Category Archives: Business

BharatPe Launches BharatPeX: AI-Guided, In-App UPI-First Online PAPG

India, 8th October 2025: BharatPe, India’s leading fintech company, today unveiled BharatPeX, its new PAPG-online brand that brings an ‘X-factor’ to how enterprises run payments. It combines a modern online payment gateway (Cards, Net Banking, UPI) with an implementation-first model that helps clients ship in-app UPI experiences faster, keep customer data within their own apps, and materially lift success rates.

With technology and artificial intelligence at its core, the service comes bundled with BharatPeX.AI, which empowers enterprises with expertise on tap. The AI assistant provides clients with 24/7, consistent guidance on features, eligibility, and go-live steps across BharatPeX, NPCI, and partner banks. It also provides journey prototypes (e.g., UPI Autopay, UPI Circle, UPI International) and can generate sample code that teams can reuse.

Sandeep Indurkar, CEO  Payments, BharatPe, said, “Most enterprises want world-class payment systems but are wary of compliance, bank coordination, and long development cycles. With BharatPeX, we remove that friction. We don’t stop at an API—we deploy a specialist team and an AI-driven virtual assistant so our clients can enable UPI Plug-in or even scale to becoming TPAP-enabled—owning the user journey, the data, and the outcomes, which in turn lets them offer a seamless collections service and payment experience to their customers.” The company has already begun onboarding e-commerce, fintech, and enterprise clients in phases.

Designed to power growth at scale, BharatPeX combines collections, payouts, and enterprise-grade support into a single, secure platform, simplifying payments while multiplying impact. It promises outcome-oriented enablement, higher success rates, reduced go-to-market time, and data ownership for the merchant.

What makes BharatPeX different:

1) Payments expertise, not just a gateway: A dedicated (Product/Tech/Relationship) squad partners with each client to design, integrate, and scale collections and payouts. The team navigates NPCI processes and partner banks, simplifying onboarding and cutting implementation effort to roughly one-third of typical cycles.

2) In-app UPI at the core: While UPI already drives a large share of ecommerce transactions, most merchants still have to divert users to third party apps, losing visibility and control. BharatPeX helps clients run in-app UPI flows (via UPI Plug-in or TPAP), boosting success rates and ensuring customer data stays with the client.

3) Built for eCommerce, fintech, and enterprises: From checkout orchestration to complex payout needs, BharatPeX is designed for scale and governed by a compliance-first approach aligned to applicable RBI/NPCI guidelines.

With BharatPeX, BharatPe positions itself as the go-to partner for enterprises navigating the fast-evolving digital economy, reinforcing India’s place at the global forefront of payments innovation.

BharatPe is the only fintech company in India with an NBFC license (Trillion Loans), a stake in a Small Finance Bank (Unity SFB), and an Online Payment Aggregator license.

Why should merchants adopt BharatPeX?

• Command the user experience: Keep users in-app; reduce drop-offs and dependency on third-party apps
• Own the data: Maintain visibility on key customer markers to drive retention and LTV
• Ship faster: Cut integration effort to ~1/3rd with guided implementation and sample code
• Scale confidently: A single partner to handle tech, bank coordination, and compliance nuances
• Go beyond payments: Identify revenue opportunities tied to better payment experiences and customer delight

Visa to Showcase the Future of Commerce at Global Fintech Fest 2025

Bengaluru, October 8th, 2025: Visa, a global leader in digital payments, will be a key participant at the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2025, demonstrating how it is leveraging technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in payments to build a smarter and more inclusive financial ecosystem. The event is scheduled from October 7–9 at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai. Visitors can engage with Visa at booths L2 and M2 to experience the next generation of payment innovations.

At the GFF, Visa will demonstrate how it is shaping the future of commerce by uniting its global expertise with local partnerships, announcing a series of new products and solutions with leading banks and fintechs. The focus will be on tangible innovations in intelligent commerce through Agentic AI, technologies enabling frictionless transactions and advanced AI for payment security. Attendees can experience this directly via live demonstrations of seamless transit solutions and the launch of a new white paper, “Automation to Autonomy: How Agentic AI is Revolutionizing Payments,” which explores the future of personalized, secure retail.

