Emkay Strategy Zomato’s Growth & Market Outlook

Zomato

Quick commerce is a bigger opportunity than modern retail or e-commerce, as it is disrupting general trade. Like other digital businesses, the existing 2-3 leaders should dominate after an initial period of intense competition. Blinkit has an additional moat due to the complexity of the quick commerce fulfillment model.

The low and declining profitability is not a cause for worry. This is an inherent feature of internet businesses – high losses in the initial land-grab phase followed by OpLev-led profitability as the business matures. Blinkit’s topline growth and market share are the important metrics, at this stage. Losses could continue for a few more quarters. An upside surprise could be profit-positive interventions by Zepto ahead of its IPO, when it happens.

Zomato’s 17% YoY GOV growth in food delivery for 3QFY25 was underwhelming, but appears to be a one-off from the excess seasonal pressures and the general slowdown in consumer spending. Our macro view is that discretionary consumption will recover in FY26, so this should be a passing phase.

Zomato trades at 7x EV/sales (FY26) and is undervalued compared with peers. We give it credit for its track record of innovation and execution – the management spotted the q-commerce opportunity when few others did. It also fits into two macro themes: the expected rebound in discretionary consumption in 2HCY25, and the greater value capture by digital disruptors in consumer businesses (detailed investment argument on Page 2).

Market update

The brutal correction in the market continues, with renewed FPI selling. This kind of price damage creates its own negativity but there are positive signs. The RBI’s move to reduce risk weights for NBFCs and micro-borrowers is a big positive. This should enable banks and NBFCs to lend more aggressively in retail segments, which would in turn aid the recovery in consumption. Also, the correction has de-frothed valuations, and the Nifty is attractively valued at below 22.5k (19.2x 1YF P/E). Financials is the best trade on the RBI easing, but we see this as an opportunity to lighten positions as valuations are still out of sync with medium-term growth. Our preferred sectors are Consumer Discretionary, Healthcare, and Telecom.

Read of the week – Taylor Swift!

This HBR analysis of Taylor Swift by Kevin Evers struck a chord at many levels. Evers’s framework of her success can be extended to businesses too. The last two behaviors, in my opinion, also reflect scenarios where most businesses falter and end up conceding leadership: maintaining productive paranoia and adapting to platform shifts. We see this in the two sectors we are structurally UW on – ie banking and staples. Companies shifted focus to productivity and profitability, neglecting innovation and creativity, and are now struggling to adapt to a new post-digital world with more democratized access to consumers.

Midweek Masala – New avatar

Our relaunched weekly has a new format. We will cycle through four themes every week – Idea of the Month (this week), Market HealthCheck, Stock Screeners, and Macrometer. We return to each theme every four weeks. We shall also be highlighting interesting reads and a market update, when necessary. We also have a section on the week’s movers and shakers on the inside pages. We will be publishing every Wednesday, and the data will capture the Wed-Tue cycle.

LG Honored for Design Excellence at iF Design Award 2025

SEOUL, Feb. 27, 2025 — LG Electronics (LG) has added to its rich legacy of design excellence with an impressive presence at the iF Design Award 2025. LG’s tally of 36 awards, which includes a Gold Award, underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to innovative product design and the delivery of superior customer experiences.

The iF Design Award, held annually in Germany, is considered one of the world’s top industrial design competitions, alongside the Red Dot Award and the International Design Excellence Award (IDEA). The iF Design Award recognizes significant achievements in design across nine categories: Product, Communication, User Experience (UX), User Interface (UI), Packaging, Interior Architecture, Professional Concept, Architecture, and Service Design.

This year, the groundbreaking LG SIGNATURE OLED T, the world’s first transparent and true wireless* 4K OLED TV, was honored with the Gold Award in the Product category. OLED T can transform from transparent to opaque screen; a unique ability that provides the OLED viewing experience while offering greater freedom in living space. When set to a Black screen, LG’s one-of-a-kind TV is ideal for content viewing and gaming; its 77-inch 4K-resolution OLED screen provides deep blacks, vibrant colors, sharp detail, and an ultra-fast response time. In Transparent Screen mode, the TV helps to create a remarkable sense of openness in the living environment and can also captivate users by displaying ethereal digital images that appear to float magically in the air.

