Bitcoin Drops to 16-Month Low: Is a Fall Below $60,000 Imminent?
Bitcoin, the world’s largest cryptocurrency, faced a dramatic price drop on February 6, 2026, hitting an intraday low of $60,008.52 during volatile trading. This marks the lowest point for Bitcoin since October 2024. The decline occurred amid a broader selloff across global markets, especially in technology stocks, metals, and other riskier assets, raising concerns about whether Bitcoin could fall below the $60,000 mark in the coming days. After touching this 16-month low, Bitcoin
Bitcoin Drops to 16-Month Low: Is a Fall Below $60,000 Imminent?
Bitcoin, the world’s largest cryptocurrency, faced a dramatic price drop on February 6, 2026, hitting an intraday low of $60,008.52 during volatile trading. This marks the lowest point for Bitcoin since October 2024. The decline occurred amid a broader selloff across global markets, especially in technology stocks, metals, and other riskier assets, raising concerns about whether Bitcoin could fall below the $60,000 mark in the coming days. After touching this 16-month low, Bitcoin
RBI MPC Announcement Today: Will Governor Sanjay Malhotra Reduce Repo Rate?
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will announce its latest monetary policy decision today, February 6, 2026, with markets largely expecting the central bank to keep the repo rate unchanged. This announcement follows a series of rate cuts, with the last one made in December 2025, reducing the repo rate from 5.50% to 5.25%. Experts predict that the RBI will maintain a pause in rate cuts as it assesses the impacts of the previous changes on inflation and growth. RBI Governor Sanjay Malho
RBI MPC Announcement Today: Will Governor Sanjay Malhotra Reduce Repo Rate?
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will announce its latest monetary policy decision today, February 6, 2026, with markets largely expecting the central bank to keep the repo rate unchanged. This announcement follows a series of rate cuts, with the last one made in December 2025, reducing the repo rate from 5.50% to 5.25%. Experts predict that the RBI will maintain a pause in rate cuts as it assesses the impacts of the previous changes on inflation and growth. RBI Governor Sanjay Malho
Warren moves to block sale of U.S. AI chips to UAE over security concerns
Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts is preparing to introduce a Senate resolution that would formally condemn and seek the reversal of a proposed sale of 500,000 advanced artificial intelligence chips annually to the United Arab Emirates, arguing the transaction could threaten U.S. national security and raise serious ethical questions about conflicts of interest. The measure is expected to be brought to the Senate floor on Thursday, where Warren plans to call for lawmakers to block the exp
Warren moves to block sale of U.S. AI chips to UAE over security concerns
Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts is preparing to introduce a Senate resolution that would formally condemn and seek the reversal of a proposed sale of 500,000 advanced artificial intelligence chips annually to the United Arab Emirates, arguing the transaction could threaten U.S. national security and raise serious ethical questions about conflicts of interest. The measure is expected to be brought to the Senate floor on Thursday, where Warren plans to call for lawmakers to block the exp
India and US near historic trade pact as tariff cuts and mineral ties advance
India and the United States are moving closer to concluding what officials describe as a landmark trade agreement, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar indicating that the final details are being worked out and an announcement could come soon. Speaking at the conclusion of his visit to Washington on February 5, Jaishankar said negotiations had reached an advanced stage and expressed confidence that the pact would usher in a new phase of cooperation between the two countries.
India and US near historic trade pact as tariff cuts and mineral ties advance
India and the United States are moving closer to concluding what officials describe as a landmark trade agreement, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar indicating that the final details are being worked out and an announcement could come soon. Speaking at the conclusion of his visit to Washington on February 5, Jaishankar said negotiations had reached an advanced stage and expressed confidence that the pact would usher in a new phase of cooperation between the two countries.
