Category Archives: Business

Federal Bank Strengthens its Deposits Portfolio with Annuity Deposit Product

Federal Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks, has unveiled a new term deposit product, Annuity Deposits, specifically designed for resident customers. This innovative product offers customers the opportunity to receive a stable income over a tenure ranging from 5 to 20 years. Customers can choose their preferred payout frequency – monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or yearly. Each payout will include a portion of the principal along with the interest earned. The product was officially launched by Shalini Warrier, Executive Director, Federal Bank in the presence of senior executives Eqbal Manoj (Branch Banking Head, Federal Bank), P. V. Joy (Country Head of Deposits, Wealth & Banca, Federal Bank) and Damodaran C, (Chief Risk Officer, Federal Bank).

Commenting on the launch, Shalini Warrier, ED and Business Head at Federal Bank, expressed enthusiasm about the Annuity Deposits, stating “ The bank has launched yet another innovative product for its customers. The Annuity deposit product gives opportunity to customers to earn a stable income for a very long tenure up to 20 years which is unique in the banking industry. At Federal Bank, we are committed to providing more customer-centric products that enable them to save and generate wealth”.

The minimum investment amount required to open an annuity deposit is Rs. 15,00,000, with a maximum limit of Rs. 2,00,00,000. Additionally, customers have the flexibility to prematurely close their accounts should any emergency need arise. This product is particularly well-suited for customers seeking a guaranteed, pension-like income for longer periods.

As AI Transforms Accounting, Professional Judgement is the Ultimate Advantage

Mumbai, February 28: Accounting professionals have an important role to play in supporting their organisations to achieve AI adoption and implementation, according to new research from leading global accountancy body, ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants).

According to the latest in the series of ACCA’s AI Monitor reports, Risk and responsibility, AI tools augment human capabilities while raising new questions about control, reliability and professional responsibility.

When it comes to classifying AI risks, a couple of immediate threats for many organisations relate to the significant amounts of investment being committed and either unrealistic expectations or poor judgement concerning the potential impact of integration.

While AI continues to promise huge potential, real value remains far more elusive and difficult to quantify.

ACCA believes success will come through combining traditional financial acumen with new forms of technological oversight to maintain the profession’s fundamental role as arbiters of trust and integrity. These capabilities don’t replace professional judgement, but underscore its importance.

Professional judgement and critical thinking will be fundamental to dealing with AI-generated insights. Demonstrating the application of professional expertise and documenting how decisions are made when using AI is important to support transparency and accountability.

Md. Sajid Khan, Director – India at ACCA said: ‘Safely introducing AI into how our organisations work and make decisions isn’t just about technology – it’s about redefining how we exercise things like professional judgement. As regulatory frameworks evolve and AI capabilities expand, success will depend on striking the right balance: leveraging AI’s analytical power while strengthening professional expertise.’

Alistair Brisbourne, head of technology research, ACCA, said: ‘Traditional concepts of materiality and professional scepticism are being reframed in the context of AI systems that can analyse entire datasets rather than samples during an audit, for example. This shift challenges accountants to think differently about risk assessment and the nature of professional evidence.’

While professionals don’t need to be technical experts, they need sufficient understanding to exercise appropriate judgement. Being an AI specialist in every application is impossible. Instead, the profession needs to develop consistent frameworks that ensure uniformity in language and practice across different projects and applications.

The report points out that accountants are uniquely positioned to harness AI’s potential while maintaining robust safeguards. But their role in AI risk management extends beyond traditional financial controls. Moving forward, their contribution must reflect a three-layered approach: data, architecture, and business impact.

Protein-Packed Plates, Radiant Smiles

28th February 2025: National Protein Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of protein in daily nutrition, especially in a country where 80% of Indians suffer from protein deficiency. As a brand committed to building a stronger India, Nutrela extended its flagship campaign, “India Ko Strong Banate Hain, Nutrela Khate Hain,” with an initiative to bring more smiles and empower our society with health and happiness.

Partnering with Robinhood Army, a volunteer-driven organization that provides nutrition to the underprivileged society by distributing fresh cooked food, Nutrela supported this noble deed and provided protein-rich meals to children in Delhi and Kolkata, ensuring that they receive the nourishment they need to grow strong and healthy.

This is only the beginning. With India’s high protein deficiency, Nutrela has been committed to spreading awareness and making high-protein food accessible through its range of 100% vegetarian protein-rich products through generations since the last 4 decades. This initiative reinforces its mission: to bring protein to every plate and a smile to every face.

