Pre-Budget  by Ketan Munoth, co-founder of Plush

As the founder of a young startup, I see the Union Budget 2025 as an important opportunity to support MSMEs, which are key drivers of India’s economy. Beyond funding and financial incentives, what we truly need is a streamlined regulatory framework that simplifies clearances and processes, saving valuable time and resources for businesses like ours.

The current regulatory landscape, while improving, can still be challenging for startups navigating compliance, licenses, and approvals. Simplifying these processes, creating single-window clearance systems, and offering sector-specific guidelines would significantly reduce operational roadblocks and allow businesses to focus on innovation and growth.

Support for R&D in sectors like personal care and hygiene, where innovation is key, would provide a competitive edge for businesses catering to evolving consumer needs. While we seek to improve menstrual health for all menstruators, support, and resources in R&D to enhance and upgrade are key for startups like us.

The Union Budget has the potential to enable MSMEs to scale operations, contribute to economic growth, and generate employment. A clear focus on simplifying processes and improving ease of doing business will not only benefit MSMEs but also strengthen India’s position as a hub for entrepreneurial success.

Pre-Budget by Yousuf Rangoonwala, Founder Kakkoii Entertainment Pvt. Ltd

The advertising and creative industries in India are facing significant challenges due to high taxation, particularly the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is among the highest in developing nations. This, along with poor economic performance, has led to reduced marketing budgets and a decline in consumer purchasing power. India’s GDP is at its lowest in 21 years, and the FMCG sector, a key indicator of consumer spending, is struggling. This reflects the financial pressures many people are facing, with purchasing power limited outside the wealthiest 200 million. The government needs to reassess its fiscal policies to stimulate economic growth. As we look ahead to the Union Budget 2025, there is a clear demand for lowering both direct and indirect taxes, creating more employment opportunities for lower-income groups, restoring investor confidence by addressing bureaucracy and high taxes, and easing compliance burdens for businesses. These steps are essential not just for the advertising sector but for the broader economy to recover and grow.

Pre-Budget  by Tuhin Arya, Co-founder & Chief Creative of Bandstand Media

The spending power that consumers have right now is directly linked to the advertising industry. The more a consumer consumes a good or service, the better the chances that a specific brand will increase its advertising budget every year. This means the advertising industry gets its share. However, in recent developments, we’ve seen that many taxations have come into effect, which are, in one way or another, hampering the buying power that consumers have. This is a threat, and I would like to see it addressed in this Union Budget. The taxation the public is facing right now should be looked into, especially considering that millennials, who are spending most of their money on goods and services, are also burdened with taxes, EMIs, and rising interest rates. This is an area I would want the Union Budget to focus on.

As for the overall perspective, while the government is doing enough for startups and funds, I believe more funds should be allocated to startups to encourage more people to embark on their entrepreneurial journey. This would also benefit the advertising industry. At the same time, there should be some relaxations or tax cuts for the advertising industry. The advertising sector is often neglected, and startups aren’t truly considered startups in this industry. Any special rebates or tax cuts the government can provide for this industry would be extremely beneficial.

Mumbai/Bhubaneswar, 22nd Jan 2025 – Bhubaneswar based biotech startup Exsure has raised Rs 3 Cr in a seed round led by Unicorn India Ventures. The funds raised will be used to complete the milestones of non-clinical study with its exosome-based drug delivery vehicle and will also support Exsure’s global expansion plan with its in-house manufactured R&D products and promote Exosure, Leucosure, PlantExosure & Dr Berries.

Founded in 2021 by Swastika Paul and Abhishek Dutta, Exsure is a biotech startup working to reduce side-effects and toxicity of anti-cancer drugs by its patented exosomal drug-delivery platform that targets both cancer and cancer-stem cells. With its cutting-edge technology the company aims at reducing the toxic effects of chemotherapy and chances of cancer relapse improving the quality of lives of patients suffering from cancer.

In the last 12 months, Exsure has initiated the non-clinical study in India in collaboration with a CRO and completed one of its milestones in the preclinical study using its patented technology. The company also reported a 5 fold growth last fiscal year and is on track to service more than 50 clients this year with its R&D products, Exosure (3-in-1 exosome isolation reagent), Leucosure (PBMC isolation reagent) and PlantExosure (India’s 1st Plant exosome isolation reagent). It has also been selected for the OIST Innovation Accelerator program in Japan for business expansion and conducting clinical trials.