As India’s digital economy continues its rapid expansion, with digital transactions surging by 42% in the last fiscal year alone, the need for trusted and intelligent payment solutions has never been more critical. Visa is at the forefront of this transformation, developing innovative solutions that cater to the diverse needs of Indian consumers and businesses.

“India is a global leader in fintech innovation, and agentic AI is the key to unlocking the next phase of growth in digital payments,” said Ramakrishnan Gopalan, Head of Products, Visa India and South Asia. “At Global Fintech Fest 2025, we are excited to showcase how Visa is harnessing the power of Agentic AI to create more personalized, intuitive, and secure payment experiences. Our focus is on building a digital ecosystem that empowers consumers and businesses, fostering a more inclusive and intelligent financial future for all.”

Join Visa at the Global Fintech Fest 2025 to witness firsthand how the company is shaping the future of payments and contributing to a smarter, more inclusive digital India.

Global Women Trade Summit 2025: Women as Catalysts for Global Trade & Economic Growth

Mumbai India, October 7th, 2025- The International Women’s Federation of Commerce and Industry (IWFCI – India National Chapter) successfully hosted the “Global Women Trade Summit (GWTS 2025)” — a four-day celebration of women’s leadership in trade, technology, and innovation from 3rd to 6th October 2026. The summit brought together 30 delegates from 11 countries, including the USA, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Uzbekistan, alongside India’s leading entrepreneurs and educators.

Day 1 began with a vibrant B2B Meet at the World Trade Centre, Cuffe Parade Mumbai, where more than 150 Indian entrepreneurs networked with international delegates, exploring partnerships and trade opportunities. Day 2 marked the official inauguration of GWTS 2025, where promising speeches were delivered by the Chief Guest, Dr. Vijay Kalantri, President-World Trade Center, Ms. Sunit Rajan MD- APAC Media Sales & Marketing, Bloomberg Media, Ms. Diana Abruzzi – Founder & International Chair IWFCI and Dr. Daphne Pillai, Founder President – IWFCI, India on the theme of the summit, “Women as Catalysts of Global Trade.” At the first panel discussion “INDIA – Advantages and Opportunities for Trade and Commerce” moderated by Dr. Rema Ramchandran, Director IWFCI-India, trail blazers of the corporate sector, Ms. Bhavana Bindra, Board member- Radiance, Kennametal India, Ms. Geetha Nerurkar, Founder and CEO, Maxim Global Resources Pvt Ltd and Ms. Pallavi Gill, CEO, RCMPA Polishing Technologies Pvt. Ltd. shared their thoughts around India’s evolving trade landscape and emerging global opportunities.

In the second panel discussion “The Power of Collaboration: Women Leaders Driving Sustainable Businesses” moderated by Ms. Ann Rapheal, Oil & Gas Consultant, inspiring leaders Ms. Jayati Chakraborty, Managing Director, Hapag-Lloyd AG, Dr Mita Dixit, Co-founder, Equations Advisors Pvt. Ltd. and Ms. Metilda Stanley, MD – Techsurance Private Limited shared real-world strategies and powerful stories of collaboration that are shaping the future of sustainable businesses. The day ended with a workshop on “Creating an authentic brand in the world of AI” where brand expert Ms. Parinita Adukia shared practical strategies and valuable tips that enabled leaders to reflect, refine, and strengthen one’s own personal brand.

On Day 3, a panel on “Emerging Opportunities for Women in Technology, Innovation & Global Trade” moderated by Geetanjali Bhattacharji, Founder CEO, Glassbox Venture spotlighted the opinions of Ms. Priyanka Swain, Director of Engineering – Tally Solutions Pvt Ltd, Ms. Sonali Nimkar, Director (Data Science & AI) – Capgemini and Anil Nair, Co-Founder, DeepSpot.AI, on the importance of mentorship and breaking barriers in the field of technology. A key highlight was the session on “Empowered Women, Empowered Economies,” featuring IWFCI Presidents who showcased the opportunities of their respective nations, opening doors for collaboration.

