Category Archives: Business

India’s Creative Heritage Takes Center Stage at IPFEAST 4.0 LEGENDS in Delhi

New Delhi/30th October, 2025 – The much-anticipated fourth edition of IPFEAST — rebranded this year as IPFEAST 4.0 LEGENDS — is set to take place on 31st October at The Piano Man, New Delhi. Conceptualized and directed by Safir Anand, and supported by Anand and Anand, this landmark event celebrates India’s creative and cultural brilliance. The event is proudly sponsored by Titan Company, Landmark Cars, William Grant, Crème Bell, and ICA Gallery.

IPFEAST is far more than a conventional event; it is a vibrant, immersive experience that brings together India’s most dynamic minds, creators, and brands. The platform serves as a space where ideas meet execution and legacy meets innovation, celebrating intellectual property as a living, breathing force that defines identity, drives creativity, and shapes culture.

This year’s edition, aptly titled “LEGENDS,” honors over 30 extraordinary individuals drawn from diverse fields — from music, cinema, and design to business, literature, and public life. These luminaries have left an indelible imprint on India’s creative and intellectual fabric, redefining how innovation and imagination shape our world.

Reflecting on the vision behind IPFEAST, Safir Anand, Senior Partner and Head (Trade Marks, Contractual and Commercial IP) at Anand and Anand, said, “India is possibly the richest treasure-trove of arts, crafts, and design that are hundreds of years old, yet ever evolving. From this reservoir have emerged so many unique brands that tell a compelling tale.” For Anand, intellectual property is not something to be hidden away but a vibrant force meant to be showcased and celebrated grandly.

Organized in association with The Piano Man, IPFEAST 4.0 LEGENDS will feature a power-packed lineup of speakers and thought leaders — from Manish Malhotra, Vijay Shekhar Sharma, and Samir Arora to Nikhil Nanda, Sanjeev Bikhchandani, Puneet chhatwal, Sanjoy Roy, and many more legends. The evening will also include a rich lineup of live performances by one of India’s leading bands, making it an unforgettable celebration of culture and creativity.

The event underscores how intellectual property fuels progress across industries, framing brands not merely as businesses but as powerful legacies with purpose, story, and cultural depth. Through curated showcases, panels, and storytelling sessions, participants will experience how ideas evolve into iconic creations that stand the test of time.

Launched in 2023 by Safir Anand, IPFEAST has grown into a marquee platform celebrating intellectual property as both culture and commerce — where creativity is recognized, protected, and amplified.

As IPFEAST 4.0 LEGENDS unfolds in Delhi, it stands as a tribute to India’s icons and innovators — a festival of ideas that honors the minds shaping our collective legacy.

“With this fourth edition, we celebrate not just brands and ideas, but the legends behind them — those who have shaped India’s creative and intellectual legacy,” added Anand.

Alumil Greek Architectural Aluminium Company Earns Cradle to Cradle Silver Certification

Alumil Becomes 1st Greek Company Of Architectural Aluminium Systems To Achieve Cradle to Cradle Certified® Silver For Its Products

Navi Mumbai, 29th October 2025: Alumil Group – one of the global pioneers in designing and manufacturing of high-quality architectural aluminium systems has achieved a major sustainability milestone by becoming the first Greek company of architectural aluminium systems to receive the international Cradle to Cradle Certified® (C2C) Silver for a broad range of its products. The certification covers 34 systems, including curtain walls, sliding and hinged doors & windows systems and folding door system, among others. The accreditation affirms Alumil’s commitment to eco-responsible innovation. Through a thorough and complex evaluation process, Alumil received a Silver-level certification based on the five rigorous criteria including material health, product circularity, clean air & climate protection, water & soil stewardship and social fairness.

This landmark achievement offers Alumil India a significant strategic advantage, as its products are inherently aligned with the principles of Sustainable Building and Bioclimatic Architecture, delivering the high energy efficiency essential for modern green buildings.