In addition to the Gold Award, an additional 27 LG innovations were recognized in the Product Design category. These award-winning products include the LG AI Home smart home hub; LG Smart Home AI Agent, a mobile smart home hub capable of interacting with customers; LG QNED, featuring a sleek and sophisticated design with a slim profile; LG StanbyME 2, a unique display that offers exceptional flexibility with its detachable stand; and the LG SIGNATURE refrigerator with Smart InstaView, which uses transparent OLED technology to allow users to see inside without having to open the door.

Furthermore, the company also received awards in the Communication, UX, UI, and Packaging categories, earning recognition for its innovative technologies designed to provide customers with intuitive access to features and services. Notable winners include the LG ThinQ 3D Home View, which allows users to view their living space in 3D within the LG ThinQ smart home platform; LG ThinQ Character, which can communicate with customers in a friendly, human-like manner within the ThinQ app; and LG Iconography, which makes it quick and easy for users to see all the features and services offered by their connected LG products.

“We will continue to push the boundaries of design innovation, leaning into our deep understanding of customers to deliver human-centered innovations in products, solutions, and customer experiences,” said Chung Wook-jun, head of the Corporate Design Center at LG Electronics.

Pilgrims Turn to Bajaj’s 24×7 Seva Kendra at Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

Mumbai, February 27, 2025: Bajaj, India’s leading consumer appliances brand, launched a 24×7 Bajaj Seva Kendra at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 to support pilgrims during this once-in-a-lifetime spiritual gathering. The Maha Kumbh Mela, which stands as a once in a lifetime opportunity for many has drawn millions of devotees this year, making it one of the largest religious gatherings globally. Recognising the physical and environmental challenges faced by pilgrims—long journeys, harsh winter conditions, and immense crowds—Bajaj set up the 24×7 Seva Kendra to provide a continuous supply of free hot water bags for warm compresses, powered by Bajaj Pentacle Digi Water Heaters.

This was unveiled on the sacred day of Mauni Amavasya on 29th January 2025 and run by permanently stationed sevaks. Working tirelessly day and night, refilling hot water bags, they ensured that weary pilgrims received the warmth and comfort needed to continue their spiritual journey. This initiative has touched over 1,00,000 devotees, reaffirming Bajaj’s commitment to being a dependable partner in every journey.

Vishal Chadha, Chief Operating Officer – Consumer Products, Bajaj Electricals, commented on the initiative: “Through this humble service at the Maha Kumbh Mela, Bajaj reinforces our dedication to enabling Indians to be unstoppable in their pursuits.”

Devika Sachdev, Head of Advertising and Brand Management, Bajaj Electricals, added, “Our brand promise of being a dependable partner extends beyond our products—it’s about being there for our consumers through every journey. With the Seva Kendra initiative at the Maha Kumbh Mela, the intent was to ensure that the pilgrims continue their journey with comfort and confidence.”

Owing to the high endurance, energy efficiency, and low maintenance of the Bajaj Pentacle Digi Water Heater, the brand was able to deliver continuous hot water support for lakhs of devotees—a testament to Bajaj’s innovation and customer-centric solutions.

The Seva Kendra operated throughout the Maha Kumbh Mela, offering uninterrupted support to millions of pilgrims, ensuring that every step of their journey was met with warmth, comfort, and strength—hallmarks of Bajaj’s enduring commitment to India’s unstoppable spirit.

Chef Vikas Khanna Visits Organic Tattva Stall at Gulfood 2025, & hosts an exclusive dinner

Chef Vikas Khanna.

A highlight of the Gulfood 2025 trade show was when Chef Vikas Khanna stopped by the Organic Tattva Stall to celebrate the company’s dedication to sustainable, healthy, and organic cuisine. Chef Khanna, a brand ambassador for pulses and flour at Organic Tattva & a fervent supporter of wholesome ingredients, participated in conversations regarding the role of organic food while promoting the use of organic staples to ensure good health & well-being.

Chef Khanna visited the Stall of Organic Tattva and praised Organic Tattva’s commitment to sustainability, purity, and openness in sourcing, stressing the value of using organic ingredients to make healthful dishes. His visit to the Stall was one of the highlights of Gulfood 2025, drawing together foodies, business executives, and media people.

To mark this special occasion, Chef Vikas Khanna also hosted an exclusive dinner for Organic Tattva. The intimate gathering brought together key stakeholders, culinary experts, and guests who experienced firsthand the essence of organic fine dining.