Panasonic Selects 11 Startups for Third Cohort of ‘Panasonic Ignition’ Accelerator Program

Panasonic selects 11 startups as part of the Third cohort of “PANASONIC IGNITION” Corporate Accelerator Program

New Delhi, 7th October 2025: Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND), a leading diversified technology company, and Panasonic Corporation (PC) announced 11 start-ups shortlisted from over 113 entries for the third edition of the “Panasonic Ignition” challenge. Panasonic Ignition Challenge is a corporate innovation accelerator programme, launched in association with Beyond Next Ventures, aimed at transforming residential living through scalable, tech-driven solutions, aligned with long-term impact and sustainability. Panasonic aims to mentor, guide, and fund early to mid-stage startups that are creating innovative solutions in this field.

Over 113 startups applied for the program, which was launched in September 2025 under the guidance of Mr. Kunio Gohara, the Chief Transformation Officer of Panasonic Corporation. After a robust evaluation process, 11 startups were shortlisted. These startups will participate in the ‘Panasonic Ignition’ cohort program over the next three months and be mentored by Panasonic and Beyond Next Ventures. These selected startups will receive potential investment, access to various masterclasses, expert mentorship, and support around product strategy and growth, which would assist them in building innovative technologies and products that enhance people’s lifestyles in India. As a part of this engagement, Panasonic will also roll out challenges for these startups, and based on regular reviews, the final winner(s) will be announced in December 2025.

“We are thrilled with the response received for the third edition of the Panasonic Ignition programme, with a clear objective of improving residential living—whether through smart home solutions, sustainable energy, or digital consumer experience,” said Mr. Manish Misra, Chief Innovation Officer, at Panasonic Life Solutions India. “This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering groundbreaking technologies and solutions that address the evolving needs of our consumers while contributing to a sustainable future.”

Tsuyoshi Ito, the CEO and Managing Partner of Beyond Next Ventures, stated, “Over the past few weeks, we conducted extensive sourcing and evaluation to identify startups pioneering innovative solutions to enhance consumer lifestyles. With more than a decade of experience investing in deep-tech ventures, we understand the critical role corporate partnerships play in achieving global impact. This cohort features a range of forward-thinking innovators addressing challenges in wellness, sustainability, and beyond. We are thrilled to collaborate with Panasonic to help these startups realize their full potential.” 

Following is the list of the 11 promising startups:

1. Ambiator (https://www.ambiator.com) – provides A dew-point regenerative cooling system that delivers 100% fresh, cooled air at 80% reduced electricity bills.
2. Awiros (https://awiros.com/) – Transforms Video Data into Real-Time Intelligence through Video AI Platform 
3. Biomoneta (https://www.biomoneta.com/) – An airborne decontamination device that with over a 99.999% efficiency, without producing harmful byproducts
4. Cantata (https://www.cantatacs.com) – provides a universal remote to control all connected devices using a smart interface
5. Devic Earth (https://devic-earth.com/) – deep-tech cleantech company with a scalable solution for large-area air pollution control
6. DoorVi ( https://www.doorvi.co/) – provides a smart visitor management solution that transforms any smartphone into a wireless video intercom
7. Kubo Care ( https://kubocare.com/) – health-tech startup building a contact-free monitoring system to help seniors live safely and independently
8. Red Health (https://www.red.health) – provides an integrated, technology-led platform to support “first minute, last mile” emergency response solution
9. Respirer Living Sciences https://www.respirer.in/) – provides IoT-enabled Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) to  maintain healthy indoor air without wasting energy
10. Spacemate (https://spacemate.xyz/) – proptech startup building an integrated, privacy-first “SuperApp” for premium residential communities
11. The Energy Company (https://www.energycompany.in/) – builds smart Energy Storage Systems (ESS) to help households reduce bills and integrate with solar and EV charging

Together with Beyond Next Ventures (Venture Partner), Panasonic aims to co-create cutting-edge solutions that align with emerging market needs. This collaborative effort reinforces Panasonic’s vision of staying at the forefront of technological advancements and consumer-centric innovations, fostering sustainable growth and positive societal impact in India.

