Category Archives: Business

Vanguard launches Hyderabad Technology Center to drive global digital transformation and talent development

November 04, 2025: Vanguard celebrated the official launch of its Global Technology Center in Hyderabad, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s technology transformation. The new office reflects Vanguard’s recognition of India as a strategic center for innovation, talent development, and digital transformation. The Hyderabad office will serve as a hub for engineering excellence, cloud modernization, data analytics, artificial intelligence and machine learning, and cybersecurity. It will also feature collaborative labs designed to accelerate innovation across Vanguard’s digital platforms and enterprise solutions.

“Hyderabad represents a thriving technology ecosystem with talent and ambition that underpins Vanguard’s commitment to provide our investors a world-class digital experience. We’re excited to open our new technology center in Hyderabad and to welcome our new Vanguard India crew members. This technology hub builds on our decade-long collaboration in the region and will play a vital role in advancing innovation in support of our mission,” said Nitin Tandon, Global Chief Information Officer at Vanguard.

The Honourable Deputy Chief Minister of Govt. of Telangana, Minister of Finance & Planning, Energy, Sri Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka Garu, attended the inauguration and ribbon-cutting as Vanguard’s Chief Guest. Sri Duddilla Sridhar Babu Garu, Honourable Minister of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Industries & Commerce, and Legislative Affairs, attended as Guest of Honor. He said: “Hyderabad has emerged as one of the top choices for BFSI product engineering and digital innovation, offering the right mix of talent and infrastructure. With Vanguard joining this growing ecosystem, Telangana further strengthens its position as a global hub for financial technology and innovation.”

Vanguard’s Hyderabad technology center is central to global and local AI advancements, supporting the company’s broader digital transformation mission. With AI rapidly evolving, Vanguard aims to foster collaboration on innovative use cases in Financial Services and Information Technology that harness India’s rapidly growing digital economy.

Venkatesh Natarajan, Head of Vanguard India, said, “Our crew members are at the heart of everything we do. This office will combine Vanguard’s mission-driven culture – centered on fairness and unwavering integrity – with India’s world-class technology talent. Together, we will create technology capabilities that are innovative, scalable, and meaningful for investors everywhere.”

Sundaram Finance logs highest-ever disbursements of Rs. 15,423 crores; Q2 disbursement growth of 18% to Rs. 8,113 crores

November 3, 2025: The Board of Directors of Sundaram Finance Ltd. (SFL) approved the unaudited standalone and consolidated financial results for the half year ended September 30, 2025, at its meeting held on November 3, 2025, in Chennai.

“Q2FY26 started with continuing macroeconomic sluggishness witnessed over the past few quarters. The introduction of GST 2.0 reforms and the country’s rating upgrade by global rating agencies have boosted overall sentiments over the past 4-6 weeks. Under these circumstances, Team Sundaram has delivered 15.3% growth in AUM to Rs. 55,419 crores, asset quality with net stage 3 assets at 1.13% vs 0.89% last year and profits after tax growth of 27% year-on-year. Our Group companies in asset management, general insurance and home finance have continued to record 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 H1FY26 recorded a growth of 12% over H1FY25 and for Q2FY26, disbursements have grown 18% Y-o-Y. Gross stage 3 assets as on September 30, 2025, stood at 2.03% with provision cover of 45% as against 1.62% as on September 30, 2024, with provision cover of 45%. Profits from operations performed strongly, growing by 16% in H1FY26 and 17% in Q2FY26. Profit after tax registered a 27% rise in H1FY26, with net profit at Rs. 823 crores and for Q2, PAT grew 16% to Rs. 394 crores. Return on assets closed at 2.72% in H1FY26 as against 2.50% for H1FY25 and capital adequacy at 19.3% remained quite comfortable.

Rajiv Lochan, Managing Director, stated, “The festival period has been strong, and the morale of team Sundaram is on a high following a well-executed festival plan. We anticipate the impact of GST 2.0 on consumption to be buoyant, rural demand to improve after a healthy monsoon period and private sector capex to pick up in the coming quarters. Consequently, our post-festival outlook for Q3 and H2 is optimistic. We are well-positioned to drive our time-tested mantra of balancing growth with quality and profitability and taking a long-term, through-cycle view to our customers, employees and other partners.”

