The Rs 48 crore IPO of Safety Controls and Devices opened for subscription on April 6, with grey market premium (GMP) remaining at 0%, indicating muted listing expectations for the SME issue. The IPO, which is entirely a fresh issue of 60 lakh shares, is priced in the band of Rs 75-80 per share and will close on April 8. The company is expected to finalise allotment on April 9, with listing scheduled on the BSE SME platform on April 13.

At the upper end of the price band, the IPO values the company at a pre-issue market cap of around Rs 159 crore. The issue size and SME platform positioning, coupled with a flat GMP, suggest cautious investor sentiment despite a reasonable anchor participation.

The company raised nearly Rs 13 crore from anchor investors ahead of the issue, with institutional allocation forming a significant portion. Of the net offer, nearly 49% is reserved for qualified institutional buyers, about 15% for non-institutional investors, and around 36% for retail investors. Retail participation requires a minimum investment of Rs 2.56 lakh for 3,200 shares.

About the company

Safety Controls and Devices operates as an EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) player, focusing on substations, solar projects, firefighting systems, and healthcare infrastructure projects under the Ministry of Ayush. The company primarily caters to government entities and utilities, with operations spanning power infrastructure and renewable energy segments.

The company has reported steady profitability, with profit after tax at Rs 8.5 crore for the period ended January 2026, compared with Rs 9 crore in FY25. Revenue, however, saw some moderation to Rs 68 crore from Rs 103 crore in the previous financial year, suggesting some volatility in execution cycles typical of EPC businesses.
Proceeds from the IPO will largely be used to fund working capital requirements at Rs 31.5 crore, along with Rs 6 crore earmarked for debt repayment and the rest towards general corporate purposes.
While the company’s government-linked order book and diversification into solar and EV infrastructure provide long-term visibility, the flat GMP suggests that investors are likely weighing execution risks, working capital intensity, and SME liquidity factors before committing aggressively.
The subscription trend over the next two days will be key in determining listing performance, especially in a market where investor appetite for smaller IPOs remains selective.

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

Thailand’s tourism ministry cautions that the ongoing Middle East conflict may lead to a decline of up to 3 million foreign visitors this year, potentially resulting in a 150 billion baht economic loss.

Key Details

• Thailand’s 2026 target of 35 million foreign visitors could fall to ~32 million — or as low as 28 million (2023 levels) — if the conflict continues for six months.
• Thailand recorded 8.54 million tourists between January 1 and March 22, 2026 — a 3% decline year-on-year.
• To offset losses, Thailand is redirecting marketing budgets from Europe and the US toward Middle Eastern countries, aiming for at least 200,000 visitors from the region — Middle Eastern tourists spend an average of 80,000 baht per trip, the highest of any group.
• Tourism contributes approximately 12% of Thailand’s GDP, and the industry is still recovering from COVID-19, a 2025 earthquake, severe flooding, and border clashes with Cambodia.
• Domestic travel incentives are being planned, including tax allowances for tourism spending and potential debt moratoriums for hotel operators.

Why It Matters:
Thailand’s tourism sector faces compounding pressures, and the government’s ability to attract high-spending alternative visitors — particularly from the Middle East — will be critical to cushioning the economic impact of the conflict.

This strategy involves tailoring marketing campaigns to highlight Thailand’s luxury offerings, cultural experiences, and medical tourism, which are particularly appealing to affluent travelers from the region. Additionally, strengthening diplomatic ties and easing visa processes for Middle Eastern visitors could further bolster arrival numbers. Diversifying tourism markets and focusing on high-value segments will be essential for long-term resilience and growth in the face of global uncertainties.

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Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry is expected to make his long-awaited return from a nagging right knee injury when the team hosts the Houston Rockets on Sunday, April 6, 2026, ending a 27-game absence that has tested the franchise’s playoff hopes and forced the 38-year-old point guard to confront a “new normal” with his body.

Curry, who last played on Jan. 30 against the Detroit Pistons, has been sidelined since then with patellofemoral pain syndrome accompanied by bone bruising in his right knee. The injury, often described as “runner’s knee,” sidelined him for more than two months, during which the Warriors struggled to a 9-18 record without their franchise icon. With Curry averaging 27.2 points per game prior to the injury, his absence left a massive void in Golden State’s offense and leadership.

