Category Archives: Business

Annapurna Girls’ Hostel enhances Student Dining Experience with Fresh, Seasonal, and Balanced Meal Plans

Noida, July 02:  Annapurna Girls’ Hostel enhances student dining experience by offering fresh and healthy meals as the need for nutritious food increases. These nutritious meals assist in improving the health of the students. This motive shows the hostel’s aim to create a home-like environment where students grow academically as well as physically. 

As the demand for accommodation that goes beyond basic amenities grows among students, Annapurna Girls’ Hostel has made it its goal to enhance its food services to keep pace with students’ changing requirements. The meal plans are carefully compiled and consist of various vegetables and fruits, fresh food items, and healthy, well-nourished ingredients, prepared using hygienic cooking methods. As the monsoon season approaches, Annapurna Girls’ Hostel prepares its menu list by ensuring students get the home-made food feel in the mess. Dishes that are easy to digest are prepared. Apart from healthy food ingredients, the hostel caters to an interactive dining area where residents socialise with each other and form good friendships. It proves the fact that when humans receive genuine and true care, they develop a positive sense of feeling about the living conditions. This goal perfectly aligns with Annapurna Girls’ Hostel’s motive, which ensures students living there get nutritious food, a clean environment, and activity areas to help them relax. 

On this approach, the Founder of Annapurna Girls’ Hostel, Kunwar Gaurav Giri, stated that numerous students every year leave their homes for a new place for studies and jobs. This change is believed to be one of the challenging phases of their lives, where food portrays a great emotional setback for them. The Annapurna Girls’ Hostel serves each meal with the approach to provide both healthy and comfort food so that students feel like they are at home. As soon as monsoon time comes near, catering to residents’ needs regarding food becomes essential. The hostel strives to maintain a healthy living environment for every individual, considering improving their well-being, which includes food as one of the major components. 

As the fitness of the students remains a significant component of living, Annapurna Girls’ Hostel has improved its facilities by focusing mainly on healthy meals, socialisation, and peace. The goal is to provide a positive living experience for students by combining a home-like dining experience with the safety and comfort of a warm and inviting environment, along with resident-focused services By offering an enriching living experience, the hostel aims to support students throughout their academic journey, while helping students to feel “at home” at any time during the year.

Heat Stress Raises the Bar for How Gulf Luxury Homes Must Be Built

Keturah founder says new climate research demands rethink from region’s developers

Dubai, UAE, July 2: Developers across the Gulf region need to fundamentally rethink how luxury homes are designed and built, as rising heat stress exposes the limitations of construction materials and methods that were never engineered for this climate.

Talal M. Al Gaddah, CEO and Founder of the Keturah luxury brand, says developers must respond by selecting materials and systems specifically designed to manage the heat, humidity and air quality challenges that Gulf residents live with year-round.

His comments follow new climate research published by scientists at the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, which found a sharp intensification of heat stress globally since the 1970s, with the Arabian Peninsula among the regions most affected.

The study showed that heat stress, the leading cause of weather-related deaths, involves the build-up of body heat due to high temperatures, often combined with other factors such as high humidity.

Heat can exacerbate underlying cardiovascular, respiratory and mental health conditions, especially for vulnerable people, outdoor workers and urban residents.

Across the Arabian Peninsula, the ten warmest days of the year now feel up to 4°C hotter than in the 1970s, and further increases are projected as emissions continue to rise.

Inside homes, the main risks are moisture build-up, mold from condensation, and volatile organic compounds from conventional paints and finishes that intensify in enclosed, air-conditioned spaces.

“Outdoor temperatures are only part of the problem,” said Al Gaddah. “How walls manage moisture, how air moves through a space, and the surfaces residents live with daily all determine whether a home genuinely protects the people inside it.”

As awareness of these risks grows, air quality, material certifications and indoor environmental performance influence how luxury homes are evaluated, and Keturah’s two major Dubai developments have been designed with this in mind.

