Category Archives: Business

Moro Hub and Genesys Join Forces to Revolutionize Cloud-Based Customer Experience and Contact Centre Solutions

Dubai, UAE, 25 October 2023:Moro Hub, a subsidiary of Digital DEWA, the digital arm of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (PJSC), announced a strategic collaboration with Genesys, a global cloud leader in AI-powered experience orchestration. The partnership was signed between Mohammed Bin Sulaiman, CEO of Moro Hub and Marianne Calder, VP of EMEA Partner Sales from Genesys on the sidelines of GITEX Global 2023, that takes place from 16th to 20th October at Dubai World Trade Centre.

The association between Moro Hub and Genesys is poised to bring about a transformation in customer engagement and contact centre operations, offering innovative cloud-based solutions to businesses and organizations in the UAE.

“This collaboration with Genesys is a testament to Moro Hub’s commitment to delivering innovative digital solutions to clients. In today’s competitive business landscape, delivering exceptional customer experiences is fundamental to a company’s success. By enhancing the power of our state-of-the-art technology, we aim to help businesses in the country to reshape their customer service operations, optimize communication processes, and elevate customer interactions,” said Mohammed Bin Sulaiman, CEO of Moro Hub.

With this partnership Moro Hub will enable enterprises to access cloud-based solutions, to facilitate streamlined operations, reduce downtime, and optimize resource allocation. Leveraging Genesys’ advanced analytics capabilities will provide Moro Hub’s clients with valuable insights into customer behavior, guiding data-driven decisions and facilitating continuous service improvement.

“Our partnership with Moro Hub represents a significant step forward in our shared mission to transform customer experience. We look forward to establishing a new CX industry standard together and empowering organizations to deliver world-class customer service solutions for effective business growth,” said Marianne Calder, VP of EMEA Partner Sales at Genesys.

Genesys Cloud CX® helps organizations offer frictionless and connected customer and employee experiences. As a modern, API-first experience orchestration platform, Genesys Cloud CX enables organizations to coordinate every interaction and touchpoint through a full suite of omnichannel options, built-in employee experience, turnkey AI and end-to-end journey optimization.

RAKEZ welcomes H.B. Fuller in a major global expansion move

Ras Al Khaimah, 25 October 2023: H.B. Fuller, one of the world’s largest pure-play adhesives companies, chose Ras Al Khaimah as its strategic regional business centre, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion goals. The move was cemented with the acquisition of a 15,000 m2 facility of an adhesives manufacturer based in Al Hamra Industrial Zone – XCHEM International LLC.

Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of RAKEZ and Boz Malik, Senior Vice President, Global Construction Adhesives, H.B Fuller marked the facility launch during a recent lease signing ceremony.

H.B. Fuller Senior Vice President, Construction Adhesives, Boz Malik said, “This strategic investment in the UAE aligns with our vision of global expansion and growth, and supports our long-term plan of diversifying H.B. Fuller’s construction adhesives business outside the US. The continuous governmental support, easy business practices, and high market potential for adhesives make the UAE a preferred location to capitalise on our investments and increase regional capabilities”. He also emphasised the company’s commitment towards attracting and retaining the best talent in the region, “We are pleased to embark on this journey with the support of RAKEZ.”

With its latest set-up in Ras Al Khaimah, the company joins a thriving business community of over 18,000 businesses, including around 400 American companies and numerous manufacturing giants based in the economic zone.

RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad said, “We are thrilled to welcome H.B. Fuller to the RAKEZ business community. Their decision to choose the UAE as a business hub for the MENA region reinforces the international recognition of our country’s dynamic and robust economic environment. Our vibrant construction market which readily embraces innovative and progressive solutions, coupled with our commitment to business-friendly practices, provides the perfect platform for H.B. Fuller to realise their long-term growth plans.”

More than a century-old global giant, the USD 3.75 billion company H.B. Fuller is actively expanding the regional presence of its global adhesives portfolio. Offering a wide range of speciality adhesives and coatings, H.B. Fuller serves industrial and infrastructure applications, particularly in the fast-growing construction markets of the MENA region, with customers in more than 140 countries globally. The company’s latest Ras Al Khaimah set-up adds broadens its product range of highly specified applications for flooring, roofing, and infrastructure-oriented markets. This would help further expand H.B. Fuller’s business network, product development, technical service, and supply chain in the region.

