Category Archives: Business

Ashwin Sharma Named Cluster Marketing Director for Fairmont & Raffles Jaipur

8th July 2025: Fairmont & Raffles Jaipur announce the appointment of Ashwin Sharma as the new Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications. Ashwin brings over 17 years of experience in marketing and brand strategy across hospitality, media, and advertising.

In this role, Ashwin will lead integrated marketing and communication efforts across both Fairmont and Raffles Jaipur. He will focus on strengthening brand presence, enhancing guest engagement, and driving commercial growth. With a strategic approach to storytelling and a deep understanding of evolving consumer expectations, he aims to build a unified brand narrative that resonates across key domestic and international markets.

Ashwin’s career includes roles at Madison Creative, Ogilvy India, Zee Entertainment, and Havas Play (formerly Cake Group India), where he worked across a range of sectors to build integrated, impactful campaigns. He also led the marketing strategy for the launch of Pullman & Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, part of the Accor group, helping position the dual property as a prominent player in the capital’s hospitality landscape.

Rajat Sethi, General Manager, Fairmont Jaipur, stated, “Ashwin’s combination of strategic insight and creative vision makes him a strong addition to the team. His understanding of the hospitality landscape and evolving consumer mindset will be instrumental as we continue to shape the identity of Fairmont and Raffles Jaipur.”

Commenting on his appointment, Ashwin Sharma said, “Fairmont and Raffles Jaipur represent a unique blend of heritage and contemporary elegance. I look forward to building on their legacy and shaping compelling narratives that connect with guests and reinforce the brand’s presence in luxury hospitality.”

Ashwin’s appointment reinforces the distinct positioning of both hotels in India’s luxury hospitality space and reflects a continued commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

AirAsia to Become First Low-Cost Global Narrow-Body Carrier with 70 A321XLRs

Mumbai, 8th July 2025 – AirAsia Berhad, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Capital A Berhad, signed a landmark agreement with Airbus valued at USD12.25 billion for 50 A321XLRs with rights for 20 A321XLRs. With this agreement, the airline takes a major step towards becoming the world’s first low-cost narrow-body network carrier, anchored by its multi-hub strategy. The aircraft are scheduled for delivery commencing 2028 through 2032.

Witnessed by Prime Minister of Malaysia YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the agreement was signed today in Paris between Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, and Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft.

Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and Advisor & Steward of AirAsia Group said: “We pioneered low-cost travel in Asia – now, we are taking it to the next level. AirAsia is on a transformative journey to become the world’s first low-cost network carrier. This is about exponential growth, connecting geographies beyond Asean, and making flying even more democratic. We gave people in Asean the opportunity to explore Asia – now we want the world to see Asean, and Asean to see the world. The A321XLR and A321LR are the game-changers enabling this vision, and we are proud to lead the charge in making our world smaller. We can’t wait to paint the skies even wider in red.”

Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus said: “We are pleased to confirm this agreement, as AirAsia Group begins its next development chapter. Having resumed its growth trajectory, which we salute and support, the airline is creating solid fleet efficiencies, allowing global network expansion. The A321XLR unlocks new opportunities for AirAsia to launch non-stop flights linking primary and secondary cities all around the globe.”

The next-generation A321XLRs will operate alongside AirAsia’s all-Airbus fleet of A320 Family and A330 aircraft, supporting its long-term strategy to deliver unmatched connectivity across Asia and beyond, while maintaining a low-cost model through improved route economics, enhanced aircraft utilisation and fleet efficiency. AirAsia Group aims to carry 150 million guests annually by 2030, reaching a cumulative total of 1.5 billion guests since inception.

The new fleet plays a pivotal role in this transformation. AirAsia’s multi-aircraft strategy enables the airline to match capacity with demand, reduce fuel consumption, and support a sustainable, cost-effective growth model in a highly competitive global landscape. The A321XLR also offers up to 20 per cent lower fuel burn per seat than the Airbus A321neo aircraft, significantly improving emissions performance and operating efficiency.

Oakley Launches ‘Artifacts from the Future’ Campaign with Shubman Gill

India, July 08, 2025: Oakley, the global leader in sports performance eyewear, today announced the launch of its new campaign, ‘Artifacts from the Future’, featuring India’s Test Captain and rising icon, Shubman Gill. The campaign marks a new chapter for Oakley, introducing the next generation of performance-driven Products, designed for 2075 and delivered to 2025, all within the signature language that has defined Oakley for five decades.

