Category Archives: Business

The Great Eastern Home Brings Ceramic Craftsmanship into Furniture Design

Mumbai, 24 September 2025 – The Great Eastern Home introduces its latest innovation: a stunning collection of handcrafted ceramic furniture that masterfully fuses form, function, and artistry. Inspired by the global trend of material fusion in interiors, the collection brings together timeless ceramic with the warmth and durability of wood, offering visually striking, yet highly functional pieces for contemporary and classic spaces alike.

Innovation Meets Artistry

Born in The Great Eastern Design Studio, this unique concept reimagines ceramic beyond its traditional use. Master artisans and designers have developed advanced shaping, glazing, and firing techniques to give ceramic the structural integrity needed for furniture, while wood complements the designs with natural character and warmth.

“This collection pushes the boundaries of craft by transforming ceramic into a primary structural material, not just an accent,” says a spokesperson from The Great Eastern Home.

Crafted by Hand, Designed to Last

• Each piece begins as a hand-drawn sketch in the in-house Ceramic Workshop.

• Artisans sculpt the clay, apply custom glazes, and fire it at high temperatures to achieve both strength and deep color.

• Wooden components are carefully shaped and paired to create a harmonious balance of materials.

• Every piece is individually hand-finished, making it a unique, functional work of art.

A Testament to Timeless Craft

More than furniture, this collection embodies The Great Eastern Home’s commitment to artisanal heritage, while redefining what’s possible in furniture design. The result is a line of statement center tables, refined side pieces, and distinctive accents that celebrate both material innovation and timeless elegance.

Standard Chartered’s Future of Trade Report: India Emerges as a Top Destination for Global Corporates

24 September 2025, India: Standard Chartered’s latest report, “Future of Trade: Resilience,” highlights a significant shift in global corporate strategies, with India emerging as the leading market of interest for companies looking to realign their trade and manufacturing activities.

As per the survey, India is the leading market of interest, where almost half of the respondents are looking to ramp up or maintain trade activities with the world’s fastest-growing major economy, while two in five intend to ramp up or continue manufacturing activities. In particular, more than 60 per cent of corporates from the US, the UK, Mainland China and Hong Kong are looking to increase trade with India.

The report presents inputs from 1,200 C-suite and senior leaders at multinational corporations based in 17 key markets across four industries, on their views for global trade and their strategies over the next three to five years.

Overall, globally the Future of Trade report, reveals that while trade tariffs are top of mind, emerging technologies and global economic growth are equally critical factors, with 53% of corporates respectively ranking those as the top strategic drivers shaping the future of global trade.

Sunil Kaushal, Global Co-head, Corporate & Investment Banking and CEO, ASEAN and South Asia, Standard Chartered, said, “We are seeing strong demand from clients to evolve their global trade and supply chain ecosystems and accelerate the adoption of smart manufacturing and AI to drive efficiencies and offset rising costs. Although trade fragmentation is likely to hinder global growth in the short term, rising prosperity in developing economies and emerging technology mean that the picture, while complex, is still compelling.

The Future of Trade report offers a forward-looking perspective on global corporate priorities to build resilience. It serves as a strategic compass, highlighting the top destinations that multinational companies are considering for realigning their sourcing, manufacturing, and exports. It also provides actionable insights to shape decision making, such as investing in supply chain finance platforms and digitalisation to improve treasury management, corporate cashflows, and supply chain diversification,” Kaushal added.

Corporate leaders believe that Asia will continue to drive trade growth in the next three to five years, with rising prominence from the Middle East and the US remaining as a heavyweight. The report also reveals corridors that will see increased trade and manufacturing activities.

Table: Top six markets of interest for global corporates realigning their supply chains geographically

Net intention is the net proportion of surveyed corporates who are planning to increase or maintain activities with the target market.

