Bank of Baroda Pioneers Merchant Loyalty Cashback via Programmable CBDC

Mumbai, 28th February, 2025: Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, under the guidance of the Reserve Bank of India, today announced the pilot launch of a new functionality for merchants built on the “Programmability” functionality of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) – the “Merchant Loyalty/ Cashback Programme” in collaboration with a fintech company. This industry-first initiative enables small and medium merchants to independently design and launch loyalty/cashback programmes for their customers, usually designed by large brands, using Bank of Baroda’s “bob Merchant App”.

Merchants such as local retail shops, grocery stores, pharmacies etc that have an account with Bank of Baroda and are registered on the bob Merchant App, can now independently design and run Cashback/Loyalty programmes, without the need to make any corresponding investments in procuring the infrastructure or software to operate such a reward programme.

This initiative will go a long way in boosting the adoption of CBDC, making it more appealing & rewarding for merchants and customers. It will also help small & medium merchants to stay competitive, encourage repeat business and expand their customer base.

Speaking on the launch, Shri Sanjay V Mudaliar, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda said, “Bank of Baroda continues to be at the forefront in driving innovation in the banking sector. Our new “Merchant Loyalty/Cash Back Programme” using Programmable CBDC (PCBDC), a first in the Indian banking sector, is an innovative use case that empowers our small and medium-sized merchants to create tailored cashback offers that will foster greater customer engagement & retention. This initiative will benefit both merchants and customers.”

Key Features of Bank of Baroda’s “Merchant Loyalty /Cashback Programme” Merchant Use Case through PCBDC

•  Bank’s merchant customers will configure their own cashback or loyalty programme using the “bob Merchant app”, specifying the period of the campaign, percentage of cashback and validity/expiry date of the cashback received by customers.
•  During the campaign period, customers (presently for BOB customers only) who make a purchase using the bob World Digital Rupee app, will receive cashback in the form of PCBDC from the merchant as per the prevailing offer at the merchant outlet.

· These PCBDCs can be used by customers at the specific merchant outlet until expiry.

Karur Vysya Bank inaugurates 6 new branches today

Chennai, 28th February, 2025: Karur Vysya Bank (KVB) announced the inauguration of its 6 new branches in Tamil Nadu & Andhra Pradesh today. These branches will offer a comprehensive range of banking services like accounts, deposits and loans including savings and current accounts.,
During the financial year 2024-25, the bank added 35 branches and the bank now has 877 branches.
The new branches that were opened today:

1. 872ndBranch – Salem (Cherry Road)-inaugurated by Mr. Balasubramaniyan, Deputy Commissioner, Salem Corporation
2.  873rdBranch – Proddatur(Andhra Pradesh)-inaugurated byMr. Mallikarjuna, Municipal Commissioner, Proddatur
3.  874thBranch – Tiruvallur (Manavala Nagar) – inaugurated by Mr. Thirunavukkarasu, Municipal Commissioner, Tiruvallur
4. 875th Branch – Trichy (Melachinthamani) -inaugurated byDr.Kumaravel, Dean, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital, Trichy
5. 876th Branch – Chennai (Chitlapakkam) -inaugurated by Mrs. Sasikala, Deputy Commissioner, Tambaram City MunicipalCorporation
6.  877th Branch – Tiruppur (Neruperichal) -inaugurated by Mr. Chikkannan, Trustee, M N ChickkannaChettiar Trust, Tiruppur

The new branches shall cater to all basic banking transactions and also specific needs of customers, offering the entire spectrum of banking products and financial services covering Retail, Institutional and Consumer lending.
KVB offers Internet Banking and Mobile Banking facilities. KVB DLite, the Mobile Banking app of the Bank offers convenience of financial and non-financial services through 150+ features.The app has been recently upgraded with several customer friendly features.

