Category Archives: Business

India’s automotive market accelerates – Feintool opens first production site in Pune

June 26: On June 24, Feintool officially inaugurated its first production facility in India, located in the industrial hub of Pune. Production is now being ramped up to fulfil initial customer orders, with a focus on fine-blanked automotive components.
 

At the opening ceremony, CEO Lars Reich underlined the strategic relevance of the new site: “Feintool is proud to meet its customers’ demand for local production in India with the facility in Pune. We are in the right place at the right time to benefit sustainably from the momentum in the Indian automotive industry and to capitalize on further opportunities in the growing industrial markets in India.”

With 18 production sites across Asia, Europe, and the United States, Feintool offers large-series manufacturing of high-precision components based on its core technologies: fineblanking, cold forming, and e-lamination stamping.

Marcel Pernici, President of Feintool Asia, highlighted the strengths of Feintool: “With our ‘local-for-local’ approach, we supply our customers directly in their regional markets while leveraging Feintool’s global technological expertise. This makes us more agile and less dependent on geopolitical developments, while ensuring the high level of reliability our customers expect.”

India is already the world’s third-largest automotive market and is expected to grow strongly. At the same time, the country is gaining importance as an export hub. Many of Feintool’s existing automotive customers are expanding their activities in India and require reliable local supplier support.

Tobias Gries, Managing Director India, is responsible for building Feintool’s business in the region: “We have established a strong team in India. With Feintool’s global expertise, we are now ramping up production in Pune—starting with fineblanked automotive seating systems. Looking ahead, we are ready to expand into cold forming, e-motor core production and even hydrogen applications. The plant is fully prepared for further expansion as demand develops.”

The new Pune site reflects Feintool’s core strengths: a clear local-for-local strategy, globally leading technological expertise, and a consistent focus on customer and market needs. 

India Emerging as Key Growth Engine for Amazon’s Expanding Global Business

June 24: India is positioned to play a central role in driving the fastest-growing segment of Amazon’s global operations, according to Amazon CEO Andy Jassy.

Highlighting the country’s strategic importance, Jassy said India’s large customer base, expanding digital infrastructure and rapid adoption of e-commerce are contributing to strong business momentum in the region.

He noted that India continues to be one of Amazon’s most dynamic markets, supported by increasing internet penetration, growing small and medium business participation and rising demand for online retail and digital services.

The company sees significant long-term opportunities in India across e-commerce, cloud services and digital innovation, driven by the country’s evolving consumption patterns and technology adoption.

Industry observers say India’s growing digital economy and supportive regulatory environment are helping global companies scale their operations and deepen market presence.

The remarks underscore India’s importance in Amazon’s global strategy as the company continues to invest in technology, logistics and infrastructure to strengthen its presence in the country.

Gartner Predicts AI Coding Costs Will Surpass Average Developer’s Salary by 2028 as Token Consumption Surges

Stamford, Conn., June 24: By 2028, AI coding costs will overtake the average developer’s salary due to rising large language model (LLM) token consumption and the shift to consumption-based licensing models, according to Gartner, Inc., a business and technology insights company.

AI tokens are the units of data processed by generative AI models. Token consumption directly impacts the cost of AI coding tools, particularly under consumption-based pricing structures.

“Organizations are rapidly moving from experimentation to scaled deployment of AI coding agents, but many are underestimating the financial impact of rising token consumption,” said Nitish Tyagi, Sr. Principal Analyst at Gartner. “Token discipline will not emerge through developer choice alone, as developers tend to optimize for speed and convenience over cost efficiency. Without a governed engineering operating model, costs can escalate faster than the productivity gains these tools are designed to deliver.”

Consumption-Based Pricing Introduces Cost Predictability Challenges

The shift from seat-based licensing to consumption-based pricing among AI coding agent vendors is introducing highly variable cost structures for software engineering workloads. Many vendors lack transparency into how token consumption is calculated and billed, limiting enterprises’ ability to accurately forecast and control costs.

Without clear visibility into token usage across development tasks, organizations risk budget overruns and reduced ability to track cost-to-value outcomes.

