Category Archives: Business

Unlimit fuels Brevistay’s expansion with next-generation payment infrastructure in India

GURUGRAM, INDIA| Apr 28 — Unlimit, the global financial infrastructure for the borderless economy, has partnered with Brevistay to rebuild the financial nervous system for India’s high-velocity travel market. By plugging into Unlimit’s unified programmable layer, Brevistay is eliminating the structural friction of India’s fragmented payment landscape, gaining instant, frictionless access to UPI and global card networks through a singular infrastructure integration.

In a unique global paradox, financial infrastructure is rapidly consolidating into primary layers, yet consumer payment methods are becoming more hyper-localised and fragmented than ever. For a high-frequency platform like Brevistay, where micro-stays demand micro-precision, the challenge is maintaining global-standard reliability across these fragmented local rails. Unlimit solves this by abstracting the complexity of the Indian ecosystem into a high-octane operating layer, turning geographical and technical barriers into a seamless stream of value.

“For Brevistay, payments are not a service; they are the critical circulatory system of their business,” said Irene Skrynova, CEO, Global Payments at Unlimit. “By providing Brevistay access to our primary financial infrastructure, we are enabling scale across borders without the operational debt of fragmented systems.”

Brevistay’s model, offering flexible, on-demand room bookings, requires a payment experience that matches the speed of the modern traveller. Unlimit’s architecture ensures that time-to-market collapses from months to configuration time, allowing Brevistay to operate with the precision of a global leader while mastering the local friction of the Indian market.

“Payments must move at the speed of the booking journey itself,” said Nikhil Kumar Pathak, CTO & Co-Founder at Brevistay. “Unlimit provides the powerful infrastructure rails we need to simplify India’s payment complexity. They have given us the architectural freedom to scale without being held back by the limitations of legacy financial stacks.”

As Brevistay prepares for its next phase of expansion, Unlimit’s hard-won regulatory depth and global license portfolio ensure that international growth is no longer a matter of geography, but a matter of code.

Gold Investment Demand Strengthens in India; Share Climbs to 42 pc in CY25

New Delhi, Apr 28 (BNP): Investment demand for gold in India rose sharply, accounting for 42 per cent of total consumption in CY25 compared to 29 per cent in CY24, according to CareEdge Ratings.

The increase was driven by strong inflows into gold ETFs and higher demand for bars and coins, reflecting investor preference for safe-haven assets amid global uncertainty.

Globally, gold investment demand surged to a record 2,175 metric tonnes in CY25, surpassing the previous peak of 1,805 metric tonnes in CY20. ETF investments contributed over 800 metric tonnes to the total.

The report attributed the trend to diversification needs, volatile market conditions, and rising geopolitical risks, which have boosted gold’s appeal among investors.

Indian Markets Edge Lower on FII Outflows and Global Uncertainty

Altair Semiconductor completes spinoff from Sony Semiconductor Solutions, closing initial funding of $50 million led by Pitango Group

Hod Hasharon, Israel — Apr 28— Altair Semiconductor announced the successful completion of its transition to an independent company, following a strategic spinoff from Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation. The transaction, led by Pitango Group, secured $50 million in initial funding. Sony will remain a shareholder, demonstrating continued confidence in Altair’s market leadership and long-term vision for connectivity powering the Physical AI transformation.

The transition will enable Altair to operate with greater agility and focus on IoT and Physical AI, while maintaining technological superiority and customer commitments. Altair’s chipsets power the largest share of the world’s cellular smart meters and are leading the LTE-M market in smart cities, energy grids, logistics, vehicle asset trackers, and sports wearables. Altair’s technology is essential to the Physical AI revolution, seamlessly connecting the physical world: machines and robots to the cloud and between themselves anywhere across the globe, and connecting AI-powered wearables and next-generation consumer devices that require ultra-low power, continuous connectivity.