The latest update comes after encouraging developments in recent days. On April 1, the Warriors announced Curry had participated in a live 5-on-5 scrimmage, marking a significant step in his return-to-play protocol. He was scheduled for another scrimmage later in the week and underwent re-evaluation over the weekend. Multiple reports, including from ESPN’s Shams Charania and Anthony Slater, indicated Curry had set a personal goal to return against Houston, and coach Steve Kerr confirmed the plan was for him to play, albeit with minutes restrictions.

Kerr told reporters Saturday that Curry would be listed as questionable but that the intention was clear: “The plan is for him to play.” The coach added that Curry would likely see limited action — around 20-25 minutes — in his first game back, coming off the bench to ease him into game action. “We’ll see how he recovers tomorrow,” Kerr said, emphasizing the collaboration between Curry, director of sports medicine and performance Rick Celebrini, and the medical staff.

Curry himself addressed the media after practice, sounding optimistic yet realistic. “Feels great,” he said of his knee. “There’s nothing structurally wrong with my knee, so it’s not like I’m in danger of making it worse long-term.” He acknowledged the lengthy rehabilitation process and the need to adjust expectations. “I kind of understand what the new normal is, and it’s good enough to play,” Curry added, noting he hoped the positive feeling would persist.

The injury saga began in late January when Curry aggravated the knee issue during a game against the Phoenix Suns. Initially described as a minor setback, it quickly became evident that the problem required extended rest and conservative management. Warriors medical staff opted against rushing him back, prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains in a season where Golden State hovered near the play-in tournament threshold in the competitive Western Conference.

Without Curry, the Warriors relied heavily on a revamped supporting cast that included acquisitions like Jimmy Butler III and contributions from younger players. Draymond Green, Klay Thompson’s successor in the backcourt rotation, and emerging talents stepped up, but the team’s offensive efficiency and spacing suffered noticeably. Golden State’s record without Curry highlighted just how central the two-time MVP remains to the franchise’s identity, even at age 38.

The return timing is critical. With roughly two weeks left in the regular season, the Warriors are fighting for positioning in the Western Conference play-in tournament. A healthy Curry could dramatically shift their outlook, providing the shooting gravity, playmaking and clutch scoring that defined their dynasty years. Kerr has emphasized that any return must include a proper ramp-up period rather than a desperate insertion for the final games or play-in. “We’re not bringing him back just for the play-in game,” Kerr said earlier in the week. “He needs to play some games, and we need to give him a runway if this is going to work.”

Curry’s own comments reflected a mix of eagerness and caution. He spoke of wanting to contribute immediately while understanding the physical realities of his age and the injury. “I love playing basketball,” he said simply, underscoring the motivation that has driven his remarkable career. Teammates have echoed that sentiment. Green, who has leaned on Curry for leadership during the absence, reportedly received encouragement from the star during his own recovery periods. The mutual support within the veteran core has been a quiet strength for the franchise amid adversity.

Medical experts outside the organization note that patellofemoral pain syndrome can be persistent in older athletes, particularly those with high-volume shooting mechanics like Curry. The condition involves irritation behind the kneecap and can be exacerbated by repetitive stress. Bone bruising adds another layer of caution, as it requires time for healing to prevent long-term cartilage damage. Curry’s medical team has reportedly used a combination of rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory measures and progressive loading to rebuild strength and confidence.

The broader context of Curry’s career makes this latest chapter compelling. At 38, he is no longer the transcendent young phenom who revolutionized the game with his shooting range, but he remains one of the NBA’s most impactful players when healthy. His career three-point record, playoff heroics and four championships — including the 2022 title run — have cemented his legacy. Yet questions about longevity have grown as he enters the twilight of his prime. This knee issue, while not structurally catastrophic, serves as a reminder that even the greatest athletes must adapt to the physical toll of a long career.

Fan reaction has been overwhelmingly positive to the return news. Dub Nation, the Warriors’ passionate supporter base, has flooded social media with excitement, sharing highlights from Curry’s pre-injury performances and expressing hope that his presence can spark a late-season surge. Ticket sales for Sunday’s game against the Rockets reportedly surged after the update, reflecting the star power Curry still commands.