STANDALONE PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR H1FY26

· Disbursements for H1FY26 grew by 12% to Rs. 15,423 crores as compared to Rs. 13,768 crores registered in H1FY25. Disbursements for Q2FY26 grew by 18% to Rs. 8,113 crores as compared to Rs. 6,860 crores registered in Q2FY25.

· The assets under management grew by 15% to Rs. 55,419 crores as on 30th September 2025 as against Rs. 48,058 crores as on 30th September 2024.

· Net interest income (NII) grew by 23% to Rs. 1,603 crores in H1FY26 from Rs. 1,304 crores in H1FY25. Q2FY26 growth in NII was 21% to Rs. 822 crores.

· Gross stage 3 assets as on 30th September 2025 stood at 2.03% with 45% provision cover as against 1.62% with provision cover of 45% as on 30th September 2024. Net stage 3 assets as on 30thSeptember 2025 closed at 1.13% as against 0.89% as on 30th September 2024.

· The Gross and Net NPA, as per RBI’s asset classification norms for NBFCs, are 2.80% and 1.79% respectively as against 2.39% and 1.55% as of 30th September 2024.

· Cost to income ratio improved to 29.60% in H1FY26 as against 31.91% in H1FY25.

· Profits from operations grew 16% to Rs. 937 crores in H1FY26 as against Rs. 812 crores in H1FY25. For the quarter, profits from operations grew 17% to Rs. 501 crores.

· Higher dividend income resulted in profit after tax registering 27% rise in H1FY26, with net profit at Rs. 823 crores as against Rs. 648 crores in H1FY25. For Q2FY26, PAT grew 16% Y-o-Y to Rs. 394 crores.

· Return on assets (ROA) for H1FY26 closed at 2.72% as against 2.50% for H1FY25. Return on equity (ROE) was at 15.91% for H1FY26 as against 14.24% for H1FY25.

· Capital Adequacy Ratio stood at 19.3% (Tier I –16.9%) as of 30th September 2025 compared to 20.0% (Tier I – 16.4%) as of 30th September 2024.

CONSOLIDATED PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR H1FY26

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. 83,586 crores as on 30th September 2025 as against Rs. 72,541 crores as on 30th September 2024, a growth of 15%. The assets under management of our asset management business stood at Rs. 82,608 crores as on 30th September 2025 as against Rs. 76,845 crores as on 30th September 2024.

· Profit after tax for H1FY26 grew by 11% to Rs. 963 crores as compared to Rs. 871 crores in H1FY25.

GROUP COMPANY PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS

Our group companies continued to perform well.

· The asset management business closed the half year ended 30th September 2025 with assets under management of Rs. 82,608 crores (around 80% in equity) and consolidated profits from the asset management businesses were at Rs. 91 crores as against Rs. 68 crores in H1FY25.

· Royal Sundaram reported a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of Rs. 2,352 crores as compared to Rs. 2,053 crores in the previous year, representing a growth of 15%. The company reported a profit after tax of Rs. 121 crores for H1FY26 as against a profit of Rs. 126 crores in H1FY25.

· Sundaram Home Finance continued to grow strongly with disbursements up by 9% to Rs. 3,169 crores in H1FY26. The profit for H1FY26 was Rs. 137 crores, as against Rs. 111 crores in H1FY25.

Tata AutoComp Showcases Cutting-Edge Rail Solutions at IREE 2025

Pune, India – 03rd November 2025: Tata AutoComp Systems Limited, a leading provider of automotive and mobility component solutions, concluded a highly successful participation at the International Railway Equipment Exhibition (IREE) 2025, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The auto component conglomerate’s participation marked a significant milestone in its journey of diversification into the railway mobility sector.

The Tata AutoComp booth was inaugurated by the Honourable State Minister of Railway, Mr. Ravneet Singh, alongside BEML Chairman & MD, Shri Shantanu Roy. The booth received an exceptional response from visitors, including distinguished dignitaries from the Railway Ministry, Metro and Urban Transport (MoUD), and prominent industry leaders.

The Tata AutoComp booth attracted significant attention from a broad spectrum of the railway industry for the company’s innovative propulsion systems, lightweight composite components, seating solutions, and HVAC technologies—all engineered to enhance performance, energy efficiency, and passenger comfort.

