Category Archives: Business

IndiGo Appoints Aloke Singh as Chief Strategy Officer

Mar 24: The Board of InterGlobe Aviation (IndiGo) today approved and announced the appointment of Mr. Aloke Singh as Chief Strategy Officer.

In this role, Mr. Singh will lead the Company’s long-term strategic planning function and drive enterprise-wide transformation initiatives focused on accelerating growth, enhancing operational

efficiency and strengthening competitive positioning in a rapidly evolving global aviation landscape. He will partner closely with the leadership team on cross-functional priorities designed to improve agility, elevate customer experience and deliver sustainable shareholder value.

Mr. Singh brings over three decades of aviation industry experience spanning Strategy, Planning, Operations and Commercial functions. He has a proven track record of leading complex operational and cultural transformation, driving rapid growth and managing large-scale expansion programmes.

More recently, Mr. Singh served as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Air India Express, where he played a pivotal role in the airline’s transformation, delivering operational

improvements and driving rapid growth. He has previously held senior leadership positions, including in the Strategy domain, at Air India and Oman Air.

Welcoming Mr. Aloke Singh, IndiGo’s Managing Director Rahul Bhatia said, “Aloke brings an

exceptional blend of strategic vision and operational depth. His comprehensive understanding of the aviation ecosystem will be invaluable as we build a more agile, resilient and future-ready organisation, and accelerate our next phase of growth. For now, Aloke will report to me. Once the next CEO assumes office, he will transition to reporting to the new Chief Executive.”

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Aloke Singh said “I am delighted to join IndiGo at such a pivotal moment for the airline and for Indian aviation broadly. Having redefined India’s domestic and short- haul international aviation landscape, IndiGo is taking its ambitions global. I look forward to working with colleagues across the organisation to sharpen our strategic direction, double down on operational excellence and deepen and broaden our markets.”

Global survey reveals clean restrooms are now essential to winning repeat customers

MetrixLab research shows 100% agree dirty restrooms reflect poorly on the establishment, with the #1 contributing factor to dirty restrooms being paper towel mess. 

EAST LONGMEADOW, Mass. –In the post-pandemic world, restroom cleanliness has become a critical part of the customer experience, especially in restaurants and other high-traffic facilities. A clean restroom reinforces confidence in an establishment, while a dirty one can quickly impact repeat business.

Excel Dryer, Inc., a leader in touchless hand drying technology, partnered with global market research firm MetrixLab to conduct an unprecedented international study,  Post-Pandemic Perceptions of Commercial Restrooms. The survey gathered insights from more than 4,000 participants across the United States, Europe and Asia, including restaurant owners, facility managers, architects, design professionals and consumers.

The results revealed three universal truths across all demographics and regions:

• Cleanliness and hygiene are the number one concern in commercial restrooms
• 100% agree that a dirty restroom reflects poorly on an establishment
• #1 contributors to a dirty restroom are paper towels on the floor and overflowing trash cans
• 80% of respondents said they would not, or might not, return to a restaurant with a dirty restroom.

“Restrooms are a direct extension of the guest experience,” said William Gagnon, executive vice president and COO of Excel Dryer. “A dirty restroom experience directly affects a business’s bottom line and works against customer retention. XLERATOR hand drying solutions are the simple answer to what’s been identified as the #1 contributing factor: paper towels.”

Facility managers and restaurant owners reported increased restroom usage, stronger demand for touchless features and greater awareness of how restroom conditions affect customer loyalty. All agreed that compared to paper towels, touchless hand dryers are more hygienic, lower maintenance and more cost-effective over time.

With 75% of U.S. consumers now washing their hands up to 10 times per day, restrooms must keep up with higher expectations and heavier traffic. Excel Dryer continues to support restaurants and facilities with high-efficiency hand dryers featuring adjustable controls, improved motor technology for longer life and optional electrostatic HEPA (eHEPA®) filtration for added hygienic protection.