“With Cradle to Cradle Certified® certification, Alumil is well-positioned to participate in high-specification projects seeking accreditation under LEED, BREEAM and other sustainability frameworks. The achievement aligns perfectly with the company’s vision in India to offer clients assurances of material safety, circular economy compliance and lowest possible environmental impact. It empowers us to partner with our clients in building a more sustainable future, offering proven, certified products that contribute to healthier buildings and a healthier planet. This is a significant step forward, not just for Alumil, but for the entire industry in the region,” says Mr Theodoros Axouristos, Managing Director, Alumil India.

Through this achievement, Alumil demonstrates that its architectural systems are not only high in performance and design but also safe for people and the environment. Since the certification, Alumil has continued to expand its green credentials through newer product launches, recycled-material initiatives such as Loop 80, and enhancements in energy efficiency and durability across its aluminium systems in India. These steps are part of Alumil’s vision to support sustainable built environments and align with global green building standards.

DCM Shriram to acquire four salt works to boost Chemicals Business security

DCM Shriram Limited announces strategic acquisition of four salt works to strengthen raw material security for Chemicals Business

New Delhi, October 29, 2025: DCM Shriram Ltd., a leading diversified conglomerate with businesses across Chemicals, Vinyl, Agri, and Building Materials, today announced that its Board has approved the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire 100% stake in four companies engaged in the production of industrial salt for a total purchase consideration of ₹175 crore.

Two of these entities — M/s Manek Salt Works and M/s Shree Raj Salt & Chemical Works — are located in Dahej, (about 70 km from the Company’s Jhagadia (Bharuch) Chlor-Alkali complex), while M/s Devjagan Salt Farm Pvt. Ltd. and M/s Maruti Salt Farm Pvt. Ltd. are situated in Jambusar, approximately 110 km from the Jhagadia Complex. Together, these salt works span over 1,077 acres and have a combined capacity of 2.1 lakh MT of washed industrial salt per annum, equivalent to around 13% of the Company’s annual salt requirement.

This acquisition will mark an important step toward backward integration, strengthening the raw material supply chain for DCM Shriram’s Chemicals Business — a key driver of the Company’s growth and profitability.

Mr. Ajay Shriram, Chairman & Senior Managing Director, and Mr Vikram Shriram, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, said:“Salt is a critical raw material for our Chemicals Business, and this acquisition will address a long-standing strategic vulnerability in our supply chain. With rising demand for industrial salt across multiple end-use industries and increasing competition for coastal land from other sectors such as renewables, securing access to these salt works at Dahej and Jambusar will be a timely and forward-looking step. The acquisition will ensure raw material security, optimize logistics costs, and further strengthen our integrated chemical value chain.”

Under Armour’s UA Echo makes a bold statement with India launch

New Delhi, 28th October, 2025: Under Armour, known for its relentless pursuit of performance innovation and for creating gear that helps athletes push limits and break barriers, is now stepping into culture and making a bold statement with the launch of UA ECHO. 

UA ECHO represents a deeper connection with the next generation of athletes and culture drivers, especially Gen Z, who see style as an extension of movement and self-expression. Under Armour is stepping beyond the court and field, expanding its influence into sportswear and street culture.

“UA ECHO IS OUR FIRST STEP IN DEFINING SPORTSWEAR AT UNDER ARMOUR.”

“Innovation has always been our driving force, and with UA ECHO, we’re elevating itfusing performance, design, and technology to set a new standard. This is more than just a launch—it’s the foundation of what sportswear means for Under Armour.”

Yassine Saidi, Chief Product Officer and General Manager, Under Armour

Designed with a bold, sculpted silhouette, innovative materials, and an unapologetic streetwear aesthetic, UA ECHO is built for those who don’t just move through the world but make an impact. It’s a shoe that speaks the language of a generation that refuses to be defined by a single identity. 

A shoe engineered to disrupt and define:

UA ECHO makes an impression before you move, turning performance tech into design innovation for every moment of your day.

The multi-layered monofilament mesh upper delivers both structure and breathability, giving it a sleek yet durable feel. At the heel, SlipSpeed™ Convertible Heel brings true versatility—Under Armour’s signature 2-mode heel that can be flipped up or down for seamless performance or casual wear. Built for fast transitions and even faster lifestyles.

