Category Archives: Business

World’s Smallest Business Book Creates Buzz at World Book Fair 2025

New Delhi: The media buzzed with excitement, book lovers were pleasantly surprised, and business professionals eagerly awaited the unveiling. The atmosphere was charged with curiosity as Pendown Press proudly launched the World’s Smallest Business Book, titled “Top 10 Reasons Why You Must Write a Book”, at the World Book Fair 2025. As soon as the formal announcement was made, the hustle and bustle began. Amid the enthusiastic crowd, the author of this much-anticipated book, Mr. Dinesh Verma, who is also the Founder and CMD of Pendown Press, emerged on stage with his signature smile. With great fanfare, he officially launched the World’s Smallest Business Book, a game-changer in the realm of business communication.

A Revolutionary Concept: The New-Age Influential Business Card. Mr. Dinesh Verma shared the inspiration behind creating this unique book Today, you all have created your missile. However, as every missile needs a launcher to reach its target, you too need to develop insights on how to use this tool to its optimum potential in the market.”He continued, “Though this is presented to you in the form of a book, it is far more than just a book. It is a New-Age Influential Business Card.”

In his masterclasses, Mr. Verma emphasizes the power of handing out a book instead of a traditional business card. He explained how sharing a book can make a lasting impression, help build authority, and create deeper connections during networking events, seminars, and meetings. Solving a Common Business Challenge. However, some professionals expressed concerns about the practicality of always carrying full-sized books to events. Acknowledging this genuine challenge, Mr. Verma said:

“I started thinking—how can I solve this problem? After weeks of brainstorming, countless iterations, and permutations, I finally came up with what you see today: the World’s Smallest Business Book.” This pocket-sized book is designed to fit easily in a pocket or bag, making it convenient for professionals to carry and share at any time. It serves as a powerful marketing tool, helping business owners establish authority effortlessly.

Inspiring the Business Community. Mr. Verma concluded his address with an inspiring message: “I am truly blessed to have this wonderful opportunity to address you all from this prestigious platform on the very first day of the World Book Fair. Let us celebrate this occasion with joy, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the written word. I wish you all Grand World Book Fair Days ahead! Pendown Press: Leading the Way in Authority-Building

Pendown Press has long been recognized as a pioneer in helping business owners and professionals build authority through books. The launch of the World’s Smallest Business Book is yet another testament to their innovative approach to publishing.

Celebrate Love with Frederique Constant’s Timeless Timepieces

This Valentine’s Day, express your love with the gift of timeless elegance—Frederique Constant’s exquisite timepieces. A luxury watch is more than just an accessory; it’s a symbol of enduring love and impeccable craftsmanship.

Classic Worldtimer Manufacture – For Him

Now available in a striking forest green, the Classic Worldtimer Manufacture expands its legacy of refined style. Housed in a 42mm steel case (limited to 718 pieces), it features a world map dial, date window, and a luxurious dark green leather strap. The in-house caliber effortlessly tracks 24 time zones, all adjusted via the crown, making it the perfect companion for the modern gentleman.

Highlife Ladies Quartz – For Her

Expanding the flagship Highlife collection, the new ladies’ Quartz models combine elegance and innovation. Featuring a slim 31mm case with a 5-year battery life, the collection includes five stunning variations—ranging from a mother-of-pearl dial to sunburst dials with diamond accents. Each timepiece comes with two straps: a steel or steel-and-gold bracelet and a matching rubber strap, offering versatility for any occasion.

Celebrate love with Frederique Constant and make this Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable.

Union Budget 2025-26 Boosts Tourism with Infrastructure Support & Connectivity Push

Mr. Kahraman Yigit, Co-founder & CEO of Olive by Embassy.

“The Union Budget 2025-26 recognizes tourism as a key driver of employment-led growth and extending infrastructure benefits to hotels in 50 select destinations is a welcome move. The sector anticipated infrastructure status, GST reforms, tourism incentives, and increased investment in travel infrastructure to drive growth and ease financial access. The focus on spiritual and medical tourism, visa waivers, and regional connectivity through the UDAN scheme will further boost domestic and international travel, unlocking new opportunities for the hospitality sector. At Olive by Embassy, we see these initiatives as a step toward creating a more vibrant, accessible, and investment-friendly ecosystem for hospitality in India.”

