Mumbai, January 30th, 2025: Scaler, a soonicorn education provider in India, commits to tackling the pressing AI talent gap in the country by empowering over 3,000 aspiring professionals through its Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (AIML) upskilling program, aiming for completion by 2027. This initiative addresses the urgent demand for skilled AI professionals as industry reports indicate a significant shortage of qualified talent, which could hinder India’s growth in the global tech landscape.

The gap between the demand for AI-skilled professionals and the available talent pool is stark, with estimates suggesting that less than 2,000 senior engineers possess the required expertise in this field, and studies indicate that only 2.5% of Indian engineers have substantial AI expertise. This mismatch threatens to slow India’s progress in the global AI landscape, particularly in key roles such as machine learning engineers, NLP specialists, and data scientists. The need for senior-level engineers with deep AI expertise is especially critical, as their absence hinders the successful execution of complex projects.

Scaler’s AIML program seeks to bridge this gap by addressing the advanced skill needs of mid-level and senior professionals, ensuring they can handle the complexities of AI-driven roles. The curriculum, curated with inputs from leading tech companies, focuses on advanced topics such as Generative AI, MLOps, and Reinforcement Learning. By equipping learners with skills tailored to industry demands, the program helps address the lack of practical AI expertise, enabling graduates to tackle real-world challenges and drive innovation in emerging technologies confidently.

Additionally, Scaler’s partnerships with companies like Clario, Consuma.ai, Aganitha AI, and Researchify.io expose learners to real-world problems, bridging the gap between academic theory and business needs. These collaborations enable participants to develop solutions that address critical industry challenges, fostering readiness for high-impact roles.

The program’s comprehensive, hands-on approach includes over 50 projects, with 40+ tackled during live classes and the remainder as assignments. This ensures participants gain practical expertise and confidence, directly addressing the industry’s call for professionals with applied experience. Learners are also supported by personalised mentorship from seasoned AI specialists, including former engineers and scientists from Google, Microsoft, and Amazon. This mentorship is pivotal in addressing the shortage of senior-level expertise empowering learners to navigate complex challenges effectively.

Scaler aims to bridge this gap by providing practical training Through the AIML program that aligns with the needs of the industry, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Generative AI Specialist, NLP Engineer, and MLOps Engineer.

Through this program, Scaler aims to create discerning cohorts of passionate AIML enthusiasts, ensuring a focused learning environment. The program fosters collaboration and peer-driven problem-solving by admitting top talent from diverse technical backgrounds. Graduates are expected to secure roles such as AI/ML Engineer, Research Scientist, and Generative AI Specialist, with Scaler providing placement assistance to support career growth.

Commenting on the launch, Abhimanyu Saxena, Co-founder of Scaler and InterviewBit, said: “Our mission has always been to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements. Developments in the AI and ML sectors are happening at breakneck speeds, such as the newest chatbot created by Deepseek. These developments can potentially remove the existing barriers for firms across diverse industries to work with AI, enabling many relevant employment opportunities in the sector. With the AIML program, we aim to create a new generation of skilled AI professionals ready to tackle tomorrow’s challenges. The program focuses on real-world applications and practical learning, empowering learners to make meaningful contributions to the tech industry.”

Scaler’s programs have consistently aimed to redefine tech education by bridging the theoretical knowledge and practical application gap. With the launch of the AIML program, Scaler continues its tradition of offering education that empowers learners to excel in emerging tech domains.

Bengaluru – January 30, 2025: Flipkart, India’s homegrown e-commerce marketplace, has announced the launch of a credit card bill payments feature on Flipkart Pay, further strengthening its position as a one-stop solution for all payment needs. The newly introduced category aims to enable convenient payments for millions of Flipkart customers while driving growth for the Recharges and Bill Payments category on Flipkart Pay via Bharat Bill Payment Service (BBPS).