Commenting on the investment, Bhaskar Majumdar, Managing Partner, Unicorn India Ventures, says, The fear of Big C is real not just for the patients but even their families. Exsure with its advancement in scientific tools, technology and cutting edge medical research has built a powerful Exosome based drug that commits to staying at the forefront of advancement in therapeutics science. The funding accelerates Exsure’s mission to deploy solutions at a global level. We believe Exsure will not only continue to sustain its momentum but also grow due to its potential for transformative breakthroughs through its nano delivery platform. The company has witnessed remarkable progress in the last 12 months and has launched more innovative products. Hence, we believe the market opportunity is huge and the company has built the right momentum to capitalise on this segment.”

In the coming 12 months, Exsure will finish the non-clinical study and work on team building. The company also plans to present its data for CDSCO approval, strengthen the team size along with expanding its product marketing and sales at a global level.

Swastika Paul, CSO & Co-founder, Exsure ,says “During our PhD journey, we witnessed the toxicity of the present-day chemotherapy drugs and how 13% of the in-treatment cancer patients die due to toxicity of the chemotherapy drugs. Exsure is on a mission to reduce the toxicity of the chemotherapy drugs and make them more targeted to the cancerous cells. Our vision is to empower millions of cancer patients around the world and improve their quality of life.”

The company has launched its first in-house manufactured products and gained collaborators/partners Pan India for its products and services. Exsure has also signed contracts with distributors to expand the market for products at global level.

According to IBEF (INDIA BRAND EQUITY FOUNDATION) The Indian biotechnology industry is expected to reach$ 150 billion by 2025 and has the potential to reach$ 270-300 billion by the year 2030. By 2025, the contribution of the Indian biotechnology industry to the global biotechnology market is expected to grow to 19%, giving hyper growth opportunity to Exsure.

New Delhi, January 2025 – Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate, a trailblazing brand that reimagines coffee and chocolate, is proud to announce the grand opening of its flagship cafe in the heart of Greater Kailash II, New Delhi. Founded by the passionate couple Baninder Singh, an Entrepreneur and Paweena Withyasathien, Originally from Bangkok. Savorworks promises an immersive sensory experience that blends artisanal craftsmanship, innovative flavors, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Coffee & Chocolate Reimagined: Savorworks began in 2020, born out of Baninder Singh’s vision to redefine India’s coffee culture. Frustrated by the lack of exceptional coffee options, Singh imported a Giesen roaster from the Netherlands and, during the lockdown, began hand-delivering freshly roasted coffee to enthusiasts across the country. Partnering with his wife, Paweena, an architect turned chocolatier, the duo expanded their offerings to include artisanal chocolates that challenge conventional boundaries.

Today, their shared passion has culminated in the New Flagship cafe of coffee and chocolate — a space where Professional techniques meet innovation to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

A Destination for the Discerning: Designed for customers who value high-quality, artisanal products, Savorworks is more than a cafe—it’s a journey through flavor and craftsmanship. Whether it’s the vibrant “Fruits Bomb” coffee or the award-winning 72% Gin & Tonic Dark Chocolate, every offering reflects a commitment to excellence.

Savorworks invites you to experience a unique fusion of western and modern Thai Cuisine. Each reimagined classic is enhanced by subtle noted of coffee and chocolate, creating a dining experience that will surprise your palate.’’ Our Highlight of the menu is – Chocolate Herb Grilled Chicken it is marinated and infused with dark chocolate and herbs, served on tossed spinach with signature dark chocolate chili vinaigrette.

Its Signature highlights also include:

• Personalized Experiences: Tailored coffee brews and chocolate recommendations to suit individual tastes.

• Immersive Atmosphere: A warm, inviting cafe design that inspires creativity and comfort.

• Interactive Engagement: Open Chocolate workshop offering a glimpse into the artistry behind the scenes and 3 types of chocolate tabs for tasting to explore your taste.

A Brand Built on Values: At the heart of Savorworks lies a set of core values that resonate through every product and experience:

• Quality: A relentless focus on sourcing and crafting the finest ingredients.