The asymmetrical speed-lace system is designed for a secure, adaptive fit that moves with you, syncing effortlessly with the rhythm of the street. Translucent overlays and aggressive geometric lines complete the look—bold, futuristic, and made for those who move fast in sport, in culture, and in ambition.

A balance of fashion and function:

While UA ECHO is a style-driven shoe, it is elevated through innovation. Beneath its striking exterior, Under Armour’s signature full-length HOVR® cushioning provides the comfort, impact absorption, and energy return needed for an on-the-go lifestyle.

The lightweight, flexible outsole ensures effortless movement, making it a shoe that seamlessly transitions from streets to social spaces, from day to night. UA ECHO was designed to adapt—just like the people who wear it.

This launch paves the way for a wave of innovation, collaborations, and cultural moments that will reshape how Under Armour is perceived in footwear culture. The brand isn’t just stepping into a new space it’s making sure its presence is felt.

The streets aren’t waiting for just another shoe. They’re waiting for something different. And with UA ECHO, Under Armour just delivered sport-inspired, performance driven, built for life beyond the game. 

Pricing and availability:

Priced at Rs 16,999 The UA Echo has dropped in four exciting colours Rebel Pink, Expedition Green, Black and White and is available at underarmour.in and at all Under Armour brand houses stores in 30 cities across India.

Bessemer Venture Partners unveils AI Services Roadmap – projects IT sector to reach $400B by 2030

Bangalore, 28th Oct 2025: Bessemer Venture Partners revealed an AI services roadmap today – their thesis on how AI native companies will disrupt India’s $264 billion IT services sector.

India’s IT services exports form the backbone of global technology and is a powerhouse driving digital transformation worldwide. Today, the industry stands at a generational crossroads. As large language models (LLMs) and AI disrupt traditional, people-heavy outsourcing methods, both global enterprises and nimble startups are disrupting traditional delivery models.

Before the current wave of AI-native disruption, India’s IT services giants had perfected a powerful operating playbook-built on three pillars:

(a) a vast and skilled talent pool,

(b) strong cost arbitrage, and

(c) the ‘follow-the-sun delivery’ model.

Despite fears of displacement after the rise of ChatGPT and other LLMs, Indian IT services revenues and margins remain resilient. Enterprises still rely on these firms for complex projects, where embedded engineers and subject matter experts provide business-specific context that AI alone can’t capture.

Yet, seamless transformation into an AI native world is hindered by billable-hour models, standardized entry-level workforces, and low R&D spend (under 2% versus over 20% for global product firms). In essence, the growth of large, traditional IT and outsourcing firms remains driven by headcount rather than productivity gains.

AI-first startups and platforms are already proving their ability to deliver outcomes that are better, faster, and more cost-efficient. They benefit from:

Exceptionally skilled founding teams with deep domain expertise
AI-driven, product/platform-first mindsets
Rapid time-to-value and measurable ROI
Usage or outcome-based pricing

Bessemer has identified three fast-emerging categories of AI-first challengers poised to disrupt existing service models:

Pure software plays: intelligent platforms that fully automate tasks end-to-end-delivering high-speed, scalable outputs with minimal human input. Eg: Graph AI , Leena AI
AI enabled services – hybrid models blend AI automation with human‑in‑the‑loop (HITL) oversight. Example: Crescendo and Shopdeck
Services for AI – These firms supply the data, model operations infrastructure, and evaluation capabilities needed to build net new AI solutions. Eg: Scale, Turing

Bessemer highlights seven key factors that determine a challenger’s ability to truly disrupt incumbents: team quality, platform stickiness, time-to-value, margins, distribution, pricing strategy, and market focus.

India’s IT services industry is projected to exceed $400B by 2030, as AI fundamentally reshapes how enterprises source and deliver technology. While AI-driven efficiencies will compress pricing in the short term, the exponential growth in AI capabilities will dramatically expand both the propensity and ability of global enterprises to outsource complex workflows. This next wave of outsourcing will fuel the sector’s growth, with AI-first products and startups poised to capture outsized value by delivering smarter, faster, and more adaptive solutions.

Chtrbox Reports Strongest Quarter Ever, Poised to Accelerate Growth Post IPO.

