5th December 2024 The Japanese yen has softened after reaching recent highs, weighed down by uncertainty surrounding the Bank of Japan’s (BoJ) potential interest rate hike. While Governor Kazuo Ueda has hinted at the possibility of an imminent rate adjustment, some doubts persist over whether the move will occur at this month’s meeting. This uncertainty has contributed to bearish momentum for the yen, reflecting a cautious tone in currency markets.

Economic data, however, hints at underlying resilience in Japan’s economy. November’s Jibun Bank Services PMI exceeded expectations, rebounding from a four-month low due to rising orders and a strong labor market. Inflationary pressures remain elevated, driven by persistent increases in production costs, which strengthen the case for monetary tightening by the BoJ. These factors could provide medium-term support for the yen if the BoJ adopts a firmer stance on rate hikes.

Meanwhile, escalating risks in the Middle East and political uncertainty in France and South Korea could support demand for the yen. However, diverging yield trends weigh on the currency in the near term. While Japanese yields remain mostly subdued, rising U.S. Treasury yields, coupled with robust U.S. economic performance and a less dovish tone from Federal Reserve Chair Powell, are likely to sustain dollar strength, keeping pressure on the yen.

In the world of television, on-screen rivalries often capture the audience’s attention, but behind the scenes, they can lead to some of the most heartwarming friendships. This is exactly what’s happening on the sets of Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya on Sun Neo, where Maitri Bhanushali, who plays Tina, and Brinda Dahal, who portrays Vaishnavi, have forged a deep connection that goes beyond the camera.

Speaking about their incredible bond, Maitri shares, “Brinda and I are like soul sisters, and we have so much in common. Whenever I go to Brinda’s room, the music automatically starts playing, and as soon as it does, I look at her, she looks at me, and we just start vibing together. Whenever we get even a little free time, we make reels. We’ve made so many dance reels together! Even in Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, when our characters compete for Kartik in a positive-negative way, dance somehow gets added to the mix.”

She further added, “We often end up doing dance sequences together, and even the Sun Neo channel knows how much we enjoy dancing—they sometimes tell us to perform just because of it! There are times when we choreograph our own dance sequences, and we complete the choreography in just 5 minutes. The choreographers who come on set say that it usually takes an entire day to finish a dance sequence, but the two of us wrap up the entire shoot in just 3 hours. We’re like two little firecrackers when it comes to dancing!”

Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya follows the journey of Vaishnavi, an orphan who finds solace and strength in her unwavering faith in Chhathi Maiyya (portrayed by Sneha Wagh), who serves as a mother figure in her life. The show features a talented cast, including Sara Khan, Jaya Bhattacharya, Brinda Dahal, and Ashish Dixit.

On December 4, 2024, Ramjas International School welcomed Shri Ravi Shankar Tiwari, Convener of ‘Yamuna Bhikshu,’ as part of the ‘Save Yamuna’ campaign. The event, organized by the Interact Club, aimed to educate students about the significance of the Yamuna River and the urgent need for its restoration. Shri Tiwari, in his address, urged students to become proactive champions of environmental protection, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to clean the Yamuna. His inspiring message motivated students to contribute to environmental sustainability, prioritize cleanliness, and take responsibility for enhancing the well-being of their surroundings.

A Bold New Step for Women in Automotive

Go Speedy Go (GSG), India’s leading ISO 9001:2015 certified end-to-end automobile service provider unveiled its Women Entrepreneurship Programme and WOW Model (Workshop on Wheels). These groundbreaking initiatives aim to make automobile services more accessible while empowering women across India to take the wheel in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Workshop on Wheels (WOW): Redefining Accessibility

GSG’s WOW Model brings mobile service workshops equipped with cutting-edge tools and technology directly to customers. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, this initiative ensures no car owner is too far from professional automobile services. WOW not only highlights GSG’s commitment to service accessibility but also provides a platform for women entrepreneurs to lead innovative, customer-centric ventures.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

In collaboration with the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), GSG is breaking traditional barriers with zero-investment franchise opportunities for women. Subsidies cover up to 25-60% of startup costs, making this initiative risk-free and accessible. The program aims to uplift 1,000 women entrepreneurs, generating 10,000 jobs and promoting sustainable social and economic growth.

Comprehensive Support for Success

Participants in the Women Entrepreneurship Programme benefit from:

• Manpower and Training: GSG provides trained mechanics and technicians, alongside extensive skill-building programs.
• Infrastructure Support: Pre-fabricated vehicles, fully equipped with state-of-the-art tools and machinery.
• Supply Chain Access: Reliable sourcing of spare parts, consumables, and lubricants.
• Mentorship and Guidance: Continuous support from industry experts ensures a seamless entrepreneurial journey.

Driving Societal Change

“This program is about more than just creating businesses; it’s about redefining the industry and creating a legacy of inclusivity and empowerment,” said Sachidananda Bhoi, CEO of Go Speedy Go. “Through WOW and the Women Entrepreneurship Programme, we are building a movement that not only uplifts individuals but also transforms communities.”