“We believe that nutrition is the backbone of a strong and healthy India. Our partnership with Robinhood Army on National Protein Day is a step towards ensuring that protein-rich meals reach those who need them the most. Seeing the smiles on these children’s faces reinforces our commitment to spreading awareness about the importance of protein in daily diets. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier future for all.” – Team Nutrela

Haier Introduces India’s Unique Colourful Kinouchi ACs, Merging Style and Innovation

India, 27th February 2025: Haier Appliances India, the No. 1 global major appliances brand for 16 consecutive years, is setting a new benchmark in home cooling with the launch of its exclusive colourful range of Kinouchi Air Conditioners. Aimed at transforming modern homes, this premium series seamlessly blends avant-garde aesthetics with superior performance.

The Kinouchi Limited Edition air conditioners blend cutting-edge technology with premium colourful finish, redefining home aesthetics beyond just cooling. As Indian consumers become more design-conscious, they seek appliances that align with their lifestyle and personal taste. Keeping this in mind, Haier India introduces this exclusive range, offering a perfect combination of functionality and style, ensuring the air conditioners deliver outstanding efficiency while seamlessly enhancing the overall décor of the home.

Available in three sophisticated shades—Black, Morning Mist & Moonstone Grey—the Kinouchi series seamlessly integrates with diverse interiors, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize both performance and aesthetics. More than just high-performance cooling solutions, these newly launched Haier ACs serve as statement pieces that reflect modern lifestyle choices. With this launch, Haier India reaffirms its commitment to customer-inspired innovation, ensuring consumers no longer have to choose between efficiency and elegance—they can have both, perfectly complementing their stylish homes.

Commenting on the launch of the Kinouchi Air Conditioner series, Mr. NS Satish, President, Haier Appliances India, said, “At Haier India, prioritizing the evolving needs of consumers has always been fundamental to our ethos. As the only brand in India offering colourful range of Limited-Edition AC series, we continue to set industry benchmarks in premium aesthetics and advanced cooling solutions. The new Kinouchi Limited Edition reflects this commitment, offering premium design while ensuring efficient and unmatched cooling. Committed to creating customer-inspired innovations, all our air conditioners, including the latest Kinouchi Dark Edition, are manufactured in India and meticulously designed for the Indian market.”

Advanced Features for Superior Cooling & Efficiency

The Kinouchi Limited Edition AC is engineered to transform home cooling with its intelligent technology. Powered by AI-driven Supersonic Cooling, it delivers 20X faster cooling in just 10 seconds, even in extreme temperatures up to 60°C. Frost Self-Clean Technology ensures 99.9% sterilization, circulating clean air within minutes for a healthier indoor environment.

With HEXA Inverter Technology, the AC dynamically offers heavy duty performance based on real-time conditions, optimizing efficiency and ensuring long-term durability. The 20-metre-long air flow with Turbo mode provides uniform and powerful cooling across the room, creating a consistently comfortable environment.

House of Moksha: Experience the Path to Liberation

New Delhi, 27th January 2025 Moksha Aromatics is proud to announce the launch of the House of Moksha (HOM), a premium luxury perfumery that effortlessly blends Western sophistication, Middle Eastern opulence, and the timeless allure of Indian ingredients. Crafted with a commitment to sustainability, HOM offers vegan, cruelty-free fragrances developed using eco-friendly practices. Founded by two visionary brothers, Mr. Ashish Khandelwal and Mr. Kushank Rahul Gupta, with the aim of creating a legacy group of brands in the cosmetics and skincare industry, HOM delivers exceptional products with the highest quality and affordability. HOM is set to redefine the luxury fragrance industry with its meticulously curated scents and innovative formulations, establishing a new standard for ethical and artisanal perfumery.

 House of Moksha celebrates the art of perfumery through a harmonious blend of cultures, incorporating rare and natural Indian essential oils such as Mysore sandalwood, vetiver, and Himalayan saffron. By paying homage to India’s rich heritage while embracing global traditions, each perfume becomes a journey designed to evoke emotions, spark memories, and transport users to a state of “moksha”—ultimate bliss and liberation. With a vision to become a global pioneer in luxurious fragrances, HOM is dedicated to crafting scents that create deep emotional connections while celebrating cultural diversity.

 HOM’s exquisite range includes two standout collections:
● Oud Collection: Tobacco Oud, Vetiver Oud, Saffron Oud, Leather Oud, and Rose Oud.
● Signature Scents: Citrus Musk, Scarlet Love, Orchard Bloom, Aqua Terra, and Greek God.

