Author: Neel Achary

TreeHouse Hotels Unveils LinkD, a Boutique Brand for Independent Hoteliers

04 August 2025: TreeHouse Hotels is pleased to announce the launch of TreeHouse- LinkD, a new boutique collection brand designed to provide hotel owners with a flexible, future-ready platform based on cooperation, innovation, and long-term success while connecting independent, design-forward hotels with discerning modern travellers.

TreeHouse-LinkD, a special offering in TreeHouse Hotels’ expanding portfolio, is designed for independent hoteliers who want to maintain the distinctive character of their establishment while obtaining the legitimacy, operational assistance, and market access of a reputable hospitality brand. Offering a smooth fusion of uniqueness and brand-backed confidence, the brand will select a number of independently spirited hotels in urban and leisure destinations across India and South Asia.

Owner empowerment and flexibility are the cornerstones of TreeHouse-LinkD Hotel Collection with minimal investment and where Owners get to keep their own brand identity too. It enables properties to maintain their distinct charm while taking advantage of TreeHouse’s Hotels & Resorts reliable operational framework and devoted clientele. Partner hotels will benefit from increased market visibility, data-driven pricing strategies, and higher occupancy rates thanks to access to a strong technology stack, centralized revenue management systems, and a wide distribution network.

“We are excited to launch TreeHouse-LinkD – a brand built for the future of boutique hospitality in India. As we engage with potential partners across the country, we see a strong desire for brand-backed independence with Owners wanting to keep their own brand identity too – and TreeHouse-LinkD is our answer to that,”— Jayant Singh, Managing Partner, TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts

Unlike traditional models, TreeHouse-LinkD places more emphasis on strategic cooperation than control, in contrast to conventional models. While receiving carefully chosen assistance in areas like marketing, training, and business development, owners retain control over their operations, design, and visitor experience. In order to ensure mutual growth and a shared commitment to success, the brand’s variable fee structure is specifically tailored to reflect the operational realities of independent hotels and supports hotel owners during down-turns creating a win-win model.

AU Small Finance Bank joins hands with SBI Life Insurance to make comprehensive insurance solutions accessible across India

Hyderabad, August 4^th, 2025: AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB), India’s largest small finance bank, has entered a strategic corporate agency partnership with SBI Life Insurance, among India’s most trusted life insurers. This collaboration aims to enhance access to comprehensive insurance solutions nationwide, supporting the government’s ‘Insurance for All by 2047’ mission by extending financial protection to underserved and emerging markets across India.

The agreement was signed by Mr. Dilip K. Vidyarthy, Head of Bancassurance & Cross- Sales, AU Small Finance Bank and Mr. Ashwini Kumar Regional Director- Mumbai Metro, SBI life Insurance in presence of Mr. Gireesh Thampy, EVP & Chief of Institutional Alliances, SBI Life and other respected dignitaries from both the organisations.

With this alliance, AU SFB will distribute SBI Life’s comprehensive portfolio of life insurance solutions, including protection, savings & investments, child, money back, retirement etc.  across its robust network of over 2,505 banking touchpoints in 21 states and 4 union territories. This integration will enable customers to meet diverse protection and long-term financial planning needs through a unified banking and insurance experience.

With SBI Life’s expertise in driving insurance adoption and delivering trusted protection solutions, the partnership with AU SFB further strengthens our outreach efforts in urban, semi-urban and rural markets. The collaboration will also leverage AU’s digital platforms and customer engagement channels to deliver a simplified, transparent, and accessible insurance journey.

Mr. Uttam Tibrewal, Executive Director and Deputy CEO, AU Small Finance Bank said, “At AU Small Finance Bank, we believe financial security is a fundamental right, not a privilege. This partnership with SBI Life Insurance reinforces our shared commitment to delivering reliable, need-based insurance solutions to diverse communities across urban and semi-urban areas of India. By combining the strengths of both institutions, we aim to drive true financial inclusion and secure a better tomorrow for millions.” 

Mr. Abhijit Gulanikar, President – Business Strategy, SBI Life Insurance said, “Our partnership with AU Small Finance Bank is a strategic step towards deepening insurance adoption across India. At SBI Life, we’re committed to liberating individuals by securing their families’ financial futures. AU’s strong rural reach and community connect bring us closer to the shared vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’, making protection more accessible—one household at a time.”

PhonePe’s Indus Appstore and Alcatel Announce Strategic OEM Partnership

New Delhi, India, August 4, 2025: Indus Appstore, India’s homegrown Android app marketplace, today announced a strategic OEM partnership with Alcatel, a French consumer technology brand. As part of this long-term partnership, Indus Appstore will come pre-installed as an app store on all Alcatel smartphones in India. By integrating a localized app marketplace, both the brands continue to drive innovation and accessibility for millions of users across the country.