Credit card bill payments have emerged as a key category on BBPS, ranking as the fifth-largest in terms of transaction count. The share of credit card bill payments in transaction value reached 62% of all BBPS payments after the RBI mandate to route credit card bills through Bharat Connect in July. By integrating credit card bill payments into the Recharges and Bill Payments platform, Flipkart continues to ease access to payment solutions tailored to evolving customer needs.

Commenting on the launch, Gaurav Arora, Vice President, Payments and SuperCoin at Flipkart, said, “At Flipkart, we are constantly innovating to create a holistic and seamless payment ecosystem for our customers. The addition of credit card bill payments on our Recharges and Bill Payments platform reflects our commitment to becoming the preferred one-stop solution for all payment needs. With this launch, we aim to simplify bill payments for millions of users and support the rapid growth of this vital category on BBPS.”

Flipkart launched its Recharges and Bill Payment Services in 2023 under the program ‘Bharat Connect,’ where it is registered as an Agent Institution under Bharat Bill Payment Services (BBPS) to provide online bill payment services to end users. The Recharges and Bill Payments platform supports nine bill payment categories, including mobile prepaid, mobile postpaid, electricity, broadband postpaid, landline postpaid, Fastag, DTH, LPG cylinder, and gas. With its growing range of payment options, Recharges and Bill Payments aims to streamline financial transactions directly on the Flipkart app.

Gurugram, 30th January 2025: SAMHI Hotels Limited (BSE: 543984) (NSE: SAMHI) a prominent branded hotel ownership and asset management platform in India, announced its unaudited Standalone and Consolidated results for the quarter and nine month ended 31st December 2024.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Ashish Jakhanwala, Chairman & Managing Director, SAMHI Hotels Ltd. said,

“We are pleased with the results for Q3 & 9M FY25. During the quarter we maintained healthy revenue growth. EBITDA growth was strong given successful ACIC integration and strong operating leverage.

Our core markets remain resilient. For Q3 & 9M FY25, occupancy stood at 72% and 74% respectively, reflecting strong demand for our assets.

I am also pleased to announce the reopening of Caspia Pro in Greater Noida as Holiday Inn Express with 133 rooms in December 2024. Our growth projects are on track with Holiday Inn Express in Kolkata and new rooms in Bengaluru under pre-opening stage.

We are also making good progress on two latest acquisitions. The concept development for our proposed new block of 220 rooms in Whitefield, Bengaluru, under “Westin” brand by Marriott and for conversion of an existing building into a “W” brand hotel in Hitec city, Hyderabad, are at advanced stages of finalization.

Once we complete the on-going initiatives, we would have almost doubled our Upper Upscale & Upscale inventory, which will have a substantial impact on our business.”

Based on same-store, i.e., excludes the ACIC Portfolio acquired in August 2023, Trinity acquired in Oct’24, Holiday Inn Express Greater Noida (renovated and reopened in December 2024), and Caspia Delhi (under renovation starting Jan’25) Includes one-time noncash impact of INR 65 Mn on account of refinancing a term-loan, which would result in annual interest savings of ~INR 160 Mn

• RevPAR at INR 5,088 up 15.1% on a YoY basis demonstrate strong business demand across key markets with established larger base of demand and continued growth in commercial activities across key markets driving RevPAR growth.
• Occupancy stood at 72% for Q3FY25.
• Asset Income and Asset EBITDA grew YoY by 10.1% and 12.6% respectively. Same store growth & positive impact of ACIC acquisition led to strong growth in Asset Income and EBITDA.
• The Finance Cost decreased to 9.4% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 9.5% as of September 30, 2024.
• PAT of INR 228 Mn including INR 65 Mn impact of a non-cash refinancing expense. The refinancing results in an annualized saving of INR 160 Mn in interest expense.