 “This is an exciting new chapter for Altair. As an independent company, we can move faster and respond more flexibly to rapidly changing market dynamics. We are fully committed to leading the industry’s transition from 4G to 5G IoT.” said Nohik Semel, CEO of Altair Semiconductor.

Altair recently outlined its vision for 5G eRedCap as the foundation for next-generation IoT, with the ALT1550 modem currently in advanced silicon testing. The company’s roadmap reflects its commitment to delivering cost-efficient, power-efficient solutions built for a 20-year device lifespan.

Altair Semiconductor will continue to support and expand its existing customer base, ensuring a seamless transition for partners worldwide.

Umiya Buildcon Consolidated Reports Strong Q4 FY26; Products Segment Hits Decade-High Sales, Real Estate Portfolio Gains Traction

Bengaluru, Apr 28: Umiya Buildcon Limited a publicly listed dual-sector enterprise announced its financial results for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2026, reporting robust growth led by its Products segment, alongside steady execution in Solutions and continued traction in its Real Estate business.

Financial Highlights

Consolidated Performance

• Strong year-on-year growth driven by improved operational performance
• Earnings per share (EPS) recorded significant growth during the financial year

Segment Performance

Products Segment (Strongest Performer)

• Delivered its highest quarterly sales in the last decade
• Achieved strong year-on-year growth, driven by demand for indigenous networking solutions

Solutions Segment

• Maintained stable execution across projects
• Continued contribution to overall business performance

Real Estate Segment

• Recorded strong growth supported by project traction and customer engagement
• Continued expansion across key markets

Leadership Commentary

Aniruddha Mehta, Chairman & Managing Director, said:

“We are extremely pleased with our performance this quarter, with the Products segment delivering its strongest results in the last decade. This reflects our continued focus on indigenous innovation, disciplined execution, and alignment with India’s digital infrastructure priorities. Our real estate business has also gained traction with key developments in Goa and Bengaluru, and we remain focused on scaling this portfolio in a calibrated manner.”

C S Krishnadas, Chief Executive Officer, added:

“Our performance reflects steady progress across all three business segments. The Products business continues to benefit from increasing adoption of our indigenous solutions, while the Solutions segment has maintained consistent execution. The traction in our real estate vertical reinforces our hybrid business model, where technology and infrastructure work together to drive sustainable growth.”

Operational Highlights

Telecom & Networking

The Products segment witnessed strong demand across:

• High-capacity switches
• Data centre networking solutions
• Indigenous networking technologies

The company continues to invest in research and development, including its proprietary Network Operating System (NOS), while maintaining a strong pipeline of government and public sector digital infrastructure projects.

Real Estate

• Umiya Bricklane, Candolim (Goa): Received encouraging customer response and regulatory approvals
• Umiya Prism, Cunningham Road (Bengaluru): Ultra-luxury boutique residential project launched with initial development underway

The company remains focused on expanding its premium real estate portfolio through strategic developments.

Outlook

Umiya Buildcon Limited remains optimistic about its growth trajectory, supported by:

• A resilient hybrid business model
• Strong order pipeline in the Products segment
• Continued investments in innovation and R&D
• Expansion across telecom, networking, and real estate

The company aims to sustain its growth momentum in the coming financial year through disciplined execution and alignment with India’s infrastructure and manufacturing priorities.

Vodia Version 70 Features WhatsApp Business Calling and Messaging

BOSTON: Apr 28- Vodia Networks, Inc., a provider of unified cloud communications solutions to enterprises, contact centers, and service providers, is pleased to announce Version 70, the newest version of the industry-standard Vodia PBX, features WhatsApp Business Calling and Messaging, as V70 now integrates with WhatsApp Business Services.

 WhatsApp Business Services enable rich, conversational experiences between businesses and WhatsApp users for more personal interactions along each customer’s journey. With V70, WhatsApp can be connected directly to the PBX, allowing businesses to manage messaging and calls from a single platform. Messages can be sent and received, calls can be routed through the PBX, and conversations can be handled alongside existing voice infrastructure.