At Keturah Reserve, the AED5.7 billion luxury bio-living community, AED200 million has been invested in health-led construction, incorporating antimicrobial tiling, breathable wall systems and zero-VOC finishes chosen for the specific demands of the region’s climate.

The Ritz-Carlton Residences at Keturah Resort, on the shores of Dubai Creek adjacent to the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, applies the same principles across a development that combines branded residences, hospitality and a dedicated wellness centre.

Al Gaddah says health-led construction is no longer an optional consideration for developers in this region, but a baseline standard that buyer expectations and the science now both demand.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan both place a clear emphasis on sustainable and healthy urban development, giving the shift towards health-conscious construction a firm policy foundation across the region’s two largest real estate markets.

“The next generation of luxury homes in this region will be defined not by how they look but by how well they perform for the people living in them,” said Al Gaddah. “Buyers are sophisticated enough now to ask the right questions, and developers need to have the right answers.”

Sensex and Nifty Trade Higher on Strong Auto Sales and Softer Crude Prices

Mumbai, July 2: Indian equity markets traded higher on Wednesday, supported by strong auto sector performance and easing global crude oil prices, which boosted investor sentiment.

Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty opened on a positive note and maintained gains through the session as buying interest was seen across key sectors, particularly automobiles and select banking stocks.

Market sentiment improved following robust monthly auto sales data, which signalled steady domestic demand. Additionally, a decline in crude oil prices helped ease concerns over inflation and import costs.

Broader markets also reflected positive momentum, with mid-cap and small-cap stocks participating in the upward trend.

Analysts noted that investor focus remains on global economic cues, crude oil movements, and upcoming corporate earnings for further direction in the markets.

Delhi EV Policy 2026 Sets the Roadmap for a Greener, Smarter Mobility Future

Senco celebrates the moments that make every day special with its new ‘Halke Phulke Moments’ campaign

Speaking about the campaign, Ms. Joita Sen, Director and Head of Marketing & Design, Senco Gold & Diamonds, said, “Life doesn’t slow down, but it gives us countless reasons to smile every single day. ‘Halke Phulke Moments‘ is about embracing those little pockets of joy that make life feel lighter and celebrating the everyday. Through our lightweight jewellery collections across 9KT, 14KT and 18KT gold, we’ve created pieces that become a natural part of your daily life, from morning meetings and coffee catch-ups to celebrations with loved ones. Whether it’s your favourite pair of earrings, a pendant that holds a special memory, a bracelet you wear every day or a ring you never take off, these pieces are designed to move effortlessly with you. They are versatile, easy to wear and a reminder that while jewellery can feel beautifully light, the memories and emotions it becomes part of are truly priceless.”

Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi Underlines Emirate’s Global Competitiveness with Guidebook for Growing International Maritime Enterprises

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 01 July 2026: Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi – a platform for collaboration across the emirate’s growing maritime sector, operated by Abu Dhabi Maritime and led by the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), an affiliate of the emirate’s Department of Municipalities and Transport – has launched a new guidebook to help international maritime businesses and entrepreneurs settle  and grow in the emirate.

The guidebook, titled “Abu Dhabi’s Compass for Maritime Businesses: Your Gateway to Global Opportunity,” outlines the core drivers of Abu Dhabi’s maritime competitiveness and growth opportunities for a global audience.

Backed by facts, figures, and testimonials, as well as insights from DNV, the publication emphasises Abu Dhabi’s strategic position as a global trade hub, enabled by world-class infrastructure and integrated multimodal connectivity across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Each carefully curated section presents a clear and compelling business case for international enterprises and prospective maritime partners.

It also highlights how global companies can benefit from Abu Dhabi’s next phase of economic growth as the emirate emerges as one of the world’s fastest-rising maritime hubs, climbing 10 places since 2022 to rank 22nd in the “Leading Maritime Cities (LMC)” global benchmarking report.