The initiatives address systemic challenges such as limited financial resources and lack of training while challenging stereotypes in the automotive sector. By promoting financial independence and leadership, GSG inspires women to forge new paths in entrepreneurship.

Building a Better Tomorrow

With these initiatives, GSG envisions a ripple effect of societal transformation. The Women Entrepreneurship Programme and WOW Model aim to build a network of empowered women-led businesses contributing to India’s economic growth, redefining the future of the automotive industry.

Applications Open Now

Women from all sectors with a business idea or entrepreneurial ambition are encouraged to apply. For more information and to join this revolution, visit Go Speedy Go.

New Delhi, 5th December 2024: Becker, a global leader in professional exam preparation for accounting and finance, has announced its plans to deepen its presence in the Indian market. To spearhead this expansion, Becker has appointed Sonia Mishra as the India Country Director. With her extensive experience in education technology and workforce upskilling, Sonia will lead Becker’s efforts to empower Indian students and professionals with high-quality training solutions.

Becker’s initiatives align with the National Education Policy’s (NEP) emphasis on skill development and professional readiness. By empowering Indian professionals with internationally recognized credentials, Becker aims to contribute to India’s goal of becoming a global hub for skilled talent.

Speaking on her vision for India, Sonia Mishra, India Country Director, said, “India stands at a pivotal moment in its journey to becoming a global talent hub for accounting and finance. With a young and ambitious workforce, the potential for growth is immense. At Becker, we aim to bridge skill gaps, foster global mobility, and empower Indian students and professionals with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly complex global financial landscape. Our focus will be on delivering world-class training aligned with global standards, enabling individuals and organizations to stay ahead in a competitive market.”

Meeting India’s Growing Demand for Global Credentials  India has emerged as a strategic market for global accounting and finance professionals. The surge in demand for skilled professionals—driven by India’s economic growth, global integration, and the rise of GCCs—makes it a critical destination for Becker’s expertise. In India, certifications like US CPA and CMA are increasingly being seen as gateways to international careers.

Becker’s primary offerings in India will include its flagship US CPA and CMA programs that equip professionals with the expertise to meet international accounting standards. It also plans to launch Enrolled Agent (EA) program, designed to enhance expertise in US tax law, addressing a growing demand in India’s tax advisory sector.

Sonia Mishra brings over 20 years of leadership experience in education technology and workforce learning. Under her leadership, Becker aims to foster a more collaborative environment with educational institutions and corporates to align skill development and training with finance and accounting industry needs.It will deliver globally recognized training while adapting to the unique requirements of the Indian market and supporting Indian businesses in their learning and development goals.

Chandigarh,5th December 2024 Edutest Solutions, a pioneer in the examination business with four decades of experience, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully conducting an industry-first computer-based test (CBT) with end-to-end encryption. This ground-breaking innovation, executed flawlessly for 1.2 lakh candidates, addresses the long-standing challenges of conventional CBT examinations and sets a new benchmark for secure and reliable digital assessments.

The exam was conducted over three days from Saturday through Monday. To administer the exam smoothly, Edutest had developed a proprietary software consisting of a combination of innovative technological features including no software installation, automated seat allocation, and end to end encryption.

The edtech company’s examination platform has been designed to eliminate the need for software installation on devices, significantly reducing the risk of hacking or unauthorized access. An automated, randomized seat allocation system eliminates human intervention, ensuring fairness and transparency. For enhanced security, question papers are securely encrypted from creation to delivery, ensuring that their integrity remains intact throughout the process. Further, a centralized control hub oversees the entire examination process, offering real-time monitoring and rapid response to any irregularities.

Commenting on the development, Jaya Arya, Managing Director, Edutest Solutions, said, “As the reliance on CBT for examinations continues to grow, our platform is poised to play a crucial role in securing the future of digital assessments. Its innovative solutions promise not only to transform the landscape of secure examinations but also to inspire confidence among institutions, candidates, and stakeholders alike.

Vineet Arya, Director, Edutest Solutions, said, “By addressing all the weaknesses of traditional CBT systems, we have set a new standard for digital assessments. This platform guarantees that exam results reflect merit rather than manipulation, restoring trust in the examination process. It ensures that exams are conducted seamlessly across pan-India centres, including remote locations, while maintaining the highest levels of security and reliability.”

Chandigarh, 5th December 2024: The 60th Annual Seminar of the Fertilizer Association of India (FAI) began today at Hotel Andaz, New Delhi, with a focus on “Sustainable Fertilizer and Agriculture.” Running from December 4th to 6th, 2024, the seminar gathers over 1,400 delegates, including industry leaders, government officials, and stakeholders, to explore strategies for sustainable growth of agricultural as well as fertilizer sectors.

In her inaugural address, Hon’ble Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers & Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, Ms. Anupriya Patel, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustainability in agriculture. She emphasized on the importance of efficient fertilizer usage and advanced technologies for improving agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental impact. “Sustainability and technological innovation are essential for the long-term growth of India’s agriculture sector,” she said.