Global gold wealth mapped as seven nations dominate trillion-dollar reserves
Global gold reserves have come under renewed scrutiny as bullion prices climb to historic levels, strengthening the strategic and economic significance of mineral-rich nations. Gold is currently trading at approximately $4,290 an ounce in the international market, sharply raising the value of unmined deposits and drawing attention from investors, governments and mining companies seeking long-term supply security. Against this backdrop, geological estimates highlight a small group of countries
Global gold wealth mapped as seven nations dominate trillion-dollar reserves
Global gold reserves have come under renewed scrutiny as bullion prices climb to historic levels, strengthening the strategic and economic significance of mineral-rich nations. Gold is currently trading at approximately $4,290 an ounce in the international market, sharply raising the value of unmined deposits and drawing attention from investors, governments and mining companies seeking long-term supply security. Against this backdrop, geological estimates highlight a small group of countries
Vijay Shankar Sharma Calls Sundar Pichai the Ultimate CEO as Google Achieves Record $400B Revenue
Alphabet, Google’s parent company, achieved a remarkable financial milestone in Q4 2025, surpassing $400 billion in revenue for the first time in its history. The key growth driver behind this success has been Google's expanding AI capabilities, particularly through its full AI stack, with Gemini 3 leading the charge. Sundar Pichai, CEO of both Alphabet and Google, highlighted how the company's growth was primarily fueled by advancements in AI, with Gemini 3 seeing massive engagem
Vijay Shankar Sharma Calls Sundar Pichai the Ultimate CEO as Google Achieves Record $400B Revenue
Alphabet, Google’s parent company, achieved a remarkable financial milestone in Q4 2025, surpassing $400 billion in revenue for the first time in its history. The key growth driver behind this success has been Google's expanding AI capabilities, particularly through its full AI stack, with Gemini 3 leading the charge. Sundar Pichai, CEO of both Alphabet and Google, highlighted how the company's growth was primarily fueled by advancements in AI, with Gemini 3 seeing massive engagem
Suryakumar Yadav Breaks Silence on Pakistan Boycott Threat, Ready to Play in T20 World Cup
Ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav addressed concerns over Pakistan's threat to boycott their scheduled group-stage clash. Yadav firmly stated that India's preparations for the match remain unchanged, regardless of Pakistan's stance on participation. During a captain's meet ahead of the tournament, Suryakumar emphasized that India's focus remains on the game. "Our mindset is very clear. We haven’t said no to playing them; they are the ones who??
Suryakumar Yadav Breaks Silence on Pakistan Boycott Threat, Ready to Play in T20 World Cup
Ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav addressed concerns over Pakistan's threat to boycott their scheduled group-stage clash. Yadav firmly stated that India's preparations for the match remain unchanged, regardless of Pakistan's stance on participation. During a captain's meet ahead of the tournament, Suryakumar emphasized that India's focus remains on the game. "Our mindset is very clear. We haven’t said no to playing them; they are the ones who??
Pawan Kalyan Accuses Previous Government of Scamming Tirumala Laddu Preparation, Vows to Expose Truth
In a press statement today, DCM Pawan Kalyan strongly addressed the ongoing Tirumala laddu controversy, accusing the previous YSRCP government of a major scam in the preparation of the sacred prasadam. Kalyan claimed that palm oil and harmful chemicals had been used instead of pure ghee in the preparation of the famous Tirumala Srivari Laddu, which he said not only hurt the faith of devotees but also compromised their health. Kalyan emphasized the seriousness of the issue, pointing
Pawan Kalyan Accuses Previous Government of Scamming Tirumala Laddu Preparation, Vows to Expose Truth
In a press statement today, DCM Pawan Kalyan strongly addressed the ongoing Tirumala laddu controversy, accusing the previous YSRCP government of a major scam in the preparation of the sacred prasadam. Kalyan claimed that palm oil and harmful chemicals had been used instead of pure ghee in the preparation of the famous Tirumala Srivari Laddu, which he said not only hurt the faith of devotees but also compromised their health. Kalyan emphasized the seriousness of the issue, pointing
Film Certification Time Reduced to 18 Days with New Online System, Says Ministry
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced that the average time taken for the certification of feature films has been reduced to just 18 working days, thanks to the introduction of the Online Certificate System. Minister L Murugan shared this information in response to a question raised by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in the Lok Sabha. This reduction marks a significant improvement in the efficiency of the film certification process, which was previously subject to a 48-day prescribed t
Film Certification Time Reduced to 18 Days with New Online System, Says Ministry
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced that the average time taken for the certification of feature films has been reduced to just 18 working days, thanks to the introduction of the Online Certificate System. Minister L Murugan shared this information in response to a question raised by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in the Lok Sabha. This reduction marks a significant improvement in the efficiency of the film certification process, which was previously subject to a 48-day prescribed t
