16, Mar 2026
University of Birmingham Future-Proofs its Campus Learning Experience
The University of Birmingham is one of the UK’s largest universities with almost 30,000 students in attendance. As with many established universities, it faced the challenge of how to modernise its diverse estate to meet the contemporary learning-styles that have arisen in recent years. Student expectations around audiovisual technology have changed and the University of Birmingham’s LRAT / Libraries and Learning Resources in-house AV team worked with GVAV, its longstanding integration partner, to upgrade dated equipment over the Summer of 2025.
Conceived as a campus-wide initiative to be carried out over the long-term, the university team initially soug
“Some of our older rooms were saddled with dim, non-interactive projection systems and related connectivity issues,” says James Ball, LRAT – AV Designer and Project Lead. Lecturers had become reluctant to use the technology, and students could find the group-work experience frustrating. Our goal was simple: to improve the visual
Avocor was deployed across several distinct teachi
The X Series was chosen specifically over a standard projector wall or LCD videowall for its superior brightness and contrast. This ensures content can be viewed effortlessly and clearly by every person in the room, even those seated at the very back. The high-resolution, high-contrast wall serves as a central focal point, displaying content with unparalleled visual clarity – for sports analysis work, clarity and zero latency are non-negotiable. The Avocor DVLED provided the brightness and the visual scale that simply couldn’t be achieved with a standard projection system, making it a truly immersive experience for our students.
Opting for the X Series also provided a significant logistical advantage during the installation. Projection is notoriously expensive and time-consuming to install due to the requirement for specialist scaffolding. The X Series install was much quicker, delivered to site by Avocor, streamlining the process for GVAV. To maximise adoption, the system was designed for simplicity, and the control panel layouts are intuitively designed, ensuring lecturers can operate the powerful new system with minimal training.
The project also completely redesigned key spaces Muirhead 112 (featuring 8 x 55″ K-Series displays) and Y3 G28 (with 5 x 55″ K-Series displays) to move away from traditional lecture-style seating. These rooms were re-envisioned as highly flexible “collaboration pods,” specifically tailored to facilitate and enhance small-group active learning. Students can connect their personal devices—laptops or tablets—to the Avocor K-Series 55″ displays enabling immediate collaboration. The system also provides the lecturer with effortless monitoring and control over all screens. This capability allows them to quickly share a central content source to all pods simultaneously. The K-Series was selected for its blend of performance and form factor to enable seamless group collaboration.
In further teaching environments, Muirhead 109 and 118, the team implemented a dual-display configuration to support the dynamic requirements of hybrid teaching. A large 98″ K-Series display is expertly paired with a second, smaller 65″ K-Series screen. This setup dedicates the primary 98″ screen to displaying core teaching content, such as slides, digital whiteboards, or lecture materials. The secondary 65″ screen can mirror the content on the 98” screen or can be used independently for group work.
The University of Birmingham’s campus-wide AV transformation stands as a testament to what can be achieved when an integrator partner like GVAV works in close partnership with the client team (LRAT), truly understanding their needs and aspirations. By leveraging Avocor’s versatile range of high-quality display solutions, each tailored to the unique requirements of specific learning environments, the project has delivered flexible, impactful spaces that empower both students and lecturers. This collaborative approach ensured every installation was not only technically robust but also aligned with the university’s vision for modern, engaging education. The result is a series of innovative learning spaces that exemplify best practice in AV integration, demonstrating
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- By Neel Achary
16, Mar 2026
Ortec Finance Launches GLASS PRISM: A New Standard in Strategic Asset Allocation Powered by Scenario-Based Machine Learning
Rotterdam, Mar 16 — Ortec Finance today announces the launch of GLASS PRISM, a targeted Strategic Asset Allocation (SAA) optimization tool powered by its Scenario-Based Machine Learning (SBML) methodology – marking a major evolution in how institutional investors design long-term investment strategy.
