Dr. Kshitiz Murdia – CEO & Co-Founder of Indira IVF on the healthcare segment

“India stands at a crucial crossroads in addressing the growing challenge of infertility, which carries significant socio-economic implications. Globally, nations like South Korea and Singapore are grappling with record-low Total Fertility Rates (TFR) of 0.72 and 0.97, respectively, while within India, states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka report TFRs below replacement levels. These trends underscore the urgent need for India to act decisively to maintain its demographic stability and provide opportunities for those who aspire to achieve parenthood. The Union Budget for 2025-26 presents a critical opportunity to integrate infertility management as a core component of public healthcare.

One key measure we have been advocating for over the past 3–4 years is the integration of fertility treatments, including assisted reproductive technologies (ART), into universal health insurance schemes. Such an initiative would make these treatments financially accessible to families across socio-economic strata, alleviating a significant burden for those seeking to build a family. Additionally, offering tax exemptions or deductions on fertility treatment expenses would provide immediate relief to many couples. To ensure equity in access, investments should also be directed toward establishing ART infrastructure in underserved regions, bridging the geographical divide in reproductive healthcare.

Public awareness campaigns to establish infertility as a medical condition that can be treated are essential to combat the stigma surrounding infertility, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and encourage timely medical interventions. Coupled with increased funding for research in reproductive health, these initiatives can drive innovation and improve treatment outcomes, helping more individuals fulfill their aspirations of parenthood.

The global experience with declining fertility rates serves as a warning for India to proactively address these challenges. By prioritizing infertility care in Budget 2025-26, the government can empower millions of families, promote equitable healthcare, and contribute to the nation’s socio-economic resilience. These measures align with India’s vision of a healthier, more inclusive, and progressive future, ensuring the country remains well-prepared to face both demographic and economic challenges.”

January 2025: Embryolisse, a specialist in multi-tasking skin care, is proud to announce the launch of Filaderme, a transformative cream designed to rejuvenate dry and sensitive skin. This revolutionary product is set to redefine skincare routine with its powerful lipid-replenishing formula that restores the skin’s protective lipidic film and fortifies the skin barrier.

Say goodbye to dryness and flakiness. Filaderme is enriched with 90% natural origin ingredients to shield your skin from harsh weather changes while maintaining its strength and moisturization power. Its luxuriously smooth texture and pleasant almond fragrance deliver a delightful sensory experience alongside unmatched hydration and repair. Filaderme is a testament to Embryolisse’s commitment to creating effective and gentle skincare solutions for all skin types. Infused with a lipid-replenishing formula and the benefits of 99% ingredients from natural origin, such as Shea butter, Aloe vera, Soy proteins, and others- Filaderme Emulsion cream is a must-have, it helps to impart long-lasting nourishment to dry and extremely dry skin.

Filaderme – a Game-Changer

Immediate and Lasting Nourishment: The lipid-replenishing formula works instantly to soothe and hydrate dry skin, ensuring long-lasting comfort.

Repairs Dry and Very Dry Skin: The rich blend of essential nutrients restores the skin’s natural balance, making it an ideal solution for even the most sensitive skin.

Comfort Redefined: Feelings of discomfort and tightness disappear, replaced by a sensation of smoothness and ease.

Clinical Benefits

• Nourishes and replenishes the skin deeply
• Strengthens the skin barrier, ensuring lasting hydration
• Eliminates signs of dryness and flakiness
• Protects against external aggressors
• Leaves skin feeling soft, supple, and radiant

Experience the best of French pharmacy skincare with Embryolisse. Renowned for its science-backed formulations and dedication to simplicity, Embryolisse offers a unique blend of dermatological expertise and natural ingredients. Trusted by pharmacists, dermatologists, and make-up artists around the world, the brand has been a cornerstone of French beauty for decades. Embryolisse Filaderme Emulsion is available in-store and online via Nykaa, Blinkit, Flipkart, Zepto, and Amazon.

As we move into 2025, the financial markets are teeming with opportunities, especially in the rapidly expanding fintech and digital lending sectors. Technology-driven solutions, coupled with shifting consumer behavior and a strong push for digital financial services, are creating a hotbed for growth. For investors looking to make big gains, some stocks in the fintech space are showing exceptional promise. In this article, we’ll take a look at five stocks to watch in 2025, each poised to benefit from the accelerating digital transformation in finance.