• Artisanal Craftsmanship: Professional practices paired with cutting-edge innovation.

• Community: Building a vibrant network of coffee and chocolate lovers.

• Empowering Farmers Through Direct Trade Relationships: Building direct trade relationships with farmers fosters stronger connections and ensures fair and sustainable practices.

• Reimagination: Constantly innovating to surprise and delight.

“Our mission is to redefine how people experience coffee and chocolate,” shares Baninder Singh, certified professional coffee Roaster and Co- Founder – Savorworks Coffee and Chocolate. “We believe in creating not just products but moments that connect with the soul and elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary ” shares Paweena Withyasathien, Head chocolatier and Co- Founder – Savorworks Coffee and Chocolate.

Pokkido Jr., an international brand renowned for delivering innovative and engaging play experiences has emerged as one of the most loved destinations among its kids. India’s first Pokkido Jr. located in Lower Parel, Mumbai, will serve as a destination where kids can step into a world of limitless possibilities. From becoming doctors, firefighters, or chefs in realistic roleplay scenarios to zooming through exciting play racing tracks, the brand’s offerings are carefully crafted to inspire and educate while ensuring endless fun.

Prepare yourself for an exhilarating adventure at Pokiddo Jr., the coolest new spot for kids in Mumbai! This vibrant hotspot, spanning an incredible 11,000 sq. ft., was created by the fantastic team at Pokiddo and Prasuk Jain Hospitality and is bursting with thrilling experiences for children up to 12 years old. Let the fun begin, and discover a world of excitement waiting just for your little ones!

• Princess Power!

Say goodbye to ordinary playdates and get ready for an enchanting experience! Step into the extraordinary Princess Room, where your dreams sparkle to life! Slip into glamorous gowns, experiment with stunning makeup, and accessorize with fabulous sparkly purses. In this magical space, You’ll feel like royalty in no time!

• Vroom! Vroom! It’s Race Time!

Get ready to rev your engines, little racers! The kiddie-karting track is waiting just for you. Feel the exhilarating rush of wind in your hair as you speed past your friends, racing towards victory. It’s an action-packed adventure to the finish line—who will be the ultimate champion? Buckle up and let the race begin!

• Shop ’til You Drop!

Ever wanted to run your supermarket? Now’s your chance! Step into the Supermarket Room, brimming with an incredible selection of goodies, shopping carts, and more just waiting for you. Who knows? You might just unlock the entrepreneur within you!

• Barnyard Buddies Await!

Head over to the Farmland and tend to some adorable animals. Learn how to take care of them and have some fun on the farm. Every moment is packed with joy and laughter as you discover the magic of caring for these delightful creatures. This isn’t just about fun; it’s a heartwarming experience that teaches kids about responsibility and the joy of caring for creatures.

• Futuristic Fun Galore!

The arcade games here are nothing short of extraordinary. With vibrant lights flashing and exhilarating sounds ringing out, each game lures you in with the thrill of epic challenges and the chase for legendary high scores. It’s an unforgettable, immersive experience that will leave you breathless and wanting more!

Pokiddo Jr. is the perfect place to make unforgettable memories with your little ones. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to have a blast! the story of Pokiddo Junior will forever remain a celebration of the magic of childhood, waiting to welcome those who believe in the endless possibilities of their imagination.

January 22, 2025, Mumbai: L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in India has recorded a consolidated PAT at Rs. 2,007 Crore for the nine months ended December 31, 2024, a growth of 14% over nine months ended December 31, 2023. The consolidated PAT for the third quarter ended December 31, 2024, stood at Rs. 626 Crore.

The Company has recorded quarterly retail disbursement of Rs. 15,210 Crore for the third quarter ended December 31, 2024, up 5% YoY. The retail book size reached Rs. 92,224 Crore during the quarter, implying a growth of 23% YoY.

Furthermore, the Company’s customer-facing PLANET app, which has emerged as a powerful digital channel for customers, has crossed more than 1.5 Crore downloads as of December 31, 2024, comprising more than 13.8 lakh downloads from rural areas. As of date, this channel has done collections of over Rs. 3,100 Crore and has done sourcing of over Rs. 10,500 Crore (including web).