Fisheries Development Oman (FDO) All Set to Shine at the China Fisheries & Seafood Expo 2023

MUSCAT, Oman – October 25, 2023:Fisheries Development Oman (FDO) along with its subsidiaries, eagerly anticipates its participation in the 26th China Fisheries & Seafood Expo, slated for October 25th to 27th, 2023, at the Hongdao International Convention and Exhibition Center (HICEC), Qingdao, China. This strategic involvement reflects FDO’s steadfast commitment to sustainable growth and global expansion.

Renowned as the world’s premier seafood event, the China Fisheries and Seafood Expo offers invaluable networking opportunities and avenues for business growth in the seafood industry. With 10 expansive exhibit halls spanning over 40,000 square meters and attendees from 100 countries, the event promises to be a hub of global seafood activity.

This year’s Expo takes on added significance due to the recent cooperation protocol between Oman and China, emphasizing food safety standards for bilateral imports and exports. This agreement ensures the safety and quality of Omani fish products in compliance with China’s health standards. It not only solidifies Oman’s status as a reliable global supplier but also expands its international presence. Furthermore, this partnership underscores Oman’s commitment to food security and paves the way for strengthened economic relations and trade opportunities in the fisheries and food security sectors. FDO’s presence at the Expo is a testament to its role in this transformative partnership.

Mr. Salim Al Ma’mari Group Director – Investments at FDO, commented, “As a prominent player in Oman’s flourishing fisheries and aquaculture sector, FDO’s participation underscores Oman’s pivotal role as a leading fish producer in the GCC region and as a significant net exporter of fish and fish products. Our aim is to elevate Oman’s stature further by expanding our seafood exports and accessing new markets. This entails a dedicated focus on adhering to market standards, embracing best practices, prioritizing food safety, and sustainability, and maintaining an environmentally responsible approach. Furthermore, the Sultanate of Oman offers appealing business incentives, ensures a conducive business environment, and continues to enhance fisheries infrastructure and value chain regulation.”

Fisheries Development Oman and its subsidiaries expect to cultivate new clients and partnerships, expand trade volumes and sales territories, engage with potential clients, explore fresh distribution channels, secure leads and sales opportunities with a majority of top-level executives, establishing a robust trading platform for aquaculture product exports, and gaining insights into trading mechanisms and market strategies.

Regarding the forthcoming event, Mr. Salim Al Ma’mari added, “Our presence at the China Fisheries & Seafood Expo in Qingdao, China, is truly significant. Chinese traders are increasingly showing interest in the diverse range of products offered by our subsidiary companies. This event presents a golden opportunity to engage with these traders and strengthen FDO’s reputation in both Chinese and global markets. Our objective is to foster collaborations, secure substantial deals, and attract investments in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. As fisheries form a cornerstone of Oman’s economy, our participation in this event echoes our national vision of amplifying this vital industry on the global stage.”

Fisheries Development Oman operates as an Investment and Development holding company, with its subsidiaries playing pivotal roles in various operations. This reflects FDO’s core focus on development and active participation in the industry. FDO has made significant strides in infrastructure development, diversified its investments, and pursued enhanced returns. A recent milestone includes the introduction of ‘Acila,’ a sustainable fishing vessel. FDO is committed to contributing to Oman’s economic growth by investing in local and international fisheries and aquaculture sectors. These efforts are in harmony with the broader objectives of sustainable development and economic diversification, as outlined in Oman Vision 2040.

Arvind SmartSpaces adds new high-rise project in Bengaluru with a top-line potential of Rs. 400 Cr

Bangalore, October 25, 2023: Arvind SmartSpaces Limited (ASL), one of India’s leading real estate development companies, part of the Lalbhai group, today announced that it has signed a new residential apartment project in Bengaluru, with a total estimated saleable area of ~4.6 lakh sq. ft. and a top-line potential of ~Rs. 400 Cr. This project is located in Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru. The project is acquired on an outright basis under the HDFC Platform 2.

Bannerghatta is the fastest growing residential micro market located in the southern part of Bengaluru on SH87. It has excellent connectivity to the Bannerghatta Main Road, IT/ITES belt in Electronic City and hosts numerous IT companies and Tech Parks. The site is in close proximity to extremely well-developed social and civic infrastructure with multiple schools, hospitals, retail, residential, and commercial spaces in close proximity. In addition, it is located close to picturesque hotspots MM Hills, The Bannerghatta National Park, St. Marks Cathedral, the Pearl Valley, ISKON Temple, Meenakshi Mall etc.

