7, Jan 2025
Pre-Budget Insights from Experts
Mr. Pankaj Panjwani, CEO and Founder, KeenSemi
As we approach the Union Budget 2025, the semiconductor and technology sectors stand at a critical juncture. To propel India towards becoming a global semiconductor hub, it is essential for the budget to introduce comprehensive measures that strengthen the entire value chain—from design and R&D to manufacturing and talent development.
India’s National Supercomputing Mission (NSM) requires additional impetus, including increased funding for the homegrown development of high-performance computing semiconductor chip architecture, design, and ecosystem. In 2015, ₹4,500 crore was allocated to NSM for seven years. This year’s budget is expected to allocate over ₹5,000 crore for the next five years to drive HPC and GPU development in India.
Schemes such as the Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) must be made more attractive by integrating larger imperatives for startups and companies developing designs tailored to indigenous needs and customers.
Enhanced incentives for domestic chip production, along with robust support for advanced research in AI, IoT, microcontrollers, and high-performance computing, will be crucial for achieving this vision.
Investments in digital infrastructure, particularly in the expansion of 5G networks and the establishment of robust data centers, are vital to meet the growing demand for connected devices and services. Additionally, fostering industry-academia collaborations can help bridge the skills gap and ensure a workforce proficient in cutting-edge technologies.
We remain optimistic that the forthcoming budget will establish a strong foundation for sustainable growth, innovation, and self-reliance in India’s semiconductor and technology landscape.
Mr. Srinivas Rao Ravuri, Chief Investment Officer, Bajaj Allianz Life
“Amidst a mixed global and domestic economic environment, India’s financial markets displayed resilience in 2024. While the large cap Nifty 50 index delivered a modest ~9% return during the year, mid and small cap indices delivered ~24% return for the second successive year. Inflation so far this year averaged at ~5%, staying above the RBI’s 4% target, which led the central bank to hold policy rates steady while easing liquidity through a reduction in the cash reserve ratio.
GDP growth for FY24-25 is projected at 6.6%, slightly moderating as inflationary pressures impacted consumption and economic expansion. The consumption sector faced headwinds, with subdued demand growth, while corporate earnings in reflected muted growth amid challenging conditions.
Globally, with inflation moderating in the U.S., the Federal Reserve started cutting rates, providing relief to financial markets and improving sentiment. However, domestic headwinds, including a slowdown in consumption and tepid earnings growth, highlighted vulnerabilities in India’s recovery. Despite these challenges, strong government spending and robust economic fundamentals continue to position India as one of the fastest growing economies, offering long-term potential for wealth creation.”
Gopal Jain, Managing Partner & CO-Founder, Gaja Capital & Co-Chair of Regulatory Affairs Committee, IVCA
“At the pre-Budget consultation with Hon’ble Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, we emphasized the need to build on the positive policy momentum from the previous Union Budget to further strengthen the Indian alternate capital ecosystem. Additionally, unlocking pools of domestic capital remains critical.
By implementing these measures and modernizing regulatory frameworks, India can pave the way for a robust and globally competitive alternative investment landscape. We remain optimistic about the government’s continued support in the upcoming Union Budget.”
Mr. Pankaj Panjwani, CEO and Founder, KeenSemi
As we approach the Union Budget 2025, the semiconductor and technology sectors stand at a critical juncture. To propel India towards becoming a global semiconductor hub, it is essential for the budget to introduce comprehensive measures that strengthen the entire value chain—from design and R&D to manufacturing and talent development.
India’s National Supercomputing Mission (NSM) requires additional impetus, including increased funding for the homegrown development of high-performance computing semiconductor chip architecture, design, and ecosystem. In 2015, ₹4,500 crore was allocated to NSM for seven years. This year’s budget is expected to allocate over ₹5,000 crore for the next five years to drive HPC and GPU development in India.
Schemes such as the Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) must be made more attractive by integrating larger imperatives for startups and companies developing designs tailored to indigenous needs and customers.
Enhanced incentives for domestic chip production, along with robust support for advanced research in AI, IoT, microcontrollers, and high-performance computing, will be crucial for achieving this vision.
Investments in digital infrastructure, particularly in the expansion of 5G networks and the establishment of robust data centers, are vital to meet the growing demand for connected devices and services. Additionally, fostering industry-academia collaborations can help bridge the skills gap and ensure a workforce proficient in cutting-edge technologies.
We remain optimistic that the forthcoming budget will establish a strong foundation for sustainable growth, innovation, and self-reliance in India’s semiconductor and technology landscape.
Simranjeet Singh, Director, CYK Hospitalities
“The upcoming Union Budget 2025 is quite expected to have reforms for innovation. For start-ups and food and beverage (F&B) sectors, there is also great hope for simplified taxation, namely GST rate cuts on small eateries and essentials-those will ease financial stress. A very strong push has been made towards subsidies on packaging that preserve the environment so that food becomes scarce, aligning it to the perceptions of global sustainability. Increased budgetary support to food processing facilities might as well drive off multiple rural jobs and boost exports. Start-ups are also demanding continued tax exemptions and the removal of angel taxes so as to attract more funding. Investments into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities will benefit from policy environments that promote digital ecosystems to stimulate innovation, especially in agri-tech, health-tech and green-tech.”
Nidhi Singh, Co-Founder, Samosa Singh
“Being a F&B brand dedicated to prioritizing quality and innovation, we look forward to the Union Budget 2025 reforms that may vicariously fuel the growth of startups pertaining to the former. Swiftly approved policies that would potentially simplify taxation, and promote sustainable business practices can act as promoters for escalating startups like ours. F&B sector being in the focus, stimuli for local sourcing, reduced taxes on essential supplies, facilitated support for cold-chain infrastructure, can result in significantly impacting operational efficiency and product quality in the constructive manner. We hope that implementation of this budget would make provisions for a far more resilient and thriving startup ecosystem, and be the breath of prerequisite fresh air.”