India–US trade deal: Doval warns Washington against pressure tactics
India’s national security advisor Ajit Doval conveyed a firm message to senior United States officials months before the announcement of a new trade agreement between New Delhi and Washington, underscoring that India would not yield to public pressure or coercive tactics during negotiations. According to officials familiar with the discussions, Doval made it clear during meetings in Washington that India was prepared to wait out the current US administration if necessary rather than accept terms it viewed as unfavorable. The visit took place in early September, shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaling an active diplomatic phase for New Delhi across major global powers. During his interaction with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Doval reportedly emphasized that while India remained committed to reviving trade talks, it expected a more measured tone from Washington and less public criticism that could complicate bilateral ties. Officials said Doval sought to put recent acrimony behind the two countries and expressed interest in restarting substantive discussions on a trade deal that has been under negotiation for several years. At the same time, he warned that India would not be “bullied” by President Donald Trump or senior members of his team, stressing that any agreement must respect India’s economic interests and strategic autonomy. The remarks came months before Trump publicly announced progress on a trade deal with India following a phone call with Modi on February 2. That announcement marked a fresh attempt by both sides to rebuild momentum in economic cooperation after a period marked by tariff disputes and disagreements over market access. Diplomatic observers note that India’s approach reflects a broader foreign policy strategy that balances engagement with firmness. By signaling willingness to continue talks while resisting overt pressure, New Delhi appears intent on safeguarding domestic priorities while preserving its long-term partnership with Washington. The United States remains one of India’s largest trading partners, and both governments view closer economic integration as central to strengthening strategic ties in the Indo-Pacific. The Washington meeting is seen as part of quiet backchannel diplomacy aimed at lowering tensions and creating space for practical negotiations. With both sides now indicating readiness to resume dialogue, officials say the focus will be on rebuilding trust and advancing a mutually beneficial trade framework that supports growth and stability in the relationship.
India–US trade deal: Doval warns Washington against pressure tactics
India’s national security advisor Ajit Doval conveyed a firm message to senior United States officials months before the announcement of a new trade agreement between New Delhi and Washington, underscoring that India would not yield to public pressure or coercive tactics during negotiations. According to officials familiar with the discussions, Doval made it clear during meetings in Washington that India was prepared to wait out the current US administration if necessary rather than accept terms it viewed as unfavorable. The visit took place in early September, shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaling an active diplomatic phase for New Delhi across major global powers. During his interaction with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Doval reportedly emphasized that while India remained committed to reviving trade talks, it expected a more measured tone from Washington and less public criticism that could complicate bilateral ties. Officials said Doval sought to put recent acrimony behind the two countries and expressed interest in restarting substantive discussions on a trade deal that has been under negotiation for several years. At the same time, he warned that India would not be “bullied” by President Donald Trump or senior members of his team, stressing that any agreement must respect India’s economic interests and strategic autonomy. The remarks came months before Trump publicly announced progress on a trade deal with India following a phone call with Modi on February 2. That announcement marked a fresh attempt by both sides to rebuild momentum in economic cooperation after a period marked by tariff disputes and disagreements over market access. Diplomatic observers note that India’s approach reflects a broader foreign policy strategy that balances engagement with firmness. By signaling willingness to continue talks while resisting overt pressure, New Delhi appears intent on safeguarding domestic priorities while preserving its long-term partnership with Washington. The United States remains one of India’s largest trading partners, and both governments view closer economic integration as central to strengthening strategic ties in the Indo-Pacific. The Washington meeting is seen as part of quiet backchannel diplomacy aimed at lowering tensions and creating space for practical negotiations. With both sides now indicating readiness to resume dialogue, officials say the focus will be on rebuilding trust and advancing a mutually beneficial trade framework that supports growth and stability in the relationship.
