Category Archives: News

Kia becomes the fastest carmaker to achieve 1 Million Domestic Sales

Mumbai, 08 August 2024: Kia India, celebrating its fifth year in the country, announced the achievement of the 1 million unit sales milestone in the domestic market. The fastest-growing premium carmaker in the country has achieved this milestone within 59 months of its India operations. The flagship, Kia Seltos, has been a significant success driver for the company, accounting for over 48% of its total domestic sales. Following Seltos, Sonet and Carens contribute 34% and 16% to Kia India’s total domestic dispatches, respectively.

Launched in 2019, the company revolutionised the Indian Automotive Industry with its futuristic technology and cutting-edge design, helping it to become one of the most aspirational car brands in the country. With 42% of its sales coming from the top trims, Kia India broke the common disbelief that India is only a cost-conscious market. With its thoughtful product intervention and trim strategy, Kia also grew the adoption of Automatic and newer transmission technology in India. Currently, Kia India offers 3 automatic transmissions – IVT, 6AT and 7DCT- which contribute 32% of its total sales. Kia also launched iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) with Sonet in 2020, contributing 15% to its domestic dispatches. The company’s Petrol to Diesel ratio remains at 59%:41% currently.

Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Joonsu Cho, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India, said, “We have been achieving milestones constantly since our launch in record time. These milestones become even more important when you face diversity at every step of this country and competition from legacy players with more than a decade of experience. Achieving 1 million domestic sales is a testament to our continued focus on the Indian market and the need gap of the Indian customers. My heartfelt thanks to all our customers who have shown trust in our brand and made us one of the most loved carmakers in the country.”

He further added, “Kia is synonymous with innovation. With our latest technology, design, and in-car features, we constantly challenge established practices, not only in India but globally as well. We will soon launch our global flagships in India this year, followed by a home-grown new model, which will prove the above claim. India is a thriving ground for automotive companies, and with our innovative and aspirational products and services, we are sure to be one of the major catalysts to the growth of the Indian Automotive Industry.”

The company started with an annual sales volume of 45,226 units in 2019, which grew to 140,505 units in 2020, 181,583 units in 2021, and 254,556 units in 2022. Last year, Kia solidified its presence with annual sales of 255,000 units. Until now, Kia has sold almost 1.5 Lakh units in the first 7 months of 2024 in the domestic market, indicating a healthy progression to the upcoming festive season. The brand has expanded its footprint in the country with a widespread network of 588 touchpoints across 256 cities.

India is also a significant export base for Kia Corporation, with Kia India dispatching over 2.6 lakh units to over 100 export markets. Kia India’s cumulative sales (Including overseas dispatches) stand at almost 1.3 million units.

Eight Continents Expands in Scotland with Taychreggan Hotel

08-08-2024, India – Eight Continents, a leading name in the global hospitality industry, proudly announces the expansion of its portfolio with the inclusion of the renowned Taychreggan Hotel in Scotland. This historic and picturesque hotel, nestled on the banks of Loch Awe, enhances Eight Continents’ commitment to offering unique and luxurious experiences in iconic locations around the world. Notably, Taychreggan Hotel marks the first hotel that will be owned by Eight Continents.

The Taychreggan Hotel, with its rich history dating back to the 17th century, offers guests a unique blend of heritage and modern luxury. Originally an old cattle drover’s inn, the hotel has been meticulously restored to retain its historical charm while providing contemporary comforts. The stunning loch-side location, complemented by lush landscapes and breathtaking views, makes Taychreggan a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility and an authentic Scottish experience.

Eight Continents is dedicated to enhancing the guest experience by preserving the unique characteristics of each property within its portfolio. Taychreggan Hotel is no exception. Guests can expect an array of bespoke services and amenities that reflect both the heritage of the location and the high standards of the Eight Continents brand.

“Taychreggan Hotel embodies the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and luxury that we seek in our properties. We are excited to bring our expertise in hospitality to this iconic Scottish destination,” said Richa Adhia, Managing Director, Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts. “As our first owned property, our goal is to ensure that every guest experiences the magic of Taychreggan while enjoying the exceptional service and comfort that Eight Continents is known for.”