PhonePe’s Indus Appstore has a catalogue of verified mobile apps and games across 45 categories. It supports 12 Indian languages, enables voice search in 10 regional languages, and features a video-led app discovery experience that allows users to preview apps before downloading them. Indus Appstore presents a robust, user-centric alternative to traditional app distribution models allowing users to not just download but also discover apps tailored for every user.

NxtCell India, which holds exclusive brand authorization from TCL to represent and operate the “Alcatel” brand in India and select international markets, is instrumental in driving this collaboration. This partnership reflects NxtCell’s vision to align with the Government of India’s Make in India program by integrating local technology solutions that empower Indian users and developers. Notably, Indus Appstore joined hands with Alcatel shortly after its India launch and will be part of the brand’s journey from the very beginning.

Speaking about the partnership, Priya M Narasimhan, Chief Business Officer, Indus Appstore said, “We’re thrilled to partner with Alcatel at the early stages of their journey in India. This collaboration enables Alcatel users to discover and experience apps through a homegrown platform that delivers true localization and personalization. This partnership also expands Indus Appstore’s reach while providing developers and marketers opportunities to showcase their apps and connect with more users across India.”

Commenting on the association, Atul Vivek, Chief Business Officer, NxtCell India, said, “As we prepare to reintroduce Alcatel smartphones to the Indian market, our focus is on creating meaningful differentiation through localized innovation. Partnering with PhonePe’s Indus Appstore allows us to deliver a digital experience tailored to Indian preferences right from the first boot. They have been an integral part of our journey since the beginning, and we look forward to a long-term partnership. This association reaffirms our commitment to enabling innovation and reliability for our consumers.”

SDHI and Varex Imaging Corporation sign agreement to manufacture Cargo and Vehicle Inspection Systems in India

WIKA Instruments India Private Limited Acquires Calibration Services business of Godrej and Boyce

Palwal, Haryana, 4^th August 2025 – WIKA Instruments India Private Limited (“WIKA India”) has successfully acquired the Calibration Services business of Godrej & Boyce Manufacturing Company Limited (“Godrej”). This strategic acquisition enhances WIKA’s calibration service offerings to deliver superior customer experiences.

By integrating Godrej’s expertise and resources with WIKA, we ensure more efficient and reliable calibration services, tailored to meet specific customer needs. Customers can expect a seamless transition in our operations, maintaining the highest standards of service.

“In line with our global strategic landscape and to strengthen our calibration & service offering, we are enthusiastic about the opportunities this acquisition presents. Our commitment remains focused on exceeding expectations to our customers by harnessing the strength of GODREJ’s local calibration business with WIKAs global expertise to offer superior calibration services,” said Gaurav Bawa, Senior Vice President, WIKA India.

The acquisition allows WIKA to broaden its range of calibration services, offering a wider array of solutions. Whether it is precision measurement or advanced calibration techniques, the enhanced capabilities will enable WIKA to cater to diverse industry requirements.

Vietjet’s 8/8 Super Sale Offers Indian Travellers Up to 80% Off and Exclusive Hotel Perk

Mumbai, August 4, 2025 – Vietjet is turning up the heat this August with a limited-time 8/8 Super Sale, giving travellers the chance to unlock up to 80% off Eco fares across its entire international and domestic network. With Vietjet’s 10 direct routes between India and Vietnam, connecting Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Mumbai to Da Nang, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City with 44 round-trip flights every week, Indian travellers have more ways than ever to explore Vietnam’s vibrant cities and scenic coastlines at unbeatable prices.

For just 23 hours – from 00:00 to 23:00 on August 8, 2025 (GMT+7), guests can enter the promo code “VJ80” when booking Eco tickets via www.vietjetair.com or the Vietjet Air mobile app to enjoy the 80% discount (*). The promotion applies to travel between September 15, 2025 and May 27, 2026 (**)

As a special bonus, from August 8 to August 15, 2025, the first 500 passengers booking international flights to Hanoi (HAN) or Van Don International Airport (VDO), which is the nearest gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, will receive a 20% discount on one-night accommodation (**) at the Royal Ha Long Hotel. This exclusive offer is valid for bookings via Vietjet’s website or mobile app.

Whether you’re planning your next tropical beach escape, city adventure, or cultural discovery, Vietjet connects you to Vietnam’s most captivating destinations – all at unbeatable prices.

Onboard, passengers can enjoy Vietjet’s signature experience with a modern, fuel-efficient fleet, a friendly professional crew, and a vibrant menu of Vietnamese and international cuisine including Pho, Banh Mi, iced milk coffee, and more. Surprise in-flight cultural performances on festive occasions and other personalized service ensure every journey is memorable from takeoff to touchdown.