Avalara Strengthens Global AI Leadership with ‘Avi Everywhere’, MCP Servers, and Next-Gen Compliance Innovations

New AI-driven capabilities make tax and compliance faster, smarter, and easily embedded within enterprise workflows

India — October 7, 2025 — Avalara, Inc., the global leader in tax and compliance automation, today announced a series of AI-powered innovations that redefine enterprise compliance. The company introduced Avi, Avalara’s AI agent now embedded directly into users’ daily workflows; Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers that provide seamless access to Avalara’s AI platform; and several new intelligent capabilities across its product suite.

These advancements enable third-party systems and AI agents to easily discover and connect with Avalara’s APIs, embedding compliance at every stage of business operations. The result is a connected, intelligent framework where compliance happens in real time, whenever and wherever business takes place.

“Compliance is no longer a back-office burden, but a mission-critical function,” said Scott McFarlane, CEO and Co-Founder, Avalara. “With Avalara’s agentic AI, customers are cutting filing times from days to hours, reducing compliance risk, and freeing teams to focus on growth.”

Avi, Avalara’s intelligent AI agent, is now active where users work, advising, executing, and automating compliance tasks. For instance, the Avi Browser Extension guides users through ERP configurations and identifies compliance actions instantly, while Avi in Outlook scans inbound invoices, digitizes them, validates taxes and certificates, and integrates results directly into ERP systems. This helps organizations catch compliance risks early and significantly reduce processing costs.

Avalara’s MCP servers form the backbone of this intelligent network. They enable interoperability by allowing enterprise systems to connect with Avalara’s AI-powered APIs and extend compliance functionality across platforms. With these technologies, Avalara continues to evolve compliance into an intelligent, scalable global framework that operates across industries and geographies.

Among its latest innovations, Avalara has also introduced a set of enterprise-grade AI capabilities designed to deliver greater speed, precision, and insight:

● Advanced Rules with AI Visualization, allowing users to create or modify compliance rules through simple language prompts.
● AI-Powered Reporting and Insights, where embedded intelligence highlights anomalies, trends, and generates proactive compliance reports.

AI-Driven Global E-Invoicing, which uses AI to map invoice data to country-specific compliance requirements, reducing manual customizations and accelerating time to compliance.Avalara’s AI-driven platform also now extends into multiple compliance domains, including exemption certificate validation, cross-border classification, generative tax research, and property tax automation. To drive adoption, Avalara is collaborating closely with partners and customers through face-to-face meetings, developer and partner events, and registrations in global agent and MCP server directories such as Google AgentSpace—ensuring Avalara’s AI capabilities are accessible across enterprise systems worldwide.

For over two decades, Avalara has built one of the most extensive libraries of tax and compliance content in the industry, supporting over 43,000 businesses and government entities across more than 75 countries. Its purpose-built AI agents continue to transform tax and compliance—from calculation and filings to exemption management—with unmatched precision.

People Forum of India Appoints Shri Lakshan Dhiraj as National Chairman of Youth Wing

New Delhi, October 6, 2025: In a significant development, the People Forum of India (National Bharat Sevak Samaj), a Government of India Organisation, has appointed Shri Lakshan Dhiraj as the National Chairman of its Youth Wing. The appointment was formally approved by Dr. S. Manimozhiyaan, National Chairman of the Forum, and came into effect on Monday, October 6, 2025.

According to an official statement issued by Dr. Bhargav Mallappa, National Deputy Chairman and In-charge of Administration & Organization, the appointment entrusts Shri Dhiraj with the responsibility of leading youth-oriented initiatives across the country. He will focus on mobilizing young citizens towards national integration, social responsibility, and community welfare.

