5, Dec 2025
RBI’s 25 bps Rate Cut Strengthens Liquidity for NBFCs, Boosts Microfinance Access & Credit Expansion
By,Mr. Rohit Garg, CEO, Olyv
The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) decision to reduce the policy rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 5.25% with immediate effect is a welcome move in monetary policy at a time when the economy is doing well and inflation is under control. GDP growth accelerated to 8.3% because of strong spending during the festival, reduction in GST rates, changes in Income Tax limits, good monsoon etc. The steps taken by RBI to provide sufficient liquidity will help to provide credit at competitive rates.
In the Microfinance Industry, risk based pricing has been introduced after revised Regulations. The Microfinance borrowers having good Credit Bureau score and clean repayment track record have started getting the benefit of lower interest rates. This has also helped to send the message to the borrowers that they should keep their Credit Bureau score protected by repaying the loans on time. The reduction in RBI policy rate will help these borrowers with further reduction in interest rate. The reduced cost of funds will also help us in providing affordable credit to our SME customers and Housing Finance borrowers.
The lower borrowing cost combined with improved access to credit will help to support a strong general consumer sentiment. The RBI has set the stage for continued credit expansion over time, allowing for sustained economic growth and allowing lenders to have confidence in planning for the future. As a result of this monetary policy change, lower EMIs can be expected in the near future as lenders begin to transmit the benefit of reduced borrowing costs to their customers. Today’s actions will provide an opportunity for the broader economy to experience an infusion of credit without compromising its overall stability.
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- By Neel Achary
5, Dec 2025
RBI Cuts Repo Rate by 25bps, PHDCCI Sees Boost for Growth and Domestic Production
RBI Policy repo rate reduced by 25BPS; will strengthen India’s growth trajectory and domestic production: PHDCCI
The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted to reduce the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) by 25BPS to 5.25% and continue with the neutral stance. This decision was made on the back of robust growth (real GDP growth at 8.2% Q2 FY 2026), buoyed by strong spending during the festive season, rationalisation of the goods and services tax (GST) rates, softer crude oil prices, and benign inflation (headline inflation at 0.3% in October 2025), to support the growth momentum” said Mr. Rajeev Juneja, President, PHDCCI.
Consequently, the standing deposit facility (SDF) rate stands at 5% and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the bank rate at 5.50%.
Moreover, enhanced consolidation of the banking system, strengthened regulatory framework and healthy investment activity, especially of the private sector, have contributed to economy’s enhanced resilience, he added.
However, evolving geopolitical conditions, divergent inflation paths and trade environments globally, continue to weigh on the outlook, he said.
In its announcement today, the MPC decided to conduct Open Market Operation purchases of government securities of ₹1,00,000 crore and a 3-year USD/INR Buy Sell swap of USD 5 billion this month in view of the evolving liquidity conditions and outlook. These measures will ensure adequate durable liquidity in the system and further facilitate monetary transmission, said Mr. Juneja.
“It is worth noting that, although high-frequency indicators suggest that domestic economic activity is holding up in Q3 FY 2026, but there are some emerging signs of weakness in few leading indicators. PMI Manufacturing has moderated to a 9-month low of 56.6 in November 2025, accompanied with moderated growth of Index of Industrial production at 0.4% in October 2025 from 4.6% in September 2025,” said Mr Juneja.
Merchandise exports face some headwinds as they declined sharply in October amid subdued external demand, accompanied by softer services exports, he said.
Overall, India’s external sector remains resilient, as on November 28, 2025, India’s foreign exchange reserves stood at US$ 686.2 billion, providing a robust import cover of more than 11 months, he added.
The MPC projected real GDP growth at 7.3%, with CPI inflation at 2% for 2025-26. The underlying inflation pressures are even lower as the impact of increase in price of precious metals is about 50 bps, said Mr. Juneja.