Taychreggan Hotel offers a variety of activities and experiences for guests of all interests. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, fishing, and boating on Loch Awe, while those seeking relaxation can unwind in the serene surroundings or indulge in spa treatments. The hotel also features elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each designed to provide a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

In line with Eight Continents’ commitment to sustainability, Taychreggan Hotel will implement eco-friendly practices to minimize its environmental footprint. From locally sourced ingredients in its gourmet restaurant to energy-efficient operations, the hotel aims to promote sustainable tourism while offering guests a luxurious stay.

For pet lovers, Taychreggan Hotel ensures that furry companions are treated as VIPs during their stay. Each room includes a chill-out corner for pets to relax, complete with a complimentary treats box and cozy blanket.

Faodail Restaurant at Taychreggan offers stunning views over Loch Awe and award-winning cuisine. The ballroom at Taychreggan is perfect for weddings, conferences, and private celebrations, providing uninterrupted views of Loch Awe and access to the informal gardens. Private dining options are also available, with a lovely room featuring loch views next to the main dining area and a small private room adjacent to the Ghillies Bar.

Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts will own and manage Taychreggan Hotel, ensuring that the highest standards of service and hospitality are maintained. The integration of this iconic property into the Eight Continents portfolio highlights the brand’s commitment to preserving the essence of unique destinations while offering unparalleled luxury.

With its combination of historical charm, luxurious amenities, and commitment to sustainability, Taychreggan Hotel is poised to become a premier destination in the Eight Continents portfolio. The hotel promises an unforgettable experience for guests, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Loch Awe.

Nium Expands Network to 40+ Countries and 15 Currencies

New Delhi – August 8th, 2024 — Nium, the global leader in real-time cross-border payments, today announced the expansion of its local funding and collection capabilities to more than 40 countries and 15 currencies, with more to come. The move makes Nium one of the only providers to offer a network this wide. Customers can now access the broadest range of local currencies through wires and local payment rails, with an extensive selection of currencies tailored to meet the diverse needs of various markets, including developing and emerging economies.

Businesses often face challenges with moving money across borders — whether it is local businesses sending money abroad or global businesses collecting funds locally — due to the limited availability of certain currencies and the need to optimize cash flow and liquidity. Nium’s local currency account offering makes it faster and more cost-effective for businesses, digital platforms, and marketplaces to receive money in the desired country, either for their business or for their customers, without having to manage the complexity of setting up a local entity or opening and managing additional operating accounts.

Through its global network of licenses, Nium offers local currency account details in more than 15 currencies, with newly added capabilities in Brazil, Denmark, Indonesia, the Philippines, Poland, and the UAE, with Mexico and New Zealand expected to follow shortly. These new markets join others including Australia, Canada, EEA, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, the UK, and the US.

“Payments companies have underserved access to and from emerging markets, choosing to focus on the G20,” said Alex Johnson, Chief Payments Officer at Nium. “However, to create a truly global enterprise, companies need to be able to access a wide network of markets where their buyers and sellers are domiciled. We now enable more businesses to receive in local currencies for global business needs, allowing them to be more competitive on a global scale. This breadth makes Nium the go-to choice for businesses looking to expand their global reach.”

This expansion is key for many of the industries Nium serves including marketplaces, payroll, and financial institutions. This opens the future ability for Nium’s customers in emerging markets, including direct debit for collections from their customers, FX, split payments, local card settlement and much more. Today for example, a payroll customer in Singapore can use local account details in Singapore to fund their local Nium account in Singapore dollars and send funds to their global workforce in more than 100 currencies and 220+ markets via Nium.

Nium customers can access these local account capabilities through existing APIs, making it easy for them to start quickly and scale at speed. Nium’s local account details offer customers the convenience of:

Reduced funding or collections overhead by eliminating the costs involved with cross-border wire transfers and lack of transparency in FX conversions
Increased transaction speed by utilizing local real time payment rails like Instapay (PH), PIX (BR), SPEI (MX), and many more
Eased payment reconciliation with real time transaction alerts along with transparent sender information
Scaled global business without the overhead of setting up operations in certain emerging markets

Bengal Fruit & Food Festival: Celebrating Diversity in Fruits and Cuisine

Salt Lake, 8th August 2024: Inspired by Mamata Banerjee, Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal, Department of Food Processing Industry and Horticulture, Government of West Bengal, proudly announces the celebration of “Bengal Fruit & Food Festival”, which will be highlighting exotic fruits, regional produces, and diverse culinary delights. This unique festival arises amidst the absence of the traditional “Mango Mela” organized by this Department in Mid June. Due to enforcement of Model code of conduct of just concluded Parliamentary Election, 2024, “Mango Mela” could not be held in June which is considered as Mango season.