For the Rockets, the matchup presents a challenging test. Houston has enjoyed a strong season and will face a Warriors team suddenly energized by Curry’s return. Rockets coach Ime Udoka acknowledged the threat, saying any version of Curry demands special defensive attention. “Even with minutes restrictions, he changes the game,” Udoka said. “His gravity alone opens things up for everyone else.”

Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. has been cautiously optimistic throughout the recovery process. The front office’s decision to prioritize long-term health over short-term roster moves has drawn mixed reviews, but the potential payoff of a healthy Curry in the play-in or playoffs could validate the approach. Golden State’s veteran core — Curry, Green, Butler and others — still believes it has championship DNA if health aligns.

Looking ahead, Curry’s return will be managed carefully. The Warriors are expected to monitor his workload closely in the final stretch of the regular season, potentially limiting him to targeted minutes while gradually increasing his role. If the knee responds well, he could play a pivotal part in any postseason run, however brief it might be. Should setbacks occur, the organization has signaled it would err on the side of caution rather than risk a more serious injury that could impact future seasons.

The injury has also sparked broader conversations about player load management in today’s NBA. With longer seasons, more back-to-backs and the physical demands of modern play, veterans like Curry face unique challenges. Some analysts argue that teams must become even more sophisticated in monitoring and protecting star players, while others point to the success of load-management strategies employed by contenders.

Curry’s personal approach to the setback has drawn praise. Known for his work ethic and positive demeanor, he has used the time away to focus on family, recovery and mentoring younger teammates. His leadership off the court has been credited with helping maintain team morale during a difficult stretch.

As Sunday’s game approaches, all eyes will be on Chase Center. Whether Curry plays 20 minutes or more, his mere presence on the floor is expected to lift Golden State’s performance and energize the crowd. For a franchise that has ridden Curry’s brilliance through multiple eras, this return represents more than just one game — it symbolizes resilience, adaptation and the enduring hope that the Splash Brother can still author memorable moments.

The Warriors’ season has been defined by injury adversity, but Curry’s comeback offers a narrative of perseverance. As he steps back onto the court, the basketball world will watch closely to see how the greatest shooter of all time navigates his latest physical challenge. For now, the focus remains on a measured, successful return that prioritizes both short-term contribution and long-term health.

With the regular season winding down and the play-in tournament looming, Curry’s availability could prove the difference between an early summer and extended postseason drama. Golden State fans, long accustomed to miracles from their star, are once again daring to dream that one more magical run might be possible.

Oil prices edged higher on Monday as fears of supply disruptions in the Middle East persisted, with the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict involving Iran continuing to weigh on market sentiment. The gains followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s indication that military action against Iran would continue.

Tensions intensified on Sunday after Trump issued a sharply worded Easter Sunday social media post directed at Tehran. He warned that Iran’s power plants and bridges could be targeted on Tuesday if the strategic Strait of Hormuz is not reopened.

Crude oil price on April 6

Brent crude futures advanced by $1.71, or 1.6%, to $110.74 per barrel as of 0057 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude also rose, gaining $0.71, or 0.6%, to trade at $112.25 per barrel. In the previous session on Thursday, which marked the last trading day before the Good Friday holiday, both benchmarks saw sharp gains in highly volatile trade. WTI surged more than 11%, while Brent climbed nearly 8%, marking their largest absolute price increases since 2020.The conflict shows little sign of easing. Iran has conveyed to mediators that it is not willing to hold talks with U.S. officials in Islamabad in the coming days. According to a Wall Street Journal report on Friday, efforts to secure a ceasefire have stalled.

Meanwhile, OPEC+, which includes members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies such as Russia, agreed on Sunday to increase output by 206,000 barrels per day in May. However, the impact of this decision is expected to be limited, as several key producers are unable to ramp up supply due to the ongoing conflict.

Where are prices headed?

Crude oil is holding at elevated levels, reflecting sustained strength driven by supply disruption fears, while natural gas remains largely range-bound with mild volatility, indicating a balanced demand-supply scenario.International brokerage Macquarie has said that even if tensions ease in the near term, oil prices are likely to find support in the $85–$90 range, with a gradual move back toward $110 until normal flows through the Strait of Hormuz resume. The note added that if disruptions persist through April, Brent could still climb to $150 per barrel.