“We appreciate RBI’s focus on improving customer services and their proposal to hold a two-month campaign from 1st January next year with an aim to resolve all grievances pending for more than a month with the RBI Ombudsman. This will further boost ease of doing business and reduce the cost of doing business,” said Mr Juneja.
The RBI’s commitment to remain proactive, objective and consistent amidst the downside risk of softening growth and external uncertainties despite, underlying inflation pressures staying lower, and upside potential of speedy conclusion of various ongoing trade and investment negotiations, is instilling confidence among industry, says CEO and Secretary General, PHDCCI, Dr. Ranjeet Mehta
5, Dec 2025
TEXMiN & Geotek Launch Drill Core Digitisation Lab at IIT(ISM) Dhanbad
TEXMiN and Geotek (UK) Launch State-of-Art: Drill Core Digitisation Laboratory at IIT(ISM) Dhanbad
New Delhi, Dec 05: In a significant advancement for India’s mineral exploration landscape, the Technology Innovation in Exploration & Mining Foundation (TEXMiN), IIT(ISM) Dhanbad, in collaboration with Geotek Ltd. (UK), inaugurated the TEXMiN–Geotek Drill Core Digitisation Laboratory today at the Institute Innovation Hub (i2h). The facility was formally inaugurated by Dr. P. K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Government of India, in the august presence of Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT(ISM) Dhanbad & Chairman, Hub Governing Board, TEXMiN Foundation. This pioneering laboratory represents an important milestone in India’s journey towards technologically enabled, data-driven, and transparent mineral exploration, aligning directly with the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) and the expanding India–UK innovation partnership.
The establishment of this state-of-the-art laboratory follows a strategic Memorandum of Understanding between TEXMiN and Geotek. Through this collaboration, both organisations aim to introduce globally accredited, non-destructive, multi-sensor geological core analysis technologies in India. The laboratory will support exploration agencies, PSUs, private mining operators, academic researchers, and startups by providing access to advanced, digitised core logging and analysis infrastructure. By harnessing automated workflows, integrated sensor technologies, and digital datasets, the laboratory will enhance precision, reduce dependency on manual interpretation, and accelerate decision-making in areas essential for India’s future, particularly in critical minerals that power green energy, electric vehicles, defence systems, and advanced manufacturing.
A major technological highlight of the laboratory is Geotek’s BoxScan platform, which has been deployed at TEXMiN to enable comprehensive digital scanning of drill cores and chip boxes. BoxScan combines high-resolution photography, hyperspectral mineral identification, geochemical characterisation using pXRF, magnetic and structural analysis, and depth-linked digital output generation. Its field-deployable design, automated calibration systems, and modular architecture allow a single operator to generate multiple geological datasets simultaneously with exceptional accuracy and repeatability. This capability marks a paradigm shift from traditional exploration practices to real-time, high-fidelity subsurface intelligence that can be used for predictive modelling, resource classification, and exploration automation.
Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director, IIT(ISM) Dhanbad & Project Director, TEXMiN Foundation, stated:
“India is entering a defining phase in the critical minerals landscape, and strengthening our exploration capability is central to this shift. Through this laboratory, we are not just enabling access to high-quality geological intelligence—we are advancing towards data-backed certainty, faster discovery cycles, and globally competitive innovation born in India. This initiative will support our energy ambitions, strategic industries and the future of mineral research in the country.”
Mr. Tom White, Managing Director, Geotek Ltd. (UK), emphasised the global significance of the partnership. He observed,
“For over two decades, Geotek has helped explorers across the world unlock geological value. Our partnership with TEXMiN brings world-class core digitisation to India, enabling faster decisions, reduced risks, and a new standard of exploration excellence. BoxScan at IIT(ISM) is not just equipment; it represents a transformation in how India understands and utilises its mineral wealth.”
Dr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to East and Northeast India, highlighted the broader diplomatic and technological implications. He remarked,
“This collaboration embodies the spirit of the India–UK science and technology partnership. Critical minerals are foundational to future economies, and this initiative reinforces our shared commitment to innovation-led, secure, and sustainable mineral supply chains.”