Please find below the company profile and spokesperson’s profile for your reference.

Olive by Embassy:

Introduced in 2019, Olive by Embassy is the co-living and hospitality wing of the Embassy Group. Olive is a multi-brand hospitality tech operating platform with multiple revenue avenues from management, design, and technology.

Olive’s vision is to organize & institutionalize the accommodation market in India and beyond. The company’s mission is to become the largest hospitality company in India.

The company is currently present in 42 locations across Bengaluru, and Goa, with 1,921 keys, and is aiming to add another 4,500+ keys within the next 12 months, including entry into new markets like Mumbai and Hyderabad.

Currently, Olive runs four brands — Olive Life, Olive Zip, Olive Hotel, and Select Olive — ranging from co-living and budget stays to luxury resorts, hotels, and villas. Each Olive property operates in both short-term and long-term stay formats while providing the comfort of the home as well as the flexibility of a hotel.

Olive by Embassy aims to become the next-gen living community in India.

Expectation 2025 Startup Sector & VC Healthcare

Sushanto Mitra, CEO, Lead Angels

“The Union Budget 2025-26 takes promising steps to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem with a dedicated Startup Fund of Funds and enhanced credit guarantees for SMEs, improving capital access and fostering innovation. The National Manufacturing Mission creates new opportunities for startups aligned with ‘Make in India.’ Simplified regulations and reduced income tax will ease compliance burdens, allowing founders to focus on scaling their businesses while managing salary costs more effectively. However, broader tax incentives for startup investors could have further boosted capital inflows. We look forward to policy refinements that drive sustained entrepreneurial growth.”

— Hanuman Tripathi, Partner – Fintech, Lead Angels

“The Union Budget 2025-26 is a boost for startup founders, strengthening ease of doing business and improving access to capital. The dedicated Startup Fund of Funds and enhanced SME credit guarantees will help founders secure much-needed funding, while streamlined regulations reduce compliance burdens. The focus on manufacturing through the National Manufacturing Mission also creates new opportunities for startups aligned with ‘Make in India.’ With these measures, founders can spend less time navigating red tape and more time building and scaling their ventures. This is a step in the right direction for India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

Dr. Apurba Ganguly, Founder, Chairman & Chief Scientist Officer – Nano Phyto Care & bioGAN

The 2025 Budget underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and accessibility. At VarcoLegCare, we welcome the increased allocation towards digital health initiatives, preventive care, and medical R&D. These measures will enhance patient outcomes and drive innovation in the sector. The emphasis on public-private partnerships aligns with our mission to deliver advanced, patient-centric solutions. We remain dedicated to leveraging these opportunities to expand quality healthcare access, particularly in underserved areas. This budget is a step forward in building a resilient, technology-driven healthcare ecosystem for a healthier future.

Abhi Sinha, Co-Founder, HealSpan

The 2025 Budget highlights a progressive approach to healthcare and insurance technology, reinforcing the need for digital transformation in the sector. At HealSpan, we applaud the government’s focus on expanding health coverage, AI-driven diagnostics, and interoperability of medical records. The push for insurtech innovation and greater accessibility to affordable policies will empower millions. Strengthening data security frameworks will also ensure patient trust in digital healthcare solutions. This budget paves the way for a more inclusive, tech-enabled ecosystem, and we remain committed to leveraging these advancements to enhance seamless, efficient, and personalized healthcare experiences for all.

Budget 2025: Prashant Thacker’s Reaction on Fiscal Measures

Prashant Thacker, Partner at Thacker & Associates (CA Firm)

“This Budget strikes a balance between immediate tax relief and long-term structural reforms that will shape India’s economic path. The no income tax announcement up to ₹12 lakh is a transformative move, directly benefiting millions of salaried individuals and significantly boosting disposable income. This step is expected to stimulate private consumption, which is already a key pillar of India’s GDP, accounting for nearly 60% of economic activity.