In INR Mn	Q3FY251	Q3FY24	YoY%	9MFY25	9MFY24	YoY%
Asset Income	2,964	2,692	10.1%	8,138	6,817	19.4%
Asset EBITDA	1,220	1,084	12.6%	3,207	2,614	22.7%
Asset EBITDA %	41.2%	40.3%		39.4%	38.3%
Net Corporate G&A	-44	-65		-80	-206
Consolidated EBITDA	1,177	1,019	15.5%	3,137	2,408	30.3%
(pre-ESOP & one-time expenses)
ESOP & One-Time Expenses	-44	-115		-133	-491
Consolidated EBITDA	1,132	904	25.2%	2,994	1,917	56.2%
(Reported)
PAT	2282	-744		396	-2,459

Mumbai, January 30, 2025: Puravankara Limited (NSE: PURVA | BSE: 532891), one of India’s most trusted and admired real estate developers, announced the launch of its newest landmark project – Purva Atmosphere in Keshav Nagar, Pune. Spread across 10 acres with 70% open spaces, this development seamlessly blends sustainable design with modern amenities, offering a truly unique lifestyle experience.

Purva Atmosphere features two 30-story towers offering 240 units of 2 BHKs and 180 units of spacious 3 BHK apartments. Designed to ensure ample natural light, ventilation, and Vastu compliance, these residences offer the perfect blend of comfort and functionality.

Purva Atmosphere is thoughtfully designed with sustainability at its core. As an Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) compliant project, it features unique landscaping inspired by Bali’s iconic terraces, blending nature with modern living. With large lush green spaces spread across the ground and podium levels, the project is designed to prioritise the well-being of its residents. At the heart of the project lies a one-acre central podium landscape area with a clubhouse and swimming pool.

Commenting on the launch, Rajat Rastogi, CEO- West & Commercial Assets, Puravankara Limited, said, “Pune continues to be a key focus area in our strategic expansion plans, and Purva Atmosphere marks a significant milestone in our journey. With thoughtfully designed low-density homes offering only 150 flats per acre, the project ensures ample space and privacy, making it a perfect setting for comfortable, sustainable living. It represents our unwavering commitment to creating a sustainable world for people to live their dreams. Every aspect, from the expansive green spaces to the carefully curated amenities, reflects our dedication to providing a lifestyle that goes beyond just four walls.”

Providing over fifty thoughtfully curated lifestyle amenities, including yoga pods, sensory gardens, an oxygenated gym, and a sprawling 30,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, Purva Atmosphere caters to contemporary urban dwellers’ physical, emotional, and social needs. The project will also feature hi-street retail and co-working spaces.

The project’s strategic location near the proposed Kharadi Bridge ensures seamless connectivity to Magarpatta, Hadapsar, Kalyani Nagar, and other major IT hubs.

“Nestled in the heart of Keshav Nagar, the project’s strategic location—close to Kharadi and Magarpatta IT parks—combined with its world-class amenities and sustainable design, positions it as a standout offering in Pune’s real estate market. We believe this development will redefine luxury and community living,” said Rastogi.

by Dr. Sushma Rani, Senior Consultant – Nephrology, Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru  

The kidneys are two vital organs that play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. They filter waste products, excess fluids and electrolytes from the blood, regulates blood pressure and support bone health. It’s a bean shaped organ which is roughly the size of a fist. They are two in number and located one on each side of the back bone deep in the abdominal cavity, beneath the rib cage. However, kidney disease is a growing concern worldwide, affecting millions of people. Kidney diseases are silent killers which can largely affect the quality of life.  Maintaining kidney health is essential to prevent kidney disease and its complications.

Kidneys also control blood levels of many minerals and salts including sodium and potassium, and help to control blood acidity. Every day they carefully control salt and water level in the body so that the blood pressure remains in the normal range.

There are several factors which increases the risk of kidney disease

• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels damage kidney blood vessels
• Hypertension: Uncontrolled blood pressure damages kidney blood vessels
• Family history: Genetic predisposition to kidney disease
• Obesity: Excess weight increases blood pressure and diabetes risk.
• Smoking: Damages kidney blood vessels and reduces function.
• Age: Kidney function declines with age.