Former BrewDog Franklinton bar listed for lease as turnkey restaurant space
A former BrewDog bar in Columbus’ Franklinton neighborhood has been placed on the leasing market, opening the door for a new operator to take over the high-profile space weeks after the Scotland-based brewery closed the location as part of a broader pullback in the city. Roth Real Estate Group is marketing the freestanding property at 463 W. Town St. as a turnkey opportunity for a restaurant, cafe, brewery, bar or creative retail concept. The building offers more than 4,900 square
Former BrewDog Franklinton bar listed for lease as turnkey restaurant space
A former BrewDog bar in Columbus’ Franklinton neighborhood has been placed on the leasing market, opening the door for a new operator to take over the high-profile space weeks after the Scotland-based brewery closed the location as part of a broader pullback in the city. Roth Real Estate Group is marketing the freestanding property at 463 W. Town St. as a turnkey opportunity for a restaurant, cafe, brewery, bar or creative retail concept. The building offers more than 4,900 square
California redistricting plan upheld after justices reject GOP appeal
The Supreme Court has cleared the way for California to use a newly approved congressional map that is expected to benefit Democrats in upcoming elections, rejecting an emergency appeal filed by state Republicans and backed by the Trump administration. The unsigned order, issued without explanation and with no noted dissents, leaves intact district boundaries that could alter the balance of power in several closely contested House races as the country moves toward high-stakes midterm contests
California redistricting plan upheld after justices reject GOP appeal
The Supreme Court has cleared the way for California to use a newly approved congressional map that is expected to benefit Democrats in upcoming elections, rejecting an emergency appeal filed by state Republicans and backed by the Trump administration. The unsigned order, issued without explanation and with no noted dissents, leaves intact district boundaries that could alter the balance of power in several closely contested House races as the country moves toward high-stakes midterm contests
February forecast shows warming trend for U.S. after weeks of winter cold
After several weeks of persistent cold and widespread winter hazards, weather conditions across much of the United States are beginning to moderate as the overall atmospheric pattern shifts. Forecasters report that a strengthening ridge of high pressure is developing over large portions of the country, allowing milder air masses to advance northward and gradually replace the Arctic air that dominated January. The transition marks the first broad return to above-average temperatures in weeks a
February forecast shows warming trend for U.S. after weeks of winter cold
After several weeks of persistent cold and widespread winter hazards, weather conditions across much of the United States are beginning to moderate as the overall atmospheric pattern shifts. Forecasters report that a strengthening ridge of high pressure is developing over large portions of the country, allowing milder air masses to advance northward and gradually replace the Arctic air that dominated January. The transition marks the first broad return to above-average temperatures in weeks a
Russia questions India’s pledge to stop Russian crude after U.S. tariff agreement
Russia has said it has not received any official confirmation from India that the country plans to halt purchases of Russian oil, a day after U.S. President Donald Trump claimed New Delhi agreed to scale back those imports as part of a new trade agreement with Washington. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Moscow had yet to hear directly from Indian authorities regarding any change in energy flows. While acknowledging the evolving relationship between the United States a
Russia questions India’s pledge to stop Russian crude after U.S. tariff agreement
Russia has said it has not received any official confirmation from India that the country plans to halt purchases of Russian oil, a day after U.S. President Donald Trump claimed New Delhi agreed to scale back those imports as part of a new trade agreement with Washington. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Moscow had yet to hear directly from Indian authorities regarding any change in energy flows. While acknowledging the evolving relationship between the United States a
US and China leaders hold extensive talks on oil, agriculture, and Taiwan issues
US President Donald Trump held an extended telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday, engaging in wide-ranging discussions that touched on trade ties, energy cooperation, agricultural purchases, and several pressing geopolitical concerns, according to remarks shared by the American leader. Posting about the exchange on his social media platform, Trump described the dialogue as “excellent,” emphasizing that the call was both lengthy and substantive. He
US and China leaders hold extensive talks on oil, agriculture, and Taiwan issues
US President Donald Trump held an extended telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday, engaging in wide-ranging discussions that touched on trade ties, energy cooperation, agricultural purchases, and several pressing geopolitical concerns, according to remarks shared by the American leader. Posting about the exchange on his social media platform, Trump described the dialogue as “excellent,” emphasizing that the call was both lengthy and substantive. He
Lunar Blood Moon Eclipse 2026: Date, Time In India, USA & How To Watch
The March 3, 2026 Lunar Eclipse will be a Total Lunar Eclipse, often called a Blood Moon because the Moon turns deep red during totality. This happens when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow completely over the Moon. According to NASA, the red color appears because Earth’s atmosphere filters sunligh
Lunar Blood Moon Eclipse 2026: Date, Time In India, USA & How To Watch
The March 3, 2026 Lunar Eclipse will be a Total Lunar Eclipse, often called a Blood Moon because the Moon turns deep red during totality. This happens when the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow completely over the Moon. According to NASA, the red color appears because Earth’s atmosphere filters sunligh
US downs Iranian drone near carrier as nuclear talks hang in balance
Tensions between Iran and the United States intensified this week after the US military shot down an Iranian drone that it said approached the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in an aggressive manner in the Arabian Sea. The incident came as both sides exchanged sharp warnings and cautious signals about a possible return to nuclear diplomacy, underscoring the fragile balance between confrontation and negotiation in the region. According to US officials, the drone was intercepted