1. lendingplate (Unifinz Capital India Limited) – A Digital Lending Powerhouse| Stock price: ₹563

lendingplate, under Unifinz Capital India Limited, is one of the most promising companies in India’s digital lending space. Offering unsecured personal loans up to ₹2,50,000 with flexible repayment options up to 15 months, the platform has been gaining traction with consumers looking for fast, hassle-free credit solutions. lendingplate has already disbursed ₹500 crore in loans year-to-date, showcasing its significant impact on the digital lending landscape. As of now, the stock price of Unifinz Capital India Limited (UCIL), lendingplate stands at ₹563, making it an attractive investment opportunity in the digital lending sector.

lendingplate primarily caters to individuals who are overlooked by traditional banks, and a significant portion of its loan portfolio comprises borrowers with thin credit or low credit scores. This unique focus positions lending plates to tap into the vast underserved market in India, providing access to credit for those who typically struggle to get loans through conventional channels.

One of Lendingplate’s standout features is its ability to offer instant loan approvals and disbursements within 30 minutes, which is incredibly appealing to customers who need quick access to funds. The company’s customer-centric approach, combined with its digital-first model, allows it to offer flexible loan amounts and repayment terms tailored to individual needs.

lendingplate is servicing 5000+ pin codes across 17 states, giving it a broad reach in urban and rural markets alike. With its ability to tap into the growing demand for unsecured credit, the company is well-positioned to continue expanding its customer base and loan disbursements as it targets further growth in 2025.

2. Aavas Financiers – Revolutionizing Affordable Housing Loans| Stock price: ₹1,686.10

Aavas Financiers has carved out a strong niche in providing affordable housing loans to lower- and middle-income groups, focusing on Tier II and Tier III cities. The company’s emphasis on digital underwriting and innovative loan disbursement methods is helping to drive growth. As government policies continue to support affordable housing, Aavas Financiers is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for housing loans in India.

With a solid growth trajectory and a focus on financial inclusion, Aavas Financiers is a strong contender for significant gains in 2025.

3. Bajaj Finance – A Leader in Consumer Finance with Digital Innovation| Stock price: ₹7,182.10

Bajaj Finance has long been one of India’s top non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), offering everything from personal loans to business loans and consumer durables financing. The company’s relentless push towards digitalization has kept it at the forefront of India’s consumer finance sector. With its strong customer base, tech-driven credit solutions, and a growing loan book, Bajaj Finance is a stock worth keeping an eye on in 2025, especially as the demand for instant and unsecured credit rises.

Bajaj Finance’s innovative lending models and strong market presence position it for impressive growth in the coming years.

4. HDFC Bank – Traditional Banking Meets Fintech Innovation| Stock price: ₹4,030.85

HDFC Bank is one of India’s most respected private-sector banks, and its entry into the digital lending space has been nothing short of transformative. By integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into its loan origination processes, HDFC Bank has significantly streamlined its loan approval process, making it faster and more efficient. The bank’s strong digital infrastructure enables it to reach a larger audience, particularly in rural areas, while still maintaining its stronghold in urban markets.

HDFC Bank’s ability to blend traditional banking expertise with cutting-edge fintech solutions makes it an attractive stock for investors in 2025.

5. Paytm (One97 Communications ltd.) – The Fintech Giant Expanding Its Lending Footprint| Stock price: ₹900.15

Paytm continues to dominate India’s digital payment space and is rapidly expanding into lending, insurance, and wealth management. With its vast user base, Paytm has the unique opportunity to cross-sell lending products such as personal loans, merchant loans, and buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) services. By leveraging its existing platform, Paytm is positioned to take full advantage of India’s booming digital lending ecosystem, especially as credit penetration continues to grow.

As India’s largest mobile payment platform, Paytm is looking to expand its digital lending capabilities in 2025, making it a key player in the rapidly evolving fintech space.

Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Please conduct your own research or consult a financial advisor before making any investment decisions

Nellore: 23rd January 2025: Adani Skill Development Centre (ASDC), the skilling arm of Adani Foundation, celebrated a significant milestone recently with the culmination of a 90-day training program at Krishnapatnam port. This is the first time that international participants joined ASDC’s maritime training course, which embodies the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — The World is One Family. The batch comprised 10 trainees from Tanzania and 20 students from India, creating a diverse and enriching learning environment.

“The achievements of our Tanzanian trainees exemplify our belief in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. This initiative reinforces our mission to empower individuals across borders and build a skilled workforce equipped for the challenges of modern maritime industries,” Mr Jatin Trivedi, CEO, of ASDC, said.

Launched in October 2024, the port training programs were designed to equip participants with world-class maritime skills. The curriculum is a mix of theoretical and practical modules on industry-grade simulators. The program trains participants in rubber-treated gantry (RTG) crane operations, heavy motor vehicle (HMV) driving, and marine engine and mechanical systems (MEMS).

“The training program was more than just learning for us. From mastering RTG cranes to understanding the details of port operations, we’ve gained skills and confidence that will shape our future,” Frank Daud Mgendi, a Tanzanian trainee, said.

Tanzania resident Lameck Rojas Kidasi said this was his first visit to India. “Coming to India and getting a chance to learn and work along with other students was so much fun. I am very excited about future opportunities,” he said.

A certification ceremony for the students was held at the Krishnapatnam facility and Mr Vijay Singh Rathod, dry cargo head at Adani Krishnapatnam Port Limited (AKPL), was the chief guest for the event. Mr Koushal Singh, head of safety and environment, AKPL, and Mr Siddharth, head of marketing, AKPL, were the guests of honor.

ASDC’s Krishnapatnam facility, spanning over 20 acres and offering 21 simulation-based programs, is a hub of excellence in skilling. Since 2016, ASDC has trained over 1,60,000 youth, with 68% securing sustainable livelihoods, collectively generating an economic impact exceeding Rs 1,400 crore annually.

Mumbai, January 23, 2025: Republic Day is an important day in the lives of every Indian. It is the day the Constitution of India took effect in 1950. On this occasion, the actors of Sony SAB come together to express their heartfelt gratitude to the brave soldiers who selflessly serve the nation, ensuring the safety and security of the citizens. As India celebrates the spirit of unity, democracy, and freedom, noted artists – Sumit Kaul, Sumeet Raghvan, Pankaj Berry, Jayesh Bharbhaya, and Sachin Parikh, known for spreading smiles and positivity through their shows, take a moment to salute the tireless efforts of the brave heroes serving the nation.

Sumeet Raghvan who plays the role of Rajesh Wagle in Wagle Ki Duniya-Nayi Peedhi Naye Kissey, said, “Growing up, I remember hearing countless stories of how our soldiers faced unimaginable challenges at the border, battling extreme weather conditions and unpredictable threats, all while maintaining an unwavering sense of duty. As we celebrate Republic Day today, it’s hard not to reflect on their sacrifices. Because of their dedication, we can live in a free, peaceful country. Every day they inspire me, reminding me that true courage often comes in the quiet moments, far from the spotlight. Thank you to our soldiers for being the silent warriors of our nation. Jai Hind!”

Sumit Kaul who plays the role of Girgit in Tenali Rama said, “There’s a story I once heard from a retired soldier who served at the Siachen Glacier—he spoke about the sheer isolation and brutal cold, yet he carried on because he knew it was his duty to protect the nation. As we observe Republic Day, I think of all those who do not get the recognition they deserve, but who continue to serve with integrity and valor, day in and day out. They are the unsung heroes, defending not only our borders but also our Constitution’s very spirit. We owe them everything. Jai Hind!”

Jayesh Bharbhaya who plays the role of Dilip Patel in Pushpa Impossible said – “On this Republic Day, I think about an old family friend of mine, a war veteran, who once told me: ‘When you’re on the battlefield, you realize that nothing in life matters more than the safety of your fellow soldiers and the love for your country.’ It’s their unspoken camaraderie, their deep commitment to something greater than themselves, that makes them the true pillars of our nation. As we celebrate today, I remember those who have stood tall, faced immense adversity and made the ultimate sacrifice. Their courage and resilience are what make India truly strong. Jai Hind!”