“Organic food is not just a trend; it is a way of life. I deeply admire Organic Tattva’s commitment to purity and quality, as they continue spreading awareness about choosing a healthy lifestyle,” said Chef Vikas Khanna.

Mr Rohit Mehrotra, Co-Founder, Organic Tattva, added, “It is a proud moment for us to have a world-renowned chef like Vikas Khanna appreciate and showcase our products in such a remarkable way. This partnership has been quite unique, and his love of organic food is a wonderful fit with our mission.”

In the organic food sector, Organic Tattva is still setting new standards, and its involvement in Gulfood 2025 has strengthened its standing as a reliable company dedicated to providing pure, premium organic products all over the world.

Paras Health Successfully Concludes Umeed Ke Sitaare – A Milestone in Cancer Awareness

Gurugram, 27th February 2025: To enhance cancer awareness and provide accessible healthcare services, Paras Health Gurugram has launched the ‘Umeed Ke Sitaare’ campaign. As part of this initiative, an awareness event themed ‘Healing, Hope, and Awareness’ was organized at Paras Cancer Center on Sunday, drawing participation from around 120 people, including senior citizens Resident Welfare Association (RWA) Presidents, caregivers, and cancer survivors. The event featured insightful health talks by leading oncologists, free doctor consultations, and exclusive discounts on cancer diagnostic tests. On the occasion, 10 cancer survivors were also facilitated.

The event began with a welcome address by Dr. Sandeep Kumar Mohan, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Paras Health, Gurugram. This was followed by a Health Talk led by senior doctors, focusing on key aspects of cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. Dr. Rahul Naithani, Director & Head, of Hematology & Bone Marrow Transplant, provided insights into blood disorders and their link to various forms of cancer. Dr. Priyanka, Senior Consultant in Radiation Oncology, emphasized the significance of early detection and timely intervention in breast cancer treatment, while Dr. Ananya Deori, Consultant of Surgical Oncology, discussed the broader aspects of cancer awareness and preventive strategies. Attendees also participated in a sound healing session, followed by a quiz game and giveaways.

As part of the ‘Umeed Ke Sitaare’ initiative, Paras Health Gurugram extended free doctor consultations to all attendees, ensuring that individuals received expert medical guidance on cancer-related concerns. Additionally, the hospital provided significant discounts on key diagnostic tests to encourage early screening and timely intervention, including a 50% discount on PET CT scans, a 25% discount on mammography, and a 15% discount on lab tests.

In addition to providing medical support, the hospital also honored cancer survivors, celebrating their strength and resilience. Their inspiring stories served as a beacon of hope for those undergoing treatment, reinforcing the importance of perseverance and timely medical care. Paras Health Gurugram remains committed to its mission of spreading awareness, promoting preventive healthcare, and ensuring advanced treatment for all.

The campaign aims to continue spreading awareness and providing medical assistance through various activities. On February 23, the hospital organized a yoga session that was attended by 70-80 people including patients. Three senior doctors also delivered health talks on cancer prevention on the same day.

CDSL IPF Hosts Investment Awareness Program in Chandigarh

Chandigarh, February 27, 2025: CDSL Investor Protection Fund (CDSL IPF) organized an investment awareness program for students in Jhanjeri, Chandigarh.

The initiative was organized in Chandigarh Group of Colleges, Jhanjeri, Chandigarh.

The program focused on promoting financial literacy and empowered investors to make informed decisions regarding their investments in capital markets, while also delving into the core principles of investing.

To ensure the initiative covered a wide audience, the program was conducted in Hindi and English languages. The speakers simplified investment concepts for the students, covering topics like Basics of Investment & Depository Services.

As investor education plays a key role in achieving financial inclusion in the capital markets, CDSL IPF aims to provide investors with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the complexities of the capital markets with confidence and be an #AtmanirbharInvestor.

Committed to spreading financial literacy, CDSL IPF will continue to deliver more investor awareness programs nationwide this year.

FTCCI’s ICT Committee to Host GROWTH X 2025 Summit

Hyderabad, February 27, 2025……ICT Committee of The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry(FTCCI) to organise the GROWTH X 2025 Summit on 1st March at HICC in Madhapur with a special focus on how to leverage Technology for GROWTH in the disrupting era of AI

GROWTH X 2025 platform is for knowledge sharing, business, partnerships, lead generation and revenue opportunities

Union Minister for Coal and Mines Shri Kishen Reddy, IT Minister Shri D Sridhar Babu, Govt. of Telangana and Shri Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary, Govt. of Telangana are amongst the several dignitaries gracing the event.