Vikesh Shah, Founder, 99 Pancakes
“At 99 Pancakes, we are committed to redefining the QSR dining experience & we are hopeful about the Union Budget 2025 to address key grown enablers for our F&B Industry. This sector has been brawling with inflating operational & input costs. With a reduction in GST on dining services along with a tax alleviation on sustainability packaging could be of crucial assistance.
Scalability & Market Expansion could be the necessary impact driven from adopting advanced kitchen technologies leading to operational efficiency.
Such robust measures accredit brands like ours to continue striving towards innovation, amplifying customer experience & contributing to our country’s economic momentum.”
MP Ahammed, Chairman, Malabar Group
”The demand for jewellery has strengthened after the gold import duty cut in the Union Budget 2024. Therefore, in the first full budget of NDA 3.0, the jewellery industry expects policy continuity to boost consumer demand for jewellery, thus generating more employment and playing a pivotal role in the economic growth. To boost demand for precious jewellery, the budget needs to propose tax relief measures to boost disposable income and consumption. Some strategic measures to control inflation impact on consumption are also welcome.
In addition, the budget needs to propose measures to make the gold monetisation scheme more attractive to the people. This way, more idle household gold will be mobilised, resulting in reduced gold import bill and decreased current account deficit. The government may propose measures to revise the existing gold monetisation scheme to facilitate participation of recognized and reputed retail jewellers. The budget should also announce measures to curb unaccounted business in the retail jewellery sector.
The budget should also continue with the capital expenditure on infrastructure development so that the organised jewellery retail segment can further enhance its market penetration and discover new demand centres.”
Radhika Koolwal, Co-Founder (Urban Space)
“As we approach the Union Budget 2025, the home decor industry is optimistic about measures that can bolster growth and innovation in the sector. We hope for policies that incentivize domestic manufacturing, such as subsidies on raw materials and machinery, along with tax breaks for MSMEs and startups. A reduction in GST rates on home furnishings and decor items would be a significant step toward making quality products more accessible to the growing middle class.
Additionally, we expect initiatives that encourage sustainable practices, such as tax benefits for brands adopting eco-friendly production processes and using sustainable materials. Expanding financial support for digital infrastructure and e-commerce platforms will further empower businesses like Urban Space to enhance customer experiences and reach underserved markets.
Investments in infrastructure, urban housing development, and affordable housing schemes will also be instrumental in spurring demand for home decor. Moreover, we look forward to enhanced export incentives, which can help Indian brands compete globally and showcase our designs on the international stage.”
Pushpamitra Das, Founder & Director, JUSTO
According to Pushpamitra Das, Founder & Director, JUSTO, India’s real estate sector plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. As the 2025 Union Budget approaches, the industry and stakeholders anticipate measures that could drive growth, address challenges, and ensure sustainability.
· Enhanced affordable housing focus through increased PMAY allocation and tax incentives
· Infrastructure status for real estate sector to enable easier financing
· Potential GST rationalization for under-construction properties for commercial and residential segment
· Higher tax deductions on home loan interest
· Provide tax benefits to Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) to encourage retail and institutional participation, boosting commercial real estate.
· Reforms in land acquisition policies and single-window clearance system
· Increased focus on rental housing through tax benefits for both owners and tenants and co living assets
· Extension of SEZ benefits to boost commercial real estate
· Green building incentives through additional tax benefitsA balanced and forward-looking budget can unlock the sector’s true potential while aligning it with the nation’s broader economic goals.
Mr. Umesh Revankar, Executive Vice Chairman, Shriram Finance Limited
“We anticipate that the upcoming Union Budget will prioritize infrastructure spending, which will significantly benefit our lending segments, particularly small businesses, contractors, and transporters. This focus on infrastructure is expected to lead to a surge in demand for steel, cement, and other materials, further driving demand in vehicle finance and other sectors reliant on bulk materials. This will not only boost economic activity but also create substantial employment opportunities, especially in semi-urban and rural areas. We foresee new vehicle sales growth in Q4 to be in double digits year-on-year, as we expect government spending on infrastructure to be much higher than previous quarters.”
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- By Team
7, Jan 2025
Orbit Startups and Sanabil Investments Launch Accelerator for Early-Stage Tech Innovation Across Saudi Arabia and MENA
New Delhi, India, 7th January, 2025 – Orbit Startups (Orbit) and Sanabil Investments announce the launch of a new accelerator program, Sanabil Accelerator by Orbit, to cultivate early stage startups from the Saudi Arabia and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region as well as global startups seeking to expand into the region. The program will focus on key sectors including fintech, healthcare, e-commerce, mobility and logistics, among others.
The accelerator partnership marks a significant milestone for Orbit, with 45 portfolio companies in the MENA region since 2020, deepening its commitment to economic transformation in emerging markets through technology and entrepreneurship, and advancing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for digital innovation.
Sanabil Accelerator by Orbit is a continuation of Sanabil’s focus on early stage start-ups and is the second accelerator to have been launched since 2021. The first accelerator, Sanabil Accelerator by 500 Global, in its 8th edition this year, and is focused on seed investment while the second, Sanabil Accelerator by Orbit is focused on pre-seed investment.
Startups will receive an initial investment of USD $100,000 and access to follow-on funding. The acceleration commences with a four-month program focused on sales, marketing, and product development and continues with lifetime membership in the Orbit and Sanabil ecosystem. Startups will participate in an in-person market orientation in Riyadh and receive hands-on support from Orbit’s network of partners, mentors and investors.
“Entrepreneurship is the catalyst for economic transformation, and technology pushes the boundaries of what is possible,” said William Bao Bean, Managing General Partner of Orbit Startups. “We’ve been bridging innovation from startups and large organizations from corporates and conglomerates to governments for the past 15 years. Our partnership with Sanabil reinforces our commitment to scaling startups cross-border in the MENA region. By equipping startups with the resources they need, we’re not only enabling industry disruption but also unlocking substantial economic potential. This partnership will support startups as they scale beyond their home markets, positioning them to grow in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and across the MENA region through 2030 and beyond.”