Commenting on the financial results, Mr. Sudipta Roy, Managing Director & CEO of LTF said, “Despite certain macro challenges within the microfinance sector, we have managed the situation effectively. We are hopeful that the environment will be much better over the next couple of quarters.

Our investments and efforts towards building a world-class credit underwriting and monitoring infrastructure continued unabated. Apropos to the same, our next-generation three-dimensional credit underwriting engine ‘Project Cyclops’ was extended to 100% of dealerships in Two-wheeler Finance and was also operationalized for the Farm Equipment Finance business.

In our pursuit of innovation within the lending landscape, LTF launched a strategic partnership with Amazon Pay to develop and offer cutting-edge credit solutions through the platform. We also extended the PhonePe partnership to Personal Loans, delivering a seamless digital lending experience to our consumers.

Additionally, we have launched Knowledgeable AI (KAI), an AI-powered chatbot that revolutionizes the home loan experience. We were also delighted to host RAISE’ 24, India’s premier AI-themed event in the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector focused on Al’s real-world applications. As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to driving innovation and enhancing our offerings to better serve our customers.”

Healthy retail disbursements and book for the third quarter ended December 31, 2024:

• Rural Business Finance:

o Book size at Rs. 26,231 Crore vs. Rs. 23,110 Crore, up 14% YoY
o Disbursements at Rs. 4,599 Crore vs. Rs. 5,476 Crore, down16% YoY
o A risk calibrated disbursement strategy was followed in the business owing to a challenging macro environment

•  Farmer Finance:

o Book size at Rs.15,075 Crore vs. Rs. 13,845 Crore, up 9% YoY
o Disbursements at Rs. 2,495 Crore vs. Rs. 2,027 Crore, up 23% YoY
o Growth in the segment aided by a better than average monsoon and festive season demand

•  Two-wheeler Finance:

o Book size at Rs. 12,676 Crore vs. Rs. 10,447 Crore, up 21% YoY
o Disbursements at Rs. 2,414 Crore vs. Rs. 2,540 Crore, down 5% YoY
o Calibrated disbursements owing to the strengthening of documentation and credit guardrailsfor sourcing of better-quality credit tested customer and shift towards prime customer

•  Personal Loans:

o Book size at Rs. 7,820 Crore vs. Rs. 6,427Crore, up 22% YoY
o Disbursements at Rs. 1,642 Crore vs. Rs. 847 Crore, up 94% YoY
o Growth was aided by digital partnerships and tapping growth in prime segments

•  Housing Loans and Loans Against Property:

o Book size at Rs. 23,461 Crore vs. Rs. 16,654 Crore, up 41% YoY
o Disbursements at Rs. 2,475 Crore vs. Rs. 1,998 Crore, up 24% YoY
o Growth on the back of focus on distribution channels and partnerships. Maintained a pristine secured portfolio performance

•  SME Finance:

o Book size at Rs. 5,817 Crore vs. Rs. 3,078 Crore, up 89% YoY
o Disbursements at Rs. 1,249 Crore vs. Rs. 965Crore, up 29% YoY

In a monumental fusion of haute couture, music, and cultural integration, acclaimed Punjabi music phenomenon AP Dhillon joined an elite roster of global celebrities as Pharrell Williams headlined the official launch of Paris Men’s Fashion Week on Tuesday night with his highly anticipated Louis Vuitton Men’s Fall/Winter 2025-26 show.

This historic appearance marked the first time an India-born Punjabi music artist attended Paris Men’s Fashion Week, further cementing the luxury house’s commitment to cultural diversity under Williams’ creative direction.

The show, which marks Nigo’s return to Louis Vuitton following his celebrated 2020 capsule collection with the late Virgil Abloh, drew an exceptional array of cultural luminaries, including Jackson Wang, Bam Bam, Victor Wembanyama, Leon Marchand, BTS’s J-Hope, AP Dhillon, Travis Scott, Future Pluto Hendricks, Don Toliver, Pusha T, Big Smoke, Boozy, Sabrina Elba, Idris Elba, Bradley Cooper, ASAP Nast, Aron Pierre, Adrien Brody, J Balvin, Dylan Wang, Slick Rick the Ruler, and Tyshawn Jones. These attendees, representing a wide range of artistic and cultural influences, contributed to a night that celebrated global diversity and creativity.