Commenting on this development, Mr. Kamal Singal, Managing Director and CEO, Arvind SmartSpaces said, “Our diversification initiatives addressing both horizontal and vertical developments across Bengaluru and Ahmedabad are progressing well. We are happy to add this high-rise project to our portfolio and this will deepen our presence in a key micro market in Bengaluru. Bannerghatta Road is a well-established micro-market and this acquisition will further expand the company’s presence in South Bengaluru.

With this acquisition, the cumulative new business development topline potential stands at more than ~Rs. 2,800 Cr for the current year to date. The buoyancy in the real estate market is extremely strong and we are well on track to conclude our ongoing business plan of Rs. 1000 Cr fresh investment to create a record year in terms of new project additions both from a value and volume perspective.”

5 reasons to be excited about this year’s MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT

MTV Hustle, the epicenter of India’s hip-hop revolution, has taken the nation by storm, bringing underground rappers to the forefront, making them household names. With the success of MTV Hustle and Hustle 2.0, the anticipation for MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT is at an all-time high. This season promises to be bigger and better, bridging the gap between underground and mainstream by bringing everyone on one single platform – beginners, established, commercial, underground. You name it, they have it!

For all these reasons and more, here are five compelling reasons why MTV Hustle 03 is a spectacle to witness.

A Cultural Movement
Through its electrifying performances, gripping narratives, and celebration of rap as an art form, Indian MTV Hustle has become a cultural phenomenon, igniting a passion for hip-hop and inspiring a new generation of Indian rappers.

Return of Rap Supremo – Badshah
It’s Yo boy Badshah is back this season with 3x the swag, style and spirit! His popularity among the youth is sky-high, and it’s exciting to see how he opens up the stage for the freshest and finest hip-hop talents this season.

Ikka The New Squad Boss
Ikka, the player of words, the ace of vibes, and the new Squad Boss in MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT! Audiences have seen Ikka in the previous season as a guest judge and loved the energy he brought. This time, the anticipation is even higher as Ikka steps into his new role, and it will be exciting to see how he uses his experience and expertise in the hip-hop game to his advantage.

Diverse Artists
MTV Hustle has consistently showcased artists from diverse cultures, offering a rich mix of talent. With contestants from Jammu, Guwahati, Pune, Haryana, and other parts of the country, the cultural fusion is expected to be even more exciting in MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT

Fresh Hip-Hop Tunes
From ‘Main Nahi Toh Kaun Bey’ to ‘Chhore NCR Aale,’ the previous season of MTV Hustle delivered some bangers that resonated with the youth. MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT is expected to be no different, bringing the latest and most exciting tracks for audiences to groove to.

Project Atlas has the potential to be the next big thing in Crypto

– By: Mr. Rajagopal Menon, Vice President, WazirX

The Bank of International Settlements defines itself as a developer of public technological solutions to support central banks and improve the functioning of the financial system. It has played a prominent role in shaping the worldview of Crypto, often aiding in policy decisions of global financial watchdogs, identifying loopholes in adoption of digital assets, and subsequently presenting a more positive stance in recent times.

The BIS’s CBDC philia

In BIS’s view, private financial players are moving the needle on the sentiment towards digital assets for transactions. Furthermore, their ability to act at short notice with only domestic legislations to abide by, is putting them at an advantage over central banks across the world. However, they feel that they have a foot in the door in terms of CBDCs being a digital iteration of existing currencies that is a legal tender. It is not backed by assets as in the case of private Crypto tokens or stablecoins. In the opinion of BIS, this could be a game changer for the global payments system as they incorporate payments on distributed ledger for settlements in wholesale as well as retail transactions.

BIS has always been a proponent of settling payments using digital assets backed by the Central banks. In 2021, project Jura, launched by BIS, tested the transfer of digital currencies (euros and Swiss francs) between French and Swiss banks on a secure platform. The platform was created to settle trades involving tokenized assets and foreign exchange in a safe and efficient manner. The project was aligned with global efforts to improve cross-border payments and handling international financial transactions, such as those involving foreign exchange, securities, and more. The project concluded with the report that Jura could provide commercial banks access to CBDCs and also improve their efficiency in recording settlement transactions in a secure way. In addition to this, Project Dumbarton was designed to facilitate cross-border transactions between financial institutions in a swift and low cost manner, and could also enable international settlements using digital currencies issued by multiple central banks. Project mBridge was another successful attempt at creating a sandbox for central banks to serve as a specialized platform for implementation of multi-currency cross-border payments in CBDCs..