A Symphony in Pastels: Discover Kalyan Jewellers’ Huescape

The world of fine jewellery is witnessing a refreshing shift from traditional all-gold pieces to vibrant designs adorned with coloured gemstones. More and more people, including today’s modern-day brides, are embracing coloured jewellery as a way to express individuality and add personality to their look. With their soft yet striking appeal, coloured gemstones are redefining what heirloom-worthy jewellery can look like. Kalyan Jewellers’ Huescape collection captures this very essence, where handcrafted gold meets a delicate palette of pastel-hued stones, creating pieces that are timeless yet contemporary.

Product Description

Pastel Heritage Set

This gold choker and earring duo reimagines heritage craft with a playful pastel twist. Rounded gemstones in ametrine, aquamarine, morganite, prehnite, chrysoprase, and sunstone, sit like soft drops of colour against intricate gold. The design balances ornate detailing with a light, whimsical mood, while echoing the growing trend of coloured gemstone jewellery that even today’s modern brides are embracing. The earrings mirror the necklace with gentle movement and pastel charm. A statement of tradition made refreshingly modern, perfect for adding a pop of colour to everyday elegance.

Pastel Mosaic Necklace Set

A tapestry of design, this long necklace pairs intricate gold craft with pastel stones in aqua, blush, and amber tones featuring aquamarine, morganite, sunstone, and prehnite. The centrepiece glows with a mosaic of gemstones, framed by layered golden detailing. Delicate pearl strands soften the look, adding fluidity to the structured pendant. Matching earrings echo the pastel play, balancing tradition with a modern touch. An artistic statement that turns jewellery into a wearable design, reflecting the growing allure of coloured gemstones among contemporary connoisseurs and brides alike.

Pastel Harmony Necklace Set

Gold meets colour in perfect balance, with gemstones like morganite in blush pink, aquamarine in soft blue, and tiger’s eye in earthy browns set against intricate detailing. The necklace flows with ornate motifs and dangling elements that add lightness and rhythm. A central green chrysoprase stone anchors the design, lending depth to the pastel palette. The matching earrings highlight soft pink morganite drops with a playful finish. A piece that blends tradition with a softer, more modern mood.

Pastel Radiance Necklace Set

A golden canvas lit up with gemstones in lilac ametrine, aqua aquamarine, blush morganite, and deep berry hessonite garnet. The necklace’s centrepiece features a striking green chrysoprase framed by pastel accents and intricate gold danglers.

Each gem along the neckline tells its own story, creating a spectrum of soft yet vivid hues. The earrings echo the bold palette with stacked colour and ornate goldwork.
A radiant expression of how tradition can shine in softer shades.

Pastel Blossom Necklace Set

Teardrop green chrysoprase gemstones framed in delicate pearls form the heart of this gold necklace. Blush pink rhodochrosite stones add a soft contrast, creating a fresh pastel harmony. The ornate gold detailing flows around each gem, giving depth and texture to the design. Matching earrings mirror the teardrop motif, balancing boldness with grace. A piece that feels rooted in tradition yet painted in lighter, modern hues.

Pastel Prism Necklace Set

A radiant line-up of gemstones in lilac amethyst, rich emerald, deep ruby, and soft rose quartz, each framed in gold.

The necklace forms a rhythmic pattern, where every pastel gem feels like a brushstroke of colour. Dangling gold motifs add light movement, enhancing the playful charm. Matching earrings pick up the same vibrant palette in a compact form.

A piece that transforms gold into a kaleidoscope of soft, modern hues.

Kotak Mahindra Bank and United Way Bengaluru Join Hands for ‘Model Anganwadi Project’ in Rural Karnataka

22 September 2025, Karnataka: United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), with CSR support from Kotak Mahindra Bank and in collaboration with the Government of Karnataka, is refurbishing 30 Anganwadi centres across Dharwad and Gadag districts.

The initiative aims to support holistic early childhood development for children aged 0-6 years.

The ‘Model Anganwadi Project’ focuses on creating child-friendly spaces equipped with safe learning materials, improved sanitation facilities, and access to nutritious food for children as well as pregnant and lactating mothers. Covering 30 villages, the project will benefit a total population of approximately 30,000. The launch event that took place at Anganwadi centre of Gadag (Kadampura 1 and 2), and Dharwad district (Aarekurahalli-5 and Annigere-21), on 19th September 2025 also marked the celebration of Nutrition Day, highlighting the importance of nutrition and holistic development in early childhood.