Looking ahead, crude prices could move higher from current levels. According to Kayanat Chainwala of Kotak Securities, oil may rise to $120 per barrel in the near term and potentially touch $150 if the conflict continues.

Nuvama Institutional Equities echoes the same view. The continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which handles around 20 million barrels per day, could push crude prices to the $110–150 per barrel range.

Experts say if ongoing tensions persist, the outlook for crude oil remains volatile and tilted upward. Continued conflict in the Middle East, especially disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, would keep supply chains constrained, pushing Brent and WTI prices higher and sustaining inflationary pressures worldwide.

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

The Democratic Party drew sharp criticism over the weekend after an official Easter social media post evoked “better times at the White House” with an image of former President Barack Obama but made no mention of former President Joe Biden, sparking accusations of a deliberate snub and reigniting internal party tensions less than two years after Biden left office.

The post, shared Saturday on the official Democratic Party X account, featured a photo of Obama viewed from behind standing next to a person in an Easter Bunny costume with the Washington Monument visible in the background. The caption read simply: “Better times at the White House.” Biden’s name and image were absent, prompting an immediate wave of online backlash from both conservative critics and some Democrats who questioned why the party appeared to skip its most recent president in a holiday message.

The controversy erupted as Republicans and conservative commentators seized on the omission to portray the party as eager to move past the Biden era amid ongoing debates about his legacy, age and the 2024 election outcome. Former President Donald Trump and his allies quickly amplified the story, with Trump posting on Truth Social that Democrats were “trying to erase Joe Biden because even they know how bad he was.”

The Democratic National Committee did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the post or the resulting furor. Party officials have historically used Easter messages to highlight themes of hope, renewal and community, often featuring images of past Democratic presidents celebrating the holiday with their families. Similar posts in previous years included photos of John F. Kennedy, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton and Obama, sometimes with Biden included on other platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.

This year’s X post, however, focused solely on Obama, fueling speculation about intentional distancing. Social media users flooded the replies with questions such as “Why skip Biden?” and “Better times without Joe?” Conservative accounts labeled it a “snub” and an “egg on their face” moment for Democrats. Some users noted that Biden, a devout Roman Catholic who frequently referenced his faith during his presidency, had been active in Easter observances, including hosting the annual White House Easter Egg Roll.

The backlash extended beyond partisan lines. Moderate Democratic voices expressed discomfort with the optics, arguing that sidelining Biden risked alienating older voters and party loyalists who still view his administration positively on issues such as infrastructure investment, COVID-19 recovery efforts and judicial appointments. One anonymous Democratic strategist told The Associated Press that the post “looked tone-deaf at best and ungrateful at worst,” especially given Biden’s role in delivering the White House to Democrats in 2020.

Biden, now 83 and largely out of the public spotlight since leaving office in January 2025, has maintained a low profile in retirement. He has occasionally surfaced for private events and limited public remarks, focusing on family and his presidential library project. Allies say he remains proud of his record but has stepped back to allow the next generation of leaders to define the party’s future.

The incident comes at a sensitive time for Democrats, who are navigating a post-2024 landscape after losing the presidency and facing internal soul-searching about messaging, leadership and appeal to working-class voters. Speculation has swirled for months about whether the party is quietly shifting away from Biden’s brand, particularly as younger figures like California Gov. Gavin Newsom and others position themselves for future national roles.

Newsom himself drew attention in the replies to the Easter post, with some users tagging him and suggesting the image subtly promoted a return to an earlier Democratic era. The governor’s office did not comment on the social media reaction.

Political analysts offered differing interpretations of the post’s intent. Some viewed it as a harmless nostalgic nod to Obama’s popularity and polished image, noting that holiday messages often emphasize aspirational themes rather than exhaustive historical recaps. Others saw it as symptomatic of deeper fractures, with the party struggling to reconcile Biden’s mixed electoral legacy with a desire to project forward momentum.