Mumbai, 27th October, 2025 : Chatterbox Technologies Limited (formerly Chatterbox Technologies Private Limited), India’s leading digital and influencer marketing platform, announced its unaudited financial results for the half year ended September 30, 2025, showcasing strong performance following its successful Initial Public Offering.

The company reported significant year-on-year growth in revenue and profitability, reinforcing its leadership in India’s rapidly expanding digital and influencer marketing ecosystem. This performance reflects robust market confidence and validates Chtrbox’s strategic direction and client-centric approach.

Key Highlights:

• Strong year-on-year revenue growth during the first half of FY2025-26

• Steady increase in profit after tax and earnings per share

• Strengthened balance sheet and reserves following successful IPO and BSE SME listing

Raj Mishra, Founder, CEO & Managing Director, Chatterbox Technologies Limited, said:

“We are pleased with our performance in the first half of FY2025-26, which reflects the strength of our business model and our position in India’s digital and influencer marketing sector. The successful completion of our IPO and listing on BSE SME marks an important milestone in our journey. Our consistent revenue and profit growth demonstrate the trust our clients place in us and the effectiveness of our platform. We remain focused on delivering value to all stakeholders and capitalising on the immense opportunities in the creator economy.”

The strong performance is attributed to Chtrbox’s continued investment in expanding service offerings and deepening client relationships in an increasingly digital-first marketplace.

Curt Marvis, CEO & Co-Founder, QYou Media, commented:

“Chtrbox’s strong half-yearly performance validates the immense potential of the influencer marketing sector in India. The company’s steady revenue growth and profitability demonstrate the maturity and scalability of this business model. As stakeholders in this ecosystem, we’re witnessing growing brand appetite for creator-led campaigns, and Chtrbox’s ability to deliver measurable results while expanding operations sets a strong precedent for the sector.”

As of September 30, 2025, Chtrbox reported growth in total assets and reserves compared to the previous fiscal year-end. The proceeds from its IPO have strengthened the company’s cash position, enabling it to pursue further growth and innovation initiatives.

Looking ahead, Chtrbox remains committed to expanding its capabilities, deepening brand partnerships, and empowering creators across diverse content verticals, anticipating sustained momentum through the second half of the fiscal year.

MCX announces launch of Options on Bullion Index

Kotak Mahindra AMC Launches Kotak Nifty Chemicals ETF

Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Company Limited launches Kotak Nifty Chemicals ETF 

Hyderabad, 24th October, 2025: Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Company Ltd. (“KMAMC” / “Kotak Mutual Fund”) is pleased to announce the launch of Kotak Nifty Chemicals ETF, an open-ended scheme replicating/tracking the Nifty Chemicals Index. The scheme opened for public subscription on October 23, 2025, and will close on November 6, 2025. 

The Nifty Chemicals index tracks the performance of the top 20 stocks from the chemicals sector, selected based on a 6-month average free-float market capitalization from the Nifty 500 Index, with a preference to stocks available for trading in the derivatives segment at NSE. The weight of each stock in the index is based on its free-float market capitalization. The index is reconstituted semi-annually and rebalanced quarterly. 

The Indian chemical industry is 6th largest producer globally, with over 80,0001 commercial products. The sector is witnessing robust growth driven by rising domestic demand, global supply chain shifts, and strong policy support. India’s competitive advantages in labour cost, R&D capabilities, and government incentives have positioned it as a preferred destination for global chemical manufacturing and investment.

Nilesh Shah, Managing Director, Kotak Mahindra AMC, commented on the launch: “India’s chemical sector is at a pivotal stage, driven by strong domestic demand, global supply chain realignment, and supportive government policies. As per NITI Aayog report, the Indian chemical sector is expected to reach USD 1 trillion by 2040. With the launch of the Kotak Nifty Chemicals ETF, we aim to provide investors with a transparent and cost-effective way to participate in this growth story” 

Devender Singhal, Executive Vice President & Fund Manager, Kotak Mahindra AMC added; “India is expected to account for more than 20% of the incremental global consumption for chemicals over next two decades2. Factors such as China +1, India’s strong R&D and technological capabilities, and continued government support would also drive demand. With the chemical sector currently trading at long-term average valuations, investors have a potential entry point to participate in this growth story with the Kotak Nifty Chemicals ETF.”