Some of the speakers include Mr Panneerselvam Madanagopal, CEO, MeitY Startup Hub, Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), Govt. of India; Mr Rajesh Dhuddu, Partner, Emerging Tech, PwC; Dr Raj P Narayanam, Founder & Executive Chairman, Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services Limited; Mr Anirban Mukherjee, Lead Partner. EY India Hyderabad; Mr. Srikanth Srinivasan, Vice President & Head – Membership & Outreach, NASSCOM;

It will be a Confluence of Government & Policy Makers, Industry, Investors, Startups and Academia. Topics including Digital Manufacturing, AI, Data and Privacy, Customer and Growth, Skilling and Talent will be discussed during the summit

More than 450 participants comprising decision makers/CXOs, FTCCI Members, IT, Policy Makers, Investors and Startups will participate in the summit.

An Expo Zone will be organised along with the summit. A Business lounge will be set up for closed group interactions.

FTCCI partnered with We-Hub, T-Hub, T-Works, DSCI, TASK, SucSEED Venture, AWS, Google and Microsoft to organise this summit.

New Year, Smart Spaces: The Ultimate Guide to Kitchen & Home Organization for 2025

The start of a new year is a clean slate—a chance to reset your goals, refresh your mindset, and yes, reorganize your home. If 2025 has inspired you to step up your game, now’s the perfect time to transform your living space into one that sparks joy and makes life effortlessly functional.

Here’s your ultimate guide to revamp your home with smart homeware organization ideas that’ll make you fall in love with your space all over again.

Purge Like a Pro
Start the year by decluttering ruthlessly. Swap out single-use gadgets for multifunctional tools that save space and serve multiple purposes. Ask yourself, “Do I need three whisks?” If the answer’s no, thank them for their service and let them go. Using the Joseph Joseph Twist Whisk is a smart choice that everyone can make. With a twist of the handle, this innovative whisk switches between two functions. In its flat position, it’s perfect for stirring sauces and gravies, and in its open position, it transforms into a balloon whisk, ideal for whipping cream or beating egg whites.

Seasonal Refresh
Align your decluttering routine with the changing seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Break down the process room by room to avoid feeling overwhelmed, and begin with smaller spaces for quick wins. This steady approach keeps your home fresh and manageable all year long.

Pro tip: Donate usable items instead of tossing them—someone else’s trash can be another person’s treasure.

Organized by Design
Smart storage isn’t just about hiding things away—it’s about thoughtful design. Modular containers, multi-functional tools, and collapsible storage units make organizing effortless. Products like airtight modular containers keep your pantry fresh and aesthetically pleasing, while collapsible storage bins are perfect for small spaces.

. Zone Your Space
Think of your kitchen as a workstation. Assign zones for specific tasks like prepping, cooking, baking, and storing. For instance, keep your chopping boards, knives, and vegetable peelers in the prep zone, while baking tools and mixing bowls should stay together in the baking corner. This will save you from frantically searching for that one elusive measuring cup mid-recipe.

Buy Mindfully to Avoid Clutter
Make it a habit to check your stock of toiletries, cleaning supplies, and household essentials before making new purchases. Overbuying leads to cluttered cabinets and unnecessary expenses. Keep a running list on a memo pad or use a digital app in the kitchen or utility area to track what truly needs restocking.

Stack It Right – Vertical Is the New Horizontal
Maximize storage space by going vertical. Think stackable shelves, wall-mounted racks, and tiered trays. For your cabinets, install pull-out organizers or lazy Susans to make every nook accessible. Opt for smart stacking solutions that not only organize but also elevate your space’s style. Try the Joseph Joseph Food Storage Podium 3-Piece Storage Jar Set is the perfect choice to go along. It features a clever storage stand that allows easy access to any jar, regardless of its position. Each container features a lid with an airtight silicone seal, easy-pour corners, and a base that is located securely onto the stand.

Aesthetic Meets Functionality
Who says an organization can’t be stylish? Choose organizers and storage solutions that complement your home’s vibe. Sleek metal racks, rustic wooden trays, or colorful baskets can double as decor. The Joseph Joseph Capsule Compact 2-Tier Shower Shelf, with its slimline design, self-draining top shelf, angled pocket for bottles, and hanging hooks for sponges or razors, is a prime example of blending style and function.