In a world defined by volatility, persistent macro uncertainty and ever more complex investor objectives, traditional optimization approaches are increasingly outdated. GLASS PRISM moves beyond static assumptions and linear relationships by applying machine learning within a forward-looking, multi-scenario framework, enabling investors to design Strategic Asset Allocations that are more adaptive, more robust, and better aligned with their objectives.
“Strategic asset allocation is the most important investment decision institutions make, yet many tools still lack a targeted approach to optimizing SAA’s,” said Linda Hooft, Managing Director Insurance Strategy at Ortec Finance. “GLASS PRISM fundamentally changes that. By combining the accuracy of brute-force methods with the efficiency of advanced optimization techniques, our clients can optimize asset portfolios based on any objective or constraint required.”
Unlike conventional mean-variance models, GLASS PRISM:
Insurers can directly target the balance sheet metrics that matter most—within the constraints under which they operate
- Non-linear and multi-period objectives and constraints are handled natively, without proxies
- A set of SAAs is produced that best satisfies institutional objectives, rather than approximating these objectives
- Results are delivered faster, more targeted, and within existing processes
Designed for insurers, asset managers, pension funds, and other long-term investors, GLASS PRISM transforms complex SAA analysis into a scalable, decision-ready framework. By embedding SBML within a dedicated SAA optimization tool, GLASS PRISM transforms what has historically been a highly technical and time-intensive process into a scalable, decision-ready framework.
With GLASS PRISM, Ortec Finance reinforces its leadership in forward-looking risk and return management — equipping institutional investors with the tools needed to build resilient portfolios in an uncertain world.
GLASS PRISM is now available globally as part of Ortec Finance’s advanced risk and return management solutions. https://bit.ly/4utDqCl
16, Mar 2026
Aza Fashions Hosts an Exclusive Showcase of designer Rocky S’s Summer Festive Collection
Mumbai, Mar 16: Luxury multi-designer destination Aza Fashions recently hosted an exclusive in-store showcase celebrating the launch of celebrated designer Rocky S’s Rocky Star Summer Festive Collection 2026 at its flagship store in Bandra, Mumbai. The intimate evening brought together fashion enthusiasts, loyal patrons, and members of the designer’s close circle for a special unveiling that celebrated craftsmanship, couture and the renewed creative partnership between the designer and the luxury retailer.
The showcase marked a significant moment for both the designer and the brand, as Rocky Star returned to Aza in what he described as a meaningful “homecoming.” With deep roots in Mumbai and a long-standing association with the city’s fashion community, presenting his latest collection in Aza— added a special emotional resonance to the evening. The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the collection, a soft, feminine and elegant festive edit designed specifically for modern celebrations. It blends delicate craftsmanship with contemporary glamour, offering styles that are both celebratory and versatile for the summer festive season.
Commenting on his collection launch, designer Rocky S said,
“Returning to Aza feels incredibly special to me. It’s where part of my journey began, and coming back with a new collection feels like completing a beautiful circle. I am excited to share this moment and this collection with everyone who has supported my journey. This collection is soft, feminine and elegant. featuring beautiful prints and delicate embroidery. It’s designed especially for the festive and wedding season. perfect for resort and destination celebrations
Devangi Nishar Parekh, Managing Director of Aza Fashions added, “Rocky S has always brought a distinct perspective on glamour to Indian fashion. His work has shaped celebratory dressing for decades, while continuing to evolve with changing times. Aza was one of the first platforms to showcase Rocky’s work, and we’ve shared a long association over the years. We’re excited to present his Summer Festive collection at our Aza Bandra store; it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, glamour, and modern Indian celebration fashion, which both our brands champion.”
Aza Fashions has historically played an important role in championing India’s most iconic designers and curating their creations for discerning clients. Rocky S was among the designers who began his retail journey with Aza in the early years of his label. The designer’s return to the platform marks the revival of a creative partnership built on trust, legacy and a shared vision for contemporary Indian couture.
The collection features statement sarees, glamorous gowns and sculpted draped silhouettes crafted for festive occasions, summer weddings and evening celebrations. Crafted with lightweight fabrics suited to warmer climates, the designs combine intricate embellishments with fluid cuts that allow for effortless movement and elegance.