US downs Iranian drone near carrier as nuclear talks hang in balance
Tensions between Iran and the United States intensified this week after the US military shot down an Iranian drone that it said approached the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in an aggressive manner in the Arabian Sea. The incident came as both sides exchanged sharp warnings and cautious signals about a possible return to nuclear diplomacy, underscoring the fragile balance between confrontation and negotiation in the region. According to US officials, the drone was intercepted
Super Bowl LX week events light up the Bay Area with concerts and fan festivals
The Bay Area is set to take center stage as Super Bowl LX arrives at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara on Sunday, Feb. 8, bringing a weeklong lineup of sports, music and community events that stretch across San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland and surrounding cities. Organizers say the region will host dozens of fan festivals, tailgates, concerts and interactive experiences designed to welcome visitors and provide entertainment for residents leading up to the championship game. A major hu
Super Bowl LX week events light up the Bay Area with concerts and fan festivals
The Bay Area is set to take center stage as Super Bowl LX arrives at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara on Sunday, Feb. 8, bringing a weeklong lineup of sports, music and community events that stretch across San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland and surrounding cities. Organizers say the region will host dozens of fan festivals, tailgates, concerts and interactive experiences designed to welcome visitors and provide entertainment for residents leading up to the championship game. A major hu
Six U.S. Cities Selected to Host Soccer Matches for LA 2028 Olympics
Organizers of the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles have confirmed that six cities across the United States will host soccer matches, expanding the tournament’s footprint well beyond Southern California and reinforcing the event’s national reach. The decision distributes group stage games among established soccer markets and utilizes existing Major League Soccer stadiums, a strategy officials say will help streamline logistics while showcasing top-tier facilities. According to the LA 2028 organizing committee, group stage matches will take place in New York City; Columbus, Ohio; Nashville, Tennessee; St. Louis, Missouri; and the California cities of San Diego and San Jose. Each location features modern venues regularly used for professional soccer, ensuring that teams and spectators benefit from infrastructure already designed for high-level competition. LA 2028 chief executive Reynold Hoover presented the plan to members of the International Olympic Committee, emphasizing that the Games will rely on “premier existing Major League Soccer stadiums” rather than building new facilities. Organizers view the approach as both cost-effective and sustainable, aligning with broader Olympic goals to reduce construction and environmental impact while maximizing the use of current venues. While early-round matches will be spread across the country, later stages of the tournament will return to the Los Angeles region. The historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena has already been confirmed as the site for knockout and medal games. The stadium, one of the most recognizable sports venues in the United States, has hosted major international soccer events in the past and is expected to serve as a centerpiece of the Olympic football schedule. By distributing games among multiple cities, organizers aim to engage fans nationwide and create broader economic benefits for host communities. Local officials in the selected markets anticipate increased tourism, hotel bookings, and related spending during the Games, as well as opportunities to promote youth soccer and grassroots participation. The expanded venue plan also reflects soccer’s growing popularity in the United States, where MLS stadiums have become key hubs for both domestic and international matches. With the Olympic spotlight set to fall on these cities in 2028, organizers believe the strategy will deliver a high-quality tournament experience while bringing the spirit of the Games to audiences across the country.
Six U.S. Cities Selected to Host Soccer Matches for LA 2028 Olympics
Organizers of the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles have confirmed that six cities across the United States will host soccer matches, expanding the tournament’s footprint well beyond Southern California and reinforcing the event’s national reach. The decision distributes group stage games among established soccer markets and utilizes existing Major League Soccer stadiums, a strategy officials say will help streamline logistics while showcasing top-tier facilities. According to the LA 2028 organizing committee, group stage matches will take place in New York City; Columbus, Ohio; Nashville, Tennessee; St. Louis, Missouri; and the California cities of San Diego and San Jose. Each location features modern venues regularly used for professional soccer, ensuring that teams and spectators benefit from infrastructure already designed for high-level competition. LA 2028 chief executive Reynold Hoover presented the plan to members of the International Olympic Committee, emphasizing that the Games will rely on “premier existing Major League Soccer stadiums” rather than building new facilities. Organizers view the approach as both cost-effective and sustainable, aligning with broader Olympic goals to reduce construction and environmental impact while maximizing the use of current venues. While early-round matches will be spread across the country, later stages of the tournament will return to the Los Angeles region. The historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena has already been confirmed as the site for knockout and medal games. The stadium, one of the most recognizable sports venues in the United States, has hosted major international soccer events in the past and is expected to serve as a centerpiece of the Olympic football schedule. By distributing games among multiple cities, organizers aim to engage fans nationwide and create broader economic benefits for host communities. Local officials in the selected markets anticipate increased tourism, hotel bookings, and related spending during the Games, as well as opportunities to promote youth soccer and grassroots participation. The expanded venue plan also reflects soccer’s growing popularity in the United States, where MLS stadiums have become key hubs for both domestic and international matches. With the Olympic spotlight set to fall on these cities in 2028, organizers believe the strategy will deliver a high-quality tournament experience while bringing the spirit of the Games to audiences across the country.