Key visitors included high-ranking officials from across the entire railway ecosystem, such as leadership from the Ministry of Railways and various Central and Zonal Railway authorities. Further engagement came from critical Production Units like MCF, ICF, and RCF, along with representatives from major Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) including BEML, BHEL, and RITES. The booth also hosted experts from crucial Technical and Regulatory bodies such as RDSO and IRSME. Strong interest was shown by leading Private Sector OEMs and suppliers in the mobility space, including Alstom, Hitachi, Titagarh, and Texmaco.

The company has formed strategic partnerships with leading international players such as Škoda, Compin Fainsa, and Air International Thermal Systems to bring advanced global technologies to India. With a strong focus on localization, Tata AutoComp is adapting these technologies to meet Indian requirements—making them cost-competitive, efficient, and aligned with the nation’s mobility vision.

Speaking on the success of the event, Mr. Arvind Goel, Vice Chairman, Tata AutoComp Systems, said,

“India’s railways are on the cusp of a major technological transformation, with trains like Vande Bharat and other new-generation models leading the way. For Tata AutoComp, with our deep expertise in auto components, the railway sector is a natural extension of our capabilities—enabling us to meet the evolving requirements of India’s modern rail ecosystem.”

Mr. Manoj Kolhatkar, Managing Director & CEO, Tata AutoComp Systems, added,

“Tata AutoComp’s participation at IREE 2025 further strengthens the company’s position as a trusted partner in India’s railway modernization journey—leveraging decades of automotive engineering and manufacturing expertise to deliver reliable, localized, and future-ready solutions for the country’s rapidly evolving rail ecosystem.”

Mr. Radek Svoboda, MD & CEO, Škoda Electric, said:

“India’s railway industry is evolving at an extraordinary pace, demanding the latest technologies that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and passenger comfort. Our focus is on bringing advanced, energy-efficient propulsion solutions for intercity and metro applications—supporting India’s vision to localize, modernize, and build world-class, future-ready rail mobility aligned with global standards.”

Marc Jammot, President, Compin Fainsa, said:

“In today’s fast-evolving rail industry, innovation is key to balancing energy efficiency with passenger comfort. We’re developing lighter, ergonomically advanced seating solutions that reduce energy consumption without compromising comfort. By integrating new materials and design technologies, we aim to redefine passenger experience and contribute to sustainable, future-ready rail travel in India.”

RayEthnic: India’s Ethnic Wear Expands to 15 Stores by Unveiling Its New Experience Store

Mumbai, India | Nov 3, 2025: RayEthnic, the purpose-driven ethnic wear label known for blending India’s rich textile heritage with contemporary design, has expanded its footprint to 15 stores nationwide with the launch of its new experience store on Sindhu Bhavan Road, Ahmedabad. The milestone marks a significant chapter in the brand’s journey of empowering artisans, reviving traditional crafts, and redefining modern ethnic fashion.

Founded in the early 2000s by Mrs. Patel, a former pharmaceutical professional turned fashion entrepreneur, RayEthnic started as an initiative to provide meaningful employment to women displaced by economic downturns in Gujarat’s diamond industry. What began as a mission to support skilled women artisans has evolved into a national movement in handcrafted ethnic wear, combining tradition, sustainability, and contemporary aesthetics.

“Fashion for me was never about trends,” says Mrs. Patel. “It was about creating dignified work, preserving craft, and telling stories of resilience through every thread. Today, seeing our artisans thrive and our stores reach across India is deeply rewarding.”

A Hub for Heritage and Modern Design

The new experience store is designed to immerse visitors in the story of India’s handloom traditions, offering a curated collection of ethnic wear that celebrates craft, culture, and conscious design. Visitors can explore exclusive handcrafted pieces created in collaboration with master artisans such as:

Mohammad Ismail Khatri – Bagh printing

Mukkanteswarudu (Eswarudu) – Kalamkari

Subrata Das – Jamdani weaving

These collaborations are long-term partnerships, not vendor relationships, ensuring the preservation of heritage crafts while reimagining them for contemporary wardrobes.

Empowering Women, Sustaining Craft

Today, RayEthnic directly supports over 1,000 women artisans,providing sustainable livelihoods and championing slow fashion practices. With minimal, meaningful, and deeply Indian designs, the brand is redefining luxury as authenticity, craftsmanship, and conscious consumption.

“Every piece we create is more than clothing- it’s a narrative of heritage, identity, and hope,” adds Mrs. Patel.