Source:

1. Source: IBEF Report, As per latest data available
2. Source: Mckinsey Report, March 2023

JMR Infotech Powers AI-Driven Compliance at Cooperative Bank of Oromia

JMR Infotech Powers AI & ML-Driven Compliance Transformation at Cooperative Bank of Oromia with Successful FCC Studio Go-Live

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia / Dubai, 24th October, 2025: JMR Infotech, a global leader in digital transformation and banking technology solutions, has successfully gone live with Oracle Financial Services Crime and Compliance Studio 8.1.2.7 (FCC Studio) at Cooperative Bank of Oromia (Coopbank).

This marks Phase 2 of JMR Infotech’s ongoing Financial Crime and Compliance Management (FCCM) engagement with Coopbank. The latest phase introduces Automatic Scenario Calibration (ASC) an AI and ML-powered system that automatically calibrates detection thresholds based on historical transaction data. ASC delivers optimized alerts across all scenario categories, reducing false positives, minimizing missed critical alerts, and enhancing operational efficiency. By analyzing alert patterns, ASC ensures a balance between risk coverage and workload management, empowering Coopbank to strengthen compliance, make informed decisions, and proactively manage financial crime risks at scale.

Shimelis Legesse, Chief Information Officer, Cooperative Bank of Oromia, said:
“This implementation is a key milestone in our compliance transformation journey. The solution enables us to manage financial crime risks more effectively while improving operational efficiency. We appreciate the dedication and expertise of JMR Infotech and Oracle throughout this project.”

Suresha Ramachandra Iyer, President & Head – Enterprise Risk and Analytics, JMR Infotech, added:
“The successful FCC Studio go-live reinforces our commitment to delivering intelligent, scalable, and practical compliance solutions. By leveraging AI and ML, Coopbank can optimize alerts, reduce false positives, and enhance operational efficiency — allowing the compliance team to focus on high-risk cases and proactively manage financial crime risks.”

This successful go-live underscores JMR Infotech’s focus on providing innovative, intelligent, and scalable compliance solutions that help banks meet evolving regulatory demands while driving digital transformation.

Celebrate Halloween at CUR8 & Copitas, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru

India, 22nd October, 2025: Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru invites guests to experience an extraordinary evening of celebration on Friday, October 31, 2025, as the hotel transforms into a spellbinding destination for Halloween 2025. Two distinct experiences await:  a family-friendly evening at CUR8, and a high-energy Día de Muertos party at Copitas, the hotel’s award-winning cocktail, first in the city to rank in Asia’s 50 best bar list. 

Halloween at CUR8
At CUR8, guests are welcomed into a whimsical world of flavour and festivity with a special themed buffet featuring signature dishes such as Herb Roast Turkey and Honey-Glazed Ham, complemented by spooky pastries and live music. The evening also includes a hotel-wide Trick-or-Treat trail, designed as an immersive, community-forward experience for children, offering delightful surprises from staff across the property. This enchanting family celebration blends the warmth of Four Seasons hospitality with the magic of Halloween, creating a memorable night for guests of all ages.

• Date: 31st October, 2025 
• Venues: CUR8, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru

Día de Muertos at Copitas
High above the city, Copitas channels the energy and colour of Mexico’s Día de Muertos. Expect Latin-inspired beats, a themed DJ set, and signature cocktails that put a creative spin on classic favourites. All weekend long, guests can soak in the electrifying ambience brought to life with dramatic décor inspired by the colourful Day of the Dead aesthetic. The bar’s décor and lively spirit make it the go-to address for Bengaluru’s most stylish Halloween celebration. 

• Date: 31st October to 2nd November, 2025 
• Venues: CUR8 and Copitas, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru
• Price: Special Halloween themed menu
• Reservations: +91 96064 87958

Whether seeking a night of family fun or an elevated soirée under the stars, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru offers the perfect stage for every kind of Halloween story blending fine cuisine, crafted cocktails, and immersive design to create a truly spooktacular evening.