“Most organizations still lack the maturity and frameworks to effectively measure cost versus business impact,” said Tyagi. “Software engineering leaders are increasingly concerned as token-driven AI spend becomes harder to justify, with budgets often being depleted earlier than expected.”

Usage Patterns and Governance Gaps Are Driving Cost Pressure

Beyond pricing and visibility challenges, how AI coding agents are used within organizations is further driving cost pressures. Token overspending is often linked to how software engineering leaders govern usage, with common failure modes including ungoverned autonomy in agent-driven workflows, bloated context windows and the absence of structured feedback mechanisms to optimize usage.

In addition, AI coding vendors are yet to deliver mature, built-in cost optimization capabilities in AI coding agents, further contributing to cost escalation.

“AI coding costs will continue to rise as infrastructure investment and profitability challenges push model pricing higher,” said Tyagi. “At the same time, as more developers adopt AI tools, light users are expected to rapidly become mainstream users as familiarity and reliance increase, driving further growth in token consumption and overall spend.”

To manage rising costs and avoid budget overruns, Gartner recommends that software engineering leaders implement a disciplined operating model for AI usage:

• Establish a use-case-driven decision framework: Organizations should clearly define when AI coding agents should be used and determine appropriate levels of autonomy for each task. This includes classifying development tasks into three execution models: developer‑led, developer‑with‑agent, and fully agent‑led.
• Align model selection with task complexity: AI coding agents are most cost-effective when work is broken into smaller tasks that can be handled by smaller models, with escalation only when complexity demands it. Engineering and platform teams should implement intelligent model routing strategies that direct simpler, high-frequency tasks to smaller models while reserving frontier models for complex and high-value development work.
• Mandate context engineering practices: Developers must be trained to optimize the input context provided to AI systems by including only relevant information, summarizing content where possible, and eliminating unnecessary data to reduce token consumption without compromising output quality.
• Implement governance and cost controls: Organizations should introduce mechanisms such as token thresholds, escalation policies, and automated monitoring to manage usage. Embedding these controls into engineering workflows ensures consistency and prevents uncontrolled cost growth.
• Embed token usage reviews into development cycles: Leaders should mandate regular reviews of high-token-consuming workflows as part of sprint retrospectives to identify inefficiencies, refine practices, and promote knowledge sharing across engineering teams. 

Additional Insights Available

Gartner clients can read more in How to Optimize Token Consumption for AI Coding Agents. 

Learn how software development teams compare to others in the Gartner Software Engineering Score.  

Gartner is the World Authority on AI

Gartner is the indispensable partner to C-Level executives and technology providers as they implement AI strategies to achieve their mission-critical priorities. The independence and objectivity of Gartner insights provide clients with the confidence to make informed decisions and unlock the full potential of AI. Clients across the C-Level are using Gartner‘s proprietary AskGartner AI tool to determine how to leverage AI in their business. With more than 2,500 business and technology experts, 6,000 written insights, as well as more than 4,000 AI use cases and case studies, Gartner is the world authority on AI. More information can be found here.

India and South Korea Explore Deeper Cooperation in Startups and Innovation

New Delhi, June 24: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held discussions with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun to review bilateral relations and explore new opportunities for collaboration, particularly in startups, innovation and emerging technologies.

The talks focused on strengthening the India–South Korea strategic partnership, with both sides expressing interest in expanding cooperation in areas such as digital innovation, technology-driven entrepreneurship and economic engagement.

Both ministers reviewed ongoing bilateral initiatives and exchanged views on enhancing business-to-business linkages, with a special emphasis on supporting startup ecosystems in both countries.

The discussions also highlighted the growing role of innovation-led growth in shaping future economic partnerships, with startups identified as a key driver of bilateral cooperation.

Officials said the meeting reflects the shared commitment of India and South Korea to deepen economic ties and encourage greater collaboration between entrepreneurs, investors and technology firms.

The two sides also agreed to continue high-level engagement to further strengthen cooperation in trade, investment and emerging sectors in the coming years.

Gold, Silver Slip Nearly 2 pc as Global Rate Concerns Weigh on Demand

June 24: Gold and silver prices declined nearly 2 per cent in global markets as investors turned cautious amid uncertainty over the global interest rate outlook.