Scheduled to commence from August 9 to 11, 2024, at Netaji Indoor Stadium, Kolkata this three- day extravaganza promises to be a vibrant celebration of Bengal’s rich horticultural heritage and food diversity. The festival aims to showcase a plethora of exotic fruits alongside local favorites, offering visitors a delightful culinary experience.

The inauguration ceremony, scheduled for August 9, 2024, will witness the esteemed presence of eight ministers of various Departments and Shri Arup Roy, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, FPI&H Deptt., will officially inaugurate the program. The detailed list of Hon’ble Ministers has been given below. The festival will also feature captivating cultural programs each evening, adding to the festive ambiance. Some of the eminent artists of our cultural program are Shri Swapan Basu- Folk Singer, Smt. Pranati Thakur- Reciter, Shri Satinath Mukhopadhyay- Reciter, Shri Soumi Ghosh- versatile singer, Shri Alok Roy Chowdhury- singer etc.

Highlight events during the Bengal Fruit & Food Festival include:

· 9th August, 2024: Audience Quiz.

· 10th August, 2024: Panel Discussion: “Steps to Enhance Horticultural Crop Cultivation in Response to Climate Change and Food Processing,”.

· 11th August, 2024: Cooking Competition.

The list of Hon’ble Ministers:

1. Shri Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, Agriculture Deptt. – Chief Guest

2. Shri Moloy Ghatak, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, Judicial, Labour, Law Deptt.- Spl. Guest

3. Shri Pradip Kr. Mazumdar, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, Panchayat & Rural Dev. Deptt. & Cooperation Deptt. – Spl. Guest

4. Shri Biplab Mitra, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, Consumer Affairs Deptt. – Spl. Guest

5. Shri Swapan Debnath, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, Animal Resource Development Deptt. – Spl. Guest

6. Md. Ghulam Rabbani, Hon’ble Minister-in-Charge, Environment Deptt. – Spl. Guest

7. Shri Biplab Roychowdhury, Hon’ble Minister of State (I/C), Fisheries, Aquaculture, Aquatic Resources and Fishing Harbour Deptt. – Spl. Guest

8. Shri Becharam Manna, Hon’ble Minister of State (I/C)- Agriculture Marketing Deptt. – Spl. Guest.

A glimpse into the diverse array of stalls from various departments and organizations that will enrich the Bengal Food and Fruit Festival:

(From FPI&H Department)

1. A significant portion of the stalls, 15 to be exact, are given to the Horticulture Directorate and Food Processing Directorate jointly. Here, visitors can expect a visual and educational journey through the horticultural marvels of various districts. From exotic fruits to indigenous vegetables, like dragon fruit, mashroom, Chandramallika, fruit syrup, dried mango etc. along with processed food like jam, jelly, pickles, cake, chocolate, caned pinaple and many more. It will accommodate processed food, spices and herbs, vegetables and fruit market, bank, dairy products, sweet, meat, ice cream, confectionery, restaurants.

2. There is a pavilion for Food Processing Industry where two schemes will be exhibited-PMFME & WB Food Processing Incentive Scheme 2021.

3. One stall is allotted to DCOMP which will be selling spices like black peeper, big cardamom, coffee, lemon grass, Mentha oil, cinchona bark, citron and black berry

4. For the intellectually curious people, a pavilion will be hosted by a department, directorate and corporation jointly showcasing literary resources and magazines.

(From other Deptt)

1. West Bengal Swarojgar Corporation Limited: This organization is likely to showcase stalls featuring locally produced handicrafts, handloom products, and artisanal items that highlight the skills and talents of rural entrepreneurs.

2. Anandadhara (PnRD): Known for promoting rural development through self-help groups, Anandadhara may present stalls offering a variety of handmade goods, organic produce, and rural crafts that reflect the cultural richness of rural Bengal.

3. Fisheries Department: Featuring a variety of fresh and processed food products from West Bengal’s abundant fisheries.

4. Sundarban Cooperative Milk & Livestock Producers Union Ltd: This organization might showcase stalls offering dairy products such as yogurt, ghee, and locally produced cheeses.