The inauguration of the TEXMiN–Geotek Drill Core Digitisation Laboratory positions India among the leading nations leveraging digital geology for strategic minerals. It reinforces TEXMiN’s role as a national hub for Mining 4.0 transformation and strengthens India’s preparedness for the material demands of the global clean energy transition. As critical minerals increasingly define geopolitical and industrial futures, this initiative provides India with the scientific infrastructure and technological foresight required to secure its strategic autonomy.
5, Dec 2025
Kelvin Cinema makes a grand comeback with a modern two-screen multiplex – Kelvin Gold Cinema
Guwahati, Dec 5: One of Assam’s most storied cinema halls has begun a new chapter. Kelvin Cinema, founded in 1935 by Jeevanram Goenka in the bustling lanes of Fancy Bazar in Guwahati, is returning in a contemporary avatar while holding firmly to its iconic past.
Now, nearly nine decades later, Kelvin is stepping into the future. Kelvin Gold Cinema has unveiled a new two-screen multiplex within the original Kelvin compound in Fancy Bazar, offering a total seating capacity of 499, including 24 ultra-luxurious recliners. The modern space features a sleek, futuristic design and auditoriums fitted with the latest cinematic technology.
The inauguration of Kelvin Gold Cinema was done on Wednesday evening in the presence of CMD NEDFi PVSLN Murty, eminent film trade analyst and media personality Komal Nahta, dignitaries of Assamese cinema Ravi Sarma, Zerifa Wahid, Pranjal Saikia, Purnima Pathak Saikia, Manjula Barua, Manju Borah, Mridula Baruah, Jahnu Barua, Seema Biswas, Manisha Hazarika, Rima Das, Kopil Bora and journalist & author Padmashree Patricia Mukhim.
For decades, the Goenka family played a central role in shaping Assam’s business and cultural landscape. After early success in Shillong, they expanded into cinema exhibition and soon turned Kelvin into a landmark. The hall hosted the premieres of several Assamese films, jubilees of several Hindi films and introduced viewers to technologies that were ahead of their time.
Kelvin Cinema’s legacy is dotted with milestones that still evoke nostalgia. The theatre recorded an unmatched 53-week run of ‘Jai Santoshi Maa’ and became the first in Guwahati to screen English films, drawing packed audiences for classics like ‘Ben Hur’ and ‘The Ten Commandments’. For generations of film lovers, Kelvin remained more than a cinema. It was a place where the city discovered new film formats, broadened the city’s cultural imagination, and experienced the thrill of landmark movie runs.
Shankar Lall Goenka, the guiding force of the Kelvin legacy,
said the reopening carries both emotion and excitement for the family. “Kelvin has lived through the memories of generations. Bringing it back in a modern form feels like carrying a legacy forward while creating something new for today’s audience,” he said. “The warm response we are already receiving from young movie lovers and families tells us that Kelvin still holds a special place in Guwahati.”
The new multiplex Kelvin Gold Cinema is powered by Christie 2K Laser projection, Dolby 7.1 surround sound, Pulz IsoWave audio systems and immersive 3D capabilities. The recliners come with on-seat food and beverage service, USB charging ports and ample legroom. Visitors will also find an expanded menu of snacks, beverages and combo meals, offering both indulgent and healthier choices. With ample parking and easy access, the venue aims to serve families and filmgoers from across Guwahati.
Gold Cinema Director Ratan Jain said that Kelvin Gold Cinema hopes to offer a royal movie experience to the city’s community once again. Gold Cinema Director Hasmukh Shah added that the goal was to build an urban entertainment space that resonates with the present-day viewer.
Tickets are available for booking through www.goldcinema.co, Gold Cinema mobile apps as well as BookMyShow. Visit Kelvin Gold Cinema on 7th Floor, Kelvin Cinema Compound, S.R.C.B. Road, Guwahati, Assam to experience Guwahati’s new premier entertainment destination.