The weakness in bullion was driven by expectations that interest rates may remain elevated for longer than previously anticipated, reducing the appeal of non-yielding assets such as precious metals. A stronger US dollar also added pressure, making gold more expensive for buyers holding other currencies.

Market sentiment remained subdued as central banks continued to signal a data-dependent approach to monetary policy, limiting hopes of near-term rate cuts. This has led to reduced safe-haven demand in the precious metals segment.

Silver prices mirrored the decline in gold, tracking both macroeconomic sentiment and concerns over industrial demand in key global markets.

Analysts said short-term volatility in bullion is likely to persist as investors respond to evolving interest rate expectations and currency movements. However, long-term demand for gold and silver remains supported by inflation-hedging needs and ongoing global economic uncertainties.

Market participants are now awaiting fresh economic data and central bank signals for clearer direction on interest rate trends and their impact on commodity prices.

Account Aggregator Adoption Accelerates Financial Inclusion

June 24: India’s Account Aggregator (AA) ecosystem facilitated nearly 3.8 crore financial services in FY26, reflecting growing adoption of digital consent-based data sharing across the financial sector.

The framework enables secure exchange of financial information between institutions, helping banks, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and fintech firms streamline lending, improve credit assessment and simplify customer onboarding.

Industry experts say the rising usage of the AA system highlights India’s shift toward a more integrated and digital financial infrastructure, where data access is faster, safer and driven by user consent.

The ecosystem is also playing an important role in expanding financial inclusion by improving credit availability for individuals and small businesses, especially those with limited or informal credit histories.

With increasing participation from financial institutions and technology platforms, the Account Aggregator network is expected to scale further, supporting more efficient and transparent financial services in the coming years.

Experts believe the continued expansion of digital public infrastructure such as the AA framework will strengthen India’s financial ecosystem and enhance access to credit across the economy.

Allcargo Logistics Appoints Bipin Reghunathan as Chief Business Officer to Drive Consultative Logistics Growth

Mumbai, June 24: Allcargo Logistics, an integrated logistics provider operating Domestic Supply Chain business, through its Express Distribution and Consultative Logistics services, has further strengthened its leadership team and announced the appointment of Bipin Reghunathan as Chief Business Officer – Consultative Logistics.

In his new role, Bipin will lead the strategic growth and profitability of Allcargo’s Consultative Logistics business. He will drive customer-centric innovation, technology-led decision-making, and organizational capability building to support the company’s long-term growth ambitions.

Bipin brings over three decades of leadership experience across supply chain management, warehousing, logistics operations, business transformation, and network optimization. Throughout his career, he has successfully driven business growth, operational excellence, and customer value creation while leading large-scale supply chain and warehousing businesses.

Commenting on the appointment, Ketan Kulkarni, Managing Director & CEO, Allcargo Logistics Limited, said,

 “Bipin’s appointment marks an important addition to our leadership team as we continue to strengthen and expand our consultative business. He brings extensive industry experience and a deep understanding of customer requirements across sectors. At Allcargo Logistics, we are committed to building leadership depth across our businesses, and Bipin’s addition will help us further enhance our capabilities, deliver greater value to customers and accelerate growth in this segment. We are delighted to welcome him to the Group and look forward to the contributions he will make in the years ahead.”

Speaking on his appointment, Bipin Reghunathan, Chief Business Officer – Consultative Logistics, Allcargo Logistics Limited, said.

“I am delighted to be part of Allcargo Logistics, which has built a strong foundation in integrated logistics, backed by four decades of experience in the industry. This is an exciting time for the business as customers increasingly seek trusted partners who can support their growth ambitions and evolving supply chain requirements. I look forward to be part of the Allcargo Group and strengthen our Consultative Logistics capabilities and contribute to the continued growth of the business.”

Prior to joining Allcargo Logistics, Bipin held a leadership position at Rhenus Contract Logistics. He has also held senior leadership roles at DHL Supply Chain, Mahindra Logistics, Radhakrishna Foodland, and Aditya Birla Retail, where he played a pivotal role in scaling operations, strengthening customer partnerships, optimizing supply chain networks, and delivering sustainable business performance. Bipin holds a Master of Data Science from Deakin University, Australia, PG Program on Leadership and General Management from INSEAD, France, PG Program in General Management from Welingkar Institute of Management, Mumbai.