BUSINESSNEXT recognized among top global firms in Customer Service Solutions Landscape report

New Delhi, India, 1st November, 2025:  Indian deep tech firm, BUSINESSNEXT, has been recognized among top global platforms in “The Customer Service Solutions Landscape, Q3 2025” report by Forrester.

The report provides an overview of 34 global vendors to give customer service business and IT leaders insights into the value they can expect from customer service solution vendors, learn how vendors differ, and investigate options based on size and market focus.

The report highlights a rapid shift in banking and insurance towards AI-first operations. According to Forrester’s survey, 71% of customer service leaders in the private sector cite customer experience improvement as their top business priority over the next 12 months, with nearly 73% planning to adopt AI-powered customer service solutions within the year. As the report details, agentic and generative AI are now moving from experimental pilots to large-scale, cost-optimizing platforms, reshaping how BFSI leaders meet fast-changing expectations and regulatory requirements.

In the report, BUSINESSNEXT self-reported the extended use cases of Agent performance management, AI- agent assist, customer self-service as the top three use cases for which clients select them. Its offerings deliver seamless voice and digital support, automate ticketing and workflows, and empower agents with actionable insights and recommended actions.

“AI is enabling Indian banks and insurers to scale up customer experience while reducing complexity and cost,” said Rahul Sheth, Head of Marketing at BUSINESSNEXT.

The report explains how customer service solutions are helping organizations move toward autonomous operations. They automate routine requests, improve self-service, and use AI to analyze data, personalize support, and reduce costs. These solutions also provide useful dashboards for better agent performance and use flexible system designs that are ready for future AI advancements.

“We believe our inclusion in Forrester’s industry landscape as a customer service solutions provider notes our commitment to building autonomous, resilient, and highly personalized digital journeys. BUSINESSNEXT leverages advanced AI, cloud-native deployments, and domain expertise to help our clients realize true autonomous banking—where self-driving processes, integrated AI agents, and predictive analytics are the norm”, added, Sheth.

2-Day Hyderabad Entrepreneurship Summit 2025 Kicks Off at Hitex

Hyderabad, November 1, 2025: The Hyderabad Entrepreneurship Summit (HES 2025) — a landmark two-day celebration of innovation, leadership, and collaboration — began this evening at Hitex Exhibition Centre, organised by the TiE Hyderabad Chapter in partnership with the Government of Telangana.

It was inaugurated collectively by HEEC-Hyderabad Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Collective Partners, a unique initiative of TiE Hyderabad Chapter.

Held under the theme “Transforming Tomorrow, together”, HES 2025 is designed to showcase Hyderabad’s evolution as one of India’s most dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystems — connecting local innovation with global opportunities.

The summit has brought together over 1,500 entrepreneurs, investors, corporates, policymakers, and ecosystem enablers, featuring inspiring keynotes & fireside chats, sector-focused industry Sessions, masterclasses by industry experts, startup pitches & expo showcases, special recognitions & awards celebrating entrepreneurial excellence across sectors.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajesh Pagadala, President, TiE Hyderabad, said the summit builds on TiE’s national mission “1x10x100” — to create 1 million entrepreneurs, 10 million jobs, and $100 billion in value over the next decade.

“This perfectly aligns with Telangana’s vision of becoming a global innovation powerhouse by 2047. TiE Hyderabad has mentored thousands of founders over the last 26 years — now it’s time to give back by shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs,” he said.

A highlight of the opening ceremony was the launch of the Hyderabad Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Collective (HEEC) — a strategic TiE Hyderabad initiative designed to foster collaboration, inclusivity, and shared growth among startups, investors, academia, industry bodies, and incubators.

The MoU was signed by leaders of TiE Hyderabad, HYSEA, FTCCI, COWE, ALEAP, Biome, Hyderabad Angels, Mahindra University, iCollab, Bala Vikasa CSRB, IACC, IIKP, T-Hub, RICH, TG10X, Wadhwani Foundation, and Founders First. Initially led by TiE Hyderabad, the collective will operate on a rotational leadership model among partner institutions to ensure continuity and inclusivity.

Rajesh Pagadala and Murali Kakarla, President and Vice President of TiE fecilitated the MoU with all the ecosystem partners.

Mr Nikhil Chakravarthi, Director (Industries), Government of Telangana, announced a strategic MoU between TiE Hyderabad and the Department of Industries & Commerce. Through this partnership, TiE and the State will jointly scale 500 high-potential SMEs across Telangana by 2029, under the “500 to 5X Growth Mission.”