Dhillon, representing a new wave of South Asian influence in luxury fashion, commanded attention in a meticulously crafted Louis Vuitton ensemble — a masterful blend of streetwear aesthetics and traditional Louis Vuitton luxury, featuring innovative interpretations of the house’s iconic design aesthetics. The singer-songwriter, rapper, and record producer wore an elevated workwear blouson, crafted from silk-wool double-face fabric layered over Japanese denim skate jeans in a versatile light blue wash, paired with the signature LV Checker range of military-inspired boots. The look highlighted the marriage of streetwear utility with traditional luxury that has become Williams’ hallmark.

AP Dhillon, who made his debut at the fashion week, shared: “Being present at this intersection of culture and luxury, especially in a space as iconic as the Louvre, represents a pivotal moment not just for me, but for the entire creative community. Pharrell’s vision for Louis Vuitton embraces authentic multiculturalism, and I’m honored to be part of this narrative that’s reshaping the fashion landscape.”

The show, which transformed the Louvre into an unprecedented fashion spectacle, continues Williams’ tradition of utilizing Paris’s most prestigious landmarks as backdrops for his collections, following his previous presentations at the Pont Neuf, Jardin d’Acclimatation, and UNESCO headquarters.

Dhillon’s presence at this landmark show, alongside the collaboration between Williams and streetwear pioneer Nigo, underscores Louis Vuitton’s commitment to bridging diverse cultural influences in contemporary luxury fashion and popularizing streetwear’s visibility in high fashion.

New Delhi, January 22, 2025: Uno Minda, a pioneer in driving technological advancements in the automotive sector, made a resounding impact at the 4-day Auto Expo Components Show hosted by Bharat Mobility at Yashobhoomi. The company showcased its latest innovations aligned with the megatrends of Personalized, Autonomous, Connected, and Electric (PACE) mobility, solidifying its position as a leader in future-ready automotive solutions. Uno Minda displayed their products and concept vehicles at their pavilion spread across 800 meters, one of the largest at this year’s Auto Expo Components Show and received overwhelming response from the customers.

Driven by its tagline, ‘Driving the New’, Uno Minda has collaborated with global technology leaders, to bring world-class solutions to India under the ‘Make in India for the World’ initiative. Following mobility solutions were showcased:

•  Advanced Lighting Solutions: Connected pixel-based digital tail lamps, OLED lamps, adaptive lighting, and more.
• Personalized and Smart Innovations: Augmented reality heads-up displays, Capsense switches, AVAS, ADAS, and vehicle control units, Software defined vehicles controls.
• Electrification Solutions: A dedicated Green Mobility Zone featuring three technology demonstrators—TD125 (electric skateboard), TD425 (electric buck), and TD225 (electric bike)—highlighting cutting-edge product portfolio for e-2W, e-3W, and e-4W specific solutions.

Uno Minda also unveiled state-of-the-art products like highly integrated e-axles, advanced range extenders, intelligent battery management systems, dual charging capabilities and seamless Connectivity, all designed to redefine the electric mobility experience.

Uno Minda also elevated personalization with advanced lighting solutions such as Panolamp Ambient Lighting to set the mood, gesture controls for intuitive interaction, and capacitive switches for 2W and 4W vehicles. Safety takes center stage with cornering bending lamps, adaptive braking, blind spot detection, lane change warnings, and cruise control—ensuring a safer, smarter driving experience.

With its focus over R&D, Uno Minda continues to spearhead innovation, enhancing safety, personalization, and connectivity in the automotive space. From gesture controls to adaptive braking systems, the company’s solutions aim to create immersive, safe, and sustainable driving experiences.

O3+ introduces its latest skincare essential this winter – the O3+ Ideal Hydration Daily Moisturising Cream. Designed for all skin types, the cream provides long-lasting moisture, ensuring your skin feels soft, smooth, and refreshed throughout the day.

Its gentle yet effective formula is enriched with powerhouse ingredients Butylene Glycol, a moisture magnet that draws hydration into the skin, Capryl Triglyceride, a natural emollient that smooths and nourishes, and Dimethicone, that forms a protective barrier, locking in essential moisture.