The scale and potential of project Atlas

Project Atlas’s announcement doesn’t seem quite like another of BIS’s collaborative projects between a few central banks to see how technological prowess can enhance the payment systems’ potential. This is a far more ambitious move which doesn’t simply want to tap into cross border payments but also ensure a fair information access for Bitcoin transactions worldwide, and assets, more commonly USDs being converted to BTC in circulation. A product of recent inconsistencies in the crypto ecosystem with respect to project collapses, illicit transactions and several rug pulls due to unverified or insufficient research, this could be a starting point of data consolidation for all stakeholders in the ecosystem.

How does it work?

According to the official website of the BIS, project Atlas combines on- and off-chain information, creating a layered approach to data vetting and tailored statistics for central banks. The first proof of concept of Atlas successfully showcases how to collect, clean and analyse data relevant to central banks’ mandates. This also extends to any data discrepancy or misinformation. Not just that, apparently, at any point, the implications of the Crypto ecosystem border on the verge of spilling on the mainstream financial system or show signs of affecting any macroeconomic aspects, the radar goes off and all regulators in the TradFi system have an idea.

What could be the outcome?

In recent years, the crypto asset market and its related products and services have experienced rapid growth. Additionally, these assets have become increasingly interconnected with the traditional financial system. This poses a challenge for policymakers who are tasked with monitoring the risks associated with this dynamic sector, particularly because many activities within it remain unregulated. There is a growing concern that these risks could soon reach a systemic level in certain countries, potentially leading to financial instability. The absence of coordinated regulatory measures may inadvertently facilitate disruptive movements of capital, which can have destabilizing effects.

The steps taken by the BIS (Bank for International Settlements) in collaboration with its partners, De Nederlandsche Bank, and the Deutsche Bundesbank, to create Project Atlas seem quite promising for a transparent data monitoring system in digital asset generation, management and transactions.

Regulations and country specific policies could become more nuanced based on real time data from this platform. This will lead to better engagement between public and private stakeholders due to enhanced information sharing and better understanding of any implications for the existing monetary system. Going by the information provided by the BIS, stakeholders can look forward to state of the art on chain and off chain data which could improve market integrity and accountability of all players. This in turn can greatly benefit Central Banks. Project Atlas could enable more customized policy responses based on tailored statistics. Central banks may be better equipped to address specific challenges and opportunities posed by crypto assets and DeFi if any, in their respective jurisdictions.

There is also an urgent demand for efficient cross-border transactions and more streamlined global value networks. Policymakers are actively seeking ways to enhance efficiency while maintaining security and stability. As a result, the focus is on digitalization and cutting-edge technologies, which are recognized as key catalysts for creating opportunities for a global information system that benefits one and all. Collaboration between central banks within the Eurosystem and international financial institutions like the BIS signifies a coordinated effort to address the global implications of crypto assets. This may lead to increased international cooperation in regulating and monitoring these markets, which has been the greatest takeaway from this year’s G20 summit, headed by India.

As central banks gain more insights into the trillion dollar crypto asset markets, they will also be better prepared to respond to market volatility and potential disruptions, which could boost financial stability and investor sentiment. In fact, monitoring the platform on a real time basis can provide insights into what can go into the betterment of the technology which could prevent impending risks, and also make transactions in the digital asset space smoother. Any new technological integration can be supervised and scourged for drawbacks or success, thus having the potential to be deployed at a larger scale.

The creation of Project Atlas and its focus on crypto asset markets and DeFi bolsters the growing recognition of the importance of blockchain based digital assets in the broader financial landscape. The implications of this initiative are likely to extend to regulatory and policy responses, risk assessment, and international cooperation in the evolving world of crypto assets and DeFi, finally culminating into an effective instrument for global Crypto adoption and facilitation.

EaseMyTrip launches EasyDarshan, a dedicated platform for spiritual tourism in India

Mumbai, October 25, 2023: EaseMyTrip.com, one of India’s largest online travel tech platforms, has launched its latest offering, EasyDarshan (http://www.easydarshan.com/). This dedicated platform has been meticulously crafted to cater to the spiritual needs of travellers by providing comprehensive pilgrimage packages across India.