The mission will identify SMEs in the ₹25–₹50 crore bracket and help them achieve 5X growth through mentorship, market access, and capital linkage — potentially generating 3–5 lakh new jobs.
The MoU also provides for the establishment of a Telangana SME Acceleration Cell, SME Capital Access Clinic, and five regional mentoring hubs.

Mr Nikhil added that Telangana is deregulating certain Acts, such as the Factories Act and Labour Act, to further ease business operations and create flexible zones to boost industry competitiveness.

He also highlighted that Telangana is actively implementing the District Reform Action Plan (DRAP) under the national Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) initiative.

Delivering the keynote, Murali Bukkapatnam, TiE Global Chair of Trustees, said, “Hyderabad is no longer just the city of pearls and biryani — it’s a fountainhead of disruptive energy and a launchpad for visionary leaders.”

He announced the upcoming TiE Global Impact Report and TiE Impact Dashboard, aiming to strengthen the 68-chapter global network and grow membership and revenues by 20%.

Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin, Dean of Kautilya School of Public Policy, addressed the topic “Entrepreneurs & Global Uncertainty”, urging founders to build resilience amid geopolitical volatility and global interdependence.

The TiE Hyderabad Outstanding Entrepreneurship Awards 2025, chaired by Mr Kali Prasad (Chairman, EThames Business School) and evaluated by a jury led by Mr G.V. Prasad (Co-Chairman & MD, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories), recognised visionary founders, investors, and ecosystem builders.

Another highlight was the launch of TiE50 Telangana, powered by Qualcomm, celebrating high-growth startups from the region.

Day 1 concluded with “Rhythms & Connections” — an evening of live music and networking for TiE Charter Members, CXOs, and investors.

Day 2 will feature 100+ speakers and 25+ sessions covering DeepTech, HealthTech, Defence & Aerospace, Artificial Intelligence, Family Offices, Innovation & Incubation, and TiE Women & TiE University Pitch Tracks. The concurrent Entrepreneurship Expo showcases 80+ startups and ecosystem partners from across India.

Nayara Energy unveils ‘The Gir Inheritance’

Mumbai, 31th October, 2025: Nayara Energy, an integrated downstream company of international scale, has unveiled The Gir Inheritance, a coffee table book that celebrates the rich heritage and enduring conservation legacy of Gir. Published by Sanctuary, the book was presented to select recipients as a measure of support for the majestic lions of Gir.

The book is a tribute to nature’s resilience and the relentless efforts to protect it for generations to come. Moreover, it offers an immersive experience, artfully blending compelling narratives and evocative imagery to chronicle the legacy of Gir’s unique biodiversity and the efforts to safeguard it. By showcasing the vital role of conservation in sustaining both biodiversity and local livelihoods, the book highlights how protecting wildlife also safeguards ecosystems that nurture communities, inspiring innovative approaches and collective investment in a sustainable future.

“At Nayara Energy, we are committed to protecting and preserving India’s natural heritage. We are proud to have brought this important work to life. The Gir Inheritance is a tribute to the ongoing dedication of all those who have tirelessly worked to protect Gir and its ecosystems ensuring that future generations inherit this invaluable living legacy. Nayara Energy is honoured to play a part in this vital mission, reaffirming our pledge to environmental stewardship and sustainable development” said Teymur Abasguliyev, Chief Executive Officer, Nayara Energy.

Speaking on the release of the coffee table book, Bittu Sahgal, Editor, Sanctuary Asia said “The Gir Inheritance Coffee Table Book captures the rich heritage of Gir, home to the last sanctuary of the endangered Asiatic lion. The ‘Pride of Gujarat owes its resurgence to the tireless efforts of scientists, local communities, and conservationists. It is heartening to see Nayara Energy supporting these critical conservation efforts, ensuring that this vital legacy continues for generations to come.”

This initiative highlights Nayara Energy’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement. It underlines the importance of preserving our natural heritage and the vital role we all share in sustaining the environment for future generations. Through this initiative, the Company seeks to raise awareness and inspire continued support for conservation efforts.