The guidebook includes overviews of Abu Dhabi’s expansive maritime ecosystem, business environment, established network of industry stakeholders and institutions, and comfortable and welcoming lifestyle. Finally, it offers resources and contacts for interested parties to begin their journey in the emirate.

Overall, the guidebook underlines Abu Dhabi’s long-term stability as a future-ready and resilient destination for trade, investment, and innovation. Its launch also aligns with the UAE national vision for diversified, sustainable economic development.

Led by the Integrated Transport Centre and operated by Abu Dhabi Maritime, part of AD Ports Group, Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi unites government and private stakeholders in the emirate’s maritime sector with a goal to spark connection, create domestic and international opportunities, and collaborate on initiatives to elevate the emirate’s status as a global maritime centre. 

Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, said: “The launch of Abu Dhabi’s maritime sector guidebook directly supports the UAE’s economic vision by positioning the local sector as an attractive and competitive opportunity for global business leaders. It also reaffirms the Integrated Transport Centre’s commitment to inclusive, informed mobility that supports economic growth. Maritime Hub continues to elevate the emirate’s status as a leading maritime centre that is resilient, sustainable, and future-ready.” 

Captain Saif Al Mheiri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime and Group Chief Sustainability and Risk Officer at AD Ports Group, said: “This guidebook is a gateway to opportunity for international entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the economic power of one of the world’s most uniquely positioned global trade and logistics hubs. Developed in collaboration with our partners from the public and private sectors, the guidebook provides data-supported insights into Abu Dhabi’s business ecosystem, as well as access to an established community of maritime leaders, experts, and researchers through Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi.”

Strong Demand Pushes Retail Leasing Up 17.6 pc in Q2

New Delhi, July 1: India’s retail leasing activity reached 2.4 million square feet (MSF) in Q2, registering a 17.6% year-on-year increase, driven by strong demand from retailers despite constrained supply conditions, according to a recent report.

The growth reflects continued expansion in organized retail space, with brands across fashion, food and beverage, electronics, and lifestyle segments actively leasing premium high-street and mall spaces.

The report highlighted that limited availability of quality retail space in key urban markets has led to tighter supply, even as demand from retailers remains strong and diversified across segments.

Industry experts said the sustained leasing activity underscores resilience in consumer demand and growing confidence among retailers in India’s consumption-driven market.

The trend is expected to continue as developers gradually add new retail inventory, while established brands expand their physical presence across major cities.

Window Magic Unveils ‘Window Magic Atelier’, Launches Ultra-Luxury Fenestration Range ‘WM AURA’ for Indian Market

New Delhi, 1st July: Window Magic, one of India’s leading providers of luxury uPVC and aluminium fenestration solutions, today announced the opening of ‘Window Magic Atelier’, India’s first-of-its-kind luxury fenestration experience centre, located at the prime South Delhi location. This also marks the launch of WM AURA, Window Magic’s ultra-luxury fenestration range, developed in strategic collaboration with one of Europe’s most renowned pioneers in advanced aluminium architectural systems.

Envisioned as an immersive destination for architects, developers, interior designers, and discerning homeowners, Window Magic Atelier reimagines how luxury doors, windows, and façade systems are experienced. The centre showcases the brand’s latest innovations, design capabilities, and luxury solutions through curated experiential zones that blend functionality, aesthetics, and architectural excellence.

The launch represents a significant milestone in Window Magic’s growth journey and reinforces its commitment to serving India’s rapidly evolving luxury real estate sector. It also marks a new chapter in the company’s global aspirations through its collaboration with European brand, bringing together Greek engineering expertise and Indian market understanding.

During the launch of Window Magic Experience Centre, Mr. Manish Bansal, Director & CEO, expressed, “We are delighted to unveil Window Magic Atelier, a first-of-its-kind luxury fenestration experience centre in the heart of New Delhi. As consumer aspirations evolve and luxury real estate continues to redefine modern living, there is a growing demand for solutions that seamlessly combine aesthetics, innovation, and performance. Window Magic Atelier has been envisioned as a destination where architects, developers, and homeowners can experience the future of luxury fenestration firsthand. The launch of WM AURA further strengthens our commitment to bringing world-class aluminium systems to India and setting new benchmarks in the luxury segment.”