There are several ways to keep our kidneys healthy

1. Keep fit and active

A healthy lifestyle helps to reduce the blood pressure and therefore reduces the risk of chronic kidney disease. One should stay hydrated by drinking 8-10 glasses of water per day. Exercise is must to keep the kidney diseases at bay. Maintaining a healthy weight helps to reduce the obesity risk. A person wanting to keep his kidneys healthy should quit smoking. Smoking cessation programs helps to quit smoking. Also, limit your alcohol consumption.

2. Keeping the blood sugars under good control

One of the important cause of kidney damage is Diabetes. Therefore, it is important for people with diabetes to have regular tests to check their kidney functions. Blood test Serum creatinine and eGFR (estimated Glomerular filtration rate) will help us monitor total kidney function. Also, the presence of excess protein or albumin in the urine is also a marker of kidney damage.

If detected early, Kidney damage from diabetes can be prevented. It is important to keep the blood sugars under control with the help of doctors, with regular medicine intake, good dietary practices and regular exercises.

3. Regular monitoring of blood pressure

Uncontrolled high blood pressure is the second leading cause of kidney failure across the world. High blood pressure can lead to a stroke or heart attack and can harm kidney function.

The normal blood pressure level is less than 140/80 mmhg. One should adopt lifestyle and dietary changes at 140/90 and above. They should discuss the risks with the doctor and monitor the blood pressure levels on regular basis. High blood pressure is especially likely to cause kidney damage when associated with other factors like diabetes, high cholesterol and heart diseases.

4. Eathealthyfood

A good diet is essential to prevent diabetes, heart disease and other conditions associated with chronic kidney disease. Eat kidney friendly foods such as, Berries, leafy greens, fatty fish, whole grains and legumes. One should reduce salt intake and limit it to <5g/day. Also, limit protein intake to 0.8-1 gram/kg body weight/day. If you have kidney stones avoid oxalate rich foods. Also, limit phosphorus rich foods.

5. Maintaina sufficient fluid intake

Drinking sufficient amount of water per day should be sufficient to maintain a good health. Consuming adequate fluids will help the kidneys clear sodium, urea and toxins from the body which, in turn, results in a “significantly lower risk” of developing chronic kidney disease. However, “aggressive fluid loading”, which can cause side effects, is not recommended.

6. Do not take over-the-counter pills/ pain killers on a regular basis

Common pain killer medicines also called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like brufen, combiflam and voveran are known to cause kidney damage if taken regularly. Consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements or pain relievers. Take medications as prescribed by the doctor, such as blood pressure medications and diabetes medications.

Maintaining kidney health is crucial to preventing kidney disease and its complications. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, managing risk factors, and monitoring kidney function, individuals can reduce their risk of kidney disease. Early detection and treatment can slow disease progression and improve outcomes. It is essential to prioritize kidney health and seek medical attention if concerns arise.

GURUGRAM / NAIROBI, 30 January 2025: Air India, India’s leading global carrier, and Kenya Airways, a leading African carrier, have entered a codeshare partnership, reaffirming their commitment to boosting seamless travel between India and Africa, and beyond. The codeshare partnership complements the existing interline agreement between the two carriers.

The codeshare and interline partnerships together allow passengers of both airlines to enjoy convenient access to a wider range of destinations across regions, leveraging a single ticket and a unified baggage policy for a hassle-free travel experience.

As part of the codeshare agreement, Air India will place its ‘AI’ designator code on twice daily flights between Nairobi and Mumbai operated by Kenya Airways, which will seamlessly connect passengers via Mumbai on Air India-operated flights to or from Bangkok (Thailand), Colombo (Sri Lanka), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Malé (The Maldives), Melbourne (Australia), and Singapore. These are in addition to existing connections that passengers from Nairobi can take to several other destinations within and outside of India via Delhi, when flying Nairobi to Delhi with Air India.

The new agreement also enables Kenya Airways to place its ‘KQ’ designator code on Air India-operated flights between Delhi and Nairobi, thus enabling Kenya Airways passengers from across Africa to travel to Delhi via Nairobi.