India’s REIT Market to Touch INR 19.7 Trillion by 2030: Knight Frank

REITs market projected to reach INR 19.7 tn by 2030, powered by office, retail and warehousing sectors: Knight Frank India

New Delhi, 31th October, 2025: Knight Frank India, in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), today unveiled its latest report, Commercial Real Estate: Potential is Built, Opportunity is Now, at the CII Conference on Evolving Landscape of Indian Real Estate – CRE: Unlocking Investments, Opportunities & Economic Growth. The report positions India’s commercial real estate (CRE) sector at a defining juncture, where its built potential is set to translate into tangible growth. Among its key highlights, India’s REIT market is projected to reach INR 19.7 tn by 2030 (from INR 10.4 tn in 2025), driven by high occupancy, favourable taxation, and broader sectoral inclusion. 

Private equity participation, rising from USD 500 mn in 2011 to multi-billion-dollar highs by 2019, has enhanced transparency, deepened institutional confidence, and paved the way for REIT expansion across India’s thriving CRE landscape. As urbanisation, technology, and progressive policy reforms continue to reshape the sector, India’s CRE stands poised to unlock the next wave of opportunity across asset classes. 

Retail consumption across the organised formats is estimated at a value of INR 8.8 Tn for FY 2025. Led by shopping centres (INR 4.9 tn), high streets (INR 3.8 tn), and other new-age formats such as airport and transit retail. This expansion reflects a clear shift toward experience-driven, consumer-centric destinations where shopping intersects with lifestyle and leisure.

Shishir Baijal, Chairman and Managing Director, Knight Frank India, said, “India’s CRE transformation is being led by businesses that are more global, technology-driven and experience-focused than ever before. Consolidation in office demand, resilient retail growth and the rapid expansion of digital infrastructure have fundamentally reshaped occupier behaviour. Today, companies want efficient, green, future-ready spaces, and capital markets are rewarding that shift. As India heads toward a USD 7 tn economy, CRE will play an essential role in powering productivity, attracting investment and building next-generation urban centres.”

India’s REITs have a potential to diversify beyond traditional asset classes like office, retail, and warehousing, to industrial parks, data centres, and hospitality. Listed REITs have delivered stable average annual dividend yield of about 5.5%, making them attractive income-generating vehicles. By 2030, India’s REIT market (including office, retail and warehousing sectors) is projected to reach INR 19.7 tn. India currently has five listed REITs covering about 177 mn sq ft of commercial and retail space spanning operational, under-construction, and upcoming assets worth approximately INR 2.3 tn with over 290,000 unitholders.

Office REITs

India’s office REITs account for just 15.3% of the total office stock across the top eight cities, signalling strong potential for institutional growth. Demand from Global Capability Centres (GCCs) and India-facing businesses continues to strengthen, supported by a steady leasing pipeline and occupier preference for premium, sustainable workspaces. The value of REIT-able office assets is expected to rise from INR 8.2 tn in 2025 to INR 16.0 tn by 2030, nearly doubling in five years. With substantial prime office assets yet to enter REIT structures, broader participation from developers and investors will define the next growth phase for India’s office REIT market.

Retail REITs

Retail REITs are emerging as a new frontier for India’s real estate market amid a strong revival in organized retail. With only 7.3 mn sq ft of Grade A stock currently under REITs, out of a total of 66 mn sq ft of Grade A stock, there is significant headroom for institutional expansion. The value of REIT-able retail assets is projected to grow from INR 1.5 tn in 2025 to INR 2.4 tn by 2030, driven by rising consumer demand and the shift toward formal retail formats. As malls, lifestyle hubs, and mixed-use developments proliferate, retail REITs offer a structured, transparent way for investors to participate in India’s consumption-led growth story.

Warehousing and Industrial REITs

Warehousing has emerged as one of the most promising future avenues for REITs in India. Fuelled by e-commerce and third-party logistics (3PL) growth, leasing activity reached 32.1 mn sq ft in H1 2025. The top eight warehousing markets collectively hold 220.9 mn sq ft of Grade A stock, offering vast institutional potential. As technology-enabled, high-quality logistics facilities gain traction among occupiers, industrial and warehousing REITs or InvITs are expected to be launched in the next few years. Value of REIT/InvIT can potentially grow from INR 0.7 tn to INR 1.3 tn by 2030.