As a brand rooted in legacy that goes beyond sports to influence culture and push boundaries, Oakley continues to accelerate what’s next. With Shubman Gill leading the way, the campaign embodies Oakley’s bold spirit – celebrating innovation, confidence, and a vision for the future.

The film features Gill wearing two key products, Plantaris and Lateralis. Plantaris is a high-wrap piece of future-facing art created to become an artifact in years to come. Engineering the eyewear was a process of natural selection, shaped by the creature-inspired aesthetics that form a visual code for Oakley. Its flexible silicone rear stem channels the raw power of a frog mid-leap, mimicking the muscle that drives its motion. Complementing it is high-wrap eyewear, Lateralis, a heritage-inspired, future-ready silhouette.

Talking about the association, Sahil Jandial, Senior Brand Business Manager at Oakley India, shared, “2025 is our 50-year anniversary. Fifty years into a legacy of transforming innovation into cultural icons, Oakley® is writing a new chapter. Artifacts from the Future represents how Oakley pushes the boundaries on design, while staying true to its roots. With Shubham Gill now spearheading Oakley’s philosophy, he embodies the spirit of performance at the highest level, with style and precision – not just as a remarkable athlete, but as a powerful force across social culture and sports.”

Commenting on the campaign, Shubman Gill shared, “Through this campaign and with Oakley, we want to show that the future isn’t a far-off idea but something that we’re working towards. These designs feel like they’re made for a future set in 2075, but in fact they’re here with us today – combining Oakley’s legendary innovation with a bold, fresh look. I’m really excited to be part of this incredible journey that’s all about pushing limits and inspiring people to keep growing, whether on the field or in life”

Behind this creative vision is Brandmovers India, who captured the essence of a futuristic world in stunning visuals and motion graphics. Suvajyoti Ghosh, founder and chief creative officer at Brandmovers India shared their thought process behind the campaign saying, “The brief this year fascinated us from the get-go with its possibilities. With a range that’s called ‘Artifacts from the Future’ we knew we had to build a whole world around the product itself and it was very exciting to dive into the process. It’s not everyday that you get an opportunity to explore futurism in Indian advertising, so much credit to the Oakley team to make this leap and taking us along in the journey.”

With this campaign, Oakley marks a shift embracing a new era where performance meets perspective. After decades of groundbreaking innovation, Oakley invites you to step into the future with these cutting-edge styles, available now at Oakley.com and select Oakley stores and partners worldwide.

Tata Steel’s Noamundi, Joda East and Khondbond Mines Receive Star Rating Awards for Sustainable Practices

Chandigarh, July 8, 2025: Tata Steel’s Noamundi Iron Mine, Joda East Iron Mine, and Khondbond Iron and Manganese Mine were honoured with the prestigious Star Rating Awards by the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, in a felicitation ceremony held at the Rajasthan International Centre, Jaipur, Rajasthan, on Monday.

The Company’s Noamundi Iron Mine in Jharkhand won the 7-Star Rating Award, becoming one of the three mines in India to receive this honour. It is for the first time, since the Awards’ inception in 2016, that mines have been awarded a 7-Star Rating, recognising their extraordinary efforts in the field of scientific and sustainable mining. Noamundi iron mine has been receiving a 5-Star Rating every year since inception of the coveted award in 2016. Joda East has been rated a 5-Star mine for the fourth time while Khondbond Iron and Manganese Mine received its maiden 5-Star Rating Award.

The Star Rating system, awarded by the Ministry of Mines, assesses mining operations based on operational efficiency, environmental management, safety standards, community engagement, and sustainable practices.

G Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Minister of Coal and Mines, Government of India, Bhajan Lal Sharma, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Rajasthan and Satish Chandra Dubey, Hon’ble Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Government of India, graced the occasion. Atul Kumar Bhatnagar, General Manager, OMQ, and D Vijayendra, Chief, Noamundi, received the award for the Noamundi Iron Mine. Similarly, Rajesh Kumar, Chief, Joda, received the award for the Joda East Iron Mine. G V Satyanarayana, Chief, Khondbond, and Awnish Kumar, Chief, Planning, OMQ, received the award for the Khondbond Mine.

“Tata Steel strives to follow innovative and responsible mining practices, contributing to mineral conservation, environmental protection, and community development. This award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainable mining for a greener and more inclusive future,” said Sandeep Kumar, Vice President, Raw Materials, Tata Steel Limited.

Tata Steel have been an industry leader in implementing cutting-edge technologies and industry-best mining practices to achieve benchmark performance across its mining operations. The Company’s CSR initiatives in its mining regions focus on education and skill development, health and sanitation, livelihood, and overall welfare of proximate communities.

