Author: Neel Achary

Pocket FM takes Sherpa global with campaign spanning India and the US

Bengaluru, Sep 23: Pocket FM has launched a global campaign for Sherpa by Pocket FM, its AI-powered fiction-writing platform, across India and the United States.

Rolled out across San Francisco, Bengaluru and Mumbai, the campaign expresses one product idea across multiple formats: AI should help writers build entire fictional worlds, not merely generate sentences.

AI built for stories, not just sentences

Sherpa by Pocket FM is a self-evolving agent harness built on custom-trained proprietary models, combining hierarchical story planning, long-term narrative memory and narrative prose generation to help creators build immersive stories that can span hundreds of episodes. Built around Narrative Intelligence, Sherpa is designed to understand, develop and maintain complex fictional worlds as they evolve, allowing it to track characters, relationships, conflicts and storylines rather than treating every episode as an isolated piece of text.

Sherpa has already helped drive a 75x increase in annualised content production to more than 2.5 million hours, alongside a 10x increase in the number of blockbuster titles. Its development is informed by Pocket FM’s ecosystem of more than 770,000 titles, 550,000 creators and 5.5 billion hours of audience playtime.

One idea across two countries and five formats

At the centre of the campaign is a satirical film featuring Rohan Nayak, Co-founder of Pocket FM, alongside actor Chris Diamantopoulos. Diamantopoulos plays a larger-than-life fictional tech investor and Pocket FM board member who is convinced Sherpa will change the world and perhaps make him its first deserving trillionaire.

Through humour and self-awareness, the film playfully subverts the conventions of technology launches while introducing the problem Sherpa is designed to solve: helping creators turn an initial idea into a complex, sustainable, long-form story.

As the film travelled across social platforms, the campaign took to the skies above the San Francisco Bay Area, with an aircraft carrying the Pocket FM flag across one of the world’s most influential technology markets. The activation reflected Pocket FM’s growing international presence and the global ambition behind Sherpa.

In India, the campaign brought the product proposition to life through outdoor and print innovations in Bengaluru and Mumbai.

The outdoor execution transforms a billboard into the face of a snow-covered mountain, complete with climbers scaling its surface, alongside the line:

“Writing stories is no more a climb.”

The visual uses Sherpa’s name to turn the scale and complexity of writing long-form fiction into a simple metaphor.

In Bengaluru, Pocket FM also transformed the front page of some of India’s leading newspapers into a deliberately blank canvas carrying the line:

“This isn’t a blank page. It’s where every great story begins.”

Instead of filling the space with a conventional advertisement, the execution invited readers to begin writing directly on the page, with Sherpa positioned as the creative partner that can help take their first idea forward.

“Sherpa is complex technology built around a simple human truth: more people have stories in them than believe they can write,” said Vineet Singh, Global Head of Brand Marketing, Communications, Partnerships & Public Affairs, Pocket FM. “That shaped the entire launch. Across film, social, print, outdoor and even the skies above San Francisco, we used one idea in very different ways: with the right companion, creating an entire fictional world no longer needs to feel like a climb. Taking the campaign beyond India also reflects the global ambition behind Pocket FM and Sherpa. We want to make powerful storytelling tools accessible to creators wherever they are and, ultimately, get more people writing.”

The campaign marks the global consumer-facing launch of Sherpa as Pocket FM continues to build AI-powered tools that make entertainment creation faster and more accessible, enabling individual creators to develop stories that can scale across languages, markets and formats.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem highlights importance of Asia-Pacific region to future of motor sport and mobility

FIA Member Clubs from across Asia and the Pacific will gather in Boracay, the Philippines for the FIA APAC Congress hosted by the Automobile Association Philippines

Dubai, UAE, Sept 23: Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, has highlighted the importance of the Asia-Pacific region to the future of both motor sport and mobility ahead of the Federation’s regional congress in Boracay in the Philippines next week.

The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organisations worldwide, will be hosted by the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) for the annual event getting under way on Tuesday.