Allcargo’s Consultative Logistics business delivers integrated warehousing and supply chain solutions that help customers optimize inventory, improve operational efficiency, enhance supply chain visibility, and build agile distribution networks. The business serves customers across a diverse range of Chemical, Pharmaceuticals, Auto & Engineering, Retail industries and more, leveraging technology, process excellence, and deep domain expertise to deliver customized and scalable logistics solutions.

Vizhinjam Seaport Handles 1,000 Ships, Signals Strong Operational Ramp-Up

Vizhinjam, June 24: Adani Vizhinjam International Seaport has crossed a key milestone by handling 1,000 vessels, reflecting the rapid scale-up of India’s first deep-water transshipment port.

The achievement comes shortly after the port’s initial operations began, underscoring its fast ramp-up in cargo handling and increasing integration into global shipping routes.

Developed and operated by the Adani Group, the port is positioned as a strategic maritime gateway aimed at reducing India’s dependence on overseas transshipment hubs and strengthening the country’s presence in international trade logistics.

The growing vessel traffic highlights rising confidence among global shipping lines and improved operational efficiency at the facility. With its deep draft and proximity to major sea routes, Vizhinjam is steadily emerging as a key node in India’s maritime infrastructure network.

Officials noted that the milestone reflects the port’s accelerating role in improving container movement, reducing logistics turnaround time and enhancing coastal and international trade connectivity.

The development marks a significant step in India’s efforts to build world-class port infrastructure and strengthen its position in global shipping and logistics.

India’s Trade Climbs to Dollar 1.84 Trillion in FY26, Reflecting Steady Economic Growth

New Delhi, June 24: India’s total trade increased 5.4 per cent to reach $1.84 trillion in FY26, according to NITI Aayog, highlighting steady momentum in the country’s external sector.

The rise in trade was supported by stronger performance in both goods and services, driven by improving export competitiveness, resilient domestic demand and expanding global linkages.

Officials noted that India’s trade growth reflects continued progress in strengthening supply chains, improving logistics infrastructure and advancing policy reforms aimed at enhancing ease of doing business.

Despite a challenging global environment marked by uncertain demand conditions and shifting trade dynamics, India maintained stable growth in its external sector, supported by diversification of export markets and ongoing economic reforms.

The latest figures underline India’s growing role in global trade and its efforts to position itself as a key hub for manufacturing and services exports.

Going ahead, policymakers expect continued support from infrastructure upgrades, digital adoption and production-linked initiatives to further strengthen India’s trade performance.

Adani Highlights Growth, Investment and Future Vision

Ahmedabad, June 24: Adani Group made a record investment of more than Rs 1.5 lakh crore in hard infrastructure during FY26, reinforcing its position as one of India’s largest private-sector investors and underscoring its long-term commitment to nation-building.

Addressing stakeholders, Chairman Gautam Adani said the Group’s consolidated portfolio revenue reached Rs 2.92 lakh crore in FY26, reflecting the scale and resilience of its diversified businesses spanning energy, transport, logistics, utilities and digital infrastructure.

Highlighting the company’s roadmap for the future, Adani outlined three foundational principles that will guide the organisation over the next decade. These include strengthening operational excellence, fostering innovation-led growth and building future-ready businesses capable of creating long-term value for stakeholders.

Adani emphasised that infrastructure and intelligence will be the two defining pillars shaping India’s rise as a leading global power. He noted that world-class physical infrastructure, combined with advancements in technology, artificial intelligence and data-driven capabilities, will play a critical role in accelerating economic growth and enhancing national competitiveness.

The record capital expenditure undertaken during FY26 reflects the Group’s focus on expanding strategic assets across ports, airports, renewable energy, transmission networks, logistics and other core sectors that support India’s development ambitions.

According to the Chairman, India is entering a transformative phase where investments in infrastructure, digital capabilities and innovation ecosystems will determine the pace of progress. Businesses that combine scale with technology-driven intelligence are expected to play a central role in this journey.

As the Group looks ahead, it remains focused on building globally competitive businesses while contributing to India’s aspiration of becoming a major economic and technological powerhouse in the coming decades.