 With the WhatsApp Business Calling API, businesses can manage when and how to connect with customers when voice is required. The API enables both inbound and outbound calls with WhatsApp users via VoIP, using a single verified WhatsApp number for calling and messaging and it even makes it possible to chat while on a call.

 V70 supports direct SIP integration with the WhatsApp Business Calling API. WhatsApp users can call your business number, and those calls are routed directly into the PBX to extensions, queues, or IVRs, without requiring middleware or additional gateways, reducing deployment complexity and eliminating the need for external integration layers. This allows businesses to handle WhatsApp voice interactions using the same routing logic and infrastructure as traditional telephony.

 V70 integrates with the WhatsApp Business Platform to support both incoming and outgoing messaging via the PBX. Text and image messages are supported, allowing teams to manage customer communication within the same system used for voice.

V70 extends the role of the PBX from a voice system. By integrating channels like WhatsApp directly into the PBX, businesses can manage voice and messaging within a single environment, without adding external layers of complexity. 

eHealth Deepens Support for Consumers with End-of-Life Financial Planning Solutions

New Final Expense Life Insurance Plans help people and their families better plan for funeral and burial or cremation expenses

A new eHealth survey found 65% of Americans underestimate the cost of a funeral with viewing and cremation; 35% underestimate the cost of a funeral with cremation

INDIANAPOLIS — Apr 28 –eHealth, Inc. (Nasdaq: EHTH), a leading private online health insurance marketplace,  announced it now offers Final Expense life insurance plans, helping Americans and their families plan for funeral and burial or cremation expenses.

The new plans are part of eHealth’s strategy to better meet the coverage and wellness needs of individuals and families, offering an expanded portfolio of plans, services and support to help consumers live healthier, more financially secure lives.  

“Honoring loved ones upon passing is an important part of life for many families, yet this is an often-overlooked part of end-of-life planning,” said Derrick Duke, CEO of eHealth. “The cost of a traditional funeral and burial averages over $8,000, so these new plans can help people prepare for this part of life while helping protect their loved ones from the financial burden associated with a funeral and burial or cremation.”

Anew eHealth survey of more than 1,000 Americans aged 65 and older found many people are unprepared to cover the cost of funeral and burial expenses. Key findings:

·65% underestimate the average cost of a funeral with viewing and cremation, while 35% underestimate the average cost of a funeral with cremation.

·47% worry about burdening loved ones with the cost of a funeral and burial or cremation.

·62% plan to be cremated, while 23% prefer to be buried; 15% don’t know or have no preference.

Among survey respondents living on an income of less than $50,000 per year:

·56% worry about burdening their loved ones with the cost of a funeral and burial or cremation.

·33% have no insurance or money set aside to help cover these end-of-life expenses.

eHealth’s Final Expense plans are offered through Mutual of Omaha and available by phone, allowing licensed insurance agents to discuss coverage options as part of a broader, personalized financial protection discussion. The policies can provide tax-free funds for various purposes, including funeral and burial or cremation expenses, outstanding medical bills, travel costs, legal fees, or other related needs.

Two types of Final Expense plans are available:

• Level Benefit Plans, offered to people ages 45 to 85, with coverage amounts ranging from $2,000 to $50,000.
• Graded Benefit Plans, offered to people ages 45 to 80, with coverage amounts ranging from $2,000 to $20,000.

Applicants are not required to undergo a medical exam to qualify for coverage. Instead, eligibility is determined through responses to a limited set of health questions covering a lookback period of approximately two to four years. The plans are designed to be affordable and provide beneficiaries with quick access to guaranteed funds, helping reduce financial stress during a difficult time.

Theaverage cost of a funeral with a viewing and burial exceeds $8,000, while the average cost of a funeral with a viewing and cremation is more than $6,000.

“These new plans allow us to provide people with affordable, easy-to-qualify coverage that helps protect their loved ones from the financial burden associated with end-of-life expenses,” continued Derrick Duke. “It aligns with our commitment to expanding access to products that support financial peace of mind in retirement.”