True to Rocky S’s signature aesthetic, the pieces reflect intricate embellishments, dramatic silhouettes, and modern glamour. It seamlessly merges traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary couture sensibilities. The colour palette transitions gracefully between soft pastels, metallic tones and classic festive hues, creating pieces that feel both timeless and modern.
Beyond the collection launch, the event was designed to create an immersive retail experience for customers. Guests had the opportunity to interact directly with the designer, understand the inspirations behind the collection and explore the festive edit in a personalized luxury retail setting. The evening reinforced the growing role of experiential retail in luxury fashion — where storytelling, designer interaction and curated environments enhance the overall shopping experience.
Seen attending the event were Ameesha Patel, Raveena Tandon, Manushi Chillar, Shama Sikander, Sussanne Khan, Sophie Choudry, Sunny Leone and Daniel Weber, Giorgia Andriani, Reshma Bombaywala, Avni Gupta, Abel Biju, Monica D’souza, Parul Yadav, Pooja Chopra, Rahul Jhangiani, Ruhi Singh, Samita Bangargi, Shevam Singh, Shubham Sharma, Arslan Goni and several others.
For Aza Fashions, the showcase reflects its continued commitment to creating meaningful fashion moments that connect designers with their audiences. By hosting exclusive launches and in-store experiences, Aza continues to strengthen its position as one of India’s leading luxury multi-designer destinations, known for its carefully curated portfolio of celebrated designers and couture labels. Over the years, Aza has played a pivotal role in presenting iconic designers to fashion-forward clients, while offering customers access to some of the most sought-after creations in Indian couture.
16, Mar 2026
FSSAI Approves 17 rPET Plants, Unlocking 3 Lakh Tonne Capacity for India’s Circular Packaging Goal
New Delhi, Mar 16th: In a significant move, the FSSAI has granted authorization to seventeen recycled PET manufacturing plants unlocking 3 lakh tonne capacity for the country’s circular packaging economy. FSSAI’s move granting final licences will help strengthen India’s packaging supply chain at a time when Virgin PET faces global pressures in the wake of Iran-Israel war, Association of PET Recyclers (APR) Bharat, said.
With the receipt of these authorizations, the industry will now have a combined FSSAI authorised capacity to produce 3 lakh MT per annum of r-PET to meet the demand for food-contact packaging from Indian beverage/bottling industry.
The companies that have received the FSSAI authorization include Rungta Eco Extrusions Private Limited, Dodhia Industries Limited, Ganesha Ecopet Private Limited, JB Ecotex Limited, Alpha Ecoplast Private Limited, Ribotl Solutions Private Limited, Dalmia Polypro Industries Private Limited, Revalyu Recycling Limited and Srichakra Polyplast Private Limited among others.
Applauding FSSAI on granting final authorizations to these nine units, Mr Goutham Jain, Director General, APR Bharat, said, “The authorization granted by FSSAI to seventeen recycled PET manufacturing plants mark a significant move in the country’s circular packaging economy. The timing could not have been more appropriate when global markets for virgin PET and polymers are facing uncertainty amid geopolitical developments such as the ongoing Iran–Israel conflict. Capacities at these plants will help ensure adequate supply of r-PET in the market, enabling beverage manufacturers to meet the regulatory guideline mandating 40 per cent recycled food-grade plastic content in PET packaging bottles in 2026-27. This move is not only timely but also aligns with the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of building a circular economy.”
Adequate capacity to meet the demand
It is to be noted that the Plastic waste Management Rules 2016 (as amended from time to time) mandates the use of 30 per cent recycled content in rigid plastic packaging effective from 2025-26 with gradual increase of 10 per cent every year until 60 per cent in 2028-29 and onwards. Aligned with this mandate, 15-18 food-grade rPET recycling facilities were established across the country with a total capacity of approx. 3 lakh MT at an estimated investment of INR. 9,000 – 10,000 Crores.