“This appointment reflects the Forum’s continued commitment to empowering the youth and nurturing leadership that contributes to India’s development goals,” said Dr. Mallappa. “Shri Lakshan Dhiraj’s energy and vision are expected to strengthen the organisation’s mission of service and unity.”

Shri Lakshan Dhiraj expressed his gratitude and shared his vision for the Youth Wing: “I am honoured to take on this responsibility and look forward to engaging with the youth of our nation. Together, we will work towards social welfare, skill development, and encouraging young citizens to actively participate in initiatives that strengthen our communities and foster unity across India.”

As National Chairman of the Youth Wing, Shri Dhiraj will work to expand the Forum’s outreach among young people and inspire voluntary participation in programmes aligned with national welfare, skill development, and social service.

The People Forum of India (NBSS) operates under the broader mission of promoting social welfare and public service across the nation through voluntary, non-political engagement. The organisation continues to collaborate with both State and Central Government bodies to implement initiatives that benefit communities across India.

Hyatt Signs The Landmark Kanpur as India’s Second JdV by Hyatt Hotel

Kanpur, 06 Oct., 2025: Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the signing of The Landmark Kanpur, which will join the JdV by Hyatt brand — becoming India’s second hotel under this lifestyle collection.

Set to open in early 2026, the 170-key hotel is located in one of Kanpur’s premier neighborhoods and is owned by Som Datt Landmark Hotels and Recreations Pvt. Ltd. The property will feature a spa, four dining outlets, and event facilities including a 7,200 sq. ft. rooftop lawn on the 21st floor.

The Landmark Kanpur will be reimagined to reflect the vibrant spirit of the JdV by Hyatt brand, offering guests a contemporary and locally inspired experience.
This signing strengthens Hyatt’s expansion in India’s key commercial hubs, reinforcing its focus on independent, experience-driven hospitality.

About JdV by Hyatt

A community for the spirited, the light-hearted, the young-at-heart, the JdV by Hyatt brand offers a collection of vibrant, independent hotels that are true reflections of the urban neighborhoods we call home. Embracing its namesake (joie de vivre), the JdV by Hyatt brand invites guests and locals alike to connect, live in the moment and celebrate the joy of life. Each hotel provides an experience that is inclusive in spirit and space, inviting all to make each stay yours truly. Follow @JDVHotels on Facebook, Instagram, and X for news and updates. For more information, please visit www.jdvbyhyatt.com.
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About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of March 31, 2025, the Company’s portfolio included more than 1,450 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 79 countries across six continents. The Company’s offering includes brands in the Luxury Portfolio, including Park Hyatt®, Alila®, Miraval®, Impression by Secrets, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®; the Lifestyle Portfolio, including Andaz®, Thompson Hotels®, The Standard®, Dream® Hotels, The StandardX, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, JdV by Hyatt®, Bunkhouse® Hotels, and Me and All Hotels; the Inclusive Collection, including Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Hyatt Ziva®, Hyatt Zilara®, Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid Hotels & Resorts, Sunscape® Resorts & Spas, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, and Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts; the Classics Portfolio, including Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Destination by Hyatt®, Hyatt Centric®, Hyatt Vacation Club®, and Hyatt®; and the Essentials Portfolio, including Caption by Hyatt®, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Studios, Hyatt Select, and UrCove. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Mr & Mrs Smith, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar® DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.

JSW MG Motor India Partners with Real Estate Developers to Expand EV Charging Infrastructure

Gurugram, October 4, 2025 – JSW MG Motor India, in collaboration with leading real estate developers- Confident Group and technology partner IONAGE Technologies, has announced a major expansion of its EV infrastructure under the MG Charge initiative. This partnership paves the way for a more accessible, sustainable electric future, making EV charging a standard feature in residential societies.

The automaker has already installed more than 800 chargers across India as part of its MG Charge initiative. Furthermore, as urban EV adoption surges, JSW MG Motor is working closely with Confident Group to set up charging stations in high-demand locations, especially metropolitan areas.