Neel Raheja, Chair, CII National Committee on Real Estate & Housing, and Group President, K Raheja Corp, said, “The partnership between CII and Knight Frank underscores a shared commitment to advancing India’s built environment. As commercial real estate matures, it will play a pivotal role in shaping investment flows, employment, and urban transformation. The sector’s progress mirrors India’s broader economic journey—where potential is abundant, and the time to seize opportunity is now.”

India is world’s fourth largest office market (valued at INR 16.4 tn (USD 186 bn) and now it has crossed the 1 bn sq ft milestone in 2025. Over two decades, office stock expanded at a CAGR of 8.6%, underscoring structural resilience and sustained investor appetite.

Between 2008 and 2024, gross leasing activity grew 5% CAGR, while new completions rose just 1%, tightening the supply-to-demand ratio from 1.40 in 2008 to 0.49 in 2025. The report notes that several top developers have shifted focus to residential projects for higher margins and quicker returns, deepening supply constraints.

Trend in Office Completions and Absorption and Trend in End Use Classification 

To achieve the next milestone of 2 bn sq ft, India’s office sector must blend expansion with optimisation through policy incentives, public-private partnerships/JVs and institutional capital. Integrating green certifications early in the planning process is increasingly seen as best practice, enhancing ESG alignment and unlocking additional FSI. Notably, 31% of existing office stock offers retrofitting potential, while 12% of SEZ assets can be adaptively reused, creating scope for sustainable growth.

Across organised formats, retail consumption is estimated at a value of INR 8.8 tn for FY 2025, driven by the expansion of shopping centres, high streets, and emerging formats such as airport and transit retail. Since 90% of the market is unorganised, this presents a huge opportunity to the sector to tap on the consumption boom. This growth underscores a significant transition toward experience-led, consumer-centric retailing, where shopping is increasingly intertwined with lifestyle, leisure, and entertainment.

Shopping Centres continue to dominate the organized retail landscape, accounting for INR 4.9 tn, followed by high streets at INR 3.8 tn and airports contributing INR 0.1 tn. This tiered structure illustrates the evolution of retail into a multi-format ecosystem catering to distinct consumption behaviours. While shopping centres are hubs for curated experiences and brand visibility, high streets retain strong local loyalty and sustained footfall. Despite having a smaller share, airport retail delivers the highest revenue per square feet. 

Across all formats, Apparel and Food & Beverages remain the dominant categories, contributing 50–60% of total revenues in shopping centres and high streets, and over 75% in airport retail. These segments anchor consumption patterns and continue to attract new entrants, reflecting the sector’s alignment with aspirational, lifestyle-led spending.

The report highlights that Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are emerging as the next growth frontiers, fuelled by increasing disposable incomes, expanding urbanization, and the proliferation of national and regional brands. Developers are responding with smaller, agile shopping centres formats and mixed-use retail destinations designed to optimize footfall and experience.

After two cautious investment years, private equity inflows into retail real estate have touched USD 500 mn year-to-date in 2025, signalling renewed investor confidence. The resurgence is driven by consumption growth, improving rental yields, and the formalization of retail operations.

In parallel, sustainability and technology integration are shaping the sector’s next phase. Smart shopping centre management systems, energy-efficient operations, and digital engagement tools are being adopted to enhance tenant and customer experience. The report notes that the retail sector’s ability to blend technology with human experience will be key to maintaining its growth momentum.

India’s retail story is no longer just about expansion, it is about evolution and resilience. As consumers seek more immersive, meaningful, and value-driven experiences, the sector is redefining how space, experience, and community come together to create long-term value for investors, brands, and consumers alike.

Data centres are now India’s fastest-growing commercial real estate asset class, with total capacity crossing 10 GW (1.4 GW operational and an additional 8.8 GW in the pipeline). Fuelled by 5G, AI, cloud adoption, and data localisation, the sector could see a sevenfold rise in live capacity.

The report identifies key priorities to sustain growth: addressing power availability and reliability, mapping future energy demand, and incentivizing renewable sourcing. It also calls for developing training ecosystems and a harmonized national regulatory framework to align with global best practices. India’s opportunity lies in leapfrogging conventional growth by adopting renewable energy strategies, grid-readiness models, and innovation partnerships seen in mature markets.