“Deepening our partnership with Kenya Airways aligns perfectly with Air India’s strategic vision of expanding our global footprint and strengthening our position in key markets”, said Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India. “Our codeshare partnership will provide significant benefit to guests of both airlines, and also contribute to the overall growth of air travel between India and Africa.”

The interline agreement between Air India and Kenya Airways enables passengers to seamlessly travel on a single itinerary between any of 28 points in Africa (Accra, Addis Ababa, Dar Es Salaam, Harare, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Seychelles, Kilimanjaro, Mombasa, and Zanzibar to name a few), and any of 15 points in India (Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Jaipur, Kochi, Kolkata, and Hyderabad to name a few).

“We are delighted to expand our partnership Air India, that will open up significant opportunity for our passengers. This codeshare agreement allows us to offer seamless connections to a wider range of destinations across both airlines’ networks, making travel easier and more convenient” said Julius Thairu, Chief Commercial and Customer Officer, Kenya Airways.

Air India and Kenya Airways plan to progressively add other destinations in their networks to the codeshare agreement.

The codeshare flights are available for booking through Air India’s and Kenya Airways’ respective booking channels and through travel agents.

February 2025, New Delhi:   The season of love is here and Andaz Delhi by Hyatt invites you to celebrate the Month of Love with an array of captivating culinary experiences designed to make every moment unforgettable. Embrace the spirit of romance with indulgent delicacies, vibrant desserts, and intimate settings that promise to elevate your celebrations. The highlight of this month-long celebration will be a spectacular Valentine’s Day extravaganza on the 14th of February, 2025, at AnnaMaya food hall and its serene poolside venue.

To quench your Italian cravings, the Valentine – Pan to Plate menu will offer Culurgiones– Sardinian ravioli stuffed with potato, mint, and pecorino, Pappardelle alla Sugo – artisanal pappardelle with slow-braised pulled lamb shank and rosemary oil, and so much more. The Italian delicacies are perfectly paired with sparkling wine for a romantic touch.

One can take a culinary voyage across Asia, while being seated on comfortable seating with the Asian menu, featuring Phad Thai Noodles and Clay Pot dishes. End your meal on a sweet tooth with delectable desserts like Strawberry Flambe, Rose & Butter Pudding, Strawberry Tart, and the refreshing Mint Mojito Delight. The price for Valentine’s Day Pan to Plate menu begins with INR 3999 ++ for soft beverage packages. Guests can also avail early bird offers by reserving their spot any day between 7th February to 10th February at 3499++.

Step up your romance game with an intimate poolside affair. For a more exclusive experience, the poolside menu features delicacies that are a fusion between Indian and Italian cuisine with a hint of aphrodisiac ingredients. The menu includes appetisers such as Gol Gappe with an Italian twist, Astice – a flaky pastry with lobster bisque cream, Purani Dilli Jama Masjid Paneer Kormas and Golbari Kosha Mangsho. The meal, crafted by Executive Chef Matteo Fracalossi, concludes with a decadent Chocolate Heart made from 64% Manjari chocolate and soft caramel, perfect for sharing with your special someone. The price for this menu begins at INR 15999 ++. Guests can also avail the early bird offer at 12999++ by reserving their spot any day between 7th February to 10th February.

Not to miss, AnnaMaya’s pastry shop will be a haven for those who have a sweet tooth! It will be available from 11th February till 14th February, 2025 and the menu will feature Dark Chocolate Mousse Heart Cake, the delightful Miniature Toffee Heart Cake made with toffee cream and milk chocolate, and the irresistible Chocolate Love Bar. The price begins at INR 320++.

Throughout February, Andaz Delhi, by Hyatt will celebrate the Month of Love with thoughtfully designed culinary promotions, immersive dining experiences, and enchanting settings. Whether you choose a romantic dinner at AnnaMaya, an indulgent poolside meal, or a visit to the pastry shop, this is your chance to create unforgettable memories with your loved one. So this Valentine’s Day, head over to Andaz Delhi for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day celebration.