5, Dec 2025
Rahul Singh Says Indian Markets Enter a Constructive Phase, Eyes Profit Growth Revival
By:- Rahul Singh, CIO-Equities, Tata Asset Management
“Indian markets have entered a constructive phase, in line with our earlier expectations. Stable FY26 earnings and an anticipated recovery to mid-teen profit growth in FY27 are strengthening the market outlook. This improvement is supported by the prospects of interest rate cuts in India and the US, which are providing valuation comfort with the Nifty 50 trading at nearly 21x forward earnings.
We are also seeing early signs of a revival in consumption and credit growth, aided by the sustained impact of GST cuts. Corporate profit estimates are beginning to recover, and with India’s valuation premium to global markets moderating, the investment case for India over the next 12–15 months looks more compelling. In this environment, we continue to prefer flexi-cap funds within diversified equities and multi-asset strategies that offer commodity exposure, along with thematic opportunities in banking and consumer-driven sectors.”
5, Dec 2025
Kaya Strengthens Its Presence in Tamil Nadu with the Launch of Its Second Clinic in Coimbatore
Coimbatore, Dec 05: Kaya, India’s most trusted dermatologist-led clinic chain, announces the opening of its second clinic in Coimbatore, further cementing its presence in “Manchester of the South.” Following the success of its first clinic at Skanda Square, Kaya’s new space on DB Road is a testament to the city’s growing demand for advanced, science-backed skincare.
The expansion is driven by Coimbatore’s rising business community, influx from nearby cities, and a discerning clientele that values skincare and expert-led personal care. DB Road, renowned for its accessibility and vibrant retail landscape, offers Kaya the ideal setting to serve clients seeking premium, customised dermatology solutions.
Designed as a high-tech, calming sanctuary, the new clinic offers Kaya’s full range of advanced services, including pigmentation correction, acne and scar reduction, laser hair reduction, anti-ageing treatments, hair restoration, and medi-facials, all led by board-certified dermatologists. The clinic’s approach is tailored to address Coimbatore’s unique environmental challenges, such as dust and sun exposure, ensuring every client receives personalised, science-backed care.
Dr Saranya B, Consultant Dermatologist and Medical Advisor, Kaya Limited, said, “With the launch of our new DB Road clinic, we’re making advanced dermatology more accessible to the people of Coimbatore and nearby cities. Residents often face skin issues exacerbated by local environmental factors. At the DB Road clinic, we’ve developed targeted solutions to help all age groups achieve healthier and more resilient skin.”
Coimbatore’s blend of tradition and progress makes it a standout market for premium dermatology. Our expansion here reflects our commitment to serving high-growth cities that value expert-led, science-based skincare. With our second clinic, we’re deepening our connection with a city that embodies confidence, progress, and self-care,
Kaya’s growing footprint in Tamil Nadu underscores its mission to make trusted dermatology accessible across India’s new centres of growth. The Coimbatore DB Road clinic marks a milestone in both expansion and empathy, bringing expert care, innovation, and genuine connection to every skin story.
4, Dec 2025
LetsUpgrade Launches Executive AI Generalist Programme for Professionals
Mumbai, Dec 4: LetsUpgrade proudly announces the launch of its Executive AI Generalist Programme, a three-month hybrid learning experience designed to transform non-technical working professionals into business-ready AI operators. While the programme provides a complete end-to-end understanding of AI for real business impact, it stands out for its comprehensive and immersive learning journey.
At the heart of the programme is an industry-focused curriculum that equips participants with AI foundations tailored specifically for business users. Moving beyond theory, learners gain hands-on expertise across 100+ AI tools, spanning automation, data analysis, workflows, creativity, and decision-making. Participants also earn five globally recognized certifications from Google, IBM, Microsoft, AWS, and NASSCOM, boosting professional credibility across sectors.
