wealthy countries, including Australia, older adults tend to rate their lives higher than younger cohorts. English-speaking nations show sharper youth declines, potentially linked to social media, economic uncertainty and changing social norms. Benevolence measures — such as donating or helping strangers — rank Australia well (often in the top 20-30 globally), suggesting strong community spirit despite overall life evaluation dips.

Comparatively, Latin American entries like Costa Rica (6th) and Mexico (10th) highlight how strong family ties, cultural emphasis on relationships and optimism can elevate happiness despite lower GDP. These nations entered or re-entered the top 10 recently, displacing some traditional high-rankers.

The United States continued its downward trajectory to 24th in 2025, its lowest ever, attributed to polarization, inequality and youth mental health struggles. Canada (18th) and the United Kingdom (23rd) also lagged behind Nordic peers.
Australia’s position prompts reflection on policy priorities. Advocates call for investments in mental health services, affordable housing and community programs to strengthen social support. The country’s high volunteerism and helping-stranger rates offer strengths to build upon.

The World Happiness Report does not dictate policy but informs it. Governments increasingly use wellbeing metrics alongside GDP. Australia’s steady high ranking affirms quality of life advantages — universal healthcare, natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle — while the drop from top-10 status urges attention to emerging issues.

As the 2026 report’s full details emerge (expected around March 20, International Day of Happiness), focus may shift to social media’s dual role: connecting people yet contributing to comparison and isolation, especially among youth.

For Australians, the ranking serves as both reassurance and reminder: life down under remains enviable by global standards, yet sustaining happiness requires nurturing social bonds in a changing world.

The full dataset and interactive tools are available on worldhappiness.report, allowing comparisons across variables and years.