On the corporate front, the rationalization of TDS and TCS addresses long-standing compliance challenges, making tax administration more efficient and reducing friction for businesses. The introduction of a three-year block approach for transfer pricing aligns India with global best practices, providing multinational companies with greater certainty and encouraging further investment in the country.By simplifying merger approvals, widening the fast-track merger framework, and expanding safe harbor provisions, the Budget takes meaningful steps toward reducing regulatory bottlenecks.

The government’s continued push for the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in Gujarat, with incentives now extending to shipbuilding, ship leasing, and global treasury operations, signals India’s intent to strengthen its presence in international finance. This will make India a competitive player in the global financial ecosystem, challenging established hubs like Singapore and Dubai. Similarly,increasing the FDI cap in insurance from 74% to 100% is a strategic decision that encourages foreign investment while ensuring that premiums remain within the country—a balanced approach to attracting global capital without risking domestic outflows.
Beyond taxation, the ₹10 lakh crore asset monetization plan offers a structured financing model for infrastructure projects, particularly through the sale of road assets. This initiative is expected to unlock significant capital for infrastructure development, creating jobs and driving economic growth. Overall, this Budget does not merely introduce incremental changes—it lays the groundwork for a more streamlined and investment-driven economy.”

Union Budget 2025: A Game Changer for MSMEs and Startups

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025 which includes important steps to support India’s MSME sector and startup ecosystem. The government has launched a number of financial programs, credit facilitation initiatives, and incentives that aim to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation in the nation in recognition of their significance as important engines of economic growth.

Enhancing Startup Development with a ₹10,000 Crore Fund of Funds

The additional ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds for entrepreneurs is one of the budget’s most notable announcements. By addressing the enduring problem of financial availability, this action seeks to empower both new and established companies to expand their operations and spur innovation.

Mr. Roshan Aslam, Co-founder & CEO of GoSats, views this as a pivotal move for the startup landscape, stating, “The Union Budget 2025 outlines a clearly defined future for India’s growing startup ecosystem by extending critical policies. The announcement of an additional ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds will be a critical boost for the growth of India’s startup ecosystem in FY 25-26. As the investment limit for MSME classifications are made 2.5 times and the turnover limits doubled, this will help the financial viability of startup businesses in the country. As easier credit lines are extended to MSMEs, it will provide the essential confidence to grow and generate employment opportunities, directly contributing towards the growth of the Indian economy.”

This infusion of funds will play a crucial role in encouraging risk-taking, technological advancements, and sustainable business models, helping Indian startups make a mark on the global stage.

Diversity and Financial Inclusivity in Entrepreneurship

The budget’s emphasis on advancing equality and diversity in the entrepreneurial ecosystem is another admirable feature. More fair prospects in the industry are anticipated as a result of a new program designed to assist SC and ST business owners and first-time female entrepreneurs.

Mr. Ravi Mittal, Founder and CEO of QuackQuack, welcomed this initiative, stating, “The Union Budget 2025-2026 takes a strong step toward strengthening India’s startup ecosystem with the additional ₹10,000 crore Fund of Funds. Access to capital remains one of the biggest obstacles for emerging businesses, and this fresh infusion of funds will provide critical support for startups to innovate, expand, and create jobs. Additionally, the new scheme for first-time women, SC, and ST entrepreneurs is a commendable move toward fostering inclusivity and diversity in the entrepreneurial landscape. At QuackQuack, we understand the challenges of building something from the ground up, and we believe such initiatives will empower more founders to take bold steps toward their dreams.”

By ensuring financial assistance to underrepresented groups, the government is promoting a level playing field and encouraging a broader range of entrepreneurs to contribute to the economy.

Increased Credit Access and Investment Limits Give MSMEs a Big Push

This budget has significantly increased the MSME sector, which is sometimes considered to be the foundation of India’s economy. Businesses can now more easily qualify as MSMEs and receive related benefits thanks to the 2.5-fold rise in investment classification limitations and the doubling of turnover standards.