 With over 15 years of experience in the fragrance industry, Ashish brings a wealth of expertise and an unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.“Fragrance is a silent yet powerful expression of one’s personality. At House of Moksha, we strive to craft scents that not only enhance individuality but also resonate with the soul, creating a lasting impression.” – Ashish Khandelwal, Founder, CEO & Creative Director of House of Moksha

 With a background in mechanical engineering and supply chain management with over 7+ years of experience in manufacturing and product development, Kushank has seamlessly combined technical precision with his lifelong passion for exclusive fragrances. “At House of Moksha, my goal is to create fragrances that transcend time, evoking cherished memories and unforgettable experiences. With a foundation in technical precision and a passion for exclusivity, I strive to craft scents that are not only exceptional in quality but also accessible to all, redefining the art of perfumery on a global scale.” – Kushank Rahul Gupta, Chief Operating Officer

 HOM fragrances will be available through the brand’s official online store www.houseofmoksha.com and select luxury retail outlets , making it convenient for customers to experience the magic of HOM from anywhere.

 HOM delivers unparalleled premium luxury with fragrances priced between Rs 2750 and Rs 3250 per bottle. This balance ensures that quality is accessible to fragrance enthusiasts seeking unique and memorable olfactory experiences.

 The brand is poised for growth, with plans to expand its product range, launch exclusive limited editions, and establish itself as a global luxury brand. Its commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and inclusivity ensures it will remain a leader in the evolving fragrance industry.

Welspun One Achieves Milestone with 100% Fund 2 Commitment, Introduces INR 1,000 Crore Co-Investment Program

Mumbai, February 27, 2025: : Within just eight months of its final close, Welspun One, India’s fastest-growing logistics and industrial (L&I) real estate manager, has successfully committed 100% of its Fund 2 – an INR 2000 crore fund, across nine Grade A assets. Fund 2 has secured a portfolio of highly differentiated, off-market opportunities in new-age warehousing assets – segments that are seeing increasing demand from occupiers and investors alike. These assets offer superior long-term returns compared to traditional warehousing, driven by evolving supply chain needs, rising e-commerce penetration, and a growing preference for tech-enabled, efficient logistics spaces.

Given the increasing scale and capital intensity of these investments, Welspun One is launching a co-investment program, targeting commitments of up to INR 1,000 crore, with strong visibility on INR 600 crore. This additional capital will provide Fund 2 with dry powder to tap into a ready pipeline of 5 million sq. ft., currently at advanced stages of closure. The fund’s portfolio is now expected to grow from its existing nine investments to potentially 14-15 investments.

With this expansion, Welspun One’s aggregate portfolio will grow to ~22 million sq. ft., generating a projected net operating income (NOI) of approximately INR ~1,100 crore ($130 million) upon completion, leading to an AUM of $1.3 billion (INR 11,050 crores). Fund 2 is also tracking a mark-to-market gross return of ~24% equity-IRR, underscoring the strong financial performance and value creation driven by Welspun One’s disciplined investment strategy. This milestone comes at a time when India’s logistics and industrial (L&I) sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of ~15% YoY over the next 2 years crossing ~590 million sq. ft. in 2027.

Over the years, Welspun One’s strategic investments in high-growth, new-age assets continue to set industry benchmarks. The company’s projects at JNPA and Thane have attracted significant leasing interest, reinforcing their position as premium logistics and business hubs. At JNPA, nearly 30% of the warehousing inventory is already pre-leased at premium rents of INR 55-60 per sq. ft., underscoring the project’s strategic location and high-quality infrastructure. Similarly, the WTC Thane development is seeing strong pre-leasing traction, with commitments nearing closure at benchmark rates of INR 130-135 per sq. ft. for urban logistics and INR 150-160 per sq. ft. for commercial use, reflecting its differentiated offering. Overall, leasing momentum across the portfolio is robust, with total leasing for FY 2024-25 expected to reach ~2.5 million sq. ft., whilst maintaining zero vacancy.

Anshul Singhal, Managing Director, Welspun One, commented: “The rapid commitment of Fund 2 reaffirms our ability to efficiently deploy capital, identify high-quality opportunities, and execute with discipline. At Welspun One, we are building an institutional-grade platform backed by a team with deep decadal expertise in investment, development, and asset management. The launch of our co-investment program is a natural extension of this strategy, allowing us to capitalize on large-scale opportunities while maintaining prudent diversification. As we scale, our focus remains on delivering best-in-class industrial real estate solutions that not only generate superior returns for our investors but also contribute meaningfully to India’s evolving logistics infrastructure.”

Gulf Oil Bolsters Marketing Team with Aarthy Sridhar’s Appointment as CMO

Mumbai, February 27, 2025 – Gulf Oil Lubricants India Ltd., a leading player in the lubricants industry, today announced the appointment of Ms. Aarthy Sridhar as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). With over 13 years of extensive experience in brand building and category leadership at Hindustan Unilever, Ms. Sridhar brings proven expertise in marketing strategy, portfolio transformation, and P&L management. In her new role, she will spearhead Gulf Oil’s marketing initiatives and brand strategy, driving the company’s continued transition towards becoming a marketing-driven organization.