The congress will see 120 delegates from Member Clubs across Asia and the Pacific uniting in Boracay for three days of collaboration, innovation and knowledge sharing. Throughout the week, attendees will discuss priorities to advance safe and sustainable mobility for road users and drive greater motor sport accessibility.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, said: “The Asia-Pacific region is central to the future of both mobility and motor sport, and our Member Clubs are at the heart of that progress. From improving road safety and embracing innovation to creating new opportunities for people to participate in motor sport, our Clubs are delivering real impact for their communities.

“The FIA Asia Pacific Congress gives us an important opportunity to bring that expertise together, share ideas and strengthen collaboration across one of the most diverse and dynamic regions in our Federation.”

The Asia-Pacific region is one of the FIA’s most diverse and dynamic, spanning some of the world’s fastest-growing mobility markets and an expanding motor sport community. The Congress will provide Member Clubs with an opportunity to share expertise and develop practical solutions which respond to the specific needs of their members and communities.

Across mobility, discussions will focus on road safety, innovation, sustainable and accessible transport, tourism and the changing needs of road users, building on the FIA’s work to support Clubs in delivering meaningful impact at a national and regional level.

Motor sport sessions will explore opportunities to increase participation, strengthen grassroots competition and create more accessible pathways into the sport, supporting the FIA’s ambition to make motor sport more affordable and accessible around the world.

The programme will also showcase the work and innovation of FIA Member Clubs across Asia-Pacific, providing a platform to share successful initiatives which can be adapted and scaled across the region.

FIA Region II President and President of host club the Automobile Association Philippines, Augustus ‘Joe’ Ferreria said: “The strength of this region comes from the diversity, knowledge and ambition of our Member Clubs. Bringing our community together in the Philippines gives us the opportunity to learn from one another, identify shared challenges and develop solutions that can support Clubs across the region.

“The Asia Pacific Congress is an important moment for us to build on the progress already being made and ensure our Clubs have the tools, knowledge and connections they need to continue growing.

The Congress follows a period of significant activity for the FIA across the region. The FIA has expanded its Safe Mobility 4 All & 4 Life programme into Asia-Pacific, supporting Member Clubs and authorities with training and practical tools to improve road safety, while initiatives including the FIA Innovation Challenge continue to showcase Club-led solutions which can be shared and scaled across the Federation.

Across motor sport, the region continues to play an important role at every level of competition, from grassroots participation and regional championships through to the FIA’s major World Championships with Malaysia set to host the Bahrain Grand Prix in the days following the congress.

Dubai sees summer shift as tenants move home to reduce rents by 15%

Dubai Land Department analysis by fäm Properties shows switch to better-quality apartments as leasing activity remains steady

 Dubai, UAE, Sept 23: The Dubai real estate market has witnessed a clear shift during the summer months as hundreds of tenants moved home to take advantage of new leases reducing annual rents by up to 15%.
 
An analysis by fäm Properties of Dubai Land Department tenancy registrations shows that new leases exceeded renewals by 633 contracts in July, and by 2,139 in August – the first time this has happened in any month since the dataset began in January 2023.
 
Renewals had outnumbered new leases for 36 months in succession before the summer turnaround, with the switching by tenants concentrated in mid-market and prime districts.

 
 
“The reason for this is very simply about price, with new-lease rents for the same building and unit type now 15.3% lower than in January, while renewal rents are down about 1%,” said Firas Al Msaddi, founder and CEO of fäm Properties.
 
“Previously, it was in the interests of tenants to stay where they were, especially as moving home can be challenging in various ways. But that has all changed because tenants can now move to a comparable apartment for less than a renewal would cost.”

Data from DXBijnteract shows that, in August, new leases outnumbered renewals by 1,102 in Al Barsha South Fourth (Jumeirah Village Circle), 609 in Business Bay, 598 in Al Merkadh, 564 in Marsa Dubai (Dubai Marina) and 342 in Downtown Dubai.
 
Meanwhile, in more affordable districts like Al Warsan First (International City), Jabal Ali First (Jebel Ali) and Nadd Hessa (Dubai Silicon Oasis), renewals still outnumbered new.

Overall, leasing activity has remained steady. New-lease contracts for January to August are 1% below the same period in 2025, with July (about 14,100) and August (about 15,600) above last year’s levels. Renewals are also 1% below 2025.