Global CFP Professional Community Reaches Over 236,000 as Profession Advances Worldwide

DENVER, COLO – 24 March 2026 – The global community of CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER professionals continued its upward trajectory in 2025, closing the year with 236,300 CFP professionals across 29 territories. This represents a net increase of 5,652 CFP professionals over the previous year and a global year-over-year growth rate of 2.5%.

Since 2004, when Financial Planning Standards Board Ltd. (FPSB) was founded, the number of CFP professionals worldwide has continued to grow each year, reflecting the global commitment to rigorous professional standards and the value that competent, ethical financial planners bring to consumers and markets.

“The strength of the global CFP professional community reflects a worldwide commitment to excellence in financial planning,” said FPSB CEO Dante De Gori, CFP. “As more professionals pursue CFP certification and more consumers seek objective, client-first advice, we’re seeing global standards strengthen public trust and confidence in the profession.” 

Building a Younger, More Diverse Global Profession

As the profession grows, its demographic profile is also evolving. In 2025, the CFP certification continued to attract a new generation of financial planners:

• 62.1% of those who achieved CFP certification in 2025 were under the age of 40

• 37.9% of those who achieved CFP certification in 2025 were female

These trends highlight the increasing appeal of CFP certification among younger and more diverse talent entering the profession.

“It’s encouraging to see younger professionals and women choosing to pursue CFP certification,” added De Gori. “A diverse, next generation community of CFP professionals is essential to meeting the evolving needs of clients around the world. The momentum we’re seeing today will shape the future of the profession for decades to come.”

More than 32,500 candidates sat for CFP certification exams around the world in 2025, reflecting strong interest in pursuing the credential that upholds professionalism in the practice of financial planning.

Across FPSB’s global network representing more than 500,000 financial planning professionals, nearly half hold the CFP certification, underscoring the certification’s standing as the global symbol of excellence in financial planning.

“In territories like Hong Kong, where there is one CFP professional for every 1,679 adults*, we’re seeing how markets with strong certification adoption can meaningfully expand access to competent and ethical advice,” noted De Gori.

2025 Highlights

The United States and Japan recorded the largest absolute gains in the number of CFP certification holders in 2025, with net increases of 4,436 and 805, respectively.

Five territories achieved double digit growth rates in their CFP professional populations:

• Italy: 79.2%
• Chinese Taipei: 23.3%
• Brunei: 21.4%
• Malaysia: 10.5%
• Thailand: 10.1%

The five territories with the highest number of CFP professionals were:

1. United States: 107,529
2. People’s Republic of China: 32,599
3. Japan: 27,786
4. Canada: 17,446
5. Brazil: 11,425

Other notable milestones:

• Chinese Taipei exceeded 4,000 CFP professionals
• Italy surpassed 100 CFP professionals, significant progress after launching CFP certification in that market in 2023
• San Marino became FPSB’s 29^th territory, strengthening the global footprint of the CFP professional community

For more information on the global CFP professional community as of year-end 2025, view FPSB’s infographic.

Bridge Conference Partners with Jukebox Ventures on £1m Startup Accelerator

Jukebox Ventures will host an accelerator programme worth up to £1m for music and tech startups and offering investment in the most exciting new projects via funding, marketing and launch strategy.

The international B2B gathering connecting leaders across music, entertainment and technology returns to the Adriatic coast in Croatia on 27th-29th May for its highly anticipated second edition.

Building on the resounding success of its debut in Croatia, this year’s edition will see Jukebox Ventures curate the music tech strand of the programme and host an accelerator session offering the chance to secure funding up to £1m for exciting new projects. Successful applications for the programme will get 50% discounted tickets for attending the conference.

Hosted at the exclusive Petram Resort and Residences, the conference provides a distinctive and intimate setting where executives, entrepreneurs, artists and investors can explore the evolving relationship between music, technology and culture. With 80% of last year’s attendees holding executive-level roles, including CEOs, directors and senior decision makers from leading European agencies, promoters and festivals, Bridge has already established itself as a unique addition to the global music industry calendar, combining high-level conversations, curated networking and world-class Istrian hospitality.