Ms. Sridhar brings extensive FMCG expertise from her tenure at Hindustan Unilever, where she spearheaded strategic growth across multiple high-value portfolios including beauty, home care & ice creams. Her track record includes successful brand launches, category creation and driving premiumization and portfolio transformation across diverse brands such as Lakme, Surf excel, Comfort & Magnum.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Ravi Chawla, Managing Director & CEO of Gulf Oil Lubricants India Ltd., said, “We are excited to welcome Aarthy Sridhar to the Gulf family. Her deep FMCG expertise and proven success in brand building align perfectly with our marketing excellence agenda. In today’s rapidly changing industry landscape, where customer expectations are continuously evolving, she brings a fresh perspective that will accelerate our transition from traditional industrial marketing to a more dynamic, consumer-centric approach. Aarthy’s proven track record in brand architecture, product innovation, and strategic portfolio management will be instrumental in strengthening Gulf Oil’s market position and brand equity.”

Speaking about her new role, Ms. Aarthy Sridhar said, “I am delighted to begin my journey with Gulf Oil at this transformative time. Gulf Oil’s storied heritage combined with its progressive outlook presents immense potential for growth. I look forward to applying my consumer-centric experience to strengthen Gulf Oil’s market presence, foster innovation, and build sustainable growth through a comprehensive marketing approach.”

Ms. Sridhar holds an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA) and a B.Tech in Information Technology from V.J.T.I. Mumbai. Her consistent track record of business transformation and expertise in modern marketing approaches will be crucial in elevating Gulf Oil’s brand presence and market share in an evolving industry landscape.

Jio World Drive Partners with TIRA to Present ‘The Skin Affair’: A Luxe Beauty Experience

In an extraordinary fusion of luxury and wellness, Jio World Drive, Mumbai’s cultural epicenter, joins forces with TIRA to introduce ‘The Skin Affair’ – Mumbai’s most exquisite skincare festival gracing the city this March 8th and 9th. Set in BKC’s premier lifestyle destination at Jio World Drive, this curated beauty soirée redefines self-care, celebrating essential skincare rituals.

The event showcases 20+ skincare brands, featuring international sensations such as Youth To The People, Neutrogena, Pixi, and the Korean phenomenon Laneige, alongside cult-favorites like Beauty of Joseon and Cosrx. Beauty connoisseurs will discover revolutionary formulations from Allies of Skin juxtaposed with celebrated homegrown innovators Akind, Beauty by Bie, Minimalist, Plum, and Foxtale – creating an opportunity for both curious novices and sophisticated skincare virtuosos alike.

For those who equate good food with good skincare, The Skin Affair presents 10+ trailblazing, women-led culinary names. Indulge in delectable confections from Noa By The Nutcracker, MOTODO Pizzeria, Truefit Gourmet, The Gelato Bar, Wildflower Bakehouse, and more.

The Skin Affair is an immersive sensorial experience where sumptuous textures, intoxicating aromas, transformative ingredients, and electrifying performances come together to revolutionize beauty. The weekend features captivating performances programmed by Arré: All About Her, with a stellar lineup including Sumukhi Suresh, Vasudha Sehgal, DJ Suggahunny, W.I.S.H, Wild Wild Women, and more:

Visitors can unleash their creativity at 15 exquisitely designed DIY ateliers, featuring activities such as 3D Resin Art, LED Dried Flower Glass Jars, Calligraphy Art, DIY Candle Making, and more.

These hands-on experiences transform self-care into a multisensory delight, allowing attendees to craft, create, and connect. Beyond product exploration, The Skin Affair offers expert-led workshops on seasonal skincare, mindful beauty, and facial massage.

These intimate sessions simplify dermatology, helping attendees refine their routines with professional insights. What sets The Skin Affair apart is its inclusive spirit—an exclusive yet welcoming celebration of Women’s Day weekend with loved ones, including furry friends. Over two days, it reimagines self-care as a shared experience, where discovery, connection, and beauty come together. Book your tickets now!

Google Cloud and Glance Join Forces to Redefine Consumer Experiences with Generative AI on Lock Screens and Ambient TVs

Bangalore, Singapore, Sunnyvale, Calif., 27 February 2025 ‒ Consumer internet company, Glance, and Google Cloud today announced a strategic partnership to bring the power of generative AI (gen AI) to millions of Glance-enabled smartphones worldwide. Through this collaboration, Glance will leverage Google’s AI models to develop consumer-facing AI applications designed to enhance and enrich user experiences on smartphone lock screens and ambient TV screens.