Sachin Parikh who plays the role of Manish Parekh in Pushpa Impossible – “I once had the honor of speaking with a soldier who had spent years in the coldest, most remote corners of our borders. He shared with me how he would write letters home, but not once did he complain about the harsh conditions. His sense of duty was unwavering. This Republic Day, I think of him and all the soldiers who serve selflessly, far away from their families. Their sacrifices ensure that we, as civilians, continue to live in peace and harmony. Their quiet strength is a constant reminder of what true patriotism is. Jai Hind!”

Pankaj Berry who plays the role of Tathacharya said, “Today, we extend our love and respect to our brave soldiers who stand at the border day and night, safeguarding our nation and its values. Your dedication and selflessness are the foundation of our freedom, and we thank you for your immense service to our country. I salute you all. Jai hind!”

What if your dreams held the key to a connection you never imagined? Disney+ Hotstar, in collaboration with Jio Studios and Mango People Media, is set to take audiences on a one-of-a-kind journey with Sweet Dreams, streaming from January 24, 2025. Directed by the visionary Victor Mukherjee, the film weaves an extraordinary tale of two strangers linked by the surreal world of dreams. With a star-studded cast featuring Mithila Palkar, Amol Parashar, Meiyang Chang, and Sauraseni Maitra, Sweet Dreams is brought to life under the expert production of Jyoti Deshpande, Neha Anand, and Pranjal Khandhdiya.

The film’s soulful soundtrack, composed by the talented team of Mukund Suryawanshi, Shubham Shirule, Dev Arijit, and Akashdeep Sengupta, perfectly complements its dreamy, whimsical tone. Adding to this musical magic is the multi-talented Meiyang Chang, who, along with being an actor, is also an accomplished singer—a gift that shines through in his portrayal of Kenny.

Mithila Palkar, who plays Dia, brings a deeply relatable and grounded charm to her character. Dia is an artist, a singer, and a songwriter, attributes that resonate with Palkar’s love for music. In a candid conversation, we asked Mithila about the striking similarities between her character and herself, particularly her passion for music.

When asked if she secretly aspires to be a singer-songwriter, Mithila said with a smile, “Why secretly? I’d love to be known as a singer! For now, I think I’d just like to admit that I’m someone who can sing. And there’s a big difference between that and being a ‘singer.’ Being a singer takes a lot of practice and dedication. The day I start truly putting in that effort into this art form, which is so close to my heart, is the day I’ll begin my journey as a singer.”

Interestingly, Mithila gets to fulfill this dream in the film Sweet Dreams, where she steps into the shoes of a pop singer. In a show-stopping moment, she performs to a packed crowd, pouring her heart into the music and bringing her character’s—and perhaps her own—musical aspirations to life.

As the film navigates through the twists and turns of serendipitous dreams and the growing bond between Kenny and Dia, the underlying message resonates: chase your dreams, but don’t lose sight of what’s real. Perhaps the real dreams are not those that come to us in the dead of night, but the ones we pursue with open eyes, right in front of us. Kyunki reality itni bhi buri nahin hoti.

New Delhi, 23 January 2025 – LG Electronics India Limited announced the launch of its new Soundbars – the LG S95TR and LG S90TY with Wireless Dolby Atmos® and true wireless rear surround speakers. Designed to improve home entertainment with good sound quality, innovative features, and a sleek, modern design, these models offer a synergy with LG TVs, ensuring an improved cinematic and audio experience.

LG’s S95TR Soundbar has 810W of power output, and this flagship model contains 17 precisely arranged speakers, orchestrating an enveloping surround sound experience. Its acoustic brilliance elevates the three-dimensional soundscape, broadening the horizon of the soundstage while delivering crystal-clear dialogue.

Commenting on the launch Brian Jung, Director, Home Entertainment LG Electronics India said, “The introduction of our flagship soundbars marks a significant step in our commitment to delivering technology that improves home entertainment for our customers. These soundbars are designed to offer an immersive audio experience with features such as a center-up-firing speaker, 3D Spatial Sound Technology, and wireless connectivity with LG TVs. We have combined performance with innovations to meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers.”