The refurbished Anganwadi Centres were inaugurated in the presence of key representatives from Women and Child Development (WCD), Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) Zilla Panchayat, Kotak Mahindra Bank and the UWBe team.

Himanshu Nivsarkar, Head – CSR & ESG, Kotak Mahindra Bank said “For many families in rural areas, Anganwadis are lifelines. Through the Model Anganwadi Project, we aim to empower communities by fostering healthier beginnings and brighter futures for children and mothers. It is a privilege to collaborate with United Way Bengaluru and the Women and Child Development Department on this meaningful initiative, as we continue to invest in the long-term well-being of our communities.”

Under the Born Learning Campaign, our vision for early childhood care is to transform Anganwadis into vibrant, safe, and inclusive spaces that foster learning and growth. For many children, Anganwadis are their first step into education and through our partnership with Kotak Mahindra Bank, we are building an ecosystem where every child has the opportunity to thrive. This initiative strongly reflects our commitment to education, health, and holistic community development,” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.

As part of its CSR vision, Kotak Mahindra Bank is committed to supporting initiatives that create meaningful and sustainable impact, especially in the areas of education, health, and livelihood. The ‘Model Anganwadi Project’ aligns with this commitment by addressing critical early childhood needs in rural Karnataka and reinforcing Kotak’s focus on empowering communities from the ground up.

16th Convocation at Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS)

Chennai, 21th September 2025: The 16th Convocation of The Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS) was held at the Bay Range Campus. H.E. Alem Tsehaye Woldemariam, Ambassador of Eritrea and Dean of Diplomatic Corps (India), graced the event as the chief guest. Mr. Rajesh Nambiar – NASSCOM president, Dr. Abraham Varughese- Director, Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL), DRDO, and Dr. C. Emmanuel – Director, Academics and Research, Gleneagles Health City, Chennai, were the guest of honours for HITS’s most prestigious event of the year. The celebration was presided over by the Chancellor, Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese. The event was also attended by esteemed officials of HITS.

More than 2500 graduating students received their UG, PG degrees and Ph.Ds in multiple streams including Engineering, Architecture, Law, Management, Basic and applied sciences, liberal arts, Health Science and Hindustan online – CODE. The prizes were awarded to 88 rank holders, underlining their exceptional achievements. The Chief Guest and Chancellor conferred the awards and the degrees to the recipients, with immense pride and honour.

During the convocation ceremony, the University awarded the chief guest H.E. Alem Tsehaye Woldemariam with Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa) for his boundless contribution in humanities, culture, peace and society. The University awarded the Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) to Mr. Rajesh Nambiar, for his three decades of excellence in digital transformation, and to Dr. Abraham Varughese for his outstanding achievements in technology and global research, and to Dr. C. Emmanuel for his contribution and leadership in healthcare development.

On the 16th Convocation Day, HITS also inaugurated CPSL (Cyber Physical Systems Laboratory), in partnership with iHub – AwaDH, IIT Ropar, National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), DST, Government of India. The Cyber Physical Systems Laboratory at Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science offers hands-on training and research experience for Undergraduate Research Interns & Junior Research Fellows across interdisciplinary areas at the intersection of Agriculture Automation, Information Systems, and Water Treatment Technologies. The program is designed to equip students and researchers with cutting-edge knowledge and practical experience in developing sustainable, AI-enabled cyber-physical solutions for agriculture and water systems.

HITS also inaugurated the TANCAM Spoke Centre at Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science giving students direct access to world-class facilities and hands-on training in advanced manufacturing using the acclaimed 3D EXPERIENCE platform from Dassault Systèmes. Through this collaboration, students will gain practical experience, industry-relevant skills, and exposure to leading-edge technology to make them career-ready and globally competitive.