The median rent on new apartment leases was AED 94.6 per square foot in August, 8.3% below its October 2025 peak of AED 103.1.

 
“The difference is that the leases still being signed are weighted towards better-quality and better-located stock, so the average of what is let holds up, while the price of any given apartment falls,” said Al Msaddi.
 
“Where landlords observed market conditions, leases were signed, while other tenants moved to capitalise on lower rents and other attractions. That is why the volume of registered contract held while rents fell.”

Where to Café-Hop This Weekend: NCR’s Most Charming Spots

The weekend is  just around the corner, and if your idea of a perfect Saturday is also a good cup of coffee, good food, and an even better vibe to chill in, you have come to the right place. The cafe scene in NCR has exploded in the last few years, and choosing where to spend your Sunday mornings (or your lazy Tuesday afternoons, we don’t judge) has never been a harder or more delicious problem. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, a gelato devotee, or someone who just wants a dreamy and aesthetic corner to sit and pretend you’re writing a novel or even daydreaming of being a main lead in a k drama, this list is your weekend sorted.

Here are five cafes in NCR you must visit on weekends:

1. Barista Coffee Company 

There are some cafes which will always stay popular and Barista Coffee Company is one such cafe. The popular name among coffee enthusiasts all around India, Barista has kept up with the changing trends but never lost the reason why people like it – tasty coffee in a cozy and warm atmosphere.

Be it a classic cappuccino, an iced coffee, or some of its seasonal offerings like Main Hoon Mango series including Dirty Mango Latte, Chilli Mango Tango, Mango Iced Espresso, Mango Matcha, and Mango Affair, along with a tasty Mango Cheesecake Slice, whatever you wish to have will be available. Complement your coffee with a freshly baked croissant, a sandwich, or some cake, and you will enjoy a wonderful afternoon.

With its comfortable seats and a relaxed environment, Barista is a place where you can meet with friends, conduct business meetings, or just relax on your own with a cup of coffee. If you’re looking for a dependable café where conversations flow as easily as the coffee, Barista continues to be a favourite 

2. Gram Street Coffee 

Gram Street Coffee is a cozy little café located in Gurugram and is frequented by individuals who love gourmet and specialized food. This is the sort of place where one feels right at home once inside because of its brightly lit interiors and laidback feel.

While coffee is certainly a highlight here, the menu at Gram Street Coffee includes some interesting dishes for breakfast and brunch that are comforting yet fresh, making it a great place to come during weekends. There are also homemade gelatos at Gram Street Coffee that have now become one of the most popular items on the menu.

For those looking to catch up with friends over a delicious meal or just looking for some time out from the busy life to relax and enjoy coffee, Gram Street Coffee is the perfect spot.

3. Nubo

A café with deliciously healthy and hearty food is something most people would like to try. If such a café is what you want, then a visit to Nubo should definitely be a part of your weekend schedule.

The menu at Nubo is filled with healthy foods, such as bowls of fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and other healthy drinks that will provide you with energy and flavor. It is the kind of café that does not leave a person feeling sluggish after the meal.

Nubo’s interior space also follows its philosophy. Clean design, soft color palette, and an abundance of light make for a cozy place where one can have a relaxing conversation with friends or enjoy a peaceful brunch or lunch.

4. Pour Over Coffee Roasters 

If you think coffee should be enjoyed and not rushed through, then this is the place to be at. The cafe has made itself famous for its dedication towards specialty coffee and attracts everyone from beginners to experienced coffee connoisseurs because of their approach towards the art of coffee making.

Starting from the quality of the beans used, right down to how every cup is brewed, everything is done in such a way that maximizes the taste of the coffee. Whatever drink you choose to have – whether it is a poured-over, a flat white or even an espresso, the whole aim is to bring out the natural flavors of the coffee.

The food menu keeps things simple with fresh bakes and light bites that pair beautifully with the drinks . With the serene environment and minimalistic decor, you get a chance to sit back, relax and savor your coffee.