Specific plan availability may vary by state; some plans may not be available in Arkansas, Montana, New York, and North Carolina. Coverage and premiums may vary based on qualifying factors.
Consult a tax professional for personal tax advice.

South India’s Premier Jewellery Fair Returns with First-Ever Retail Symposium and High-Impact Show Features

Hyderabad, Apr 27: Informa Markets in India will host the 18th edition of the Hyderabad Jewellery Pearl & Gem Fair (HJF 2026) in association with Hitech City Jewellery Manufacturers Association (HJMA) from May 8–10 at HITEX Exhibition Centre, Hyderabad. Recognised as South India’s leading B2B jewellery sourcing show, this edition introduces new knowledge-led initiatives and curated showcases designed to enhance both business discovery and industry dialogue.

Building on its 18-year legacy, HJF continues to bring together manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, designers, and technology providers—creating a high-value environment for sourcing, networking, and insights.

What’s New in 2026: Industry-First Highlights

A key highlight this year is the Jewellery Retail Symposium, a first-of-its-kind, large-format conference dedicated to India’s jewellery retail community. Designed as a national thought leadership forum, it will feature 20 leading voices across 4 high impact panel discussions examining evolving consumer demand, retail transformation, and technology-led growth—placing sharper focus on future-ready retail practices. The symposium is supported by the Dubai Business Group for Gold & Jewellery Designers, bringing a global industry perspective to the platform.

Further strengthening the show is the launch of the Zaveri Bazaar Pavilion, bringing leading manufacturers from Mumbai’s iconic Zaveri Bazaar to Hyderabad for the first time—creating direct access for South Indian buyers to some of the country’s most established jewellery producers.

The Silver Pavilion will spotlight a fast-growing segment driven by affordability and design innovation, while the Machinery Pavilion will showcase advanced manufacturing and packaging solutions to improve efficiency and scale.

Enhancing the experience is ‘Samvad with Renu Chaudhary’, an on-site podcast series featuring candid conversations with industry voices on market trends, leadership, and the future of jewellery retail.

Adding further depth to the show experience, the Artisan Zone will spotlight the intricate legacy of silver filigree craftsmanship from Karimnagar, bringing master artisans to the forefront through live demonstrations and finely handcrafted creations that reflect India’s rich heritage. Complementing this is the CAD Design Pavilion, a dedicated showcase of cutting-edge jewellery innovation, where leading designers and technology experts will demonstrate advanced rendering, rapid prototyping, and customization capabilities—bridging traditional artistry with modern, scalable design solutions for today’s evolving market.

A Strategic Platform Ahead of the Festive Season

Timed ahead of the peak wedding and festive buying cycle, HJF 2026 offers retailers a valuable opportunity to source new collections, identify emerging trends, and strengthen supplier networks. Buyers from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Maharashtra are expected, ensuring strong regional participation.

The show will feature leading brands such as M Sashi Badalia, Mukti Gold, Anja Jewellers, Shraddha Jewellers, Manepally Jewellers, Devansh Jewellers, Rishabh Jewellers, Ambica Silver and Many more, alongside a diverse mix of exhibitors spanning gold, diamond, silver, gemstones, pearls, and jewellery technology—reflecting the evolving needs of modern jewellery businesses. The expo is also supported by prominent industry associations including Hitech City Jewellery Manufacturers Association (HJMA), Telangana Bullion, Gem & Jewellery Federation, Telangana Pawn Broker Jewellers Association Pot Market Jewellers Association further reinforcing its credibility and reach within the trade ecosystem.

Speaking on the 18 Years of Legacy of HJF that has driven growth through insight, exhibition and Innovation, Mr Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India said, “South India remains one of India’s most influential jewellery markets, contributing nearly 40% of the country’s gold consumption, led by strong wedding demand, cultural affinity, and a rapidly formalising retail landscape. Markets like Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka continue to drive both volume and design innovation. As India’s gems and jewellery market moves towards the USD 130 billion mark, the focus is shifting beyond sourcing to smarter retail, stronger networks, and future-ready business models. With curated showcases like the Zaveri Bazaar Pavilion, fast-growing segments such as silver and technology, and the introduction of the Jewellery Retail Symposium to drive focused industry dialogue, HJF 2026 is designed to help businesses stay competitive and capture the next phase of growth.”