During the convocation ceremony, the Founder Dr. K.C.G. Verghese Award for Best Research was conferred by Ms. Swathi N, Ph.D. Scholar ECE for her exemplary contributions towards research, growth and development. Founder Chancellor, Dr. (Mrs.) Elizabeth Verghese Award for best academic proficiency was presented to Mr. Vishnu Priyan J, B.Tech IT (CS), in recognition of his academic excellence. Chancellor Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese award for best outgoing student was bagged by Ms. Shivaranjeni from B.Tech, Aero in recognition of her excellent performance in academic curricular and co-curricular throughout her journey at the campus.

Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, Chancellor of HITS and Chairman of the Hindustan Group of Institutions, addressed the students, offering words of encouragement and empowerment. He congratulated the degree holders on their academic accomplishments and urged them to continue their pursuit of knowledge for decades to come. Dr. Anand, emphasized the importance of lifelong learning, curiosity, research and innovation irrespective of challenges and opportunity in life.

During his address, the chief guest H.E. Alem Tsehaye Woldemariam, shared life altering instances from his own academic and professional journey, highlighting the challenges and opportunities, encouraging the graduates to embrace a spirit of curiosity, learning, and the compassion to follow their passions with uncompromised determination.

Vice-Chancellor (I/C), Dr. S. Ganesan presented his Annual Report on the occasion of 16th Convocation, highlighting the milestones and achievements of the year 2024 -2025, the wide opportunities created, benchmarks accomplished, global MOUs, one-of-a-kind infrastructure, mapping the hard work and dedication from every individual involved to mark such a historic year at Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science.

The event epitomized the mission of HITS to empower the next generation leaders, researchers, innovators, market trend-setters and beyond.

DFS secretary awards Hackathon winners in BOI FinShield conclave

Mumbai, 20 September 2025: The Grand Finale of FinShield Hackathon 2025 organised by Bank of India in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad as part of PSBs Hackathon Series 2025, was concluded at the Head office of BOI. Mumbai.   Shri M Nagaraju, Secretary DFS, Govt of India, Sh. Manoj Ayappan, Jt. Secretary, Govt of India & Nominee Director on BOI Board, Sh. Rajneesh Karnatak, MD & CEO, Sh. Shoban, Asst Prof. & in charge Centre of Excellence for FinTech IIT Hyderabad, All the Executive Directors of Bank of India and Senior Management and staff of BOI have attended this function.

Monolithisch India Commissions Capex-I at Purulia, Boosts Capacity to 206,000 TPA

New Delhi | September 20, 2025 – Monolithisch India Limited today announced the successful commissioning of Capex-I, the first phase of its ongoing capital expenditure programme, at its manufacturing plant in Purulia, West Bengal. With this milestone, the Company’s installed manufacturing capacity has expanded to 206,000 Tonnes Per Annum (TPA), further strengthening its leadership in the unshaped refractory materials segment.

Despite adverse weather conditions, the Company adhered to its planned commissioning schedule. To ensure seamless operations and consistent product quality, pre-runs and quality checks will be conducted over the next 10 days.

This capacity addition is designed to meet the rising demand for premium ramming mass products, supporting the growth of India’s steel industry. It also aligns with Monolithisch India’s strategy to enhance operational scale, adopt next-generation technologies, and reinforce its commitment to sustainability and customer-centric innovation.

Commenting on this achievement, Mr. Harsh Tekriwal, Managing Director, Monolithisch India Limited, said: “Capex-I marks a new chapter in Monolithisch India’s journey of growth and innovation. By investing in technology, infrastructure, and talent, we are positioning ourselves to enable more efficient and sustainable steel production in India.”

Monolithisch India remains dedicated to advancing the refractory materials industry through innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability. The Company extends heartfelt gratitude to its customers, channel partners, investors, and stakeholders for their unwavering trust and support, which continue to be the cornerstone of its progress

Baker’s Artisanal Recipes Partners with Siolim Coffee for Exclusive ‘When Chocolate Meets Coffee’ Tasting Experience

September 20, 2025: Baker’s Artisanal Recipes (BAR), India’s premier bean-to-bar chocolate artisan, announces an exciting collaboration with Siolim Specialty Coffee Roasters for “When Chocolate Meets Coffee,” an exclusive guided tasting experience set for September 21, 2025. This unique partnership brings together two passionate craft brands in an intimate workshop limited to 20 participants, offering guests a rare opportunity to explore how two of the world’s most beloved ingredients complement and enhance each other through expertly curated pairings. The event will take place at Siolim Coffee’s atmospheric venue, creating an unforgettable sensorial journey that celebrates the art of origin, roast, fermentation, and flavor.