5. Sufal Bangla (Agriculture): Sufal Bangla is likely to feature stalls brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, and organic produce sourced directly from local farmers. It’s an opportunity for visitors to connect with the agricultural heartland of Bengal.

6. Consumer Affairs Department: Stalls from this department could focus on consumer education and awareness. They may offer information on consumer rights, fair trade practices, and perhaps even showcase products that have received quality assurance certifications.

7. Animal Resources Development (ARD): ARD might present stalls for selling meat product, along with information on animal husbandry practices, veterinary care, and perhaps demonstrations related to animal products.

These departments and organizations collectively contribute to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere, offering a blend of agricultural, artisanal, and educational experiences that celebrate the cultural and economic richness of West Bengal. Each stall represents a facet of the region’s diverse heritage and ongoing efforts in rural development, agriculture, and consumer welfare.

And some other stalls (approx. 30) will be hosted by commercial entity which will be selling foods, confectioneries and other commercial items.

These events aim not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire discussions on sustainable horticulture and food processing techniques.

Join us in celebrating Bengal’s Horticultural excellence and culinary heritage at the “Bengal Fruit & Food Festival”.

Understanding Blood in Stool: Could It Be Colon Cancer

Taking charge of your health is an empowering step, and regular screening plays a vital role in preventive care. Seeing blood in your stool can be a frightening experience. While it’s a symptom that shouldn’t be ignored, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t necessarily mean cancer. There are several reasons why you might have blood in your stool, some more serious than others. However, early detection of colon cancer is crucial for successful treatment, making colon cancer screening a vital step.

 Colon cancer, when detected early, has a very high success rate for treatment. By understanding your risk factors and the different screening tests, you can take a proactive approach to your well-being and ensure early detection of any potential issues.

 What Does Blood in the Stool Indicate?
Blood in the stool can arise from various benign or malignant sources. Common culprits include hemorrhoids, which cause painless bright red bleeding, and anal fissures, during bowel movements. Less frequently, diverticulosis (pouches in the colon lining) can bleed. Upper gastrointestinal issues like peptic ulcers may present with dark red or tarry stools due to blood loss. Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease) can cause rectal bleeding, often accompanied by diarrhea and cramping. Finally, though less common, blood in the stool can be a sign of colon cancer, with the blood appearing bright or dark red and mixed in with the stool.

 Why is Colon Cancer Screening Important?
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is highly treatable when detected early. Regular screening can identify precancerous polyps (abnormal growths on the colon lining) before they turn cancerous. Even in its early stages, colon cancer may not cause any symptoms. This is why screening is so crucial – it can detect cancer before you experience any noticeable signs.

Who Should Get Screened for Colon Cancer?
It is better to start regular colon cancer screening at 45 for average-risk individuals, certain factors warrant an earlier or more frequent approach. This includes a family history of colon cancer in close relatives, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, and lifestyle habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or a diet low in fiber and high in red meat.

 Types of Colon Cancer Screening Tests

 There are various colon cancer screening tests available, each with its own pros and cons. Discussing with your doctor will help determine the most suitable option for you, considering your age, risk factors, and preferences.
• Colonoscopy is the most comprehensive test, where a long, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum to examine the entire colon. During this procedure, suspicious polyps can be removed for biopsy. While highly effective, colonoscopy requires sedation and bowel preparation, which can be inconvenient.
• For a less invasive option, the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) analyzes a stool sample for hidden blood, a potential sign of colon cancer or other conditions. FIT is simple, requiring no special preparation, but a positive result necessitates a follow-up colonoscopy for confirmation.
• Another stool-based test, Cologuard DNA, analyzes DNA and blood markers in stool for abnormalities suggestive of colon cancer. While more sensitive than FIT, Cologuard also requires a confirmatory colonoscopy if the test result is positive.

 Don’t Wait, Get Screened
Blood in the stool can be a scary symptom, but it doesn’t have to be a cause for panic. Early diagnosis is key for successful treatment of any underlying condition, especially colon cancer. If you notice blood in your stool, schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms and get screened. Remember, colon cancer screening is a potentially lifesaving procedure. Don’t wait – take control of your health and get screened today.

Abans Holdings Q1: 57% Boost in Agency Business, EBIT Rise

Mumbai, August 8, 2024 : Abans Holdings Limited with a market capitalization of over INR 2800 crs a premier global financial services conglomerate, announced its consolidated financial results for this quarter, showcasing a robust performance across key financial metrics.