Mira Kapoor’s Perfume Line: A New Fragrance Journey with Spritz by Typsy

Each Spritz by Typsy bottle features two distinct yet complementary scents—AM and PM—that can be worn individually or blended to create a third, unique fragrance. This concept enables wearers to adapt their scent to different moods, occasions, or preferences, making fragrance a more personal and versatile experience. Crafted with Extrait de Parfum concentration for 12-hour longevity, the collection is made with high-quality ingredients sourced from France and Spain, ensuring a refined and lasting olfactory experience.

 Mira Kapoor joins hands with Spritz by Typsy to bring this unique fragrance concept to life. Known for her keen appreciation of beauty and wellness, her involvement adds a fresh perspective to the world of perfumery. Together, they introduce a collection that blends luxury with self-expression, encouraging wearers to explore fragrance in a new and creative way.

The debut collection includes carefully curated scent profiles, ranging from warm Vanilla and bold Amber to rich Coffee and timeless Jasmine, catering to diverse personalities and preferences. The packaging reflects the uniqueness of the concept—designed like a mixology book with a fingerprint motif, symbolizing that no two scent combinations are alike.

 Mira Kapoor shares “Fragrance is such a personal expression, and I love how Spritz by Typsy is redefining the way we experience scents. The idea of having two complementary perfumes in one bottle—AM and PM—is so unique and versatile! It allows you to play with your fragrance depending on your mood, and that creativity is what makes this collaboration so exciting for me. I’m also thrilled to come on board as an investor because I truly believe in Spritz and its vision. The concept is fresh, innovative, and something I see resonating with so many people. I can’t wait for everyone to experience it and make it their own”

Founder of Spritz by Typsy, Kairavi Bharat Ram shares “We at Typsy have always empowered self-expression—now with Spritz, we’re reimagining fragrances. Spritz by Typsy focusses on innovation, individuality and customer-centric experiences. For the first time in India, we have a double-sided perfume bottle with two distinct scents, that puts the power of fragrance creation in your hands. Mix, match, and craft your unique scent with our complementary AM-PM fragrances, featuring premium ingredients sourced from Italy and France. We believe this unique concept that allows one to customise their scents is highly experiential and will strike a chord with our customers.”

With this launch, Spritz by Typsy aims to redefine fragrance in India, making it a more immersive and personal experience. This is the first step in a larger vision to introduce more scent innovations that celebrate individuality and creative expression.

Krisumi Partners with Cushman & Wakefield for Waterfall Residences Management, Secures Occupancy Certificate

New Delhi, February 28, 2025: In a strategic move to enhance the living experience for its discerning buyers, Krisumi Corporation, one of Delhi-NCR’s leading developers, has partnered with Cushman & Wakefield Property Management Services India Pvt. Ltd., a globally renowned real estate services provider, to manage its ultra-luxury residential project, Waterfall Residences, in Sector 36A, Gurugram.

The agreement entrusts Cushman & Wakefield with the comprehensive management of Phase 1 i.e. Waterfall Residences, a landmark component of the ambitious Krisumi City. The scope includes the operations and maintenance of common areas, including the exclusive clubhouse, and a robust complaint resolution system, ensuring residents enjoy a seamless and world-class lifestyle.

Krisumi Corporation’s flagship project, Waterfall Residences, has recently received the Occupancy Certificate (OC). Spread across 5.43 acres, the premier residential project is now set to offer possession, marking a new chapter in luxury living along Gurugram’s Central Peripheral Road on Dwarka Expressway.

Part of the expansive Krisumi City, a 33.38-acre self-sustained township, Waterfall Residences is a testament to Japanese-inspired design and architectural precision, offering a harmonious blend of serenity and sustainability. The project features 433 meticulously crafted luxury apartments across three elegant towers, in addition to 77 units dedicated to the Economically Weaker Section. More than just a housing development, Waterfall Residences redefines luxury living, with its crown jewel—The Clubhouse—a 36,000-square-foot lifestyle hub equipped with state-of-the-art amenities designed for unparalleled comfort and recreation.