The immersive experience will showcase four distinct chocolate varieties, each expertly paired with complementary coffee preparations to highlight their unique flavor profiles. Be it your cappuccino, cortado, espresso or Vietnamese brew; BAR has a solid variant to pair with each of your palette. Participants will discover the sweet and creamy notes of Milk 38% chocolate from Mangalore origin with its rich, buttery finish, explore the tropical complexity of Dark 60% Idukki chocolate bursting with pineapple and black currant undertones, savor the sophisticated Darker 70% chocolate with its distinctive caramelly sweetness and woody depth, and experience the bold intensity of Seriously Dark 90% chocolate with its deep, nutty character and robust cocoa finish. Beyond simple tasting, guests will engage with the International Institute of Chocolate & Cacao Tasting flavor wheel, explore the tactile elements of cocoa beans, nibs, and pods alongside coffee beans, and participate in a live pairing activity where they can create their own perfect coffee-chocolate combinations.

Founded in 2021, Baker’s Artisanal Recipes has established itself as a leader in premium couverture chocolate production in India, specializing in single-origin chocolates from Kerala’s Idukki region and Karnataka’s Mangalore area. Their commitment to pure cocoa butter, precise tempering techniques, and celebrating the unique terroir of Indian cocoa through their bean-to-bar process has made them a favorite among professional bakers, confectioners, and chocolate enthusiasts. This collaboration with Siolim Specialty Coffee Roasters represents a perfect meeting of craft-driven philosophies, as both brands share an unwavering dedication to quality, origin stories, and the artisanal processes that transform raw ingredients into exceptional experiences.

Each participant will receive comprehensive educational materials including a Certificate of Participation, detailed pairing sheets, the IICCT Flavor Wheel, and access to exclusive retail offerings from both brands. The event promises to be more than just a tasting session – it’s an educational journey that explores the stories behind two craft-driven brands, from farm to cup and bean to bar. Given the intimate nature of the experience and limited seating, tickets will be available through Siolim Coffee’s booking channels with early booking strongly recommended. This inaugural collaboration marks the beginning of what both brands hope will be an ongoing series of experiences exploring the beautiful intersection of coffee and chocolate craftsmanship.

Imagine by Ample Redefines iPhone Launch with India’s Most Rewarding Apple Shopping Experience

Hyderabad, September 19, 2025 – Imagine by Ample, Apple Premium Partner and India’s most trusted Apple expert, has once again reimagined how Apple fans experience a launch. With 47+ stores across South India and a robust pan-India omnichannel platform, Imagine has made the arrival of the iPhone 17 not just seamless, but truly celebratory.

This year, Imagine went beyond convenience to create the “More Portal”—a first-of-its-kind digital engagement hub that turned the pre-book journey into a rewarding adventure. Customers who pre-booked through Imagine enjoyed assured rewards worth INR17,000, alongside daily games, hidden surprises, and a chance to win prizes worth up to INR11 lakhs—including AirPods, diamonds, and even a dream trip to the Maldives. The campaign set a new benchmark for making the iPhone purchase as exciting as the product itself.

“At Ample, every Apple launch is more than a product release – it’s a celebration with our customers,” said Neha Jindal, Chief Marketing Officer, Ample Group. “With iPhone 17, we designed an experience that goes beyond shopping. From assured rewards to the thrill of the More Portal, Imagine is the place where Apple fans can truly celebrate Apple innovation.”

Building on the pre-book success, Imagine is bringing Day-1 delivery promises, LIVE video shopping, and personalized in-store experiences to customers nationwide. Customers who do not receive their pre-booked iPhone 17 on launch day will be compensated with accessories worth INR2,000 — a gesture that underscores Imagine’s unwavering commitment to reliability and customer care. With flexible payment plans, trade-in benefits, and instant financing, upgrading has never been easier.