Key features

The LG S95TR features 9.1.5 channels with 5 up-firing speakers upgraded tweeters and integration of passive radiators. With this, the Soundbar pushes the low-frequency response down to an earthy 120Hz for balanced sound, and refined tweeters ensure that the highest frequencies are delivered with clarity for an improved audio experience. WOWCAST enables the Soundbar to connect wirelessly to select LG TVs, making the enjoyment of cinematic technologies like wireless Dolby Atmos and DTS: X®2 easier. LG’s WOW Interface provides an intuitive and user-friendly way of navigating through LG TV sound settings and, with the press of a button, utilizing LG’s WOW Orchestra technology. This alliance between the Soundbar and select LG TV orchestrates a fusion of audio channels, expanding the soundstage and adding layers of depth that improve the auditory imagery. LG’s 3D Spatial Sound Technology applies channel analysis through a 3D engine to captivate listeners with lifelike sound and an immersive sense of space. In addition, LG AI Room Calibration assesses the room’s environment and fine-tunes the settings to enhance the audio in harmony with the room’s acoustics. The AI Room Calibration introduces an extended capability to calibrate the audio of rear surround speakers, improving audio immersion and providing flexibility for installation.

The LG S90TY, on the other hand, offers a 5.1.3 channel setup with a 570W output. While it also features the center up-firing speaker, it does not include the wireless rear surround speakers found in the S95TR.

Mr. Arun Kumar Nayyar, MD, and CEO of NeoGrowth

” The contribution of MSMEs is vital in shaping the Indian economy. With the Union Budget 2025 on the horizon, we look forward to policies that will address key challenges, such as improving access to capital, simplifying business operations, and encouraging the adoption of new technologies for MSMEs.

Tax incentives for businesses investing in technology upgrades and expanding access to capital for underserved and unserved enterprises will play a pivotal role in strengthening the MSME ecosystem. Enhanced allocations for digital public infrastructure and innovation to improve credit accessibility are also crucial to enabling sustainable growth.

The MSME sector, comprising over 50 million businesses, contributes nearly one-third of India’s annual gross value added (GVA) and employs over 216 million individuals. Insights from the NeoInsights report, ‘Unlocking Generational Preferences among Indian Retailers’, reveal that 77% of MSMEs are actively planning to expand their operations.

To support this ambition, strengthening initiatives under Skill India can empower the workforce with the expertise needed to adapt to a rapidly evolving business landscape, enabling MSMEs to overcome challenges and realize their growth potential, ultimately driving significant economic progress.”

NATIONAL, January 23, 2025: The JITO Incubation and Innovation Foundation is set to host a ‘family business’ Summit, bringing together industry leaders, wealth managers, and entrepreneurial families for a transformative day of discussions and collaboration. This event aims to empower family businesses with strategies for sustainable growth, while also fostering innovation by connecting startups with potential investors.

Family businesses, a cornerstone of India’s economic fabric, are evolving rapidly to embrace modern investment strategies. Globally, family offices have increasingly turned to direct investments in startups, with three-quarters reporting significant allocations to early-stage ventures. In India, family offices are becoming pivotal in generating domestic risk capital, contributing to a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. The summit will explore these trends and the critical role family businesses play in funding innovation.

D. Jeetendra Bhandari, Chairman TNAPTS Zone JIIF emphasized the need for family businesses to adapt to changing times, said “Professionalism is the need of the hour at Family Offices and managing family wealth for sustaining and expanding generational wealth in today’s dynamicinvesting market. Managing Family Wealth is as important as managing Family Businesses”.

Speaking about the SummitJeenendra Bhandari, Chairman of JITO Incubation and Innovation Foundation (JIIF) said “The future of family businesses lies in managing the Family Wealth and well-planned transition while staying rooted in their core values. At JIlf, we aim to empower our businesses families, and entrepreneurs by providing the technology, tools, insights, and opportunities to grow sustainably. With Gen Z stepping up to lead family enterprises and their generational wealth, their fresh perspectives and digital-first approach are driving transformation not only in their businesses but also investments and wealth, ensuring these legacies adapt and thrive in this VUCA world..”