 Abans Holdings has reported outstanding consolidated financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. The company’s agency business EBIT showed a significant increase of 57% from the previous quarter, reaching INR 21.75 crores. The company’s EBITDA also showed a significant increase of 37%, amounting to INR 43.67 crores. The firm’s assets under management (AUM) grew by 8% during the quarter, indicating consistent growth.

 Abhishek Bansal, Chairman and Managing Director of Abans Holdings Ltd, expressed his enthusiasm: “Our Q1 performance is a testament to the strategic initiatives and unwavering dedication of our team. The impressive growth in our agency income and EBITDA reflects our adeptness in navigating market challenges and seizing opportunities. With our AUM increasing steadily, we are reinforcing our market presence. Trust is the cornerstone of our business, and this performance illustrates the confidence our clients place in us. We are committed to delivering sustained value to our stakeholders.”

 Additionally, profit before tax increased to INR 28.93 crores, compared to INR 25.25 crores in the trailing quarter, while net profit achieved INR 24.21 crores, up from INR 21.16 crores. This robust performance reflects the company’s strategic initiatives and strong operational execution.

 Nirbhay Vassa, Group CFO added: “The financial results for this quarter underscore our strong operational execution and financial prudence. The 57% increase in agency business EBIT to INR 21.75 crores and the 37% rise in EBITDA to INR 43.67 crores highlight our team’s dedication and strategic acumen. These numbers signify our solid growth trajectory and the effectiveness of our financial strategies. The expansion in our AUM is a clear indicator of our growing market footprint. We are poised to build on this momentum and achieve our long-term financial aspirations.”

 Abans Holdings has acquired the SATCO Growth and Momentum Portfolio from SATCO Capital Markets Limited to accelerate its expansion. Also its subsidiary Abans Investment Managers Pvt Ltd (AIMPL) valued at INR 150 crs in Series A funding round led by clients who invested in their products and experienced their services firsthand. This demonstrates the confidence of distributors, who channel AUM across the products. The company plans to focus on accelerating AUM growth by building a strong brand, enhancing product offerings, and expanding distribution outreach.

 They are also establishing a wholly-owned subsidiary in GIFT City for lending activities, subject to regulatory approvals. Abans practices growth hacking, focusing on innovation, technological integration, strategic relationships, flexibility, and hiring the right people. The company is also expanding its flagship Global Arbitrage Fund to U.S. markets through its subsidiary, aiming to provide investors with access to the fund’s track record of delivering consistent and significant returns after securing regulatory approval.

 The exceptional financial results underscore Abans Holdings Limited’s commitment to strategic growth and operational excellence. With significant increases in agency income, EBITDA, and assets under management, the company has demonstrated its ability to navigate market challenges and capitalize on opportunities.

 As Abans Holdings continues to expand its market presence and build on this momentum, it remains dedicated to delivering sustained value to its stakeholders, reinforcing the trust and confidence of its clients and partners.

Radware Unveils EPIC-AI for Advanced AI and GenAI Security Solutions

MAHWAH, N.J., – August 6, 2024

Radware®, a leading provider of cyber security and application delivery solutions, today announced the launch of its proprietary Radware EPIC-AI™, which adds multiple layers of AI-powered intelligence and capabilities across its application and network security solutions and services. EPIC-AI infuses state-of-the-art AI and generative AI algorithms across Radware’s security solutions to deliver precise, hands-free, consistent protections across cloud, on-prem, and hybrid environments. The AI-based innovations are designed to help organizations not only significantly improve real-time attack detection and mitigation, but also reduce mean time to resolution (MTTR), gain more control over their security, and protect their brands.

“The growing use of automated and AI-enabled cyber-attack tools combined with new, stricter regulatory requirements and a shortage of cybersecurity experts continue to increase exposure and risk for organizations worldwide,” said Roy Zisapel, President and CEO, Radware. “In keeping with Radware’s fight AI-with-AI approach to security, the launch of EPIC-AI gives organizations the modern tools they need to stay ahead of evolving cyberthreats and business challenges. Real-time, precise, hands-free protection consistently applied across any application environment—that’s the unmatched power and intelligence behind EPIC-AI. Today, we are introducing a new AI-based approach to security that we plan to build upon going forward.”