“The iPhone 17 launch is a celebration, and at Imagine, we made sure our customers felt the magic before they even held the phone,” said Partha Sarathi Bhattacharyya, Chief Business Officer – Retail, Ample Group. “From our More Portal pre-book campaign to day-one delivery of iPhone 17, Imagine continues to set the standard for what Apple shopping should feel like.”

Imagine has invested heavily in omnichannel services that put customer convenience first. Shoppers on Imagine Online Store can connect directly with Apple-trained experts via live video calls to receive personalized demonstrations and buying advice – replicating the in-store experience from the comfort of home. 

With nearly 30 years of Apple expertise, 47+ stores across South India, and a pan-India digital footprint, Imagine stands as India’s most trusted Apple destination. With a partnership that stretches back to the days before the very first iPhone, its enduring relationship with Apple stands as a testament to shared vision and trust—building a legacy of authenticity, expert guidance, and service excellence over the years

Today, Imagine goes beyond being a place to buy Apple products. With doorstep delivery, omnichannel convenience, and Apple-trained experts, it is where customers discover more convenience, more expertise, and more delight in every Apple experience. 

Dhruva Capital Services announces strategic merger with microfinance lender Vector Finance Private Ltd

Mumbai/ Kolkata, September 19, 2025: Dhruva Capital Services, an NBFC engaged in the business of investment and financing has announced strategic merger with Vector Finance Private Limited marking its foray into microfinance business. The company currently offers business loan, loan against property, loans for commercial vehicle and commercial equipment, invoice and lease rental discounting and construction finance.

The board of directors of Dhruva Capital Services on Friday approved the merger of Vector Finance with the company and its shareholders. The merger will be subject to necessary approvals/sanctions, from National Company Law Tribunal or such other competent authority and shareholders and creditors of both the companies, Dhruva Capital said in a notification to stock exchanges.

With Assets under Management (AUM) of Rs 390.23 crore as on March 31, 2025, Vector Finance has presence across six states primarily in the eastern and north eastern parts of the country. In FY25, the company disbursed a total amount of Rs 222.66 crore among 43,274 customers. Its total revenue from operation stood at Rs 27.16 crore as on March 31, 2025.

Mr Rahul Johri, Chairman, Vector Finance and a veteran banker with over 34 years of experience in leadership roles between the microfinance sector and banks such as Bandhan Bank, DBS Bank, Standard Chartered and Barclays said, the merger would offer perfect synergies and help create and develop a more diversified and resilient organisation.

“At Vector Finance it has been our constant endeavour to drive grassroot level penetration of finance in the country. This merger will offer the perfect synergies to help create and develop a more diversified and resilient organisation by leveraging upon Dhruva Capital’s understanding of financial sector and backed by our strong deep roots level connect in the MFI sector. The merger will also help reduce the overall cost of borrowing besides providing access to additional capital, which in turn would help the company further improve both its topline and also endeavour to reduce the interest rate to customers. This integration will enhance our ability to serve customers across segments, expand our product suite and unlock synergies in operations and capital efficiency,” Johri said.

Commenting on the merger, Mr Shreeram Bagla, Managing Director of Dhruva Capital Services, said, “The proposed merger of Vector Finance with Dhruva Capital marks a significant milestone in our growth journey. The microfinance company has a strong presence across six key states in the eastern and northeastern parts of the country, which are largely underpenetrated. By joining forces with the company, we wish to create a stronger and more resilient institution which combines our robust understanding of the financial sector with the deep and well entrenched reach of microfinance sector. Our vision is to drive inclusive growth by penetrating into under penetrated markets and empowering underserved communities. We believe that this strategic merger will not only strengthen our balance sheet and help us expand our reach and presence but will also make finance accessible and affordable to the mass market.”

According to SIDBI data, the portfolio outstanding of microfinance industry as on 31st March 2025 is ₹3,35,071 crore with 11.1 crore active loans. NBFC-MFIs contributes highest towards portfolio outstanding.