A standout feature of the event will be the inspiring stories from multigenerational family businesses, offering firsthand accounts of how they have navigated complex challenges, leveraged innovation, and embraced emerging opportunities. The engaging sessions will highlight the pivotal role of Gen Z in steering family businesses forward, as this new generation drives transformation by embracing digitalization, modernizing traditional business models, and exploring uncharted investment avenues. Their leadership and fresh perspectives are proving vital in ensuring the longevity, adaptability, and global competitiveness of family enterprises, while also serving as a blueprint for families seeking to balance modernization with preserving their heritage.
The event will also feature a series of insightful discussions aimed at equipping attendees with actionable strategies to build robust family foundations that foster long-term success and stability. Participants will gain valuable knowledge about high-growth investment sectors, including opportunities in pre-IPOs, startups, the stock market, and real estate, guided by seasoned CXOs and fund managers. Additionally, the summit will delve into achieving a harmonious balance between financial success and physical well-being, with thought-provoking sessions led by industry experts.

JITO Shark Angels, a dynamic pitch session, will cap off the day, where startups will present their ideas to an audience of seasoned investors and Ultra HNIs of Chennai. This interactive segment will provide a unique platform for innovation and funding, further bridging the gap between traditional family businesses and the entrepreneurial ecosystem while offering an unparalleled opportunity to connect with some of the most influential investors in the region.
This summit is a must-attend for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and aspiring professionals looking to gain practical insights, expand their networkand stay ahead in today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape.

In a world where jewellery often falls into two extremes – either precious diamonds that feel out of reach or costume pieces that lack soul – Janvi Sachdeva spotted a sweet spot that was waiting to be filled. The brand brings to life unique, statement-making pieces crafted in 92.5 silver that sit confidently between fine jewellery and imitation wear. Each design tells its own story, featuring thoughtfully set gemstones and distinctive aesthetics that break away from the usual. What makes Janvi Sachdeva stand out isn’t just the affordable luxury it offers, but how each piece pushes creative boundaries while remaining wearable. The brand proves that you don’t need to compromise on design or empty your savings to own jewellery that turns heads.

Sometimes, the best ideas come from breaking family traditions. While her family specialised in crafting footwear, young Janvi Sachdeva Kapoor found herself drawn to a different form of artistry: jewellery. Armed with determination and a clear vision, she pursued her education at India’s most prestigious jewellery institutes, GIA Mumbai and IIGJ Delhi, before advancing her skills at Alchimia, the contemporary jewellery school in Florence. Coming from a non-jewellery background became her greatest strength, allowing her to bring fresh perspectives to an age-old craft. Today, Janvi’s mission goes beyond creating just another jewellery brand. She is building a legacy where each piece is bold yet affordable, luxurious yet accessible, and designed to be cherished and passed down through generations.

Breaking new ground in silver jewellery design, Janvi Sachdeva’s collections reflect life’s diverse inspirations. The brand’s standout Spirit Animal collection ventured into uncharted territory, transforming the profound human-animal connection into wearable designs – a theme that resonated deeply with collectors. This innovative spirit continued through subsequent collections: Revamp of the Vintage breathed modern life into Victorian elegance, while Blooming Girls celebrated natural imperfections through floral designs. The Empress collection redefined royal aesthetics for contemporary women, and Style de Moderne turned architectural marvels into striking jewellery pieces. Among recent releases, the versatile XO earrings have become an instant favourite, proving that thoughtful design can blend into everyday wear.

From busy professionals to style-conscious mothers, Janvi Sachdeva’s creations speak to confident women aged 25-60 who appreciate standout jewellery without compromising on quality. These designs then come to life in the skilled hands of artisans in Agra and Jaipur, crafted exclusively in BIS hallmarked 92.5 silver and adorned with carefully selected gemstones. Understanding that personal style often calls for a personal touch, the brand offers customisation options, working closely with clients to create pieces that perfectly match their vision.

With sights set firmly on the global stage, Janvi Sachdeva aims to build a legacy that rivals international jewellery houses like Cartier and Tiffany. The brand’s unique fusion of Indian craftsmanship with English design influences positions it perfectly for the international market, where it hopes to catch the eye of Hollywood stars just as foreign brands have captured Bollywood’s imagination.