Recently, industry analyst GigaOm evaluated the AI protection capabilities of 13 security providers in its 2024 Radar for Application and API Security (AAS) Report. For AI protection capabilities, the GigaOm report notes, “Radware is the only vendor in this analysis to earn a top score on the AI-enhanced vulnerability detection criterion. Radware includes everything that we currently look for in this feature; the AI vulnerability enhancement system uses both IP and application layer information to learn of attacks to protect against and offer suggestions to IT.”

Powered by EPIC-AI, Radware’s security solutions provide a multi-layered integrated platform that offers:

Integration across multiple enforcement points, including Radware’s own products and cloud services as well as third-party services, to uniformly apply security policies, signatures, and rules regardless of where an application resides. This unmatched approach provides organizations the consistent protection they are seeking across onprem and public cloud environments.

 Real-time cloud protection engines with AI-powered Web DDoS, DNS, bot, and API protection that set Radware apart from the competition. To arm customers in their fight against AI-based attacks, each engine is AI-powered with machine-learning algorithms designed to automatically identify and surgically block malicious activity.

 Cross-platform AI reasoning that uniquely correlates threat intelligence and data driven feeds across the real-time protection engines to help preemptively block malicious sources. To help combat all-in-one attack tools and a wide range of cyberthreats, the platform can use AI-driven algorithms to identify a malicious event in one engine and block it in another or across different applications.

 AI-Driven SOC capabilities that enable 24×7, AI-empowered managed services and automated security management and operations. These services can be used by organizations to quickly identify the root causes of an incident and automatically solve it, reducing mean time to resolution from days and hours to minutes.

According to Radware customers:

“Radware’s AI-powered solutions provide robust, real-time threat protection, empowering businesses with unmatched security and confidence.” Ayesha Lata, security solutions engineer, Fiji National University

 “The current cyberthreat landscape has been disrupted with new types of attacks created with the help of artificial intelligence. Radware’s AI-based solutions have helped us better understand our threat landscape and protect ourselves more efficiently against new types of attacks so that the availability of our services is not negatively impacted.” Diego Del Portillo, head of cybersecurity, Puerto de Barranquilla, Sociedad Portuaria

“We chose Radware not only for the excellent results they produced in the concept testing, but also for their AI-powered technologies and the global cost of the projects.” Mario Corpas Granda, ICT consultant, ASAC Comunicaciones

Radware has received numerous awards for its application and network security solutions. Industry analysts such as Aite-Novarica Group, Forrester Research, Gartner, GigaOm, KuppingerCole, and Quadrant Knowledge Solutions continue to recognize Radware as a market leader in cyber security.

Double Boost for Housing Sector – Steady Repo Rate and Indexation Benefits Drive Market Optimism

Anuj Puri, Chairman – ANAROCK Group

The RBI’s decision to keep repo rates unchanged at 6.5% for ninth consecutive time aligns well with yesterday’s announcement on indexation benefits. It sets a positive tone for the housing industry. Maintaining interest rates offers consistency in borrowing costs, which will prompt more aspiring homebuyers to consider taking the plunge – and thus drive demand in the housing market. With interest rates staying steady, EMIs will remain manageable for current and potential homeowners, potentially leading to increased home sales – particularly in the price-sensitive affordable segment.

Yesterday’s announcement regarding indexation brings tax advantages for property investors, as it permits adjustments to the purchase price keeping inflation in mind, reducing capital gains tax burdens upon property sale. This provision increases the appeal of real estate investments, which will spur demand and capital flow into the housing sector. These combined actions bolster investor trust and position real estate as an avenue for long-term wealth growth.

As housing demand rises due to favourable interest rates and taxation, we can expect overall boosted growth. This will encourage more project construction, job opportunities and broader economic gains. The collective impact of these measures improves affordability levels and boosts demand dynamics in India’s housing segment.

Housing sales across the top 7 cities have been phenomenal in the last few quarters, even though prices are rising steadily. As per ANAROCK Research, we saw total housing sales of nearly 2.51 lakh units across the top 7 cities in H1 2024 – the highest half-yearly sales in the last decade.

Meanwhile, average residential prices across the top 7 cities have seen a significant jump in the last one year – ranging between 13-39% in Q2 2024 when compared to Q2 2023. Thus, the breather which RBI’s unchanged repo rate will provide to home loan borrowers is apt and welcome.