World-Class speakers across music, technology & entertainment

Bridge 2026 will once again bring together an exceptional lineup of speakers, executives and innovators from across the global music, entertainment and technology landscape, with a carefully curated programme exploring the future of music through the intersection of technology, AI, investment, artist development and the rapidly evolving relationship between culture and digital innovation.

Confirmed speakers include industry leaders such as Maria May (Head of Electronic, Creative Artists Agency), Steve Hogan (Agent & Partner, WME), Greg Parmley (Managing Director, International Live Music Conference), Holger Jan Schmidt (General Secretary, YOUROPE), Fruzsina Szép (Festival Director, SUPERBLOOM and Lollapalooza Berlin), Sara Bazian (Strategic Partnerships Manager, YouTube Music), Ivan Milivojev (Co-Founder, EXIT Festival) and others, with many more speakers set to be announced soon.

Dušan Kovačević, co-founder of EXIT Festival, whose long-standing work at the intersection of music, culture and social impact helped inspire the creation of Bridge as a platform for forward-thinking industry dialogue, says, “Bridge was born from the idea that the future of music will be built at the intersection of creativity, technology and human connection. With Jukebox Ventures joining us this year, we are creating a space where bold ideas, industry leadership and real investment can come together to help shape what comes next. Because for real business success, even the best ideas need direct access to the right people, and that is exactly what Bridge is designed to provide.”  

Jukebox Ventures to host accelerator programme for emerging tech startups

Bridge 2026 will also host a startup accelerator programme in partnership with Jukebox Ventures, an investment platform that is all about face-to-face meetings and making real connections. As part of the initiative, selected early-stage startups working across music, technology and entertainment will have the opportunity to present their ideas directly to investors and industry leaders attending the conference. Successful participants will receive investment support alongside mentorship from members of the Jukebox Ventures network and other industry figures present at the event.

Alex Jukes, founder of Jukebox Ventures says, “At Jukebox Ventures, we believe the next wave of innovation in music and entertainment will come from founders who have traditionally been shut out of the room. Bridge is exactly the kind of platform that changes that, and we believe the best way to achieve it is through close contact, in-person meetings and building real world relationships. By bringing together the brightest minds in the industry with a genuine commitment to backing overlooked talent, we are not just investing in startups, we are investing in the future of the entire sector. We couldn’t be more excited to be part of this.”

Further speakers and programme details will be announced in the coming weeks. A full schedule, including panel discussions, keynote sessions, and the Jukebox Ventures pitch competition, will be published at bridgeconference.net.

PepsiCo India Boosts Water Security, Restoring 1.48 Billion Litres Through Watershed and Community Initiatives

Nexus Hyderabad Hosted Electrifying Live Performance by Sanam Puri

Hyderabad, Mar 23: Nexus Hyderabad witnessed an unforgettable evening as renowned singer Sanam Puri took center stage for a high-energy live performance on March 22 at 7:30 PM.

The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of music lovers who came together for an immersive, sing-along experience. With soulful renditions and crowd-favourite tracks, the audience resonated with every note, turning the evening into a vibrant celebration of music and nostalgia.

The concert highlighted Nexus Hyderabad’s commitment to curating engaging, experience-led events that go beyond retail, transforming the destination into a dynamic hub for entertainment and community engagement.

With strong attendance and an electric atmosphere, the event further reinforced the growing appeal of live music experiences in the city and Nexus’ role in bringing such curated experiences to its audiences.

ELIVAAS named ‘Brand of the Year 2026’ at MakeMyTrip Homestays Awards

ELIVAAS, backed by Peak XV Partners, Vertex Ventures, and 3one4 Capital, Wins ‘Brand of the Year 2026’ at MakeMyTrip Homestays Awards

New Delhi, March 23: ELIVAAS, a rapidly emerging name in India’s premium villa hospitality segment, has been recognised as the Brand of the Year 2026 at the MakeMyTrip Homestays Awards, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey within just its second financial year of inception.