“Partnering with Orbit, we are committed to empowering early-stage startups across diverse sectors including technology, healthcare, web3 and mobility. Sanabil Accelerator by Orbit is designed to cultivate innovation and drive the growth of Saudi’s startup ecosystem, demonstrating our dedication to supporting visionary entrepreneurs and long-term sustainable development,” said a spokesperson at Sanabil Investments.
7, Jan 2025
ASUS ROG Unveils Latest Innovations Forged to Unlock Limitless Gaming Potential at CES 2025
India, January 7, 2025 — ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today unveiled a groundbreaking lineup of gaming technology at its Unlock the ROG Lab: For Those Who Dare virtual event for CES 2025. Embracing the spirit of ROG Lab, where innovation breaks new ground, this year’s collection redefines what’s possible in gaming. Featuring cutting-edge graphics cards, gaming laptops, mini PCs, desktops, monitors, routers, and external GPUs, each product is meticulously crafted to unlock every gamer’s full potential, pushing the boundaries of power and performance like never before.
Leading the charge was the ROG Astral GeForce RTX 50 Series, a brand-new line of high-end graphics cards inspired by the limitless expanse of the cosmos. Designed for elite gaming, these cards took center stage by demonstrating new heights of graphics performance with their exceptional cooling, stability, and power. The newly launched products include the ROG Astral GeForce RTX 5090 and 5080, the ROG Astral LC GeForce RTX 5090, and the ROG Strix GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and 5070 from the expanded ROG Strix portfolio.
Also in the spotlight were the 2025 ROG Strix SCAR 16/18 gaming laptops that redefine performance standards with the next-gen Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processor 275HX and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU. Complementing this lineup are the ROG Strix G16/G18 models that seamlessly combine powerful specifications with a sleek design. Available with AMD Ryzen™ 9 or Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX options, these laptops are ideal for AAA gaming, content creation, and more.
Powered by NVIDIA Blackwell, NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 50 Series GPUs bring game-changing capabilities to gamers and creators. Equipped with a massive level of AI horsepower, the RTX 50 Series enables new experiences and next-level graphics fidelity. Multiply performance with NVIDIA DLSS 4, generate images at unprecedented speed, and unleash creativity with NVIDIA Studio. Plus, access NVIDIA NIM microservices – state-of-the-art AI models that let enthusiasts and developers build AI assistants, agents, and workflows with peak performance on NIM-ready systems.
The 2025 Zephyrus G14/G16 ultrathin gaming laptops push the limits of portability, delivering exceptional gaming and creative capabilities without compromise. ROG also introduced the 2025 Flow Z13, a versatile 2-in-1 gaming tablet powered by the latest AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 with Radeon™ 8060S Graphics, showcasing a stunning Nebula display. The ROG XG Mobile, a high-performance external GPU, adds extra graphics power for compatible laptops, allowing gamers and creators to achieve desktop-level performance for even the most demanding applications.
In the realm of desktop gaming, ROG presented the G700 series of high-performance towers featuring advanced cooling solutions and driven by Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 285K or AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 GPU. Meanwhile, the ROG NUC (2025) Mini PC redefined compact gaming with up to Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 265H and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 GPU, delivering exceptional performance, AI-boosted efficiency, and extensive connectivity options in a sleek, stylish design.
ROG also elevated the visual gaming experience with the ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM, a 27-inch 4K gaming monitor that boasts the latest 4th-gen QD-OLED panel, lightning-fast 240Hz refresh rate, and DisplayPort 2.1a UHBR20 with full 80Gbps bandwidth. Rounding up the lineup was the ROG Rapture GT-BE19000AI, the world’s first Wi-Fi 7 AI gaming router with a built-in NPU, ensuring seamless connectivity for the most demanding online gaming experiences.
Attendees at CES 2025 in Las Vegas can get a hands-on experience of these innovations and many more of the latest ROG products at The Venetian Expo, Meeting Room #3102, from January 6 to January 9, 2025.
ROG Astral GeForce RTX 50 Series: Unprecedented Cooling and Reliability for Elite Gaming
The ROG Astral GeForce RTX 50 Series is the latest generation of high-end graphics cards from ROG, designed to deliver exceptional performance and cooling while helping establish a new standard in premium gaming hardware. It launches as part of the ASUS GeForce RTX 50 Series lineup, which includes the ROG Astral GeForce RTX 5090 and 5080, the liquid-cooled ROG Astral LC GeForce RTX 5090, and the ROG Strix GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and 5070.
The ROG Astral series features premium cooling technology as the first ROG graphics cards to incorporate a quad-fan design, boosting airflow and air pressure by up to 20% to ensure peak performance even under heavy loads. Equipped with a patented vapor chamber, milled heat spreader, and GPU thermal pad, temperatures are effectively reduced, enhancing performance and reliability. Optimized fin spacing across the heatsink maximizes airflow, with denser fins on the right-side fan creating higher air pressure and an airflow tunnel that effectively channels heat out, further improving cooling efficiency.
For gamers who demand maximum stability and durability, the ROG Astral integrates ASUS GPU Guard that secures all four corners of the GPU for added protection, along with a 304-grade steel bracket for stable mounting. The full-metal diecast shroud, frame, and backplate provide extra rigidity, bracing the PCB to prevent warping and bending. Additionally, a protective PCB coating guards against moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures, ensuring exceptional resilience in various gaming environments.
Gamers and creative professionals alike can enjoy enhanced control and customization with GPU Tweak III, offering easy monitoring and tuning for optimal performance adjustments, while MuseTree, an AI-powered ASUS-exclusive image-generation app, helps unleash creativity. With its innovative cooling design and robust protection features, the ROG Astral GeForce RTX 50 Series is the ideal choice for gamers who demand top-tier performance under the most demanding conditions.