With over 18 years of credibility, HJF continues to foster meaningful trade relationships and support sector-wide progress through innovation-led initiatives.

Strengthening India’s Jewellery Ecosystem

India remains one of the world’s largest jewellery markets, shaped by deep cultural roots and a rapidly transforming retail environment. From national chains to independent retailers across tier 2 and tier 3 cities, growth continues to be driven by changing consumer preferences, digital adoption, and design-led innovation.

HJF 2026 aims to contribute to this momentum by connecting heritage craftsmanship with modern design and technology, enabling businesses to adapt, innovate, and scale.

Visa appoints Suresh Sethi as Group Country Manager for India and South Asia

India, April 27, 2026: Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, today announced that Suresh Sethi has been appointed Group Country Manager for India and South Asia. In this role, Suresh will lead Visa’s strategy and operations across India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka,  Nepal, Maldives and Bhutan.

Suresh succeeds Sandeep Ghosh, who is leaving Visa for other opportunities. Based in Mumbai, Suresh will report to Stephen Karpin, Regional President, Asia Pacific, Visa. 

Stephen Karpin, Regional President, Asia Pacific, Visa, said, “India and South Asia region continues to be among Visa’s most dynamic and strategically important markets. Suresh brings expertise and knowledge that will accelerate Visa’s aspiration to be the best way to pay and be paid. I am confident he will build on Visa’s strong foundations in the region, alongside clients, partners and policymakers to advance digital payments.” 

He added, “I thank Sandeep for his leadership over the last four years, and for facilitating the smooth transition of the business to Suresh.” 

Suresh Sethi, Group Country Manager, India and South Asia, Visa, stated, “I am pleased to join Visa at a defining moment for digital payments in India and South Asia. The next phase of growth will be driven by scale, trust, and innovation across an increasingly diverse payments ecosystem. Visa’s global capabilities, strong partnerships, and technology leadership provide a powerful platform to accelerate adoption, deepen acceptance, and deliver secure, inclusive, and high-impact payment solutions. I look forward to working closely with our clients, partners, and policymakers to drive sustainable growth and long-term value across the region.” 

Over the course of his career, Suresh has held senior leadership roles driving innovation and ecosystem-led growth across the financial sector. His career spans India and key international markets, including Africa, Latin America, the US, and the UK. 

Most recently, Suresh served as Managing Director and CEO of Protean e-Gov Technologies Ltd., where he led its transformation into an agile, product-led Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) institution. Prior to this, Suresh was the Founder CEO of India Post Payments Bank, where he built one of the world’s largest financial inclusion models by leveraging the extensive network of India Post to deliver doorstep banking services across the country, significantly expanding access to formal banking, particularly in underserved and rural areas. 

Earlier in his career, Suresh held senior leadership roles as Managing Director & CEO of Vodafone M‑Pesa India, Group President at YES Bank, and in multiple regional leadership positions at Citigroup, where he led transaction banking and payments businesses across several geographies. 

PM Modi Hails Indian Girls’ Strong Performance at European Mathematics Olympiad

New Delhi, Apr 27 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Indian schoolgirls for their strong performance at the European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO), praising their achievement on the global stage.

In a message shared on social media platform X, the Prime Minister said he was proud of the students, noting that they had performed exceptionally well and made the country proud through their success in the prestigious competition.

The European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad is an international mathematics contest that brings together talented young female students from various countries to compete in problem-solving and analytical skills.

India’s participation and success in the event highlight the growing capabilities of young students in mathematics and STEM disciplines. The recognition from the Prime Minister further underscores the importance being given to nurturing academic talent and encouraging excellence among school students.