The brand was nominated across multiple categories, including Traveller’s Choice – Brand, India’s Favourite Villa, India’s Favourite Farmhouse, and India’s Favourite Pet-Friendly homestays award. The team also extends its gratitude to MakeMyTrip for its continued partnership and support in building the homestays ecosystem.

“Being recognised as Brand of the Year is a strong validation of the trust our guests and home owners have placed in ELIVAAS in a relatively short period of time. Our focus has always been on delivering consistently high-quality, experience-led stays, and this recognition encourages us to further strengthen our presence across India while continuing to elevate the villa hospitality segment,” said Ritwik Khare, the Founder and CEO of ELIVAAS.

Backed by Peak XV Partners, Vertex Ventures, and 3one4 Capital, ELIVAAS has rapidly scaled its operations and strengthened its position in the premium villa category.

This recognition places ELIVAAS alongside some of the most established names in the hospitality sector, underlining its rapid rise as a category leader in the luxury villa space. Founded just three years ago, the brand has already hosted over 3 lakh guests across more than 40 cities, while maintaining a consistently high 95 percent 5-star review rating.

ELIVAAS has built its positioning around curated, experience-led stays that combine privacy, comfort, and personalised service. Its offerings extend beyond accommodation, with thoughtfully designed guest experiences such as private dining setups, wellness therapies, and bespoke celebrations, aimed at creating memorable stays.

The award also reflects the brand’s evolution from individual property excellence to a more holistic hospitality offering across markets. It builds on earlier recognitions, including category wins at previous editions of the MakeMyTrip Homestays Awards.

With this recognition, ELIVAAS aims to expand its footprint further while continuing to refine its offerings for the evolving preferences of premium travellers.

 

JBCN Education Appoints The Other Circle To Lead Strategic Communications Mandate

JBCN Education has appointed Mumbai-based communications agency The Other Circle (TOC) to lead its public relations and strategic communications mandate. The partnership marks a new phase of growth for the progressive K–12 institution as it leads conversations around progressive education in India.

Known for its distinctive EduCreative learning philosophy, JBCN Education blends strong academic foundations with experiential learning, creativity, and values-led development. The approach balances intellectual rigour with emotional intelligence and social awareness. Learners are encouraged to question, collaborate, and explore beyond the classroom, building the skills and character needed for an interconnected world.

Under the mandate, TOC will shape and amplify JBCN Education’s communications narrative through educator-led thought leadership, media engagement, and strategic storytelling. Beyond visibility, the partnership aims to foster deeper dialogue with parents, educators, and the wider academic community on what meaningful learning looks like today.

Nikhil Sharma, Senior Vice President, Marketing, JBCN Education said:

“Every institution has a unique narrative, one filled with innovative learning, passionate faculty, and the next generation of Changemakers. The Other Circle’s strategic approach and deep familiarity with the education sector make them the right partner to strengthen our brand presence and forge meaningful connections with audiences who share our vision.”

Aakanksha Gupta, Co-founder & CEO, The Other Circle Group of Companies, added:

“The best communications work happens when the story is already true — you just have to find the right way to tell it. JBCN Education represents a powerful shift in how learning is imagined and delivered in India, and that story is rich: a philosophy that’s lived in the classroom, educators who believe in it, and outcomes that speak for themselves. Our role is to bring that into the wider public conversation in a way that is credible, sustained, and genuinely useful to the people it reaches.”

Over the years, JBCN Education has built a reputation for nurturing curious, confident learners through a culture that values inquiry, collaboration, and innovation. Globally, the most respected schools have evolved beyond delivering curriculum. They have become institutions that actively shape conversations on how children learn, grow, and prepare for the future. JBCN Education’s journey reflects a similar commitment – and its partnership with TOC will amplify that thinking across the education conversation.