Whether you’re combating the drying effects of winter or maintaining your skin’s balance year-round, this versatile cream is your go-to for hydrated and healthy-looking skin. Suitable for both men and women, the O3+ Ideal Hydration Daily Moisturising Cream redefines your daily skincare routine with its gentle, effective, and skin-loving formula.

India, 22nd January 2025: Knauf, World’s No. 1 company in Drywall & Ceiling Solutions, has appointed Mr. Vijay Mishra as its Commercial Director for India operations. With over 23 years of extensive experience in sales, marketing, and business development, Mr. Mishra brings a wealth of expertise and leadership that will propel Knauf India into a new era of growth and innovation.

Prior to joining Knauf India, Mr. Mishra held key roles at various reputed brands, like, H & R JOHNSON, RAK Ceramics, Kajaria Ceramics Limited, Saint – Gobain India Pvt Ltd and Century Plyboards, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership in strategic planning, market expansion, and establishing robust distribution networks. Known for his out-of-the-box thinking and ability to drive revenue growth, Mr. Mishra has successfully explored new markets, introduced innovative product categories, and streamlined business operations to enhance profitability and efficiency.

In his new role as Commercial Director, Mr. Mishra will oversee Knauf India’s strategic commercial initiatives, focusing on expanding the company’s footprint in the Indian market and solidifying its position as a leader in the building materials industry. His responsibilities will include driving revenue growth, strengthening client relationships, and enhancing distribution networks while ensuring that Knauf India continues to deliver unparalleled quality and value to its customers.

Expressing his excitement for his new role, Mr. Vijay Mishra said, “I am thrilled to join Knauf India, a company that embodies excellence, innovation, and customer-centricity. My goal is to leverage my experience to build strong partnerships, drive growth, and deliver exceptional value to our customers. I look forward to working with a talented team to further strengthen Knauf’s position in the Indian market and beyond.”

Mr Sumit Bidani, CEO of Knauf India, shared his confidence in Mr. Mishra’s appointment, stating, “Vijay’s extensive experience and strategic vision make him the perfect choice to lead our commercial operations. His expertise in business development and market expansion aligns with Knauf’s long-term goals of achieving sustained growth and delivering exceptional solutions to our customers. We are confident that Vijay’s leadership will drive our company to new heights.”

Under Mr. Mishra’s guidance, Knauf India is committed to exploring new opportunities, introducing innovative products, and enhancing its operational efficiency to meet the evolving demands of the construction industry. This appointment is a significant milestone in Knauf India’s journey to becoming a market leader, underscoring the company’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

With Mr. Mishra at the helm, Knauf India is poised to achieve greater market penetration, expand its reach, and deliver on its promise of providing world-class building solutions tailored to the unique needs of the Indian market.

New Delhi, January 22, 2025 – Tajurba, India’s leading business networking platform for SMEs, successfully organized a full–day workshop on the topic “SME to IPO” at Hotel Crowne Plaza, Okhla. The event witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 200 SME business owners from across India attending to explore the potential of taking their businesses public through SME IPOs.

The workshop was conducted by Suresh Mansharamani, India’s top SME IPO coach, celebrated for his unparalleled expertise in guiding small and medium-sized enterprises on the path to growth, fund-raising, and stock market listing.

During the session, Suresh Mansharamani shared deep insights on every critical aspect of the IPO journey, including:

• Fundraising Strategies

• Valuation Essentials

• Step-by-Step Process of Listing on the SME Exchange

He also stressed the importance of building a strong financial foundation for businesses aspiring to go public. “SMEs must ensure their books are clean, all compliances are strictly adhered to, and their balance sheets are healthy and transparent. These are essential prerequisites for a successful listing,” Mr. Suresh Mansharamani, co-founder of Tajurba Business Network emphasized.

The workshop provided attendees with actionable strategies and practical knowledge, empowering them to scale their businesses and unlock new opportunities through public listings.

Speaking about the workshop’s success, Tajurba’s co founder Uma Mansharamani said, “Our mission is to help SMEs scale up and achieve their true potential. This workshop is another step towards enabling business owners to realize their IPO dreams and become key contributors to India’s economic growth.”