Mr. Jigar Kirtibhai Patel, Managing Director of G3+ Fashion, emphasized the impact of these measures, stating, “The Union Budget 2025’s forward-looking perspective to support Indian MSMEs is a commendable initiative as these businesses account for over 45% of the country’s total exports. The budget positions Indian MSMEs with enhanced scalability prospects, technological upgradation, capital accessibility, investment, and turnover growth—contributing towards their long-term success. As MSMEs grow, they will also provide millions of new employment opportunities for Indian youth, directly impacting India’s per capita GDP going forward, helping to meet the country’s target to become a developed nation by 2047.”

With easier access to credit, these enterprises can now focus on expansion, digital transformation, and innovation, which in turn will generate employment and strengthen India’s economic foundation.

Electronics Sector Gets a Major Boost
Apart from startups and MSMEs, the budget has also introduced incentives for the electronics industry. The reduction of customs duty on open cells and other critical electronic components to 5% is expected to encourage local manufacturing and make electronic products more affordable.

Mr. Prashant Bora, MD & CEO of OTEK (A Bora Multicorp Venture), highlighted the significance of these measures, saying, “The FM’s proposal to reduce the customs duty on open cells and other critical electronics components to 5% will help boost the Make in India initiative. This will help electronics brands to support customers with more cost-effective pricing, leading to enhanced scalability and growth. Furthermore, the budget’s emphasis on positioning India’s aspirations to become a global electronics hub through the production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes for electronics and IT hardware manufacturing, further boosted by PM Narendra Modi’s target of $500 billion by FY30, coupled with the government’s bid to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem with an additional INR 10,000 crore Fund of Funds will be a catalyst for growth going forward.”

The government’s commitment to supporting India’s MSMEs and startups through improved funding, easier access to finance, and sector-specific incentives is reaffirmed in the Union Budget 2025. A more robust and globally competitive business ecosystem is made possible by these policies, which promote innovation, inclusivity, and economic growth. India is getting closer to its goal of being a $5 trillion economy and a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship as companies use these policies to expand.

Budget 2025: Tarun Chugh’s Insights on Insurance Sector

1. Overall view on Budget, 2025:

•  “The Union Budget 2025-26 demonstrates a balanced and strategic approach towards India’s continued economic development. It effectively lays out a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable growth while maintaining fiscal prudence – a crucial balance needed at this juncture of our nation’s progress.
•  The government’s enhanced focus on GYAN (Garib, Yuva, Annadata, and Nari Shakti) is particularly commendable, as it addresses core segments that form the backbone of our economy. The targeted interventions in agriculture, healthcare, investments, exports, and MSME, show promise in boosting rural income and creating new opportunities. These sector-specific initiatives are likely to contribute significantly to our country’s overall economic resilience.
•  We anticipate positive outcomes from the proposed income tax rates, particularly the advantage extended to middle class individuals earning up to ₹12 lakhs. This reform reflects the government’s commitment to supporting the middle class while maintaining a progressive tax structure.
•  From a life insurance industry perspective, the increase in FDI limits in the insurance sector is positive in attracting fresh capital inflows that will enhance industry competitiveness, drive innovation, and expand insurance accessibility. As government initiatives boost income levels across Bharat, we expect to see increased financial awareness and capability among citizens to invest in their long-term financial security. This aligns perfectly with our mission at Bajaj Allianz Life to extend life protection to every Indian household in alignment with Government’s vision of insurance for all by 2047.
•  The government’s strong push for rural development, including increased investment in agri-infrastructure, digital connectivity, and financial empowerment, will create a more conducive environment for financial security solutions. As rural incomes rise and financial awareness deepens, the demand for life insurance is expected to grow, ensuring better protection for families across Bharat. At Bajaj Allianz Life, we remain committed to leveraging these enabling conditions to expand insurance accessibility and provide comprehensive financial protection to individuals across the country.”

2) Impact of new tax regime on business:

•  “Over the years, customers have become more financially aware and no longer view life insurance solely as a tax-saving tool. They recognize its value as a powerful and versatile financial instrument for long-term security. With the industry continuously innovating and reinventing itself with simple and relevant products, life insurance is naturally becoming an integral part of their financial portfolios.
•  The regulator has also introduced a slew of reforms to ensure there’s increased awareness, accessibility and affordability. They are all directed towards customers getting optimum value from life insurance products. Therefore, customers are increasingly looking beyond just tax benefits when purchasing life insurance and this should not impact the life insurance sector.”