Republican National Committee Chairwoman reacted swiftly, calling the omission “disrespectful” and evidence that “even Democrats know the Biden years were anything but better times.” She pointed to inflation peaks, border challenges and Afghanistan withdrawal controversies as reasons the party might prefer to highlight Obama’s tenure.

Defenders of the Democratic Party argued that social media posts are fleeting communications designed for engagement rather than comprehensive historical statements. They noted that Biden received recognition in other party channels and that focusing exclusively on one popular former leader is common practice across both parties during holidays.

The Easter timing amplified the controversy, as the holiday carries religious significance for many Americans, including Biden himself. Past debates over Biden’s Easter observances, including proclamations related to Transgender Day of Visibility when it coincided with the holiday in 2024, had already made the date politically charged. This year’s social media flap added another layer to the ongoing culture-war discussions surrounding faith and politics.

Biden’s supporters pushed back on social media, sharing photos and clips from his own Easter events during his presidency, including family gatherings and the traditional White House Easter Egg Roll. They emphasized his personal faith and public expressions of hope during difficult national moments.

The episode highlights the challenges political parties face in managing legacies in the social media era, where every post is scrutinized for symbolism and omission. Experts in political communication note that visual messaging carries disproportionate weight, and the choice of imagery can unintentionally signal priorities or preferences.

As Democrats prepare for midterm elections and the 2028 presidential cycle, the incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balancing act between honoring past leaders and projecting a fresh vision. Party insiders say internal discussions continue about how best to invoke the Biden administration’s achievements without dwelling on its electoral shortcomings.

Biden has not publicly commented on the post or the backlash. Close associates say he remains focused on personal matters and has expressed no bitterness toward the party he led for decades.

The Democratic National Committee’s broader Easter messaging included calls for unity, compassion and renewal — themes traditionally aligned with the holiday. Officials encouraged supporters to engage in community service and reflect on shared values.

Whether the controversy fades quickly or lingers as a talking point remains to be seen. In Washington’s hyper-partisan environment, even seemingly minor social media choices can ignite days of debate, particularly when they touch on generational shifts within a political party.

For now, the Easter post has become the latest flashpoint in the ongoing conversation about Biden’s place in Democratic history. Supporters credit him with steady leadership through crisis, while critics — including some within party ranks — argue his tenure left the party vulnerable in subsequent elections.

As Americans celebrated Easter with family gatherings, church services and traditional egg hunts, the political class found itself once again divided over symbolism and messaging. The Democratic Party’s attempt at a lighthearted holiday greeting instead opened a window into deeper questions about loyalty, legacy and the party’s direction heading into the latter half of the decade.

Political observers will watch closely to see whether the incident prompts any official clarification or adjustment in future communications. In the meantime, the backlash serves as a vivid illustration of how quickly online narratives can form and how past presidents continue to loom large even after leaving the stage.

The full story of the party’s relationship with Biden’s record will likely unfold over many months and years, shaped by electoral outcomes, historical assessments and the evolving priorities of a new generation of Democratic leaders.

Oil extended gains and equities wavered after President Donald Trump signaled a sharp escalation in the Iran war, heightening the risk of an energy shock already weighing on the global economic outlook.

Brent rose 1.9% to trade above $111 a barrel, as Trump renewed threats early Sunday to attack Iranian infrastructure if the key energy-shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. He followed it later with another that said: “Tuesday, 8:00 P.M. Eastern Time!” with no further explanation.

US equity-index futures erased early losses to trade little changed, while Asian stocks edged up at the open. The Nikkei index in Japan rose 0.7% while shares in South Korea advanced 2%. Markets are closed in China and Hong Kong for a public holiday.

Trump’s comments came as OPEC+ warned that damage to Mideast energy assets will have a prolonged impact on oil supply even after the conflict ends. Yet there are few signs of progress toward a ceasefire as attacks have continued to flare around the region, keeping oil prices hovering well above $100 a barrel.

“The prediction game remains quite tricky for investors,” said Homin Lee, a strategist at Lombard Odier in Singapore. “Investors’ focus will squarely be on military actions on both sides of the Persian Gulf and whether or not Hormuz vessel crossings can improve further despite these attacks.”