Every learner benefits from 1:1 mentoring with industry leaders, providing personalized guidance, strategic career direction, and ongoing support. High-value offline touchpoints further enhance the learning experience, starting with an on-campus launch in Month 1 to foster community, followed by an outbound industry immersion in Month 2 for peer collaboration and real-world exposure. Participants gain exclusive access to conferences, tech events, and AI meetups, while a select few enjoy the coveted Day-in-BigTech experience, offering a behind-the-scenes look at global technology operations and AI innovation.
The programme emphasizes real-world impact through a work-integrated capstone, where learners solve authentic business challenges for live companies. This practical experience is reinforced by four industry workshops and the Consulting Marketplace, connecting learners to live client projects. Career growth is supported via the Career Accelerator Stack, which includes career coaching, personal branding kits, and interview preparation. Participants also gain lifelong value through the Alumni Network, along with startup and incubator support for entrepreneurial aspirations.
“Our mission is to make AI accessible, practical, and career-transforming for every professional, regardless of technical background,” said Mr. Saikiran, CEO of LetsUpgrade. “The Executive AI Generalist Programme is designed not just to teach AI, but to empower learners to drive real outcomes, lead with confidence, and thrive in an AI-driven world.”
The programme culminates in an on-campus Demo Day, where participants present their AI agents and automation projects to a jury for a chance to win the ₹1,00,000 prize.
With its hands-on practice, elite certifications, deep industry immersion, and supportive ecosystem, LetsUpgrade’s Executive AI Generalist Programme sets a new benchmark for AI upskilling among non-technical professionals.
4, Dec 2025
New Winter Essentials for Christmas-Ready Skin
A winter must-have for effortless festive glow, Magic Mirror is the perfect companion for chilly days a featherlight 4-in-1 formula that acts as a primer, moisturiser, SPF, and foundation. It delivers a dewy, luminous, glass-skin finish without the need to layer multiple products.
Infused with skin-loving actives and soft-focus pigments, it hydrates deeply, evens out the complexion, and keeps skin fresh through long winter days and late-night celebrations. Available in six Indian-skin-friendly, buildable shades.
We would be delighted if you could consider featuring Faith Patience Beauty in any upcoming Christmas gifting guides, winter beauty round-ups, or seasonal skincare stories.
Please find attached high-resolution product images. If you need any additional details, quotes, or samples, we’d be more than happy to assist.
4, Dec 2025
HONGQI Unveils HONGQI GUOYA at Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix Gala
HONGQI Debuts its HONGQI GUOYA at an Exclusive Press Gala Celebrating Its Partnership with the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix Season Grand Final
Abu Dhabi, UAE, Dec 04: HONGQI, China’s leading ultra luxury automotive marque since 1958 and a global symbol of Oriental premium craftsmanship, unveiled its latest Golden Sunflower flagship, the HONGQI GUOYA, during an exclusive gala event in Abu Dhabi. As the Official Luxury Automotive Partner of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix 2025 Season Grand Final presented by Abu Dhabi Sports Council, HONGQI marked this prestigious collaboration with a dedicated press gala attended by regional and international media.
The reveal represents an important milestone in HONGQI’s expanding global luxury strategy, further strengthening the brand’s presence in international markets. Abu Dhabi’s status as a world class destination for innovation, culture and luxury mobility continues to position it as a strategic market for HONGQI’s global growth.
The event brought together regional and international media for an immersive brand experience, beginning with a dedicated press conference followed by a gala dinner. Attendees gained exclusive insights from Giles Taylor, Chief Designer and Vice President of Global Design at China FAW, and were among the first in the Middle East to experience the HONGQI GUOYA in person.