Somany Ceramics & Bathware Wins Silver at e4m IMA South 2025 for Regional Influencer Marketing Excellence

Somany Ceramics & Bathware has bagged the prestigious Silver metal at the e4m IMA South 2025 Awards in a multi-category that also included marketing and manufacturing. The award was presented for the brand’s campaign “Influence Redefined: Regional Celebs, Real Results in Tamil Nadu,” which was executed by Madison Communications, a renowned marketing agency working with the ceramics major.

The campaign stood out for its nuanced and region-first approach to influencer marketing, strategically leveraging the cultural connect and popularity of local television celebrities. Focused on the Tamil Nadu market, it was designed to go beyond visibility and deliver genuine engagement. Featuring well-loved stars like Gomathi Priya and Vetri Vasanth from the hit Tamil show Siragadikka Aasai, the campaign resonated deeply with homeowners, architects, and design enthusiasts across the region: creating memorable moments and stronger brand affinity.

The use of popular regional faces brought Somany’s products, especially tiles and bathware, into everyday conversations in a language and tone that the audience truly related to. From communicating the beauty of a revamped bathroom to showcasing the seamless charm of designer tiles, the campaign blended aspiration with relatability, and performance with compelling storytelling.

Speaking about the win, Mr. Anshuman Chakravarty, Vice President – Marketing, Somany Ceramics Ltd., said, “This recognition is a proud moment for all of us at Somany. We’ve always believed that marketing shouldn’t be confined to reach, but should also signify relevance as a whole. Our Tamil Nadu campaign wasn’t built around mere celebrities but a deeper cultural connection. By collaborating with beloved local talent, we were able to speak directly to the hearts of our regional consumers. This award validates the power of regional storytelling and the growing importance of contextual, localised brand communication in 2025 and beyond.”

The e4m Indian Marketing Awards (IMA) South recognises the most impactful and creative marketing work from brands and agencies across Southern India. Somany’s campaign emerged as one of the few in the consumer durables space to break through with a hyperlocal yet high-impact strategy. With this win, Somany Ceramics & Bathware continues to set new benchmarks in brand innovation and storytelling, emphasising Somany’s dedication to staying rooted in local cultures while building a pan-India presence.

Sundaram Finance AUM grows 17 Percent to Rs. 53,278 crores

August 4, 2025: The Board of Directors of Sundaram Finance Ltd. (SFL) approved the unaudited standalone and consolidated financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, at its meeting held on August 4, 2025, in Chennai.

“Q1FY26 has seen continued macroeconomic sluggishness of the past few quarters and economic activity has been slower compared to Q1FY25. Under these circumstances, Team Sundaram has delivered 17% growth in AUM to Rs. 53,278 crores, asset quality with net stage 3 at 1.08% vs 0.84% last year and profits after tax growing 39% year-on-year. Our Group companies in asset management, general insurance and home finance have continued their trajectory from FY25 and recorded strong results. We continue to rely on our time-tested approach of steady and sustainable growth with best-in-class asset quality and consistent profitability,” said Harsha Viji, Executive Vice Chairman.

Disbursements for Q1FY26 recorded a growth of 6% over Q1FY25. Gross stage 3 assets as on June 30, 2025, stood at 1.91% with provision cover of 44% as against 1.56% as on June 30, 2024, with provision cover of 47%. Profits from operations performed strongly, growing by 14% in Q1FY26. Profit after tax registered a 39% rise in Q1FY26, with net profit at Rs. 429 crores. Return on assets closed at 2.91% in Q1FY26 as against 2.38% for Q1FY25 and capital adequacy at 20.0% remains quite comfortable.

Rajiv Lochan, Managing Director, stated, “Overall, for the quarter, industry sales in segments and geographies we operate in were well below market expectations. Our focus on extending our market share remains resolute. Looking ahead, the monsoons have been above normal, procurement likely to be robust and therefore, rural sentiment is expected to improve. Government infrastructure spending will also gain steam. However, geopolitical tensions & global macro conditions remain unpredictable. Given these external uncertainties, our Q2 priorities remain focused on improving our asset quality position significantly while driving growth in disbursements at healthy margins. We are well positioned to continue our marathon running and delivering the Sundaram experience to our customers, people and partners,” he added.

STANDALONE PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR Q1FY26

· Disbursements for Q1FY26 grew by 6% to Rs. 7,310 crores as compared to Rs. 6,908 crores registered in Q1FY25.

· The assets under management grew by 17% to Rs. 53,278 crores as on 30th June 2025 as against Rs. 45,671 crores as on 30th June 2024.

· Net interest income grew by 25% to Rs. 781 crores in Q1FY26 from Rs. 623 crores in Q1FY25.

· Gross stage 3 assets as on 30th June 2025 stood at 1.91% with 44% provision cover as against 1.56% with provision cover of 47% as on 30th June 2024. Net stage 3 assets as on 30th June 2025 closed at 1.08% as against 0.84% as on 30th June 2024.

