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BusinessAI imageTax experts have confirmed that Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) fees can be claimed as tax-deductible business expenses under current tax laws. This means businesses can reduce their taxable income by including MDR charges as part of their operational costs, potentially lowering their overall tax liability.
The Hindu - Business Line·
PoliticsA judge in Washington, D.C. permanently dismissed the criminal case against former Olympian David Hearn, who was charged with vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The dismissal with prejudice prevents federal prosecutors from refiling the felony charge. The judge cited "exceptional circumstances" and criticized the government's rapid indictment process. The case had political pressure from President Trump, who criticized the prosecutor for dropping the case.
HT World··Washington
TechnologyCalifornia Attorney General Rob Bonta has launched an investigation into OpenAI by issuing an investigative subpoena. The probe focuses on potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities and incidents involving OpenAI's AI models, including a July hacking of Hugging Face by OpenAI-developed AI agents. This inquiry is part of a broader US regulatory effort, with the FTC also investigating AI labs like OpenAI and Anthropic for consumer risks.
ET Tech·
ScienceConstruction has started in downtown Grand Rapids to restore the historic rapids that disappeared due to industrial development. The first phase involves removing four low-head dams and replacing them with natural rock features to improve fish passage, habitat, and river access. The project also includes protections for mussels and controls for invasive sea lampreys.
TOI World··Grand Rapids
HealthDoctors warn that vaping affects not only lung health but also heart and blood vessels, especially in young people. Nicotine in vapes can raise heart rate, blood pressure, and constrict blood vessels, increasing heart workload. Emerging research links e-cigarette use to blood vessel function changes. Dr. Sanjeev Chaudhary of Marengo Asia Hospitals highlights that vaping is not risk-free despite being smoke-free, with potential inflammation and oxidative stress risks.
Firstpost Health··Gurugram
PoliticsThe Indi alliance and Cockroach party have launched a protest against the Election Commission regarding EVM concerns. They plan to take to the streets over this issue. Meanwhile, in Uttar Pradesh, the Samajwadi Party and Congress are in a dispute over seat sharing. Akhilesh Yadav is also conflicted about a third candidate in the Rajya Sabha elections. Punjab's Congress is facing significant internal turmoil.
News18 Hindi·
The Hindu - Business Line·
Tax experts have confirmed that Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) fees can be claimed as tax-deductible business expenses under current tax laws. This means businesses can reduce their taxable income by including MDR charges as part of their operational costs, potentially lowering their overall tax liability.
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