Green card holders barred from SBA small business loans under new US rules
Green card holders will no longer be eligible for government-backed small business loans in the United States beginning March 1, 2026, following a policy change by the US Small Business Administration that tightens citizenship and residency requirements for borrowers. The revised rules limit access to key SBA lending programs exclusively to US citizens and nationals who maintain their principal residence within the country or its territories, effectively barring lawful permanent residents from participation. According to an official policy notice issued in early February, the agency updated its Standard Operating Procedure 50 10 8, the framework that governs lender and development company loan programs. The revision rescinds earlier procedural guidance that permitted limited ownership by foreign nationals or certain residents living outside the United States. Under the new language, every direct and indirect owner of a small business applicant must meet the citizenship criteria. The SBA said the updated rules require 100 percent of ownership interests in any applicant or borrowing entity to be held by eligible US citizens or nationals. As a result, even minority ownership by a legal permanent resident will disqualify a company from receiving SBA-backed financing. The policy applies broadly to applicants, operating companies, and entities tied to the loan structure, leaving little flexibility for mixed-ownership businesses. The change is expected to affect a wide range of small and early-stage firms that rely on SBA loans for working capital, equipment purchases, and expansion. Many startups and family-owned enterprises depend on these lending programs because they offer lower interest rates and government guarantees that make financing more accessible. With the new restrictions in place, businesses that include green card holders among their owners may need to reconsider ownership arrangements or seek alternative sources of credit from private lenders. Agency officials indicated that the revisions align loan eligibility standards with existing federal regulations and a recent executive directive emphasizing stricter residency compliance. The policy will take effect for all new applications submitted on or after the effective date. Existing and prospective borrowers are being advised to review their ownership structures carefully to ensure continued eligibility under the updated requirements. The move marks a significant shift in how federal small business lending programs define qualification, narrowing access to public funds and reshaping the financing landscape for immigrant entrepreneurs. As the implementation date approaches, legal and financial advisers expect increased demand for guidance from affected business owners who must evaluate their options within the new framework.
Green card holders barred from SBA small business loans under new US rules
Green card holders will no longer be eligible for government-backed small business loans in the United States beginning March 1, 2026, following a policy change by the US Small Business Administration that tightens citizenship and residency requirements for borrowers. The revised rules limit access to key SBA lending programs exclusively to US citizens and nationals who maintain their principal residence within the country or its territories, effectively barring lawful permanent residents from participation. According to an official policy notice issued in early February, the agency updated its Standard Operating Procedure 50 10 8, the framework that governs lender and development company loan programs. The revision rescinds earlier procedural guidance that permitted limited ownership by foreign nationals or certain residents living outside the United States. Under the new language, every direct and indirect owner of a small business applicant must meet the citizenship criteria. The SBA said the updated rules require 100 percent of ownership interests in any applicant or borrowing entity to be held by eligible US citizens or nationals. As a result, even minority ownership by a legal permanent resident will disqualify a company from receiving SBA-backed financing. The policy applies broadly to applicants, operating companies, and entities tied to the loan structure, leaving little flexibility for mixed-ownership businesses. The change is expected to affect a wide range of small and early-stage firms that rely on SBA loans for working capital, equipment purchases, and expansion. Many startups and family-owned enterprises depend on these lending programs because they offer lower interest rates and government guarantees that make financing more accessible. With the new restrictions in place, businesses that include green card holders among their owners may need to reconsider ownership arrangements or seek alternative sources of credit from private lenders. Agency officials indicated that the revisions align loan eligibility standards with existing federal regulations and a recent executive directive emphasizing stricter residency compliance. The policy will take effect for all new applications submitted on or after the effective date. Existing and prospective borrowers are being advised to review their ownership structures carefully to ensure continued eligibility under the updated requirements. The move marks a significant shift in how federal small business lending programs define qualification, narrowing access to public funds and reshaping the financing landscape for immigrant entrepreneurs. As the implementation date approaches, legal and financial advisers expect increased demand for guidance from affected business owners who must evaluate their options within the new framework.