Glance, a pioneer in delivering AI-powered smart lock screen experiences, currently powers more than 450 million Android-based smartphones worldwide. The company has an active user base of more than 300 million across India, Indonesia, Japan, the United States, and other countries. It is now building the next generation of Glance, which aims to turn every user’s lock screen into the center of their digital experiences, integrating their news, sports, games, entertainment, fashion, and shopping with gen AI to create a ‘personal internet’ for the user.

Glance will leverage Google Cloud’s Gemini intelligence capabilities and Imagen’s state of the art image generation capabilities via Vertex AI to power Glance’s next-gen experiences. One of the first experiences is an immersive, gen AI-enabled commerce feature for the lock screen. This feature allows users to upload a single image (selfie or upload from gallery), which is then analyzed to infer their interests and preferences. Users can then use gen AI to generate personalized images that place them in relevant contexts, transforming their lock screen wallpapers. As users visualize themselves with various products, they can make real-time purchase decisions seamlessly from their lock screens.

“Our mission at Glance is to inspire users to become the best version of themselves through discovery-led experiences on surfaces powered by AI. We want to be the world’s largest consumer tech platform, reaching a billion screens by 2028, and our partnership with Google Cloud is key,” said Naveen Tewari, Founder & CEO of InMobi & Glance. “Our combined knowledge, AI capabilities, and expertise uniquely position Glance to deliver the next level of AI-driven experiences for smartphone users, supported by viable business models such as commerce and advertising.”

The partnership comes as Glance prepares to launch ‘Glance AI,’ a gen AI-powered platform designed to deliver immersive discovery experiences on both smartphone lock screens and TV ambient screens. To be launched in the U.S. market first, Glance AI aims to supercharge ordinary smartphones into AI phones through experiences that redefine content and commerce.

Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud added, “Generative AI technologies have the power to transform experiences for people around the world, and mobile phones are a key touchpoint. Glance can now harness Google Cloud’s cutting-edge gen AI technologies to develop groundbreaking applications across commerce, content, and more that will unlock new possibilities for customers.”

Spring into Wellness: How Rasayanam Amla Juice Enhances Digestion and Detox

As spring unfolds with its promise of renewal and rejuvenation, it’s the perfect time to reset our health from the inside out. One of the most effective ways to support gut health during this seasonal transition is by incorporating Amla juice into your daily routine. Also known as Indian Gooseberry, Amla is a powerhouse of nutrients that aid digestion, enhance detoxification, and boost overall well-being.

The Importance of Gut Health in Spring

Spring is a season of renewal, and just as nature sheds the remnants of winter, our bodies also need a gentle detox. After indulging in heavy, warming foods during colder months, the digestive system may feel sluggish. This is where Amla juice comes in; it helps cleanse the gut, improve digestion, and prepare the body for the lighter, more vibrant foods of spring.

Rasayanam Amla Juice is crafted with the finest quality Indian Gooseberries, ensuring maximum potency and purity. Free from artificial additives and preservatives, it delivers a natural boost to digestion, immunity, and overall vitality. Whether you seek a daily wellness elixir or a seasonal detox aid, Rasayanam Amla Juice is an excellent choice to embrace the essence of spring with renewed energy.

Amla Juice: A Superfood for Digestion

Amla is packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a natural remedy for digestive concerns.

• Enhances Digestion: Amla stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, helping break down food efficiently and preventing bloating or acidity.
• Regulates Bowel Movements: The high fiber content in Amla juice promotes regularity, preventing constipation and supporting a healthy gut microbiome.
• Balances Stomach Acidity: Its alkaline nature helps neutralize excessive stomach acid, reducing the risk of acid reflux and indigestion.

Amla Juice for Detoxification

Spring is the ideal time to detoxify the body, and Amla juice serves as a natural cleanser by:

• Flushing Out Toxins: Its diuretic properties help eliminate toxins from the liver and kidneys, enhancing overall detoxification.
• Boosting Liver Function: Amla supports liver health by promoting the production of bile, which is crucial for fat digestion and toxin removal.
• Strengthening Immunity: With its high vitamin C content, Amla juice helps combat inflammation and supports the immune system in flushing out impurities.

“Amla is a timeless Ayurvedic remedy known for its incredible ability to rejuvenate the gut and overall health. Incorporating Rasayanam Amla juice into your daily routine during spring can help detoxify the body, enhance digestion, and restore balance from within,” says Ayush Aggarwal, Founder, Rasayanam.