For optimal power supply, pair the GeForce RTX 50 Series with a ROG Thor III or ROG Strix Platinum Series PSU, which ensures stable power and features the patented ‘GPU-First’ voltage stabilizer, keeping systems ready for whatever the battlefield throws at users.
ROG Strix SCAR 16/18: Unleashing Exceptional Power and Precision
At the heart of the 2025 ROG Strix SCAR 16/18 is the Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX, featuring up to 24 cores and 32 threads capable of reaching impressive TDP levels of 65W for powerhouse gaming performance. Paired with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU delivering up to 175W TGP, and equipped with a MUX Switch and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus, these laptops are engineered to handle the most demanding AAA titles, high-performance applications, and intensive multitasking with ease.
Complementing this power is ROG’s Intelligent Cooling technology, which incorporates a custom vapor chamber, sandwiched heatsink, and advanced Tri-Fan Technology. Enhanced further with Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal on both the CPU and GPU, this thermal system keeps temperatures low and reduces noise levels to 45dB, allowing gamers to fully unleash their hardware’s potential in even the most extended sessions.
Visually, the ROG Nebula HDR Display on the SCAR 16/18 elevates gameplay with its 2.5K mini-LED panel, over 2,000 dimming zones, 16:10 aspect ratio, and ultra-responsive 240Hz refresh rate. With 100% DCI-P3 color coverage and a peak brightness of 1200 nits, every frame delivers an immersive experience, augmented by high Ambient Contrast Ratio (ACR) technology to reduce reflections and enhance contrast for the ultimate gaming experience.
With up to 64GB of DDR5-5600 RAM and a spacious 4TB PCIe Gen4 SSD in RAID 0, the Strix SCAR Series delivers exceptional speed, storage, and smooth multitasking. The tool-less access design makes it easy to upgrade both memory and storage, empowering users to stay at the cutting edge of technology. Additionally, the AniMe Vision array on the lid and full-surround Aura RGB light bar across the chassis allow gamers to customize their devices and create a distinctive, personal aesthetic.
ROG Strix G16/G18: Empowering Every Gamer
Designed to unite squads and elevate gaming experiences, the ROG Strix G16/G18 deliver fast AAA gaming performance and seamless content creation, powered by AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX (G614), AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D (G814), or Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX (G615/815). Paired with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080, 5070 Ti, or 5070 Laptop GPUs, these devices offer powerful performance and stunning graphics. With up to 32GB of DDR5 5600MHz RAM, they enable smooth multitasking and efficient handling of resource-intensive applications. The advanced Tri-Fan Technology, full-width heatsink, and full-surround vents provide exceptional thermal management, allowing users to maintain peak performance during intense gaming sessions.
The breathtaking ROG Nebula Display features a 2.5K 240Hz panel with a 3ms response time, offering smooth and responsive visuals, along with 100% DCI-P3 color coverage and Ambient Contrast Ratio (ACR) technology for enhanced gameplay. The built-in 1080p FHD camera and dual speakers with Dolby Atmos make streaming and recording easy, providing high-quality audio and video for sharing gameplay experiences.
Both models are equipped with dual PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD slots and designed for future-proofing, with Intel versions supporting PCIe Gen 5 on both slots and AMD versions on one, allowing for easy storage upgrades. With customizable hotkeys for quick access to essential functions, the ROG Strix G16/G18 empower gamers to rise to victory.
The AMD-powered Strix G614/814 boast unique ROG pixel patterns along with a sleek armor cap and hinge design, enhancing durability and visual appeal. Meanwhile, the Intel-equipped G615/815 models feature full-surround Aura RGB lighting, adding a dynamic flair. Available in eye-catching Volt Green and Eclipse Gray, the 2025 ROG Strix G series is designed to reflect every gamer’s personality.
Zephyrus G14/G16: Ultra-Portable Gaming and Creating
The ROG Zephyrus G14/G16 are prime choices for gamers and creators seeking portability without sacrificing performance. Crafted from a CNC-milled aluminum chassis, these laptops balance lightweight design with structural durability. They are equipped with the latest Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 285H or AMD Ryzen AI 7 350/Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processors, along with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090, 5080, 5070 Ti, or 5070 Laptop GPUs, ensuring optimal gaming and multitasking on the go. The GPUs come with professional-grade hardware to tackle the most demanding AI, video, 3D and livestreaming workflows, as well as NVIDIA Studio optimizations in 130+ apps, enabling users run cutting-edge generative AI models with powerful performance.
The Zephyrus G14 boasts a stunning ROG Nebula OLED Display with a 3K 120Hz refresh rate and 0.2ms response time, while the G16 features a 2.5K ROG Nebula OLED Display with a 240Hz refresh rate and similar response time, both offering 100% DCI-P3 color coverage for vibrant visuals. Both models support NVIDIA G-SYNC for supersmooth, tear-free gameplay.
To maintain peak performance during intense gaming sessions, the Zephyrus series incorporates an advanced cooling system that includes 2nd Gen Arc Flow Fans, with the G16 benefiting from vapor chambers and the G14 utilizing robust heat pipes. With weights of just 1.5kg for the G14 and 1.85kg for the G16, alongside maximum thicknesses of 1.59cm and 1.49cm, these ultrathin laptops excel in portability. They also feature Slash Lighting and are available in stylish Platinum White and Eclipse Gray color options, making a bold visual statement.
Moreover, the Zephyrus G14 is a Copilot+ PC, reflecting ROG’s commitment to integrating AI-enabled experiences that enhance multitasking and gaming support. This includes tools like NVIDIA DLSS for enhanced gaming performance. With ample I/O support, including DisplayPort 2.1 and 100W power delivery via USB-C, the ROG Zephyrus G14/G16 are powerful and versatile, making them ideal companions for gamers and creators alike.