India’s comprehensive sports ecosystem conclave IAMGAME to take place in New Delhi

New Delhi, August 8, 2024 – India has witnessed an inspiring shift in its sports landscape, evolving from a cricket-dominated nation to a diverse sporting powerhouse. Both men and women athletes have made the country proud with their achievements on global platforms. The spirit of sports has united the nation, breaking barriers and creating heroes from all walks of life. It is in this backdrop of growing enthusiasm and emotional connection to sports that IAMGAME emerges as a crucial catalyst for furthering India’s sporting potential.

IAMGAME, India’s comprehensive two-day sports conclave scheduled for 9th-10th October 2024 at Pullman, Aerocity Delhi, has been announced to provide a platform for sportspersons, coaches, sports federations, and brands to come together, amplify the Indian sports ecosystem, and build thought leadership that can make sports a recognized and viable career path for millions.

IAMGAME will serve as a marketplace for all things sports, with a vision to positively impact India’s sports landscape by strengthening communication and fostering strategic partnerships. With India’s sports business expected to reach $100 billion by 2027, IAMGAME aims to play a pivotal role by supporting sports programs from the grassroots level, offering clear plans for government sports projects, and creating a nurturing environment for the sports community to connect and collaborate.

The two-day conclave will bring together key stakeholders from the sports and allied industries to address challenges and explore innovative solutions. Envisioned as India’s largest and most comprehensive sports conclave, with the theme ‘Everything Sports,’ it will witness over 2000 delegates, 10 international speakers, 25 state sports federations, 200+ sporting brands, 20+ sports legends, and 100 sessions, including keynote addresses, investor meet-ups, start-up pitches, exhibition booths, and workshops, all aimed at transforming financial requirements into creative sporting visions and opening up opportunities within the sporting sector.

“IAMGAME is designed to bridge the gap between resources and talent in the Indian sports ecosystem. By providing a central hub for sportspersons, coaches, and brands, we aim to drive investment and elevate Indian sports to new heights. With over 400 million sports fans in India and a rapidly growing sports economy, the potential for impact is enormous,” said Karan Chettri, Founder of IAMGAME. “Our goal is to create a sustainable and thriving sports environment where every sportsperson can achieve their full potential.”

“We are thrilled to launch IAMGAME Sports Conclave 2024, a platform that is not just about sports but about creating opportunities, fostering growth, and building a stronger, healthier nation,” added Mandeep Malhotra, Co-Founder of IAMGAME. “By bringing together key stakeholders and providing a comprehensive platform for resources and investment, we believe we can revolutionize the sports ecosystem in India. The sports sector has shown a consistent growth rate of 15% annually, and with initiatives like IAMGAME, we can accelerate this growth and create a robust support system for our sportspersons.”

Pacific Mall Tagore Garden Gears Up for Independence Day Celebration

New Delhi, 8th August 2024: Pacific Mall Tagore Garden is all set to celebrate the spirit of Independence Day with a unique event dedicated to showcasing the rich and diverse heritage of India. The celebration will take place from August 9 to August 11, featuring a vibrant mix of traditional and modern Indian art forms resonating with the message of “Atulaya Bharat: Incredible India.”

The essence of “Atulaya Kala Utsav” lies in its commitment to celebrating India’s unparalleled cultural legacy. This event is designed to highlight the diversity and richness of Indian art forms, blending traditional and contemporary styles to create an engaging and immersive experience for visitors. It serves as a tribute to India’s artistry, paying homage to the country’s incredible artistic talent and heritage. The event aims to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of India’s artistic heritage, fostering a sense of pride and connection among attendees.

Visitors can look forward to live art curation and engaging workshops designed to immerse them in various art forms. Participants can explore and create through Nail and String Art, Mosaic Tile Art, Clay Modelling, Origami Texture Art, Jute Art, Recycled Art Canvas, 3D Art Structures, Abstract Emboss Gluegun Art, Bamboo Art, and Cloth Emboss Painting, taking home mini art souvenirs as a token of their experience. Additionally, traditional folk performances will be held over the weekends, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Abhishek Bansal, Executive Director of Pacific Group, expressed his views, stating, “We believe in celebrating the essence of India’s diverse cultural heritage. Through our ‘Atulaya Bharat: Incredible India’ event, we aim to create an immersive experience that combines the richness of traditional art forms and the vibrancy of modern Indian culture. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the spirit of Independence Day and to be part of this unique journey of cultural appreciation and creativity.”