The young learners of JBCN International School are proud to participate in the 25th Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, Asia’s largest multidisciplinary street arts festival, running from January 25th to February 2nd, 2025, in the heart of Mumbai.

This year, learners from JBCN’s Parel, Oshiwara, Borivali and Chembur campuses present three stunning art installations that celebrate creativity and imagination:

• The Parel campus captured a Timeless Sanctuary as its theme through an installation of a tranquil house-like structure made of translucent acrylic sheets, offering visitors a timeless serene escape to reconnect and reflect.

• Through a vibrant display of abstract art by Grades 1 to 8 learners, inspired by legends like Kandinsky and Mondrian, showcasing the unfiltered creativity of young minds, the Oshiwara learners captured a theme of Colours of Infinity.

• Echoes Within – The learners of Borivali Campus created an immersive journey of self-discovery and imagination, blurring the lines between reality and the infinite potential of the human spirit.

• Reflections of Infinity – Grade 8 and 9 learners of Chembur Campus created a giant cube, balanced on one vertex, symbolizing the blend of time and evolution. This artwork, featuring mirrors and black-and-white elements, reflects their interpretation of the theme of Timeless Abstractions.

As the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival marks its 25th milestone, JBCN’s installations stand as a testament to the transformative power of art and education.

Don’t miss this chance to witness the boundless creativity and talent of JBCN’s learners. Visit the installations from January 25th to February 2nd, 2025, and experience the magic they’ve brought to life.

Building on the exceptional growth in the first half of this financial year, the Room AC business continued its strong upward trajectory during the quarter. Fueled by a strong festive season demand, the Room AC segment was an outlier amongst all consumer durables. Other key businesses also showed robust growth, driven by demand from several sectors. The increase in revenue and profit can be attributed to the Company’s continued investments in expanding distribution channels, innovation, R&D, digital transformation, and strategic supply chain planning.

Consolidated Financial Performance for Q3FY25

• The Company’s Revenue from Operations increased by 25.3% to Rs 2807.36 crores for the quarter ended Dec 31, 2024, compared to Rs 2241.19 crores during the same period the previous year.

• The Operating Profit (PBIDTA excluding Other Income) for the quarter improved significantly to Rs 209.38 crores (7.5% of Revenue) compared to Rs 155.35 crores in Q3FY24 (6.9% of Revenue).

• Other Income including treasury income for Q3FY25 was Rs 8.73 crores compared to Rs 12.67 crores in Q3FY24.

• Tax expense for the quarter was Rs 46.53 crores compared to Rs 33.93 crores in Q3FY24.

• Profit Before Exceptional Items and Tax grew by a significant 24.5% to Rs 167.2 crores during the quarter compared to Rs 134.29 crores in the same period of the previous year.

• Consequently, Net Profit for the quarter (after Exceptional Income) grew a significant 32% to Rs 132.46 crores compared to Rs 100.46 crores in the same quarter last year.

• Earnings per share (Face value of Rs 2.00) for Q3FY25 stood at Rs 6.44 as compared to Rs 4.89 for Q3FY24.

• Carried-forward order book as of December 31, 2024, is at a record high of Rs 6809.99 crores, as compared to Rs 6038.53 crores as of December 31, 2023, representing a growth of 12.8%.

• Capital Employed as of December 31, 2024, stood at Rs 2763.44 crores as compared to Rs 2298.88 crores as of December 31, 2023.

• The Company ended the quarter with a net cash position of Rs 102 crores as compared to a net cash position of Rs 157 crores as of December 31, 2023.