Speaking on the collaboration and occupancy certificate, Mr. Ashok Kapur, Chairman, of Krisumi Corporation & Krishna Group, said, “Quality, design, architecture, and timely delivery are at the core of our ethos. With Waterfall Residences, we are setting a benchmark for excellence in Gurugram, creating spaces that truly stand the test of time. With this partnership with Cushman, we are reinforcing our dedication to providing residents with not just a home but an elevated lifestyle experience. Cushman &Wakefield’s global expertise will add immense value, ensuring that Waterfall Residences remains a benchmark for luxury living in India.”

“At Krisumi, we’ve built Waterfall Residences with precision, passion, and a vision to redefine luxury living,” said Mr. Akash Khurana, President & CEO, of Krisumi Corporation. “Partnering with Cushman & Wakefield—a name synonymous with excellence in property management—is a step towards ensuring our buyers experience unparalleled comfort and convenience. Their proven expertise aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering excellence.”

Mr. Yuji Kato, Director and Co-CEO of Krisumi Corporation India, said, “This collaboration is a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality, precision, and customer satisfaction. With Sumitomo’s deep-rooted philosophy of Kaizen (continuous improvement), coupled with Cushman & Wakefield’s expertise, we are ensuring that Waterfall Residences sets a new standard for luxury living in India. At Krisumi, we are not just building homes; we are curating an experience that embodies Japanese efficiency, aesthetics, and excellence.”

With this strategic partnership, Krisumi Corporation ensures that residents of Waterfall Residences experience an unparalleled standard of living, combining Japanese precision with global property management expertise.

Mr. Manoj Sharan, Managing Director, Cushman & Wakefield Property Management Services India, said, “We are honored to manage ‘Krisumi Waterfall Residences,’ a project that epitomizes luxury living. With our deep expertise in managing high-end residential complexes, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge, technology-driven solutions to ensure compliance, safety, and an elevated living experience for the residents. This partnership further strengthens our footprint in the luxury property management space, and we look forward to exceeding the expectations of Krisumi’s esteemed buyers.”

Krisumi Corporation, a joint venture between Krishna Group and Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation, is developing the sprawling Krisumi City township in a phased manner. Following the completion of Phase 1, the construction of Phase 2 (Waterfall Suites), featuring 320 luxury units, is progressing swiftly and is set for delivery by the End of December 2028.

In the financial year 2024-2025, Krisumi further cemented its leadership in the luxury real estate market by announcing the launch of Phase 3 and Phase 4, continuing its commitment to creating a self-sustained township where luxury and functionality converge. Waterside Residences and Waterfall Suites-II (phases three and four) launched in the second half of 2024, together offer 1,051 units.

“This partnership is not just about managing property but ensuring a premium lifestyle for our residents,” said Mr. Vineet Nanda, Director of Sales & Marketing, at Krisumi Corporation. “Cushman & Wakefield’s expertise in handling luxury developments will ensure that every detail, from maintenance to service delivery, reflects the exceptional standards that Krisumi City stands for. Our goal has always been to exceed customer expectations, and this collaboration is a step further in that direction.

India Takes Centre Stage as Partner Country at INHORGENTA 2025

Munich, Germany | 28 February 2025: India proudly took on the role of official partner country at INHORGENTA 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the global gem and jewellery industry. The show, which took place from 21st to 24th February, was inaugurated at the India Pavilion by Mr. Shatrughna Sinha, IFS, Consul General of India, Munich; Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Stefan Rummel, CEO of Messe München; and Ms. Stefanie Maendlein, Exhibition Director of INHORGENTA.

Curated by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), the India Pavilion showcased a stunning array of diamond jewellery, gold and platinum pieces, fine jewellery, and loose gemstones. These collections highlighted India’s ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, offering global buyers unmatched quality and artistry.

Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. Sinha Said, “Germany is one of India’s key trading partners in Europe, with strong exports in leather, auto components, chemicals, and electronics. In 2023, bilateral trade between India and Germany reached an impressive USD 33.33 billion, showcasing the immense potential of our economic relationship. I am glad that for the first time, India is the official partner country at INHORGENTA 2025. This partnership is not just a recognition of India’s growing influence in the global gem and jewellery industry, but also a continuation of the deep-rooted 500-year-old economic and cultural bond between India and Germany. It will pave the way for new collaborations, opening up fresh opportunities for the mutual benefit of both nations.”

Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJPEC said, “India has long been a trusted global partner, renowned for its manufacturing excellence and now emerging as a hub for technology and design in the jewellery industry. With a rich legacy of artistry, USD 32 billion in exports to key markets like the USA, Europe, the Middle East, and China, and a strong focus on skill development, innovation, infrastructure, and global standards, India is shaping the future of the industry. Our partnership with INHORGENTA fosters collaborations that will drive growth and elevate the global gem and jewellery sector together.”

Bhansali further added, “India is actively driving diamond promotion by collaborating with global stakeholders, including De Beers and Chow Tai Fook, for consumer campaigns in China. Additionally, GJEPC has collaborated with De Beers to launch a B2B Campaign called INDRA – Indian Natural Diamond Retailer Alliance. This campaign will focus on supporting jewellery retailers in India to strengthen demand and push diamond jewellery sales.”

Talking about the Collaboration with India, Mr. Stefan Rummel, CEO, of Messe München said, “We are thrilled to have India as the partner country at INHORGENTA 2025. This partnership will deepen trade relations between India and Germany, showcasing India’s rich history and exceptional craftsmanship in jewellery. In collaboration with GJEPC, we look forward to presenting India’s brilliance through the India Pavilion and various special activities.”

The India Experience Lounge at INHORGENTA 2025 offered visitors a multi-sensory journey into India’s rich heritage, blending craftsmanship, culture, and innovation. From the exquisite jewellery and Manchaha Rugs, handwoven by rural artisans, to the flavours of Kashmiri Kahwa and Masala Chai, every element engages the senses. The aroma of sandalwood and the melodic strains of the Sitar create an immersive atmosphere, making the lounge a true celebration of India’s artistry and tradition.

Additionally, the Brand India Gallery displayed masterpieces from the Artisan Jewellery Design Awards, demonstrating India’s exceptional talent and creative excellence.

A panel discussion, The Rising Indian Jewellery Influence in the Global Landscape, explored India’s growing impact on the global market, featuring industry experts Alice Cicolini, a high-end jewellery designer based in the UK, and Radhika Somaia, a brand architect, curator, and jewellery contributor.

Partnering with India goes beyond acquiring exquisite gemstones and jewellery—it’s about accessing creations that seamlessly blend tradition with modernity. Powered by ethical sourcing, advanced technology, and skilled artisans, India continues to set global benchmarks in quality, innovation, and design.

Amit Cheeda’s Vicious Front Kick Headlines Superhuman Battleground’s Explosive Fight Night

Bangalore/Mangalore, February 2025:Superhuman Battleground delivered a night of intense combat as the Amateur MMA League 4 took center stage in Manipal, Karnataka, showcasing some of India’s finest up-and-coming fighters. The event, held at the Superhuman Gym, brought together 42 athletes across multiple weight divisions, each stepping into the cage with unrelenting determination. The energy in the arena was electric, with the audience witnessing a thrilling mix of knockouts, submissions, and tactical wars that left no doubt about the rising level of Indian MMA. The whole event was streamed live on YouTube and the whole event received over 1 million hits across all platforms.

Among the many battles that kept fight fans on the edge of their seats, Jiu-Jitsu gold medalist Angel Patil and Bhakti Katudia delivered a clash that instantly became a classic. Both fighters traded relentless offense and defensive mastery, pushing each other to the limit in a contest that rightfully earned the Fight of the Night honor. Bhakti Katudia emerged victorious, securing a unanimous decision win after three hard-fought rounds.