Federal Bank Powers Digital Donations at Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple

Federal Bank is proud to announce the successful enablement of digital donation payments for Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, marking a historic milestone as the first temple in Kerala to go live on the Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS) under the ‘Donations’ category of NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India).

 This integration now allows devotees to make offerings through any UPI-enabled app, including Federal Bank’s Mobile Banking App, GooglePay, PhonePe, BHIM UPI, and more. The facility offers a safe, seamless, and convenient way for devotees across the globe to participate in temple donations—anytime, anywhere. 

Speaking on the initiative, M V S Murthy, Chief Marketing Officer, Federal Bank said, “We are honoured to be part of this significant step in the digital transformation of temple donations. Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple now becomes a pioneer in Kerala by embracing a platform under BBPS. Technology makes in convenient to express gratitude. The human at the core, is supported by digital at the fore.”

O B Arun Kumar, Guruvayur Devaswom Board Administrator said, “We are happy to be the first temple in Kerala to have embraced this technology to enable all devotees from across the World to offer their offerings from anywhere in the world to Guruvayur temple on special occasions or new beginnings.”

This collaboration not only modernizes religious contributions but also reflects Federal Bank’s commitment to making digital banking accessible and meaningful across all sectors, including India’s revered cultural and spiritual institutions.

IIT Bombay and ICICI Foundation partner for expansion of biomedical innovation hub

Mumbai: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay and ICICI Foundation for Inclusive Growth (ICICI Foundation), the CSR arm of ICICI Bank, have forged a partnership to expand the biomedical innovation hub at the country’s premier technology and engineering institute. Under this partnership, ICICI Foundation has pledged ₹70 crore to set up additional floors at the Biomedical Engineering and Technology Innovation Centre (BETIC) at IIT Bombay and equip this area with advanced facilities.

The MoU was signed by Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay and Mr. Sanjay Datta, President, ICICI Foundation in presence of Mr. Pradeep Kumar Sinha, Chairman, ICICI Bank.

The new floors, named ‘IIT-ICICI BETIC Hub’, will significantly expand IIT Bombay’s capabilities in biomedical engineering, increasing its space five-fold to 19,700 sq. ft. The hub will foster collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and industry leaders to develop affordable, cutting-edge medical devices and diagnostic solutions. It will be equipped with state-of-the-art resources for product development, medical grade manufacturing, safety testing, inspection, and packaging. This enhanced ecosystem will support med-tech startups and companies, train professionals in healthcare innovation, and generate high-value jobs, ultimately benefiting millions of patients.

Speaking on the collaboration, Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay, said, “This partnership exemplifies how industry-academia alliances can drive innovation towards real-world impact. With ICICI Foundation’s generous support, IIT Bombay is poised to revolutionise biomedical research and technology, addressing critical healthcare gaps in India, fostering home-grown solutions that are accessible, affordable, and scalable.”

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Pradeep Kumar Sinha, Chairman, ICICI Bank, said, “Healthcare is a key focus at ICICI Foundation’s CSR initiatives. India’s unique healthcare challenges — high disease burden, vast rural populations, and affordability constraints—demand indigenous innovations in biomedical, tailored to its needs. Homegrown advancement will not only reduce dependency on imports but also foster cost-effective, cutting-edge medical solutions that can empower healthcare professionals and benefit millions across the country. The partnership between ICICI Foundation and IIT Bombay aims to meet this objective. The ‘IITB-ICICI BETIC Hub’ will facilitate the development of indigenous medical innovations ensuring affordable healthcare solutions to patients. We are delighted to collaborate with IIT Bombay to drive a meaningful change in the healthcare ecosystem.” 

So far, ICICI Foundation has positively impacted over 2.5 million lives to receive treatment in 550 hospitals across the country through its initiatives in the healthcare sector. This includes building capacity in curative care, including cancer care, cardiac care, eye care, trauma and emergency care.

Satin Creditcare Network Ltd. Continues Board Strengthening Journey with the Appointment of Two New Independent Directors

New Delhi, July 8 2025: Satin Creditcare Network Limited (SCNL), one of India’s leading microfinance institutions, has announced the appointment of two distinguished professionals, Mr. Ashok Kumar Sharma and Mr. Anupam Kunal Gangaher, as Independent Directors to its Board. Their appointments are for a period of three (3) consecutive years, effective June 27, 2025, and are subject to shareholder approval at the upcoming Annual General Meeting.