These companies have adopted state-of-art technology and set up their factories adhering to standards approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) had, in September 2021 allowed use of r-PET as a food contact material. However, in a draft notification issued on June 3, 2025, MoEFCC allowed brands and producers to carry forward shortfalls in meeting the 30% r-PET target for food contact applications for 2025-26 over the next three years. The delay in issue of final notification has caused uncertainty and impacted the immediate demand significantly for r-PET by beverage and bottling industry.
“With these seventeen recycled PET manufacturing plants receiving final authorizations, there will be surplus r-PET available in the market. This can help fill any gap in the supply of polymers due to the ongoing war and volatility in global markets,” Jain said.
“We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to Shri. J.P. Nadda, Hon’ble Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Rajit Punhani, CEO, FSSAI and Dr. Alka Rao, Advisor, FSSAI for their timely and continued support to the r-PET industry,” he added.
16, Mar 2026
Something’s cooking in Chef Ranveer Brar’s Kitchen
An exclusive Tasting Table hosted by celebrity chef Ranveer Brar is set to bring together a curated mix of food, innovation, and culinary storytelling in an intimate setting. The gathering is expected to draw a number of well-known faces from the culinary world, along with lifestyle influencers, creators, and select members of the media.
Adding to the buzz, the chef recently sent out a series of creatively curated bento-box invites to select creators and influencers. Each box featured two of his favourites – biryani and momos, along with a cryptic note hinting that “something exciting is cooking.” The unusual invite has sparked curiosity across social media, with several creators sharing glimpses of the boxes and speculating about what Chef Ranveer Brar might be preparing to unveil at the upcoming gathering.
While details about the event remain tightly under wraps, industry buzz suggests that the evening could feature the reveal of a new kitchen innovation designed to revolutionise everyday cooking for Indian homes.
At the chef’s table, Brar is expected to showcase how modern kitchen tools can help prepare a wide variety of dishes with ease, while preserving the flavours and authenticity that define Indian cuisine. In Further details about the innovation, including its features, availability, and market rollout are expected to be revealed closer to the official announcement.
16, Mar 2026
Pulse of Positivity Health and Wellness Summit 2026 Brings Policymakers, Doctors, and Thought Leaders Together to Shape the Future of Health in India
New Delhi, Mar 16th: Pulse of Positivity successfully hosted the Health & Wellness Summit 2026 at Le Méridien, New Delhi. The one-day Summit brings together policymakers, healthcare experts, academicians, and wellness practitioners, creating a space for meaningful communication around the health priorities important for India in current times.
The event’s inaugural session was graced by Shri Raja Iqbal Singh, Hon’ble Mayor of Delhi, as the Chief Guest. A significant moment during the inaugural session was the launch of the “Health Chaupal” initiative, envisioned as a community-oriented platform aimed at encouraging dialogue around health awareness, preventive practices, and public participation in wellness initiatives.
As the summit took place as an initiative for open conversations, thoughtful deliberations came together to discuss the most pressing health priorities our society faces today, including mental health awareness, lifestyle diseases, women’s health, preventive care, and community-driven health engagement. During the multiple sessions, speakers reflected on the importance of building a healthcare ecosystem that is not only responsive to illness but also deeply invested in prevention, awareness, and long-term well-being.
The first session on Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being during the summit focused on the growing recognition of psychological health as an integral component of overall wellness. The second session on Lifestyle Diseases and Preventive Healthcare examined the increasing burden of lifestyle-related conditions and healthier daily practices in reducing long-term health risks. Dedicated session on the Women’s Health, Maternal and Child Wellness during the summit brought attention to the importance of accessible healthcare systems and informed awareness around women’s health, maternal care, and early childhood well-being.
Commenting on the importance of wellness initiatives, Shri Raja Iqbal Singh, Hon’ble Mayor of Delhi, said, “Maintaining balance in life and remaining content and happy are essential for holistic human wellness. Today, it is important for us to remind ourselves of these simple yet powerful principles of living a healthy life. Health and wellness summits like this should be organised regularly, as they provide platforms for people to come together, reflect on their well-being, and encourage healthier lifestyles.”