Viral Desai, Senior Executive Director Occupier Strategy & Solutions, Industrial & Logistics, Capital Markets and Retail Agency, Knight Frank India, said, “India’s commercial real estate has moved from promise to performance. With office stock crossing 1 bn sq ft and retail consumption as estimated to be INR 8.8 tn for FY 2025, we are witnessing a maturing cycle supported by strong governance, foreign capital and a confident domestic economy. As REITs scale from INR 10.4 tn to a projected INR 19.7 tn by 2030, the focus must shift to quality supply, sustainability and global-standard asset management. The real opportunity lies in converting this built momentum into long-term, inclusive economic value.”

India’s commercial real estate stands at an inflection point, its potential firmly built, and its opportunity unfolding now. As each asset class matures and new capital pathways emerge, the sector is set to play a deeper role in shaping the country’s economic narrative. With structural reforms, sustainability imperatives, and technology-led transformation aligning in its favour, India’s CRE is evolving from a growth story into a story of enduring strength, institutional depth, and global relevance.

Edge by Titan Celebrates Time as Art in its New Ultraslim campaign

At just 3.3 mm, Titan Edge’s slimmest watch yet takes center stage in a campaign that spotlights precision, patience, and the art of owning time without chasing it.

Campaign Link- https://www.instagram.com/p/DO-uQOVE3yY/

Mumbai, October 31, 2025: Edge by Titan has unveiled a compelling new campaign for the Edge Ultraslim — its slimmest watch ever at just 3.3 mm — rooted in the belief that true mastery is never rushed. More than a campaign, it is art in motion, celebrating creation unbound by time.

The film follows a master immersed in his craft — every gesture deliberate, every detail shaped with patience. Here, time is no longer a measure of urgency but a quiet companion, reminding us that greatness is born not in haste, but in devotion and vision. The result is a masterpiece — the Edge Ultraslim, a triumph of precision engineering and sculptural design that reimagines how time is experienced, savoured and felt rather than chased down to the last second.

Powered by the 1.15 mm Calibre Edge T9081, one of the world’s thinnest quartz movements, and defined by its single-hand floating disc, the Edge Ultraslim moves in ten-minute intervals, inviting wearers to embrace time as moments to be lived rather than seconds to be chased.

“The Edge Ultraslim is more than a watch, it is a meditation on time,” said Ms Kalpana Rangamani, CSMO, Premium & Luxury Watches. “This campaign captures its spirit perfectly — showing that mastery is achieved not by racing against the clock, but by rising above it because time obeys the maker’s will.”

 

For the unveiling of Titan Edge Ultraslim, guests were invited into a world that blurred the lines between design, philosophy, and art. The experience drew from the four elements — Wind, Water, Earth, and Sky — each space conceived as a sensory meditation on time unfolding around them.
As they entered, visitors were enveloped by concentric zones, each unfolding with light, sound, and form designed to reflect one element’s rhythm. Wind whispered through kinetic sculptures that moved with unseen precision. Water shimmered in fluid reflections that rippled across mirrored planes, distorting and revealing time in passing moments. Earth grounded the experience with texture, weight, and material — a reminder of the craft and human touch that anchor every Edge creation. Finally, Sky opened into light, air, and kinetic moments that showcased the watch— the purest expression of freedom, where time seemed to expand and slow in equal measure.

The journey culminated in a seamless reveal — the Edge Ultraslim emerging from darkness into light, its impossibly thin 3.3 mm form gleaming with quiet authority. On the wrist, it felt almost weightless, yet carried a sense of permanence and poise that few objects achieve

Through this carefully orchestrated movement, guests didn’t just witness time — they felt its stillness and flow. The installation embodied the Edge Ultraslim’s philosophy: that time is not pressure, but possibility.

Exchange Identifies Root Cause of October 28 Incident; Assures Robust Systems and Future Readiness

Mumbai, 31th October, 2025: Further to our earlier communication regarding the incident on 28th October2025, this is to update that the primary root cause has been identified as predefined parameter limit relating to reference data like Unique Client Code (UCC) configured within the systems. This led to constraints beyond the threshold. We have taken steps to address the constraints to prevent similar issues in the future. Notably, trading systems have not had issues. Exchange systems are well positioned to support market volumes and growth. We remain committed to strengthening our operational robustness and will continue investing in cutting-edge technology to enhance performance, reliability, and scalability, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our members, participants and stakeholders .We sincerely thank our members, participants and all stakeholders for their continued support, cooperation, understanding and valuable assistance during the incident, and we deeply appreciate your ongoing trust and partnership.