The seminar also featured a special video message from Hon’ble Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers and Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, who extended his support for the event despite his absence. In his message, Nadda emphasized the importance of collaboration with the global supplier of raw materials and finished products and sustainable practices in the fertilizer sector, aligning with India’s broader goals for agricultural development on long term basis.

FAI Chairman, Shri N. Suresh Krishnan, highlighted the Indian fertilizer industry’s significant progress in reducing its carbon footprint, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing urea manufacturing capabilities. He also noted India’s expanding role in the global fertilizer market, driven by innovative products and strong government policies.

A key feature of the seminar is the exhibition, which hosts 52 exhibitors from India and abroad. It showcases the latest innovations in fertilizers and agricultural technologies, providing a valuable networking platform for attendees to discover new solutions that drive growth and sustainability in the sector.

The seminar will continue to focus on sustainability, technological advancements, and fostering long-term partnerships, with sessions dedicated to exploring cutting-edge solutions for the fertilizer and agriculture sectors. This year’s event is expected to provide actionable insights that will contribute to a more sustainable and self-sufficient agricultural future for India.

Jaipur, 5th December2024: IIHMR Universitya leading health management research university in India, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Maternity Foundation to drive impactful public health initiatives. This transformativepartnership marks the beginning of a collaboration that sets the stage for collaborative efforts in joint research, innovation, student internships, placements, and training programs aimed at improving healthcare outcomes and fostering sustainable development.

This collaborationcombines IIHMR University’s expertise in healthcare management and research with Maternity Foundation’s commitment to advancing maternal and child health globally. By leveraging each other’s strengths, the two institutions will focus on creating innovative solutions and facilitating meaningful academic and field engagements to address pressing public health challenges.

Expressing delight at this union, Dr. P.R. Sodani, President, IIHMR University shared, “We are delighted to partner with Maternity Foundation in our shared mission to advance public health and improve maternal and child health outcomes. This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering innovation, academic excellence, and impactful research. Together, we aim to create transformative solutions that address critical healthcare challenges and pave the way for a healthier, more equitable future.”

The partnership underscores the shared vision of both institutions to foster innovation, enhance capacity-building, and improve access to quality healthcare. By bringing together academic and practical expertise, the collaboration is poised to create a lasting impact on public health systems globally.

Chandigarh, 5th December 2024: Club Mahindra, the flagship brand of Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Limited, has announced a major expansion of its Kandaghat resort. The Company has added more than 100 keys to the resort and will further add 40 plus rooms to the resort by Q1 FY26. This expansion will further enhance guest experiences, allowing members to enjoy the scenic beauty of Kandaghat.

Surrounded by the majestic, snow-capped Himalayan peaks, the expanded resort is now better equipped to cater to families and groups alike, offering a range of room types, including 1-bedroom units, studios, and hotel units. Conveniently located within driving distance from Kalka, Chandigarh, and New Delhi, and accessible from the nearest airports in Shimla and Chandigarh, the property remains a prime choice for travelers from North India. The expansion aims to cater to the increasing demand from members, especially those in the NCR and Punjab, who frequently seek vacations within drivable distance. With this expansion, Club Mahindra Kandaghat has started welcoming members, enabling them to create memorable vacation experiences.

Commenting on the expansion, Manoj Bhat, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Limited, stated, “With this expanded capacity, we are pleased to serve our growing member community better. Our enhanced ability to fulfill holidays means members can enjoy more seamless bookings while enjoying the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kandaghat.”

In line with Mahindra Holidays & Resorts’ focus on sustainability, Club Mahindra Kandaghat integrates several initiatives including a rainwater harvesting system designed to support water conservation efforts and a zero-discharge Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), ensuring that treated water is repurposed for flushing and irrigation. These measures reflect the brand’s strong commitment to environmental responsibility and its dedication to reducing ecological impact while preserving the natural beauty of Kandaghat.

In addition, the resort offers curated activities, including local Himachali food, nature trails, and unique wellness experiences, allowing members to immerse themselves in the beauty and heritage of Kandaghat fully.

5th December 2024 Nigerian equities continue to exhibit a mostly sideways trend, with a slight bearish bias. The NGX All-Share Index recorded a marginal decline of -0.03% in the previous session, maintaining a narrow trading range. Given the prevailing market conditions, the market could see this trend persist in the near term, with limited movement expected unless external catalysts emerge.

Investor attention this week has centred on Lafarge Africa Plc, following the announcement that Huaxin Cement intends to acquire a majority stake in the company for USD 1 billion. The deal, which is expected to close in 2025 pending regulatory approval, will involve Huaxin Cement purchasing Holcim Group’s 83.81% stake through its subsidiaries. This development has sparked increased activity in Lafarge Africa and related sectors, as investors seek to capitalize on potential growth opportunities. However, while the transaction may generate short-term trading interest, the broader market is likely to remain cautious, as market participants await further clarity on regulatory approvals and the execution of this high-profile deal.

Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu outlined his vision to transform Nigeria into an industrial and agricultural powerhouse, which includes reforms to attract Foreign Direct Investment. While these measures are expected to contribute to long-term growth, the market may experience short-term hesitation.