ROG Flow Z13: The Game-Changer in 2-in-1 Gaming
The 2025 ROG Flow Z13 is a versatile 2-in-1 gaming tablet that combines portability with superior performance. It is built on the brand-new, ultra-powerful AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 with Radeon 8060S graphics, which integrates a desktop-class CPU, RDNA 3.5 GPU, and dedicated NPU into a single die. With 50 TOPS of total NPU compute power, the Flow Z13 is also a capable AI PC, delivering an enhanced Copilot+ PC experience thanks to its advanced NPU cores. This innovative chiplet-based design delivers outstanding performance and power efficiency, making it ideal for the compact 13-inch tablet form factor. With support for unified memory architecture, gamers can expect high-speed access for both CPU and GPU needs, enhancing performance and responsiveness.
The Z13 features a 2.5K ROG Nebula 180Hz touchscreen display with Pantone validation and 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, bringing vibrant and accurate visuals to life. Crafted from a durable CNC aluminum unibody chassis, it weighs just over a typical tablet and includes a 170° kickstand, providing versatile usage options. With a 70 Wh battery offering up to 10 hours of usage, the Flow Z13 is designed for both gaming and productivity on the go.
Cooling is supported by a revamped stainless steel vapor chamber and 2nd Gen Arc Flow Fans™, ensuring incredibly quiet operation even under full load. Additionally, the Flow Z13 features the new ROG Command Center for quick access to frequently used system functions, along with a large touchpad and keycaps, making it an exceptional device for both work and play.
2025 ROG XG Mobile: More Than Graphics, Less to Carry
The 2025 ROG XG Mobile transcends conventional gaming accessories, featuring a next-gen NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU and pioneering Thunderbolt™ 5 connectivity. This external graphics card is designed for peak performance and exceptional portability, surpassing all previous generations with its compact size. Its innovative design features a striking new outlook, bringing a fresh vibe to any gaming setup while making it an ideal companion for gamers on the move.
Equipped with a redesigned vapor chamber, the 2025 ROG XG Mobile offers 150% more cooling surface area than standard heatpipe designs, effectively managing heat while keeping noise levels to a minimum. Additionally, the new active bridge rectifier MOSFETs make it the smallest and lightest external GPU ROG has ever produced, enhancing its portability without sacrificing performance.
Connectivity is at the forefront with an array of options, including HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, dual USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports, and an SD card reader – all accessible through a single Thunderbolt 5 connection. The XG Mobile also features customizable operating modes and full Aura Sync support, allowing users to personalize the RGB lighting that shines through its semi-transparent case. With the 2025 ROG XG Mobile, gamers can experience flagship performance without the bulk, redefining the possibilities of portable gaming solutions.
ROG G700 Series Desktops: Built for Performance and Flexibility
The 2025 ROG Strix G700 series desktops are built from the ground up for gaming, powered by AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D or Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 285K and paired with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 GPUs for a top-tier gaming experience. The Intel-powered G700 features the PRIME B860M-A-AX6-II motherboard, while the AMD-equipped G700 carries the ASUS PRIME B650M-A AX6 II. Both support up to 64 GB of DDR5 RAM, with speeds rising to 6000MHz, and high-speed PCIe Gen 5 storage, ensuring exceptional performance and responsiveness.
Engineered for durability, the G700 series includes both air- and water-cooling configurations, utilizing a quad-fan system to optimize airflow. Tool-less access from the side and front panels allows for painless upgrades, while standard-sized components prolong the lifespan of the chassis and simplify maintenance.
The G700 series aesthetic includes a large, seamless glass front panel to minimize gaps and joints for a sleek, sophisticated look. ROG’s signature “slash” design accents the front panel, while strategically placed RGB lighting adds a dimensional effect. Aura Sync support further enhances the visual impact, allowing for a cohesive gaming setup with other ROG peripherals. Dust filters on the top and bottom panels help maintain internal cleanliness, ensuring consistent peak performance.
With a focus on high-quality components designed by ROG, the G700 series delivers an exceptional gaming experience, providing gamers with both performance and flexibility in a beautifully designed chassis.
ROG NUC (2025): Compact Powerhouse for Uncompromising Gamers
The ROG NUC (2025) redefines compact gaming technology with up to Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 265H and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 Laptop GPU, complete with ray tracing and the latest NVIDIA DLSS technologies for increased performance and stunning visuals. This cutting-edge mini-PC delivers exceptional performance and AI-boosted efficiency, enabling multitasking and smooth gameplay in demanding AAA titles. With the advanced Intel processors, gamers can expect remarkable responsiveness and breathtaking visuals that fully immerse them in their favorite experiences.
This mini-PC is ideal for streamers and game creators, effortlessly tackling AI-intensive tasks such as real-time video rendering and content creation. Extensive connectivity options, including Thunderbolt™ 4, Intel Killer™ Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth® 5.4, and high-speed Ethernet, help ensure low-latency gaming and rapid data processing, allowing users to stay ahead of the competition.
The compact 3L ROG NUC (2025) is engineered for gamers seeking high performance with minimal distraction. Designed for easy upgrades to memory and storage, it also features advanced thermal management to handle the most intense gaming sessions. With three fans and a dual Vapor Chamber, it effectively dissipates heat, maintaining cool and quiet operation for sustained peak performance. This efficient cooling system ensures uninterrupted focus, letting users enjoy seamless gaming without compromise, while its adaptable design makes it an optimal fit in any gaming or streaming setup.
Customizable ARGB lighting enhances the aesthetic appeal, letting users personalize their rigs with Aura Sync and Armory Crate to create a truly unique gaming environment. The ROG NUC (2025) effortlessly combines advanced performance with a sleek design, making it the ultimate choice for gamers who seek uncompromising power and style.
ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM: Built for Next-gen Gaming
The ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM is the world’s first 27-inch 4K OLED gaming monitor, featuring an ultrafast 240Hz refresh rate and a 0.03ms response time. Leveraging the latest ROG 4th-gen QD-OLED technology, it offers an impressive 166ppi pixel density for ultra-sharp images and text. OLED Anti-Flicker 2.0 reduces onscreen flicker by up to 20% over the previous generation using a luminance compensation algorithm, ensuring more uniform visuals without sacrificing input lag or refresh rates.
The Swift OLED PG27UCDM features extensive connectivity options, including DisplayPort 2.1a UHBR20 with full 80Gbps bandwidth without compression, designed to support next-gen GPUs. It also includes HDMI 2.1, a USB hub, and USB-C with 90W power delivery for seamless integration.
The new ROG OLED Care Pro technology features an advanced Neo Proximity Sensor that uses wavelength detection to accurately measure the user’s distance to determine usage time without interference from ambient light or color. Users can personalize the detection distance, prompting the monitor to automatically switch to a black screen when the user steps away, reducing the risk of OLED burn-in. Combined with a three-year warranty, the PG27UCDM offers peace of mind for users.
The monitor also supports Dolby Vision® HDR and HDR10, which can be easily adjusted via the OSD menu to enhance the viewing experience for various types of content. To further optimize the user experience, the ROG DisplayWidget Center software simplifies adjustments to display settings and OLED Care features, provides firmware update notifications with a direct update option, and enables users to import or export display configurations for sharing.
The ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM sets a new standard in gaming visuals, combining cutting-edge technology, advanced features, and user-friendly software to elevate the gaming experience.
ROG Rapture GT-BE19000AI: The World’s First Wi-Fi 7 AI Gaming Router with Built-in NPU
The ROG Rapture GT-BE19000AI is a groundbreaking Wi-Fi 7 AI gaming router with a built-in NPU, offering advanced capabilities to elevate gaming and day-to-day network performance. Its powerful tri-core design drives various AI enhancements like game acceleration, energy saving, network security and privacy, as well as network scanning and insights – all to optimize the overall network experience.
The AI energy-saving feature utilizes a ‘Big-Small Architecture,’ where the CPU and NPU work together to enable “performance mode” with full power when multiple devices are connected, while the MCU seamlessly switches to power-saving mode during inactivity, achieving up to 46%[i] energy savings.
The Rapture GT-BE19000AI introduces the new Triple-Level Game Acceleration with the ROG AI Game Booster, which intelligently calculates the fastest path to game servers, reduces ping by 34%1, and supports up to 3,000 game titles. Additionally, Adaptive QoS 2.0 allows users to set customized priorities for different workflows, such as allocating 80% bandwidth for gaming and 20% for streaming, ensuring optimal performance for versatile network scenarios.
For enhanced stability, the Rapture GT-BE19000AI boasts an advanced Wireless Insight panel, providing users with connection status for each device and valuable RF Scan data, such as microwave interference. It incorporates intelligent blockers to eliminate disruptive ads and trackers, while powerful on-device NPU processing ensures data remains local and secure, improving privacy and performance.
The ROG Rapture GT-BE19000AI is a high-performance tri-band Wi-Fi 7 router designed to deliver up to 19,000 Mbps with 320 MHz channel support, covering up to 3,500 sq. ft., and supporting dual 10G ports with up to 31G LAN/WAN capacity. With 4GB DDR4 RAM and 32GB eMMC flash memory, it offers double the performance of the standard GT-BE19000. Advanced features like Guest Network Pro, AiProtection Pro, and VPN support make it ideal for gaming and high-demand networking.
7, Jan 2025
Istituto Marangoni Mumbai Collaborates with Arxy Future Lab to Launch a New Virtual Fashion Experience
Mumbai, January, 2024:
Following months of collaboration, Istituto Marangoni Mumbai and Arxy Future Lab are excited to unveil their inaugural joint initiative — a virtual fashion exhibition showcasing the final thesis projects of students from Istituto Marangoni’s Mumbai campus. Launched on January 3rd, 2025, this event marks the beginning of a strategic, long-term partnership between these two pioneers in fashion and technology, with Arxy set to support various projects across Istituto Marangoni’s global campuses.
“Istituto Marangoni, a leader in fashion and design education with a legacy that spans decades, understands that embracing virtual innovation is not just a trend but a transformative opportunity to expand its global reach,” says Mevin Murden, Director of Education, Istituto Marangoni Mumbai. “By venturing into the digital space, this esteemed institution is breaking down geographical barriers, connecting with a wider and more diverse audience worldwide. This vision aligns perfectly with Arxy Future Lab’s mission to democratise access to fashion,” he adds.
Arxy Virtual Showroom has developed a bespoke, exclusive virtual space on their platform for Istituto Marangoni, where 3D renderings of the top graduate collections from the Mumbai campus will be showcased. These collections will reflect the installations featured in the live fashion show held in India in September 2024. The virtual showroom has been meticulously customised to capture the essence and vision of the school, offering an immersive experience that seamlessly connects the physical and virtual worlds.
“Partnering with Istituto Marangoni, one of the most renowned and historic fashion schools in Italy and worldwide, is a true privilege for us at Arxy Future Lab,” says Meng Ji, Founder of the project. “We’re thrilled to collaborate in creating opportunities that make the fashion world more democratic and accessible. We aim to empower new talents, allowing them to be recognised and appreciated, even by those in distant corners of the globe.”
The virtual fashion exhibition will provide an interactive experience, allowing visitors to engage with the displayed garments and explore their intricate details and features. The platform will also facilitate private sessions with students and faculty, promoting direct interactions between emerging talents and industry professionals from across the globe.
This launch marks the beginning of an ongoing collaboration between Arxy Future Lab and Istituto Marangoni, with the shared goal of transforming the future of fashion education and innovation on a global scale.