EasyDarshan offers an array of specially curated divine packages, ensuring devotees can focus solely on their spiritual journey and are free from the hassle of logistics and planning. The platform offers diverse packages and covers a wide spectrum of revered pilgrimage sites across the country, from the serene Himalayan shrines to the tranquil temples of the South. The packages offered to the customers are inclusive of transportation, accommodation, guided tours and special pujas. Prioritising safety and sanitation measures, the platform will ensure travellers have convenient, safe and peaceful spiritual tours.

Elated to announce, Mr. Nishant Pitti, CEO & Co-Founder, EaseMyTrip, said, “India is known as the land of spirituality and is home to beautifully carved temples, peaceful Gurudwaras, majestic churches and opulent mosques. This is why spiritual tourism holds a special place in the hearts of Indians, and people are now keen to visit vibrant religious and spiritual destinations more than ever before. We were aware this was an untapped territory and had immense potential for growth. This prompted us to launch EasyDarshan. With this platform, our vision is to bridge the gap between devotion and convenience and offer seamless, convenient and safe pilgrimage experiences that resonate with our customers’ spiritual aspirations.”

Spiritual tourism is a key market in the Indian travel and tourism industry. Venturing into this unique segment is a strategic move by the brand with the sole aim of simplifying and enriching pilgrimage experiences for its customers.

Amethyst presents an exhibition of The India Edit by Viya Home a contemporary gifting brand from October 25th to 29th, 2023 at Amethyst

Amethyst presents an exhibition of The India Edit by Viya Home a contemporary gifting brand rooted in India’s visual arts and legacy of fine craftsmanship. Inspired by influences ranging from Jaipur’s glorious architecture to lush Indian blooms, the objects include tabletop candelabras, serveware, diyas, and finials. The collections are underpinned by the studio’s distinctive design vocabulary and passion for preserving traditional artisanal techniques from 11am to 7.30pm on October 25th to 29th, 2023 at Amethyst, Whites Road, Royapettah, Chennai. Ph : 044 45991630/31. Price Range: Rs.2,800/- to Rs.18,000/-

About The Designer – Vikram Goyal

Based in New Delhi, Vikram Goyal has spent two decades refining a contemporary design language within the international collectible design market. His work personifies the spirit and skill of artisanal techniques found in historic objects and translates the rich legacy of craft excellence from India into modern, timeless designs that resonate at home and abroad.

Drawing on the expertise of specialist artisans from across the country and a deep exploration of Indian metalwork traditions, Goyal designs limited-edition furniture and objects that celebrate material and form in abstract new ways. By diligently refining and re-inventing techniques that have been cultivated in the region for centuries, his work exudes a studied sophistication in Indian craft and conceptual and cultural narratives.

An engineer by training, Goyal went on to study development economics at Princeton University, then worked in finance in the USA and HongKong. Upon his return to India in 2000, he set up his design studio and began a critical study of the extraordinary craft history and ancient philosophies at the core of Indian culture. He has been meticulously advancing the art of collectible design in the region ever since, reintroducing intricacy and elegance into modern Indian design. A closer look, and even motifs commemorating ancient narratives, traditions and philosophies are subtly reimagined and contextualised in novel material applications across his work.

While the collectible works of the studio are revered by galleries, art fairs, interior designers, craft enthusiasts and collectors, the designer’s initial creative endeavours are still celebrated. Viya Home’s heartfelt mission to revive metalwork and other traditional crafts in a more accessible form launches in Fall 2023. Goyal also co-founded beauty and wellness brand Kama Ayurveda which elevated and gave modern relevance to an ancient system of medicine.

Among his more personal projects is Shringara of Shrinathji, the collector’s edition book he conceived and co-designed in 2022, which features miniature paintings of the Hindu deity Lord Shrinathji from his family collection. The creations of his own studio share a sense of timelessness with antiques and works of historic craft excellence that he personally collects.

Goyal has been named in Architectural Digest’s definitive list of the 100 most influential architects and interior designers in India, and is a winner of an Elle Deco International Design Award. He has been represented by Todd Merrill Studio in New York since 2020 and more recently with Nilufar Gallery in Milan.