The fallout from the war has rapidly darkened the economic outlook by threatening to cool growth and push up already elevated inflation, roiling bets on whether the Federal Reserve will resume cutting interest rates later this year. Attention remains firmly on energy prices and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz — a waterway crucial for the flow of oil from the Middle East.
Investors will watch for the impact of the surge in crude oil when monthly US inflation data is released Friday. The roughly $1-per-gallon increase in US gasoline pump prices probably drove the March consumer price index up 1%, the most since the post-pandemic inflation surge in 2022, according to an economist survey before the report is published. Meanwhile, the Islamic Republic’s continued attacks damaged Kuwait’s oil headquarters and shut down an Emirati petrochemicals plant. Fifteen ships have passed through the Strait of Hormuz with permission from Iran, semi-official Fars news agency reports, citing the latest data on strait traffic.

Trump has previously dialed back his escalation threats, including two weeks ago before markets reopened for the week. Trump also said he plans to hold a news conference at 1 p.m. New York time on Monday.

“Trump is probably serious in his expressed desire to step away after two or three more weeks,” Lombard Odier’s Lee said. “But the obvious path-dependency inherent in the conflict suggests that his attempt to carry out a final round of aggressive strikes can backfire significantly for the markets.”

Demand for artificial intelligence education has surged in 2026 as industries from healthcare to autonomous vehicles seek talent skilled in machine learning, robotics, ethics and large language models. Leading global rankings from QS, Times Higher Education and specialized sources highlight institutions excelling in AI-related computer science, data science and dedicated AI programs.

The QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence place Massachusetts Institute of Technology at the top with a near-perfect score, followed closely by Stanford University and National University of Singapore. Carnegie Mellon University, long a pioneer in robotics and AI, consistently ranks among the elite across multiple lists. Times Higher Education’s 2026 Computer Science rankings, which heavily weigh AI and machine learning components, crown University of Oxford as the global leader, with strong showings from Cambridge, ETH Zurich and U.S. powerhouses.

A composite ranking of the 50 best universities for studying AI in 2026 draws from QS Data Science & AI, QS Computer Science, THE Computer Science, US News graduate AI programs and research output metrics. These institutions offer undergraduate, master’s and doctoral pathways emphasizing hands-on research, industry partnerships and ethical AI development. Many provide specialized degrees such as Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence or dedicated tracks within computer science.