3) Change in definition of capital assets with respect to ULIPs:

•  “The proposed clarification on ULIP taxation is a welcome step towards greater transparency and consistency in tax treatment. ULIPs where aggregate annual premium is less than ₹2.5 lakhs and do not qualify for exemption under Section 10(10D) are now proposed to be defined as capital assets and taxed as capital gains instead of applicable slab tax rates.
•  This shift from taxation under ‘income from other sources’ to capital gains brings more clarity and fairness, reinforcing ULIPs as a compelling long-term investment option. We view this as a progressive move that will enhance customer confidence and encourage disciplined financial planning. At Bajaj Allianz Life, we remain committed to offering innovative insurance and investment solutions that align with evolving regulations and policyholder needs.”

4) Change in FDI Limits:

•  “The Union Budget has clearly focused on driving consumption led growth and foster inclusive development. A key highlight is the increase in the FDI limit in the insurance sector from 74% to 100%, a move set to bring in fresh capital and bolster the industry’s financial strength. The decision reflects the government’s continued commitment to making India a prime investment hub for stable, long-term capital.
•  Greater foreign participation, will accelerate the adoption of global best practices, introduce innovative products, and elevate customer service standards. Additionally, the mandate to invest premiums within India ensures that these funds contribute to domestic economic growth and infrastructure development.
•  The next five years present a significant and an exciting opportunity to propel the industry forward onto greater heights.

Budget 2025: Rs 25,000 Crore for Maritime Development – Swan Defence

Vivek Merchant, Director, Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited:

“The Union Budget 2025-26 sends a strong message about India’s ambitions in shipbuilding and maritime infrastructure. The ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund is a game-changer, signaling the government’s serious intent to make India a global hub for shipbuilding. This investment, coupled with the push for port-led development and logistics efficiency, will drive growth for companies like ours. The ₹1.5 trillion allocation for infrastructure development is another positive step, ensuring better connectivity for shipyards and ports, which is crucial for scaling up operations.

However, the industry still needs policy reforms that encourage private sector participation and reduce dependency on imports for critical components. A clear roadmap for defence shipbuilding and incentives for indigenous manufacturing will further strengthen India’s maritime ambitions. The increased defence budget allocation and emphasis on modernization present a significant opportunity for private players in the defence sector. Encouraging strategic partnerships and fostering a robust domestic ecosystem for naval defence manufacturing will be key to enhancing India’s self-reliance in maritime security.

At Swan Defence and Heavy Industries, we are excited about these developments and look forward to leveraging these opportunities to contribute to India’s self-reliance in shipbuilding, maritime defence, and overall strategic capability.”

Budget 2025: Empowering Farmers & Strengthening Supply Chains

Rohit Mehrotra, Co-founder of Organic Tattva:

The budget announced today opens on a positive note with a focus on empowering farmers. Agricultural reforms aiming to strengthen supply chains, promote balanced nutrition, and enhance food security, & indirectly curbing long-term food inflation. This will support lower yields, boosting financial sector resilience to better sustain the broader economy. The launch of six-year mission to increase pulses and cotton production, will help to reduce import dependency. The inclusion of enhanced credit guarantee coverage for small and medium enterprises and an 8% increase in subsidies for food, fertilizer, cooking gas and infrastructure development aims to boost agricultural productivity, support farmer’s financial well-being.

Budget 2025: Tax Relief Boosts Middle Class – Manappuram

 

Mr. V. P. Nandakumar, MD & CEO at Manappuram Finance Ltd

“As Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished, Goddess Lakshmi has blessed the middle class, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announcing a large-sized tax relief for this burgeoning population segment in her eighth consecutive budget. The income tax exemption up to ₹12 lakh per annum makes immense economic sense. The tax reduction will put significant amounts of money into the hands of the middle class, whose propensity to consume and save is very high. This will considerably boost private final consumption and household savings, which will add to economic momentum.
It must be remembered that the shrinking Private Final Consumption Expenditure, was the main factor behind the moderation in economic growth in the recent months.”