Mid and small‑cap mutual funds witnesses AUM growth; ongoing market volatility may impact near term outlook: ICRA Analytics

Mumbai, Mar 23: Total assets under management (AUM) of mid-cap and small-cap mutual funds continued their robust growth, reflecting sustained investor interest. Mid-cap funds recorded a five-year CAGR of 32.41%, increasing from Rs. 1.13 lakh crore in February 2021 to Rs. 4.62 lakh crore in February 2026. Small-cap funds posted a five-year CAGR of 39.93%, growing from Rs. 67,764 crore in February 2021 to Rs. 3.64 lakh crore in February 2026.

Net inflows into mid-cap funds stood at Rs. 4,003 crore, while small-cap funds recorded inflows of Rs. 3,881 crore in February 2026, a strong recovery from net outflows observed in February 2021.

Top Performing Funds (5-Year CAGR):

• Mid-Cap: HDFC Mid Cap Fund – Growth, Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund – Reg, Edelweiss Mid Cap Fund – Growth
• Small-Cap: Quant Small Cap Fund – Growth, Nippon India Small Cap Fund – Reg, Bandhan Small Cap Fund – Reg

ICRA Analytics noted that ongoing geopolitical tensions and recent foreign fund outflows may influence the near-term performance of mid and small-cap funds. Investors are expected to adopt a cautious stance, navigating market volatility.

Retail Participation through SIPs:
Disciplined investing via Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) continues to gain momentum. February 2026 witnessed SIP contributions of Rs. 29,845 crore, marking a growth of nearly 14.79% compared to February 2025 (Rs. 25,999 crore), highlighting increasing retail participation in mutual funds.

ICRA Analytics emphasizes that long-term investment horizons and disciplined SIP investing can help investors leverage the power of compounding, particularly in mid and small-cap funds.

Rapid Growth in PMS Assets Signals Structural Shift in Wealth Management: Dhanvesttor

Kolkata,  Mar 23: The sharp expansion of India’s Portfolio Management Services (PMS) industry reflects a structural shift in how high-net-worth investors are approaching wealth creation, according to Dhanvesttor, a women-focused PMS platform.

Recent data from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) shows that assets managed under PMS have expanded significantly over the past few years, rising to over ₹10.5 lakh crore, nearly doubling from the levels seen in 2022. The number of PMS investors has also increased steadily, reflecting growing interest in customised investment strategies among affluent investors and family offices.

Market participants believe the growth is being driven by a combination of factors, including rising financialisation of savings, greater participation in equity markets, and increasing demand for differentiated portfolio strategies that go beyond traditional pooled investment products.

Commenting on the development, Anooshka Soham Bathwal, Founder & CEO of Dhanvesttor, said the pace of growth reflects the evolution of India’s wealth management landscape.

“The rapid expansion of the PMS industry is a clear signal that investor behaviour is evolving. Sophisticated investors today are seeking deeper portfolio engagement, customised allocation strategies, and a more direct connection with the underlying investments. PMS structures allow that flexibility, which is why we are seeing stronger adoption across the high-net-worth segment.”

She added that the expansion of the asset base indicates growing investor confidence in actively managed equity portfolios designed around long-term wealth creation. 

“As India’s capital markets deepen and wealth creation accelerates, investors are increasingly looking for strategies that are aligned with their individual financial goals and risk profiles. The growth in PMS assets reflects that shift towards more personalised portfolio management.”

Bathwal noted that the momentum could strengthen further in the coming years as India’s wealth base expands and capital markets mature. 

“Looking ahead, the PMS industry is likely to benefit from the continued rise in high-net-worth investors, increasing financialisation of household savings, and deeper participation in equity markets. As governance standards, transparency, and portfolio discipline continue to strengthen across the ecosystem, the industry has the potential to scale meaningfully while delivering more aligned and long-term investment outcomes for investors.”

The PMS industry has emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments within India’s broader asset management ecosystem, as affluent investors increasingly seek differentiated investment strategies aligned with long-term wealth creation.