The Power of See-Through Storage
Transparent containers are a game-changer for your pantry and fridge. Kilner® Wide Mouth Preserve Jar Mega is your one-stop shop for storing everything from tiny berries to whole fruits and veggies. With four different jar sizes, you’ll be prepped for any preserving project, big or small. Not only do they make your ingredients visible at a glance, but they also prevent those forgotten food mysteries from turning into science experiments. Labeling these containers? That’s just the cherry on top for keeping things neat and chic.

Streamline Your Recycling Routine
Commit to a more efficient recycling system this year. Place recycling bins and bags in easily accessible spots to encourage consistent use. The Brabantia Sort & Go Recycle Bin simplifies the process with its compact 12-litre design that fits snugly in corners or mounts on walls. Its large handle and bottom grip make emptying hassle-free.

As you embrace 2025, remember that your home reflects your energy. A little effort in reorganizing can go a long way in creating a space that feels like an extension of your best self. So roll up your sleeves, get organized, and make this year—and your home—the freshest one yet.

TeamLease Digital Findings on Lifesciences and Healthcare GCCs

By- Munira Loliwala, VP, Strategy and Growth, TeamLease Digital

India is witnessing a transformative shift in its healthcare sector, driven by the rapid evolution of Global Capability Centers (GCCs). Once primarily linked to IT outsourcing, GCCs are now at the forefront of healthcare innovation, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and India’s vast talent pool to tackle global health challenges. With the market size projected to grow from $64.6 billion in FY24 to $99-105 billion by 2030, these centers are enhancing service delivery, optimizing costs, and improving patient outcomes. Cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad are emerging as key technology hubs, where GCCs are expanding their capabilities in digital technologies such as GenAI, AI/ML, data analytics, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and robotic process automation. As organizations increasingly embrace global, cross-cultural teams and invest in upskilling programs, India’s healthcare GCCs are poised to drive a new era of agility, efficiency, and groundbreaking advancements in healthcare.

Evolving Talent Landscape in Healthcare GCCs

As of 2024, India hosts over 100 healthcare and life sciences GCCs, employing more than 280,000 professionals. Key hubs such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Pune account for nearly 75% of the total talent in this sector. Notably, healthcare and R&D functions constitute 43% of the total workforce in these GCCs, reinforcing India’s status as a preferred destination for life sciences and healthcare innovation.

Innovations Driving Healthcare GCC Growth

India’s Healthcare GCCs are evolving rapidly, creating new opportunities in AI, data science, and genomics. AI and machine learning are transforming diagnostics and treatment, while genomics specialists advance personalized medicine. Skills in data analytics and bioinformatics are becoming essential to support these breakthroughs.

Emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and digital twins are revolutionizing healthcare. AI accelerates drug discovery and treatment, IoT enables real-time patient monitoring, and digital twins simulate patient conditions for more precise care. Additionally, GCCs are driving advancements in bioinformatics, protein engineering, and bioprocessing, expediting drug development.

India’s healthcare GCCs are at the forefront of global transformation, leveraging advanced technologies, deep domain expertise, and a highly skilled workforce to drive innovation in healthcare. By integrating AI, data analytics, and automation, these centers are accelerating drug discovery, enhancing patient care, and optimizing healthcare operations. However, addressing challenges such as talent shortages, regulatory complexities, and cybersecurity risks will be critical to sustaining this growth. A strong focus on continuous upskilling, sustainable practices, and cross-industry collaborations will further solidify India’s position as a global healthcare innovation hub. As the industry evolves, India’s healthcare GCCs are poised to shape the future of medical research and digital healthcare, delivering long-term value to global healthcare ecosystems.

Gold by Sandip Raichura: Insights from PL Broking & Distribution CEO

by Mr. Sandip Raichura, CEO – of Retail Broking and Distribution, Director – of PL Broking and Distribution.

“Gold prices have remained buoyant over the past week as uncertainty, while reduced to some extent, has not disappeared. Growing concerns about US President Donald Trump’s tariff plans have continued to provide some support to the precious metal apart from softish US yields and DXY. The US retail sales data on Friday is a key trigger Technically, the gold price maintains a strong uptrend on the daily timeframe as the price holds above the key 100-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA). However, the 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains in the overbought territory and therefore some bit of a pullback may be there after a sharp rally right upto 2940 levels. The next logical level for the prices remains the sentimental level of USD 3000 which we believe is coming soon after a short pullback.”