Consolidated Segment Performance for Q3FY25

• Revenue from the Electro-Mechanical Projects and Commercial Air Conditioning Systems segment grew by 32.2% to Rs 1562.41 crores during the quarter compared to Rs 1182.3 crores in the same quarter of the previous year. The Segment Result was Rs 118.73 crores (7.6% of Revenue) compared to Rs 96.66 crores (8.2% of Revenue) in Q3FY24. During the quarter, the Electro-Mechanical Projects business saw strong progress in order finalisations within the factories and data centre segments, while demand from the commercial real estate and infrastructure sectors was subdued. The Company continues to prioritise faster project execution while maintaining a healthy cash flow. The Commercial Air Conditioning business achieved moderate growth driven by demand from the manufacturing, educational, retail, and auditorium sectors. While the market potential for this business remains promising, the Company is witnessing liquidity challenges in certain segments, resulting in delays in order finalisations. The focus here continues to be on delivering innovative and customised solutions to meet evolving needs of customers.

• Unitary Products revenue grew by 21.9% to Rs 1164.36 crores in Q3FY25 compared to Rs 955.38 crores in Q3FY24. The Segment Result grew to Rs 94.78 crores (8.1% of Revenue) in Q3FY25 compared to Rs 67.93 crores (7.1% of Revenue) during the same period last year. The Room AC business, driven by a successful festive season, maintained its exceptional growth trajectory during this quarter as well. In the Commercial Refrigeration business, regulatory challenges in water coolers and deep freezers have been resolved, and the Company’s focus is now on preparing for the forthcoming summer season. The quick commerce and food delivery sectors are fueling growth in modular cold rooms, while the visi cooler market is expanding as retailers nationwide invest in upgrading stores.

• The Professional Electronics and Industrial Systems segment revenue declined by 22.1% to Rs 80.59 crores in the quarter compared to Rs 103.51 crores in Q3FY24. The Segment Result was Rs 6.2 crores in Q3FY25 (7.7% of Revenue) compared to Rs 15.21 crores (14.7% of Revenue) in Q3FY24. During the quarter, the Industrial Solutions business maintained strong momentum and growth, while both the Med-Tech and Data Security businesses experienced subdued performance. The operating cycle in these businesses is yet to revive, which is impacting order inflow.

Consolidated Financial Performance for the nine months ended December 31, 2024

• For the nine months ended December 31, 2024, the Company reported Revenue from Operations of Rs 7948.69 crores compared to Rs 6357.59 crores over the same period in the previous year, a growth of 25%.

• Operating Profit (PBIDTA excluding Other Income) was Rs 596.52 crores (7.5% of Revenue) compared to Rs 423.04 crores (6.7% of Revenue) during the same period last year, reflecting a growth of 41%.

• Net Profit was Rs 397.28 crores compared to Rs 254.6 crores during the same period in the previous year, representing a significant growth of 56%.

Mumbai, India, January 29, 2025: Choice International Limited (BSE: 531358, NSE: CHOICEIN), one of the leading financial services companies operating across India (“CIL”, “Choice” or the “Company”), announces its results for quarter and nine months ending December 31st, 2024.

Consolidated Financial Performance for Q3 FY25 v/s Q3 FY24

• Total Revenue of Rs. 212 Cr v/s. Rs. 210 Cr [á 1%]
• EBITDA of Rs. 62 Cr v/s. Rs. 69 Cr [â11%]. EBITDA Margins of 29.17% v/s 33.00%
• PAT of Rs. 31 Cr v/s. Rs. 40 Cr [â24%]. PAT Margins of 14.53% v/s 19.20%
• Revenue contribution of 65% from Stock Broking, 23% Advisory and 12% NBFC

Consolidated Financial Performance for 9M FY25 v/s 9M FY24

• Total Revenue of Rs. 667 Cr v/s. Rs. 543 Cr [á23%]
• EBITDA of Rs. 198 Cr v/s. Rs. 158 Cr [á25 %]. EBITDA Margins of 30.00% v/s 29.00%
• PAT of Rs. 109 Cr v/s. Rs. 91 Cr [á19 %]. PAT Margins of 16% v/s 17%