Reflecting on the vision behind the initiative, Rear Admiral Kapil Gupta, VSM (Retd.), Editor-in-Chief of Pulse of Positivity, said: “In my opinion, Healthcare conversations today must move towards a deeper culture of prevention, awareness, and collective responsibility. This Health & Wellness Summit is conceived with the same idea, creating a platform where policymakers, healthcare professionals, and wellness practitioners could engage in meaningful dialogue on the future of health in India. When knowledge, policy insight, and community awareness converge, it creates the foundation for a healthier and more resilient society.”
The summit concluded with a Valedictory Session featuring Shri Tushar Chauhan, who secured All India Rank 216 in the Civil Services Examination 2025, alongside other distinguished speakers, bringing the day’s deliberations to a reflective close.
Through its discussions and exchanges, the Pulse of Positivity Health & Wellness Summit 2026 underscored the growing importance of preventive healthcare, mental well-being, and community engagement, while reinforcing the idea that building a healthier society requires sustained dialogue, shared knowledge, and collective commitment.
16, Mar 2026
Gold Slides As Markets Brace for Central Bank Decisions
By:- Joseph Dahrieh, Managing Director at Tickmill
Gold prices retreated on Monday as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of a crucial week for global monetary policy. A series of interest rate decisions from major central banks, including those in the United States, the euro area, the United Kingdom and Japan, are expected to provide important signals for financial markets. While interest rates are widely expected to remain unchanged, market attention will focus on forward guidance and policymakers’ assessment of inflation risks.
Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to drive gold prices. Higher oil prices continue to fuel global inflation concerns. The latter could push central banks toward a more cautious monetary policy, potentially supporting bond yields and limiting gold’s upside potential in the near term.
At the same time, persistent instability in Eastern Europe continues to reinforce gold’s safe-haven appeal, as the prospect of a ceasefire appears increasingly distant. Structural demand also remains supportive. Central banks have maintained steady purchases in recent quarters, reflecting a broader shift toward diversifying reserves.
16, Mar 2026
UN40 Music Festival Wraps Up Successful Debut Edition in Bengaluru; Second Edition Announced for February 2027
Bengaluru, Mar 16: The first edition of the UN40 Music Festival concluded successfully at NICE Grounds, bringing together nearly 18,000 attendees over two days for a vibrant celebration of music, comedy, food, and immersive experiences. Designed as more than just a concert by Saregama Live, the festival aimed to create a dynamic space where entertainment extended far beyond the stage.
The event featured a packed schedule of live performances, creator-led comedy sets, interactive games, gaming zones, and curated food stalls, transforming the venue into a lively experiential hub. Attendees also enjoyed a buzzing beer garden featuring the FilterCopy pre-game party, along with various creator performances and engaging activities across the grounds.
The musical lineup over the two-day festival included performances by Aditya Rikhari, Paradox, Pragati Nagpal, Raja Kumari, Thaikkudam Bridge, Paal Dabba, and Maahi, among others. Day 1 concluded with a high-energy headline performance by Himesh Reshammiya, who had the crowd singing along to several of his popular tracks. Day 2 wrapped up with a memorable closing set by Talwiinder, bringing his signature sound to the stage.
Beyond the performances, festival-goers experienced a range of unique and feel-good moments across the venue. From roaming masseuses offering quick relaxation breaks between sets to surprise shots moving through the crowd, photographers capturing candid memories, and spontaneous interactive activities, the festival encouraged attendees to explore, engage, and enjoy the atmosphere with friends.
Speaking about the vision behind the festival, Siddharth Anand Kumar, Executive Vice President – Films, Series and Events at Saregama, said,
“The way audiences engage with live entertainment is evolving. People today are looking for experiences that go beyond just watching a performance. With UN40, the idea was to build a festival where the audience could spend the entire day discovering something new — whether it was music, comedy, food, games, or spontaneous moments across the venue. It was incredibly rewarding to see people embrace the festival in that spirit over the two days.”