IONAGE Technologies, an innovator in EV tech, is powering the user experience with a seamless platform for residents – enabling easy slot booking, session monitoring, and effortless charging right at home. The partnership has seen successful deployment of chargers across nine Confident Group properties in Kerala, ensuring residents benefit from convenient, on-premises solutions backed by trusted expertise from all partners.

Commenting on this initiative, Anurag Mehrotra, Managing Director, JSW MG Motor India, said, “This partnership marks a significant leap in making sustainable mobility the norm for urban communities across India. By partnering with real estate developers like Confident Group and advanced technology partners like IONAGE, we are advancing towards building confidence in EV ownership. Together, we are empowering residents with convenient, dependable charging at their doorstep, accelerating India’s transition toward a greener and cleaner transportation future.”

Vimal Kumar V, CEO, IONAGE Technologies added – “Our collaboration with JSW MG Motor aims to unlock hassle-free home charging at scale. With our state-of-the-art platform and MG’s commitment to electric mobility, we’re making it simple for residents to adopt EVs and contribute to a sustainable lifestyle. We are proud to be enabling over 200 properties with smart charging, with plans to scale to 5000 residential societies by 2028, driving a transformative impact on the nation’s EV landscape.”

Joseph TA, Managing Partner from Confident Group said- “At Confident Group, we are committed to integrating sustainable solutions within our communities. This partnership is enabling us to deliver modern, eco-friendly amenities to our residents, elevating the standard of urban living. The enthusiastic feedback from our homeowners, who can now conveniently charge their vehicles at home, underscores the positive impact of this initiative and our dedication to building smarter, greener residential spaces.”

By integrating EV charging within residential complexes—including flagship projects such as Confident Lotus, Confident Aquila, and others—JSW MG Motor, Confident Group, and IONAGE Technologies are setting new benchmarks in green urban living. This alliance embodies the shared vision of a future where eco-friendly technology, reliable infrastructure, and modern housing come together to reshape the way India moves.

Salil Panigrahi Introduces Atmosphere Core’s Hospitality Vision to India

Salil Panigrahi Brings Atmosphere Core’s Global Hospitality Vision to India with a Focus on Leisure and Culture

Hyderabad, October 03, 2025: Known globally for creating some of the Maldives’ most iconic resorts, including THE OZEN COLLECTION, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, and COLOURS OF OBLU, Salil Panigrahi, Co-Founder & Group Managing Director of Atmosphere Core, is now bringing his visionary approach to India.

As Atmosphere Core incorporates Hyderabad into its larger India journey, the city’s historic charm, cosmopolitan growth, and cultural vibrancy make it an ideal showcase for Salil’s design-driven hospitality ethos. His belief that “hospitality is a soulful craft” has already redefined tourism in the Maldives, where he pioneered immersive all-inclusive plans while championing sustainability, marine conservation, and design innovation. Now, his focus is on shaping India’s next era of leisure hospitality—where every property is a cultural expression deeply tied to its locale.

“Hyderabad is a city where history, architecture, cuisine, and culture come together beautifully. It reflects the very ethos we want to bring to India—escapes that are authentic, design-driven, and emotionally resonant,” says Salil Panigrahi, Co-Founder & Group Managing Director of Atmosphere Core.

Key aspects of Atmosphere Core’s India expansion reflect Salil’s vision of design-led, experiential hospitality. Each property is crafted with his personal artistic touch, blending aesthetics, heritage, and functionality while immersing guests in local culture. Sustainability remains central, with eco-conscious architecture, renewable energy integration, and waste reduction initiatives embedded into the design. Guests can also expect Maldives-style all-inclusive experiences — curated wellness retreats, reimagined culinary journeys, and authentic, culturally rooted activities.

Atmosphere Core’s entry into Hyderabad is more than a business milestone; it symbolises a cultural movement where design, sustainability, and their signature Joy of Giving philosophy redefine the guest experience. By weaving Hyderabad into its India story, Salil Panigrahi positions the city as an influential cultural hub in the brand’s vision to create destinations that resonate with India’s rising aspirations in leisure and tourism.