5. Subko Coffee 

Few names have generated as much excitement in India’s specialty coffee scene as Subko. . The brand takes pride in celebrating not just the culture of Indian coffee but the art of crafting great coffee by using skilled artisans to create a unique café experience.

While the star of the café experience is undoubtedly the coffee, the bakery deserves equal attention. With fresh croissants, layered pastries, sourdough loaves, and seasonal specialties taking up counter space, you will be tempted to try out everything there is on offer. Similarly, the menu at the café is also created by giving the same level of thought and care into each dish that is offered.

The café is modern enough for the connoisseurs of coffee but not so pretentious that the average visitor would feel intimidated.

Your Weekend, Sorted

A good café is never all about coffee. These places encourage people to linger a bit longer and create ideas. Cafés make the weekends go by a little slower so that everyone can enjoy their small joys of life. You might like a place such as Barista Coffee Company, a place where you can relax with friends during brunch at Gram Street Coffee, have healthy food at Nubo, enjoy coffee that has been prepared carefully at Pour Over Coffee Roasters, or enjoy artisan coffee at Subko.

So the next time your group chat asks, “Where are we meeting this weekend?”, you’ll have more than one great answer. Pick a café, order your favourite brew, and let the weekend unfold one cup at a time. 

Happy hopping, NCR.

Tungaloy and NTK Cutting Tools Announce Merger, Building on Complementary Strengths

Tungaloy Corporation and NTK Cutting Tools announce that, effective January 1, 2027, NTK Cutting Tools will merge with Tungaloy, marking a new chapter for both organizations. The merger is subject to compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.

Sept 23: Following the merger, the integrated organization will operate under the Tungaloy corporate name, while retaining the NTK Cutting Tools brand. NTK Cutting Tools will operate as a dedicated division within Tungaloy, building on the technology, heritage and expertise that have established its strong reputation in the cutting tool industry.

Alongside the integration, plans have been finalized for a new headquarters and state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for NTK Cutting Tools in the Nagoya area, Japan. This multi-million investment will increase production capacity, introduce advanced manufacturing technologies and provide a modern environment for manufacturing, engineering, marketing and corporate functions.

1+1>2: Combining Complementary Strengths

The merger brings together synergy and complementary strengths from both organizations. Tungaloy combines a broad cutting tool portfolio with strong expertise in grade development and innovation, while NTK Cutting Tools is recognized as a global leader in ceramic cutting tool technology and miniature lines.

The integration will also bring together the dedicated people and industry knowledge behind them.

For customers and distribution partners, this combination will provide a broader range of technologies, application expertise and industry knowledge to support manufacturers worldwide.

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Earns a MICHELIN Key for its Contemporary Take on Luxury

Mumbai, 22 September 2026: Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai has been awarded a MICHELIN Key by the MICHELIN Guide, recognising the hotel as one of the distinguished stays in its 2026 hotel selection.

In its review, the MICHELIN Guide notes that while Mumbai is home to some of India’s grandest palace hotels, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai takes a distinctly contemporary approach. The Guide highlights the hotel’s gleaming glass tower and stone-clad lobby, with interiors in subdued, natural colours that favour a contemporary aesthetic over traditional or colonial references. The MICHELIN Guide also draws attention to the guest rooms, where design takes a back seat to the views, particularly those overlooking the Arabian Sea. Marble bathrooms with separate soaking tubs, oversized televisions and other five-star comforts further shape the stay.

The hotel’s location in southern Worli is noted as particularly convenient for business travellers, while the two-floor spa and daily yoga sessions offer a counterpoint to the pace of the city.

“Receiving a MICHELIN Key is a meaningful recognition for the team at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai. What makes it particularly significant is that the recognition comes from a guide that has looked closely at the experience of the hotel and what sets it apart within Mumbai’s luxury hospitality landscape. The MICHELIN Guide’s observations on our contemporary design and approach to guest comfort speak to the experience we have worked to create,” says Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai.

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai continues to set its own standards with its rooftop bar AER, all-day dining at Opus, spacious spa rooms and personalised service. The recognition comes as the hotel looks towards its next chapter, with SanQi, its upcoming restaurant, adding to its offering.