· The Gross and Net NPA, as per RBI’s asset classification norms for NBFCs, are 2.66% and 1.71% respectively as against 2.21% and 1.41% as of 30th June 2024.

· Cost to income ratio improved to 29.84% in Q1FY26 as against 32.90% in Q1FY25.

· Profits from operations grew 14% to Rs. 436 crores in Q1FY26 as against Rs. 383 crores in Q1FY25.

· Higher dividend income resulted in profit after tax registering 39% rise in Q1FY26, with net profit at Rs. 429 crores as against Rs. 308 crores in Q1FY25.

· Return on assets (ROA) for Q1FY26 closed at 2.91% as against 2.38% for Q1FY25. Return on equity (ROE) was at 16.70% for Q1FY26 as against 13.64% for Q1FY25.

· Capital Adequacy Ratio stood at 20.0% (Tier I –17.3%) as of 30th June 2025 compared to 19.3% (Tier I – 16.2%) as of 30th June 2024.

CONSOLIDATED PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR Q1FY26

The consolidated results of SFL include the results of its standalone subsidiaries Sundaram Home Finance, Sundaram Asset Management and joint venture company Royal Sundaram General Insurance.

· The assets under management (AUM) in our lending and general insurance businesses stood at Rs. 80,939 crores as on 30th June 2025 as against Rs. 69,234 crores as on 30th June 2024, a growth of 17%. The assets under management of our asset management business stood at Rs. 80,501 crores as on 30th June 2025 as against Rs. 80,565 crores as on 30th June 2024.

· Profit after tax for Q1FY26 grew by 9% to Rs. 475 crores as compared to Rs. 435 crores in Q1FY25.

GROUP COMPANY PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS

Our group companies continued to perform well.

· The asset management business closed the year ended 30th June 2025 with assets under management of Rs. 80,501 crores (over 80% in equity) and consolidated profits from the asset management businesses were at Rs. 45 crores as against Rs. 29 crores in Q1FY25.

· Royal Sundaram reported a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of Rs. 1,289 crores as compared to Rs. 1,114 crores in the previous year, representing a growth of 16%. The company reported a profit after tax of Rs. 127 crores for Q1FY26 as against a profit of Rs. 65 crores in Q1FY25.

· Sundaram Home Finance continued to grow strongly with disbursements up by 10% to Rs. 1,488 crores in Q1FY26. The profit for Q1FY26 was Rs. 62 crores, as against Rs. 66 crores in Q1FY25.

ABOUT SUNDARAM FINANCE

Sundaram Finance was established in 1954 and the company has today grown into one of the most trusted and diversified financial services groups in India providing financing for commercial vehicles, cars & utility vehicles, tractors and farm equipment, construction equipment, SME finance and a range of working capital products for financing diesel, tyres, insurance as well as working capital for SMEs. Through its subsidiaries and group companies, the company offers home finance, loans against property, mutual funds and investment management solutions and the full range of general insurance products and services. It has a nationwide presence of over 700 branches, over 1 lakh depositors and over 5 lakh lending customers.

Sundaram Finance’s vision is to be the most respected NBFC in the country and its mission is to deliver the Sundaram experience to all customers, big and small, in keeping with the ethos of the Company. Sundaram Finance embraces a philosophy that balances Growth with Quality and Profitability and remains rooted in its ideal of protecting and enhancing shareholder value. The founding philosophy of the company is that everything begins with the customer. Our founder, Late Sri T S Santhanam, enshrined in the company its core values – The Sundaram Way – that have been the company’s guiding light over the decades. The company is deeply rooted in its values and proud of its heritage, also constantly innovating in terms of technology and processes to deliver the unique Sundaram experience to its customers and stakeholders.

ABOUT TSF GROUP

With a legacy spanning a century, the TSF Group’s interests cover the automotive and financial services sectors. Companies promoted by the TSF Group have combined revenue of more than Rs. 26,000 crores, 42,000 employees, 1,200 branches, and 36 factories. In the automotive industry, the TSF group operates across segments from component manufacturing, parts distribution, vehicle dealership and vehicle financing. The Group serves marquee customers across the globe and is known for high quality design‐led manufacturing. The TSF Group companies are market leaders in their segments and include Brakes India, Wheels India, Axles India, Turbo Energy, IMPAL, Madras Auto Service, and Sundaram Motors. In financial services, the TSF Group promoted Sundaram Finance (founded 1954), one of the most respected names in the NBFC sector, with interests in automotive lending, general insurance, housing loans, and asset management. The financial services business has more than Rs. 80,000 crores in assets and a further Rs. 80,000 crores in assets managed. The TSF Group comprises the T.S. Santhanam branch of the erstwhile TVS group and continues the tradition of Trust, Value and Service that the group has been known for this past century.