Business Highlights

• NumberofDematAccountsstood at 998K, a growth of 24%YoY
• AUM for Stock Broking stood at Rs. 46.5K Cr, a staggering growth of 38% YoY
• AUM for Wealth Products stood at 1,090 Cr, surge of 99% YoY
• Insurance premium generated of 73 Cr, an increase of 43 % YoY
• Number of policies sold stood at 54,892, a surge of 429% YoY
• Total Loan book for NBFC segment at the end of Q3 FY25 stood at Rs. 754 Cr
• Retail Loan Book for Q3 FY25 stood at Rs. 604 Cr
• Net Non-Performing assets (NNPA) as on 31^st Dec, 2024 is 0%
• Advisory segment Order book stood at Rs. 555 Cr

Commenting on the Q3 & 9M FY25 performance Mr. Kamal Poddar, Managing Director said:

India, the fifth-largest economy with a $3.89 trillion GDP, continues to demonstrate resilience, growing 8.2% in 2024. Despite market volatility at the beginning of the year, India’s financial landscape remains robust. Against this backdrop, Choice International remains steadfast in its commitment to long-term growth and value creation. Choice ended the quarter reporting revenue of Rs. 212 Cr for Q3 FY25. For the nine months ended, revenue reached Rs. 667 Cr, with EBITDA and PAT at Rs. 198 Cr and Rs. 109 Cr, respectively. This performance underscores our ability to navigate market challenges while maintaining a strong foundation for sustainable growth.

Choice delivers across all key business segments:

1. The broking and distribution business, which accounts for 65% of our total revenues, recorded a YoY growth of 9%, generating Rs. 135 Cr in revenue for Q3 FY25
2. 1. The stock broking business has added 67K demat accounts, increasing the total to 998K demat accounts. Our stock broking division has seen significant growth, driven by a strong emphasis on user retention and expanding into Tier III cities and beyond.
   2. The Wealth Product business’ AUM has reached Rs. 1,090 Cr, marking an impressive YoY growth of 99% fuelled by cross-selling initiatives and an extensive product portfolio.
3. Our insurance broking operations continue to gain momentum, driven by a customer-centric approach and innovative cross-selling strategies. Choice Insurance Broking achieved a premium of Rs. 73 Cr in Q3 FY25, demonstrating a robust YoY growth of 43%. The total number of policies sold surged to 54,892, marking a YoY increase of 429%. Our ongoing focus on corporate B2B and institutional clients has led to a higher conversion rate, achieving an impressive ratio of 74%.

• The NBFC business, which contributes 12% to total revenues, has seen strong growth, with a total loan book of Rs. 754 Cr, including Rs. 604 Cr in retail loans. The growing demand for retail lending in Tier II-III cities presents a significant opportunity. Our focus on retail loans and digital lending through our mobile app, ‘Choice Money,’ has streamlined operations and driven revenue growth in this segment.

1. The Choice Consultancy subsidiary, which drives our Advisory business contributes 23% of total revenues, with an impressive order book of Rs. 555 Cr. Our strong commitment in delivering exceptional performance in executing government projects on a grassroot level, enables us to win more orders thereby strengthening our order book

The Choice Business Associate Network continues to expand, with over 48,000 CBAs playing a crucial role in our outreach. Increased financial literacy, particularly in underdeveloped regions, is fuelling this growth and supporting our broader financial inclusion goals.

A key highlight this quarter was receiving in-principle approval from SEBI to sponsor and establish a mutual fund. This milestone allows Choice International to expand its financial services and reach a wider range of investors, strengthening our position in the industry.

Additionally, during the quarter, Choice Finserv, our NBFC division, successfully acquired the retail lending business through a slump sale. This strategic move has resulted in a 61% increase in total AUM, reaching Rs.7.54 billion, further enhancing our growth and ability to offer diversified financial solutions.

While the industry has experienced temporary headwinds in recent months, we remain confident in the strength of our business model and our strategic approach to achieve our long-term targets over the next five years. Our commitment to serving customers and stakeholders remains steadfast, guided by our vision to drive financial inclusion in India.