7, Jan 2025
Pilani Realty Collaborates with Leading Celebrity Astro-Architect Neeta Sinha to Redefine Living Spaces
Mumbai, India – January 2025 – Pilani Realty, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in real estate, proudly announces its partnership with the renowned astro-architect Neeta Sinha. This collaboration marks a new chapter in architectural excellence, blending the cosmic principles of astrology with modern design to create harmonious and auspicious living environments.
Pilani Realty, part of the esteemed Pilani Group, has a legacy of delivering projects characterized by integrity, excellence, and quality. With roots in Pilani Group, a leader in liquid storage tanks, Pilani Realty carries forward the group’s unwavering commitment to innovation and trust.
Ravi Ramesh Pilani, Managing Director at Pilani Realty said “We are thrilled to join hands with Neeta Sinha, whose expertise in astro-architecture perfectly complements our mission to deliver exceptional spaces. “This partnership allows us to explore a unique blend of astrology and architecture, creating living environments that inspire well-being and success.”
Astro-architects bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern design. They analyze celestial influences to create harmonious and auspicious spaces. By considering factors like the orientation of a building, the placement of rooms, and the use of specific colors and materials, they ensure positive energy flow.
This holistic approach to architecture not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a building but also promotes the well-being of its occupants. Astro-architects play a crucial role in real estate construction by creating spaces that are not just structurally sound but also spiritually uplifting.
Neeta Sinha, celebrated for her work with high-profile clients, combines the ancient wisdom of celestial influences with modern architectural principles. Her personalized approach ensures that each project reflects individuality while promoting balance and positive energy.
“I am delighted to collaborate with Pilani Realty,” said Neeta Sinha. “This partnership is a win-win for both companies, and I am confident it will yield outstanding results by integrating cosmic harmony into architectural design.”
This synergistic alliance between Pilani Realty and Neeta Sinha underscores a shared vision of innovation and well-being. Together, they aim to redefine living spaces, offering clients homes that resonate with positivity and functionality.
7, Jan 2025
MediaTek Collaborates with NVIDIA on the New NVIDIA GB10 Grace Blackwell Superchip Powering the NVIDIA Project DIGITS Personal AI Supercomputer
New Delhi – January 7, 2025 – MediaTek today announced it has collaborated with NVIDIA on the design of the NVIDIA GB10 Grace Blackwell Superchip for NVIDIA Project DIGITS, a personal AI supercomputer.
MediaTek is the world’s No. 1 chip supplier for smartphones, smart TVs, Arm-based Chromebooks, Android tablets, and voice assistant devices (VAD). The company has invested heavily in bringing the best AI, connectivity and multi-media experiences to Arm-based system-on-a-chip (SoC) devices, across different platforms and users, with best-in-class power efficiency. MediaTek has brought all its technology expertise to this collaboration with NVIDIA to deliver a market-leading platform.
“Our collaboration with NVIDIA on the GB10 Superchip aligns with MediaTek’s vision of helping make great technology accessible to anyone,” said MediaTek Vice Chairman and CEO Rick Tsai. “Along with NVIDIA, we are working to usher in a new era of innovation and make AI ubiquitous.”
“The age of AI is here. The combination of MediaTek’s industry-leading CPU performance and power efficiency with NVIDIA’s accelerated computing technologies will drive the next wave of innovation,” said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA. “Project DIGITS, with the new GB10 Superchip designed with MediaTek, makes our most powerful Grace Blackwell platform more accessible – placing it in the hands of developers, researchers and students to solve the most pressing issues of our time.”
Today’s collaboration is the latest between the two companies, building on MediaTek’s work with NVIDIA to bring drivers and passengers novel experiences inside the car with new MediaTek Dimensity Auto Cockpit chips. MediaTek’s Dimensity Auto Cockpit chips integrate NVIDIA’s next-gen GPU-accelerated AI computing and NVIDIA RTX graphics. Additionally, MediaTek has integrated NVIDIA TAO, an AI model training and optimization toolkit, with MediaTek’s NeuroPilot SDK to deliver advanced edge AI capabilities to IoT applications.
As part of MediaTek’s vision to bring AI everywhere, MediaTek is delivering advanced AI capabilities across its portfolio, including its Dimensity portfolio for smartphones and tablets, Genio family for IoT devices, Pentonic series for smart TVs, Kompanio line for Arm-based Chromebooks, along with the Dimensity Auto platform for vehicles.
7, Jan 2025
Kalyan Jewellers’ Quarterly Update: Q2 FY2025
The recently concluded quarter has been a very fulfilling one recording consolidated revenue growth of approximately 39% when compared to the same period in the previous financial year.
Our India operations witnessed revenue growth of approximately 41% during Q3 FY2025 as compared to Q3 FY2024, led by very strong festive and wedding demand across both gold and studded categories. The quarter recorded healthy same-store-sales-growth of approximately 24%.
We launched 24 Kalyan showrooms in India during the recently concluded quarter, with a strong pipeline of showrooms set to open over the course of the current quarter.
In the Middle East, we witnessed revenue growth of approximately 22% when compared to the same period in the previous financial year. Middle East contributed ~11% to our consolidated revenue for the recently concluded quarter.
During the recently concluded quarter we launched our first showroom (Company Owned Company Operated) in the United States of America.
Our digital-first jewellery platform, Candere, recorded a revenue growth of approximately 89% during the recently concluded quarter as compared to the same period during the last year. We launched 23 Candere showrooms during Q3 FY 2025.
During the current quarter, we plan to launch 30 Kalyan showrooms and 15 Candere showrooms in India keeping us ahead of our announced showroom roll-out plan of 80 Kalyan showrooms and 50 Candere showrooms in India for FY 2025.
For FY 2026, we have drawn up plans to launch 170 showrooms across Kalyan and Candere formats – 75 Kalyan showrooms (all FOCO) in non-south India, 15 Kalyan showrooms (all FOCO) across south India and international markets and 80 Candere showrooms in India. We have already started signing LOIs for the Franchisee Owned Company Operated (FOCO) showrooms planned for the next financial year in India and international markets.