“HONGQI GUOYA represents a new chapter in Oriental ultra luxury. It carries the depth of Chinese cultural heritage while embracing a forward looking global design spirit,” said Giles Taylor, Chief Designer and Vice President of Global Design, China FAW. “It is especially meaningful to unveil this model in Abu Dhabi, a city that has rapidly become a global capital for luxury, design and high-performance experiences. The Emirate provides an exceptional stage for HONGQI to connect with discerning customers who appreciate artistry that lives beyond trends.”
A New Expression of Oriental Ultra-Luxury: The HONGQI GUOYA
HONGQI GUOYA is the latest flagship under the brand’s renowned Golden Sunflower ultra-luxury line, embodying HONGQI’s vision of ‘New Oriental Luxury for the World’. The model blends profound Chinese cultural heritage with contemporary global design standards, presenting a sedan crafted for distinguished users who seek identity, artistry, and refinement in every detail.
Drawing inspiration from the architectural symmetry of Beijing’s central axis and the timeless grandeur of the Forbidden City, GUOYA features a proud, sculptural exterior marked by:
- A front fascia reflecting the proportions of the Hall of Supreme Harmony
- A 23.5° hood ornament symbolizing cosmic balance
- Rear design elements inspired by Tian’anmen’s skyline and traditional palace lanterns
Inside, the cabin transforms Chinese artistry into modern luxury through lacquerwork, cloisonné enamel, gold-and-silver filigree, and classical embroidery all presented through HONGQI’s new global design language.
Performance, Serenity, and Intelligent Craftsmanship
Powered by a self-developed V8 platform refined over 67 years, the GUOYA delivers 430 kW, 800 N·m of torque, and rapid responsiveness via a mid-mounted HOT-V twin-turbocharger architecture. Its lightweight structure and advanced NVH solutions ensure a quiet, graceful drive worthy of its ultra-luxury stature.
The interior experience is elevated through:
- S-Nappa leather with enhanced softness and breathability
- 24-way front and 22-way rear seat adjustments with massage, ventilation, and heating
- 4D seat-audio interaction, translating music into tactile sensations
4, Dec 2025
Marriott Executive Apartments Hyderabad Hosts ‘Sunday Socials’ in Association with Wellness B’zaar
Hyderabad, Dec 04: Marriott Executive Apartments Hyderabad transformed the Mazzo Rooftop Bar into a dynamic wellness arena this November, hosting Sunday Socials a community-led fitness experience developed by Wellness B’zaar. The venue’s panoramic rooftop setting provided the perfect backdrop for a morning of movement, music, and shared energy.
Sunday Socials brings a vibrant approach to fitness, enabling participants to explore diverse forms of movement under expert professional guidance, with each edition introducing a new fitness experience from aquatic workouts to high-intensity circuits and emerging training styles. This session also featured brand-supported competitive moments, including endurance tests and wellness interactions that added playful challenge while maintaining the event’s community-first atmosphere. Together, these elements shape Sunday Socials into a lively, shared wellness ecosystem that extends beyond a traditional fitness class.
Guests concluded the experience with a wholesome poolside breakfast, creating space to relax, connect, and recharge after the spirited morning session.
“We are delighted to host Sunday Socials at Mazzo Rooftop Bar and offer the Hyderabad community fresh and engaging wellness experiences,” said Ashwin Vaidya, General Manager, Marriott Executive Apartments Hyderabad. “This association aligns perfectly with our commitment to holistic well-being and meaningful community engagement.”
“Sunday Socials is built on the idea of shared movement and collective motivation,” said Puja Khan, Co-founder, Wellness B’zaar. “The friendly competitive elements and brand interactions add energy, but it’s the community spirit and Marriott’s hospitality that truly elevate the experience.”
This edition was supported by:
- Akshayakalpa — Good Food Partner
- ATX Nutrition — Protein Partner
- CFS Gym — Training Equipment Partner
- Good Binge — Gifting Partner
With evolving themes, competitive formats, and curated brand interactions each month, Sunday Socials continues to grow as a distinctive wellness ritual within Hyderabad’s lifestyle landscape.