Parvez Khan, stepping into the cage with an impressive 11-2-0 record, proved to be too much for Nitish Kumar, who found himself overwhelmed by Khan’s precise striking and relentless pressure. In a dominant display, Khan secured a technical knockout victory just before the round ended, stopping Kumar at the 2:59 mark. Meanwhile, Mumbai’s Vikas Gupta faced Hyderabad’s seasoned fighter Sandeep Baghel, a veteran of 32 professional fights. Gupta dominated the first two rounds with calculated aggression and relentless ground control, but in a stunning turn of events, Vikas Gupta pulled off a dramatic submission in the final round, forcing Baghel to tap and sealing one of the most unexpected comebacks of the night.

The most electrifying moment came when Amit Cheeda backed up his pre-fight words with brutal precision. Having confidently promised a knockout victory, he delivered spectacularly, landing a ruthless front kick to the face of Muhammad Favas. The strike was both devastating and clinical, sending Favas crashing to the mat as Cheeda walked away with a statement victory.

SomeshKamra, Co-Founder of Superhuman Battleground, reflected on the success of the event, emphasizing its role in shaping the future of Indian MMA. “This league is setting the foundation for the next generation of Indian fighters. The level of talent we’re seeing here is remarkable, and with more opportunities like this, these athletes will be ready to compete on the global stage.”
As the event came to a close, the roadmap for Superhuman Battleground’s future became clear. The organization is set to expand the amateur league to multiple cities, giving even more fighters the chance to compete at an elite level. The next event is scheduled for May 2025, with a total of four amateur events planned for the year. By 2026, Superhuman Battleground will also introduce a professional league, further strengthening India’s position in the global MMA landscape.

Introducing ‘Tattva’: Somany Impresa Group’s Bold Move into Venture Capital

India, February 28th, 2025: Somany Impresa Group (SIG), a diversified conglomerate with market-leading brands in packaging, sanitaryware, faucets, consumer appliances, and plastic pipes & fittings, is expanding its strategic vision with the launch of Tattva, its corporate venture capital (CVC) arm.

Tattva will invest in startups leveraging deep-tech in manufacturing, enterprise SaaS solutions, sustainability-driven clean technologies, next-generation e-commerce platforms, and disruptive product innovations. With a mission to empower innovative companies, Tattva will provide capital investment, strategic guidance, access to SIG’s extensive industry network, and operational expertise. By fostering a vibrant innovation ecosystem, SIG aims to accelerate its internal transformation, strengthen its market leadership, and create significant long-term value.

The name “Tattva,” derived from Sanskrit, means “essence” and “fundamental truth,” symbolizing SIG’s commitment to fostering impactful innovation rooted in strong fundamentals and long-term value creation.

“With a history of market leadership, SIG is committed to shaping the future by supporting the next wave of disruptive innovators. Tattva is our way of accelerating this journey, building an ecosystem where pioneering startups can leverage SIG’s scale, expertise, and industry network to create groundbreaking solutions,” said Mr. Sandip Somany, Chairman , Somany Impresa Group.

Shashvat Somany, Strategy Head, Somany Impresa Group, added, “The future of our industries lies in the ingenuity of today’s startups. Tattva is more than just an investment arm—it is our bridge to the next generation of ideas that will redefine manufacturing, consumer experiences, and sustainability. Through this initiative, we aim to collaborate with visionary entrepreneurs to drive meaningful impact across industries.”

Startups looking to collaborate with Tattva can reach out to us at cvc@agigreenpac.com, connect with us on LinkedIn SIG Tattva and stay tuned for our upcoming website launch. We actively seek partnerships with ventures that share our passion for innovation and are eager to scale with strategic support from SIG. The company’s commitment is further reinforced by partnerships with leading academic institutions such as IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, and IIM Bangalore, which are vital for identifying and supporting high-potential ventures.