The addition of Mr. Sharma and Mr. Gangaher reaffirms SCNL’s commitment to maintaining strong governance and strategic oversight. It also marks the continuation of the board-strengthening efforts initiated in 2024 with the onboarding of Independent Directors Mr. Joydeep Datta Gupta (June 2024) and Ms. Jyoti Davar Vij (September 2024). With these new appointments, SCNL remains focused on building a diverse and experienced Board to guide its long-term vision and growth.

The new appointees include:

Mr. Ashok Kumar Sharma Mr. Ashok Kumar Sharma is a former Executive Director of the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), where he held a wide range of leadership and operational roles over nearly four decades. He brings with him over 40 years of rich experience in India’s financial services sector, spanning insurance, banking, capital markets, venture capital, and regulatory frameworks. Following his retirement, he joined the LIC IPO as an Advisor, contributing to one of India’s most significant public offerings. He also served as Director & CEO at LICHFL Asset Management Company Ltd. for more than four years, where he led the operations and strategic direction of its Real Estate Fund, focusing on investment strategy, compliance and investor confidence. In addition, he was associated with IDBI Bank as General Manager from October 2022 to March 2024, contributing to key areas such as regulatory oversight, banking operations, and stakeholder engagement.

Mr. Anupam Kunal Gangaher is a seasoned Chartered Accountant with over 40 years of experience in audit, taxation, and financial advisory. A graduate of Delhi University and proprietor of A.K. Gangaher & Co., he has advised Indian and multinational clients across sectors including manufacturing, trading, hospitality, exports, software, and financial services. His core expertise lies in direct and indirect taxation, transfer pricing, and non-resident taxation, with extensive experience representing clients before statutory authorities.

The induction of these two accomplished professionals represents another pivotal step in Satin’s journey towards building a world-class governance framework. Combined with the Company’s recent board enhancements and its ‘AA’ ESG rating from ESG Risk Assessments and Insights Ltd., these appointments demonstrate SCNL’s sustained commitment to exceptional environmental, social, and governance practices while maintaining its leadership position in the microfinance sector.

Commenting on the appointments, Dr. H P Singh, Chairman cum Managing Director of Satin Creditcare, said, “At Satin Creditcare, we view corporate governance not merely as a compliance requirement, but as a strategic pillar for sustainable growth and stakeholder trust. A strong, diverse, and future-ready Board is central to this philosophy. Satin is proud to be a well-governed institution, with a balanced composition of non-independent and independent directors, ensuring transparent oversight and strategic direction. As we move forward, we are pleased to welcome Mr. Ashok Kumar Sharma and Mr. Anupam Kunal Gangaher as Independent Directors. Both bring extensive experience across finance, governance, and institutional strategy. Their diverse perspectives and strong credentials will significantly strengthen our Board’s capabilities as we continue to scale our mission of responsible financial inclusion.”

Nuvama Wealth Management Upgraded to CARE AA

Nuvama Wealth Management Upgraded to CARE AA; Stable — Diversified Growth and Profitability Drive Rating Boost

Kolkata, July 7, 2025: CareEdge Ratings has upgraded the long-term credit rating of Nuvama Wealth Management Limited (NWML) to CARE AA; Stable, while reaffirming its short-term rating at CARE A1+. The upgrade reflects the company’s strong financial performance, consistent profitability, and a well-diversified business model across wealth management, asset services, asset management, and capital markets.

In its rating rationale, CareEdge Ratings said: The upgrade in ratings assigned to debt instruments of the Nuvama Group factors in healthy growth in the wealth management, asset services and capital market segments, which further strengthens its established market presence, and improving profitability, supported by a diversified business model.

As of March 31, 2025, the group’s consolidated client assets under advisory (AUA) surged to Rs. 4.3 lakh crore – a 24% year-on-year growth. The consolidated profit after tax (PAT) for FY25 stood at Rs. 985 crores, up from Rs. 625 crores in FY24, with return on net worth (RoNW) improving to 31.79%. Nuvama Group currently serves over 1.2 million affluent customers and 4250 HNI/UHNI families, making it the second-largest independent wealth management player in India.

With strong capitalisation (tangible net worth of ₹3,405 crore), a growing client base, and a stable outlook, Nuvama continues to demonstrate resilience and momentum in a dynamic financial landscape.

In addition, the group’s ESG initiatives, board-led governance practices and continued investment in talent reinforce its reputation as a future-ready and resilient institution. This recognition is another affirmation into Nuvama’s transformation into a governance-first, technology-led and solution-driven wealth management powerhouse catering to India’s rapidly evolving affluent and HNI investor base.