At the heart of the Atelier is WM AURA, an exclusive aluminium systems portfolio designed for luxury residences, luxury commercial developments, and iconic architectural projects. Engineered with precision and crafted for performance, the range features sleek sliding systems, expansive glass façades, minimalist aesthetics, and superior thermal and acoustic performance, enabling modern spaces to seamlessly integrate light, openness, and sophistication.

Sensex, Nifty End Higher on FMCG, Banking Boost

Mumbai, July 1: Indian equity benchmarks ended the trading session in positive territory, supported by strong buying interest in FMCG, banking, and realty stocks, which helped lift overall market sentiment.

The Sensex and Nifty closed higher as investors remained upbeat amid sectoral strength and selective stock-specific momentum. FMCG stocks led the gains, followed by banking and realty counters, which witnessed steady accumulation throughout the session.

Market participants said optimism in domestic demand-driven sectors, along with improved investor sentiment, contributed to the positive close. Broader markets also reflected a stable trend, indicating sustained participation across segments.

Analysts noted that the upward movement was driven largely by sector rotation, with investors focusing on fundamentally strong companies in key consumption and financial sectors.

Overall, the session reflected resilient market sentiment, with benchmark indices managing to end the day on a firm note despite global uncertainties.

Capital raising becomes more demanding for private equity fund managers

July 01: Raising capital has become more demanding for private equity fund managers, with increased due diligence requirements and regulatory uncertainty now the biggest barriers in the market, new research* from Ocorian, a leading U.S. and global asset services provider, shows. 

 The study of 300 senior executives at private equity fund managers across the U.S. and Europe, whose firms manage a combined $3.511 trillion in assets, found that 62% say raising capital has become slightly more difficult in 2026 compared with 2025. However, the picture is not uniformly negative: 32% say fundraising has become slightly easier, while 5% report no change.

 The findings suggest that the capital-raising environment is becoming more selective rather than simply more constrained. More than half of respondents – 51% – say investors are increasing the number of specialised managers they allocate to, while 42% say investors are maintaining stable manager relationships. Just 5% say investors are consolidating with fewer managers.

 When asked about the biggest barriers to raising capital, 63% of managers cited increased due diligence requirements, making it the most common challenge. Regulatory uncertainty was cited by 57%, followed by overallocation constraints at 48% and LP reallocation away from alternatives at 38%.

 The research also shows that valuation methodologies have become the most prominent risk area in investor due diligence. More than half of respondents – 51% – identified valuation methodology as the area now receiving the greatest scrutiny, ahead of leverage and financing risk at 34%.

 ESG remains part of the investor conversation, but its role appears to be changing. Nearly two-thirds of managers — 65% — say ESG is now primarily a reporting and compliance focus, while 28% say it remains important for certain investor segments.

Looking ahead, managers expect to increase allocations across a range of private market strategies over the next three years. Venture capital was the most commonly selected strategy, cited by 58% of respondents, followed by growth equity at 51% and private credit/direct lending at 49%. Renewable energy was selected by 39% and infrastructure excluding renewables by 38%.

 Richard Hansford, Head of EMEA Fund Sales – Global Funds at Ocorian, said: “The capital-raising environment for private equity managers is not simply tightening — it is becoming more selective, more evidence-led and more operationally demanding.

 “While most managers say raising capital has become slightly more difficult this year, a significant minority are finding conditions easier. That points to a market where investors are still allocating, but with greater scrutiny over manager selection, due diligence standards and the operational infrastructure behind each fund.

 “One of the clearest findings is the growing importance of valuation methodology in investor due diligence. This is now distinct from leverage and financing risk, and it underlines the need for managers to demonstrate robust valuation processes, transparent reporting and specialist operational support as they compete for capital.”