7, Jan 2025
Hinduja Group appoints Mr. Amit Chincholikar as Group President – Human Resources
Mumbai, 7th January, 2025: Effective January 2, 2025, Mr. Amit Chincholikar has been appointed as the Group President – Human Resources at The Hinduja Group. He succeeds Mr. Amanppreet Singh Bhatia, who has moved on after completing five successful years with the Group.
Mr. Chincholikar brings 30-plus years of global experience in Human Resources across various industries. His extensive expertise spans HR strategy, leadership, and the implementation of transformative HR practices in diverse regions, including India, the United States, and Singapore. In addition to his HR leadership, he has spearheaded key functions such as Sustainability, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), Corporate Communications, and Business Excellence in his previous roles.
Before joining Hinduja Group, Amit was the Global Chief Human Resources Officer at Yokohama Off-Highway Tires (OHT). His career trajectory includes pivotal roles at Tata Consumer Products, Tata Sons Limited, Aditya Birla Group (ABG), and Mercer Human Resource Consulting.
Amit holds a Master’s degree from Symbiosis Institute of Business Management and a Bachelor’s in Science, specialising in Statistics and Operations Research, from Bombay University.
7, Jan 2025
Trontek to Showcase Pioneering Solutions at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025
7th January 2025, New Delhi- Trontek, a distinguished leader in battery technology, is set to participate in the highly anticipated second edition of the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, scheduled to be held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, from January 19 to January 21, 2025. This esteemed event will convene key stakeholders, innovators, and leaders from the automotive and mobility sectors, dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions through cutting-edge technologies.
On this significant occasion, Trontek will unveil its latest range of advanced power backup systems and state-of-the-art battery solutions. These innovative offerings are meticulously designed to address the dynamic requirements of residential and industrial applications, with a pronounced emphasis on ensuring uninterrupted power supply and enhancing operational efficiency. The launch exemplifies Trontek’s unwavering commitment to leading the industry in the domain of sustainable and reliable energy solutions.
Commenting on the forthcoming launch, Mr. Samrath Singh Kochar, Founder and CEO of Trontek, remarked:
“Trontek remains steadfast in its mission to revolutionize India’s energy ecosystem through transformative battery innovations. The Bharat Mobility Global Expo provides an unparalleled platform to highlight how technological advancements can empower households, businesses, and industries to achieve superior energy efficiency. Our upcoming product launches embody our dedication to delivering reliable, sustainable, and user-centric solutions that align with India’s renewable energy aspirations. We are honored to participate in this prestigious forum and look forward to fostering meaningful collaborations to propel a greener, more efficient future.”
Since its establishment in 2014, Trontek has been at the forefront of pioneering lithium-ion battery solutions, including applications for two-wheelers, solar energy systems, and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The company’s innovative contributions have played a pivotal role in advancing India’s transition toward renewable energy sources.
The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 is poised to serve as a premier platform for innovation, dialogue, and collaboration, attracting global attention to advancements in sustainability and next-generation technologies in the automotive and energy sectors.
7, Jan 2025
Indus Towers Strengthens Digital Infrastructure for Maha Kumbh Mela with 180 New Towers
Bangalore : 07 January 2025: In a bid to make Mahakumbh 2025 “Digitally enabled”, furthering PM Modi’s Digital India vision, Indus Towers, one of India’s leading telecom infrastructure providers is partnering with Uttar Pradesh State Government & Distt. Administration to ensure seamless connectivity to all pilgrims & people of Prayagraj during Mahakumbh Mela 2025.
The Kumbh Mela, held every six years, is the largest gathering of devotees travelling from across the world and an exemplary example of world-class public administration. Indus Towers is committed to enhance and augment uninterrupted communications by deploying 180 towers in Prayagraj. This includes 110 permanent towers aimed at providing long-term connectivity in the city. Additionally, 70 “Cell on Wheels” towers are being set up in critical areas within the Mahakumbh Mela grounds. The entire project is set to be completed by end of December 2024, ensuring robust and reliable network coverage.
Applauding the initiative Prayagraj District Magistrate Mr. Ravindra Kumar Mandar ( IAS ) , said, “Mahakumbh Mela is a significant spiritual gathering for millions of devotees. Ahead of this auspicious occasion, we are delighted to see Indus Towers taking proactive steps to enhance connectivity in Prayagraj. The installation of 180 new towers will not only significantly improve communication but also enable new digital avenues. Millions of devotees will stay connected with their loved ones and access essential services seamlessly.”
“This initiative not only supports the success of Mahakumbh Mela but also contributes to the long-term development of the region. We commend Indus Towers for their commitment to strengthening connectivity and supporting the community.”
Tejinder Kalra, Chief Operating Officer at Indus Towers said, “As we prepare for the Mahakumbh Mela, we recognize the importance of uninterrupted connectivity for millions of devotees. Our partnership with the Mela Administration and Prayagraj district administration enables us to boost the city’s telecom infrastructure and enhance the digital experience for the devotees to manoeuvre through the grounds of Prayagraj with seamless connectivity. This underscores Indus Tower’s commitment in delivering reliable and seamless network solutions where it matters the most.”
Mr. Neeraj Singh, UPE Circle’s CEO, Indus Towers said, “Our commitment to enhancing connectivity for the Mahakumbh Mela is a crucial part of our efforts to ensure smooth communication for millions of pilgrims. We extend our gratitude to Mela Adhikari, Mr. Vijay Kiran Anand, and District Magistrate, Mr. Ravindra Kumar Mandar, for their invaluable support in facilitating the installation of these towers. This will not only ensure reliable communication throughout the Mela but will also enhance Prayagraj’s network infrastructure in the long run. At Indus Towers, we are dedicated to addressing connectivity challenges and delivering a robust and future-ready network for both residents and visitors.”