ANJ Group Bags Projects Worth INR 500 Cr in Q1; Expands Portfolio with Amazon, Coca-Cola

Mumbai: The ANJ Group, one of India’s leading design and build firms headquartered in Mumbai, has announced a robust start to FY25 by securing over ₹500 crore worth of projects in Q1 alone. The firm has expanded its portfolio significantly this quarter with high-impact projects for marquee clients such as Amazon in Hyderabad, Coca-Cola in Ahmedabad and ZEISS in Bengaluru, each expanding to an area of 92,000 sft, 90,000 sft and 2,50,000 sft respectively.

With over 1 million sq. ft. of workspace delivered across the country in the last three months, ANJ continues to deepen its presence in both Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities. The company executed projects across 10+ urban hubs including Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Pune, Hyderabad and Kolkata, along with fast-growing cities like Ahmedabad and Lucknow.

Over 50% of the business this quarter came from repeat clients, reinforcing ANJ’s long-standing reputation for trust, quality and timely delivery. The Q1 project portfolio features a diverse mix, with 70% build contracts and 30% design & build (DNB) projects, demonstrating the company’s adaptable and client-centric model.

“Q1 has set the tone for a strong year ahead. The fact that half of our business comes from returning clients is the clearest affirmation of our commitment to excellence. Whether it’s complex corporate offices, experience centres or high-performance facilities, we’ve built a delivery ecosystem that scales with client ambition,” said Jay Kularia, executive director, ANJ Group.

ANJ Group continues to operate at the intersection of design, technology and execution, helping organisations reimagine their workplaces for the future. The firm’s integrated approach, driven by an in-house team of architects, engineers and project managers, enables precision-led delivery across every stage of a project.

From global giants to homegrown leaders, ANJ’s expanding client base reflects growing demand for intelligent, efficient and brand-aligned work environments.

With a sharp focus on quality, timelines and client vision, ANJ Group is poised for continued growth in the coming quarters, as India’s office landscape becomes more dynamic and design-led than ever before.

Meet Dear Doer: Vegan K-Bodycare That Hugs Your Skin and Uplifts Your Mood

July 7, 2025: House of FOY – Introduces a mindful, vegan Korean body and hand care brand from Seoul, making its way to India. Rooted in the K-beauty philosophy of gentle, effective care, Dear Doer believes in “Hug My Skin, Love Myself”—an ethos that champions both skincare and self-kindness. It blends K-beauty innovation with plant-based actives and clean surfactants to deliver gentle exfoliation and deep hydration—turning daily routines into uplifting rituals.

With sensorial, multitasking textures like creamy scrubs, nourishing washes, and hydrating lotions each product is formulated with ingredients such as Andes salt, PHA, hyaluronic acid, centella, grapeseed, and niacinamide. 100% vegan, made in Korea, and housed in vibrant, environmental friendly packaging Dear Doer makes bodycare feel just as special as skincare. Each product is designed to inspire self-care, forward momentum, and a more positive everyday experience. Dear Doer is a mindful, vegan beauty brand that transforms everyday routines into moments of joy with nourishing ingredients and uplifting fragrances.

1. DEAR DOER DAZZLING BODY SCRUB

The formulation is designed to transform dull, tired skin into a smooth and radiant flawless skin. Formulated with gentle exfoliants and skin-friendly ingredients, it effectively removes dead skin cells and impurities while infusing the skin with hydration. The result is a soft, supple texture and a naturally glowing complexion. Ideal for anyone seeking the balance of polish and nourishment in their skincare routine.

2. DEAR DOER HIDDEN BODY & HAND LOTION

Experience supple skin with The Hidden Silky Body & Hand Lotion, a 300ml blend of rich nourishment and longer hydration. Crafted to provide smoothness, it leaves the skin with a healthy, radiant glow. The lightweight, quick-absorbing formula sinks in effortlessly, delivering deep moisture without any greasiness ideal for daily use on both hands and body.

3. DEAR DOER DAZZLING RADIANT BODY & HAND LOTION

Allow your skin to experience the richness of the Dazzling Radiant Body & Hand Lotion. This 300ml bottle delivers intense nourishment and lasting hydration, leaving skin silky-smooth, soft to the touch, and naturally radiant. Its lightweight, quick-absorbing texture makes it perfect for daily use providing rich moisture. Suitable for both hands and body, it’s the ultimate daily must-have for healthy, glowing skin from head to toe.

With this, I’m keen to explore a feature opportunity for the above products in your upcoming Beauty, Skincare, New launches stories.