Here is the list of the top 50 universities for AI studies in 2026, ranked by overall strength in research output, faculty expertise, industry connections and program reputation:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), United States — Renowned for its Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), MIT offers cutting-edge programs in machine learning, robotics and AI ethics. Students benefit from close ties to industry leaders and groundbreaking research.
2. Stanford University, United States — Located in Silicon Valley, Stanford’s AI Lab and interdisciplinary initiatives provide unmatched access to tech giants. Programs emphasize real-world applications and entrepreneurship.
3. Carnegie Mellon University, United States — A historic leader in AI with the School of Computer Science and dedicated Robotics Institute. CMU excels in autonomous systems, human-AI interaction and machine learning theory.
4. University of Oxford, United Kingdom — Tops THE Computer Science rankings with strong AI research across departments. Oxford’s programs blend technical depth with philosophical and ethical considerations.
5. National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore — Asia’s top AI hub, offering robust data science and AI curricula with strong government and industry funding.
6. Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore — Excels in AI research output and practical applications, with excellent facilities and international collaborations.
7. University of Cambridge, United Kingdom — Features world-class AI research and interdisciplinary centers, attracting top global talent.
8. ETH Zurich, Switzerland — Known for rigorous technical programs and innovation in machine learning and robotics.
9. University of California, Berkeley, United States — Home to the Berkeley AI Research Lab (BAIR), with strengths in deep learning and societal impact studies.
10. Tsinghua University, China — Leads in AI research volume and engineering applications, with close industry links to companies like Baidu and Huawei.
11. Harvard University, United States — Offers interdisciplinary AI programs through its John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
12. University College London (UCL), United Kingdom — Strong in machine learning and AI for healthcare and urban systems.
13. Imperial College London, United Kingdom — Focuses on AI-driven engineering and data science innovation.
14. University of Toronto, Canada — Home to the Vector Institute, a major AI research powerhouse.
15. Georgia Institute of Technology, United States — Renowned for its AI and machine learning master’s programs and robotics research.
16. University of Washington, United States — Features the Allen School with significant AI and NLP contributions.
17. Technical University of Munich, Germany — Strong European leader in AI engineering and autonomous systems.
18. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States — Excellent computer science department with AI specializations.
19. Princeton University, United States — Combines theoretical computer science with applied AI research.
20. Cornell University, United States — Offers robust AI programs with emphasis on human-centered design.
21. University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom — Scotland’s AI capital with the Informatics Forum driving innovation.
22. Peking University, China — Rising fast in AI research and talent development.
23. Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China — Strong engineering and AI research output.
24. University of Michigan, United States — Multidisciplinary AI initiatives across engineering and information schools.
25. New York University, United States — Center for Data Science and AI ethics programs stand out.
26. University of Texas at Austin, United States — Growing AI research hub with strong industry partnerships.
27. École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland — Excellent technical AI and robotics programs.
28. University of Amsterdam, Netherlands — Leading European center for AI and computational science.
29. Delft University of Technology, Netherlands — Focuses on AI for engineering and sustainability.
30. University of British Columbia, Canada — Strong AI research in computer science and health applications.
31. Zhejiang University, China — Major player in AI and data science with large research funding.
32. University of Science and Technology of China, China — Excels in foundational AI and quantum-related computing.
33. Sorbonne University, France — Strong in AI theory and applications.
34. University of Melbourne, Australia — Leading Oceania institution for AI and data science.
35. Monash University, Australia — Growing strengths in AI ethics and applications.
36. Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), South Korea — Top Asian tech university with robust AI programs.
37. Seoul National University, South Korea — Significant AI research contributions.
38. University of Sydney, Australia — Offers comprehensive AI and machine learning degrees.
39. RWTH Aachen University, Germany — Engineering-focused AI excellence.
40. KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden — Strong Nordic leader in AI and robotics.
41. University of Waterloo, Canada — Known for co-op programs and AI innovation.
42. McGill University, Canada — Interdisciplinary AI research hub.
43. University of Copenhagen, Denmark — Rising in European AI rankings.
44. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany — Solid AI and data science offerings.
45. University of Tokyo, Japan — Japan’s premier institution for AI and robotics.
46. Kyoto University, Japan — Strong theoretical and applied AI research.
47. Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, India — Leading Indian tech institute with growing AI focus.
48. National Taiwan University, Taiwan — Strong engineering and AI programs.
49. University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong — Asia’s international AI education leader.
50. Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, United Arab Emirates — Specialized AI university with dedicated focus and strong research output.

These rankings reflect a blend of academic reputation, research citations, employer feedback and program innovation as reported in 2025-2026 data. U.S. institutions continue to dominate due to funding, industry proximity and historical leadership, but Asian and European universities are closing the gap rapidly through targeted investments and talent attraction.

Prospective students should consider factors beyond rankings, including specific faculty expertise, research opportunities, internship access, cost of living and visa policies. Many top programs offer scholarships for international applicants in AI fields.

With AI projected to add trillions to the global economy, graduates from these institutions command high starting salaries and career prospects. Universities on this list often partner with companies such as Google, OpenAI, NVIDIA, Microsoft and DeepMind, providing pathways to cutting-edge roles.

For undergraduate applicants, strong mathematics, programming and statistics backgrounds are essential. Master’s and PhD programs typically require relevant bachelor’s degrees, research experience and competitive GRE or equivalent scores in some cases.

The rapid evolution of AI means curricula at these schools emphasize lifelong learning, ethical considerations and interdisciplinary skills. Programs increasingly incorporate responsible AI, bias mitigation and societal impact alongside technical training.

International students should verify English proficiency requirements (TOEFL/IELTS) and explore funding options early. Application deadlines for fall 2027 intake typically fall between December 2026 and March 2027 for competitive programs.

As AI reshapes industries, the institutions listed offer pathways to shape that future. Students are advised to visit university websites, attend virtual open houses and connect with current students for the latest program details.

The 2026 landscape shows a healthy global distribution, with strong representation from North America, Europe and Asia, ensuring diverse perspectives in AI development.