With strong attendance and enthusiastic participation, the debut edition of the UN40 Music Festival has added a fresh new experience to Bengaluru’s live entertainment landscape. Building on this momentum, the festival will return for its second edition in February 2027, promising an even bigger celebration of music, culture, and shared experiences.
16, Mar 2026
Champion Makes Its India Debut, Bringing Proven Global Performance to Local Industries
- Reciprocating Compressors — rugged, versatile units for light to heavy-duty industrial use.
- Rotary Screw Compressors – engineered for robust, reliable performance, delivering long‑term value
- Air Treatment Products — dryers, filters, condensate drains and separators to protect systems & downstream equipment.
16, Mar 2026
India Fandom Report by MYFANDOM Spotlights India’s Fandom Economy, Worth USD 10B by 2028
Mumbai, Mar 16: MYFANDOM, India’s first Direct-to-Fan ecosystem, is known for fueling fandoms through official, premium merchandise and immersive fan experiences. MYFANDOM, which has enabled merchandise for over 100+ international artists and brands, has now released “India Fandom Report”. A first-of-its-kind, the report is a comprehensive overview on the phenomenal upsurge in fandom-related activities in India in 2025.
On the launch of the India Fandom Report, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis Ji shares,
“The India Fandom Report is a timely initiative that seeks to understand the evolving dynamics of fan communities and their growing influence. The creation of MYFANDOM as a platform that celebrates fan culture and connects Indian audiences with global entertainment experiences is a noteworthy step in recognising the power and potential of fandom in India”
The report examines how fandom is emerging as a powerful force shaping India’s cultural influence, consumer behaviour, and economic growth. It explores India’s growing role as a global soft power, where Indian fan communities are increasingly becoming an influence on international pop culture, music tours, streaming content, and cross-border collaborations. An independent study by MYFANDOM discovers that as fandom deepens, merchandise, live experiences, and community-led engagement have become crucial touchpoints for the Indian Fandom Economy giving fans the centerstage. 40% of fans want meet-and-greets with their idols to become part of the fan-experience, and 45% said they’d be the happiest with official merch.
The concept of fandom and its transition from a passive to a proactive influence is at the heart of this report, that positions India firmly in what it defines as the “Fandom Era”
Speaking on the report, Jinal Ajmera, Co- Founder of MYFANDOM says,
“Today, India’s hold on the collective consciousness of the world is evident in every aspect of our media and entertainment. The exchange of art and culture, the influx of international artists, businesses and music festivals into the Indian economy made 2025 – ‘The Year of Fandom’. The India Fandom Report is our endeavour to celebrate India’s Soft Power with a record of these incredible strides made in the Indian Fandom Economy.”
Vivek Ajmera, Co- Founder of MYFANDOM adds,
“We are on a journey to empower fans to Live Their Fandom. As India rises to unprecedented heights of economic power, our aim with the India Fandom Report is to highlight the scope of the country’s Orange Economy by offering a macro lens on the growing fan culture in India. With this, we take one step forward for India’s next billion fans.”
The report also includes insights from industry leaders and pillars of the Fandom Economy in India, such as Jay Mehta, Managing Director, Warner Music India & SAARC; Perry Farrell, Founder, Lollapalooza; Kunal Khambhati, Co-founder & COO – Events, District by Zomato; Anjula Acharia, Founder, 5 Junction Record and Manager, Priyanka Chopra Jonas; Poornima Sharma, Head of Marketing Partnerships, Netflix India, and Thomas Puliyel – Former President, IMRB International (now Kantar), to name just a few. Also, the report highlights the experiences of certain superfans like Tanuj Govil, who got to sing on stage with Chris Martin in Ahmedabad, and Natasha Mahtani, an Indian Swiftie invited to a ‘secret session’ at Taylor Swift’s residence.
This report is intended to serve as a reference point for artists, management, brands, and industry stakeholders seeking to underscore how fandom is shaping the future of entertainment, commerce, and culture in India. Drawing on its internal study, industry research, and cultural observation, MYFANDOM estimates that by 2028, India’s Fandom Economy will be worth $10 Billion!
