CIEL HR Survey: India’s Institutional Investor Sector Sees 69% Headcount Growth in 2 Years
National, 24 February 2025: India’s market capitalization has risen over the past decade, growing from US$1.2 trillion to US$5.2 trillion. This growth has spurred significant expansion in the institutional investor sector. According to CIEL HR Services’ latest report, CIEL Works, titled- Institutional Investors – Talent Trends and Insights, India has witnessed a notable 69% increase in headcount within the sector over the last two years.
The study encompasses 16000+ executives from 80 companies in the investor sector and provides valuable insights into key areas such as gender diversity, tenure in a firm, roles in demand, and career progression.
One notable finding regarding talent mobility revealed that only 17% of professionals, including fund managers, portfolio managers, and senior analysts, are promoted from within their organizations, while 83% are hired externally. This presents an opportunity for companies in the sector to innovate their practices around internal career progression and enhance their work environment which makes their talent thrive.
The sector has made strides in workforce diversity, with women’s participation at 27% of the overall workforce. However, representation in leadership roles remains a challenge, with women holding just 14% of senior positions.
Commenting on the findings, Mr. K Pandiarajan – Executive Director and Chairman of CIEL HR said, “India’s trajectory towards becoming a $7 trillion economy by 2030 is a reflection of its burgeoning market size and a testament to the rapid transformation taking place across its financial landscape. With an expected growth rate of 6.1% over the next five years and positioning to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2027, India’s institutional investor sector is at the forefront of this evolution. The sector is experiencing a radical shift, with both established players and new entrants driving innovation in investment strategies and financial products. This dynamic growth signals a pivotal moment for institutional investors to harness emerging opportunities, both within India and globally.”
Adding to this Aditya Narayan Mishra, MD & CEO of CIEL HR stated, “The sector employs crème de la crème talent in the country. With our economy growing at a rapid pace, the demand for these roles will surge, further widening the demand-supply gap. We anticipate skilled
professionals to return to India from global markets while also drawing expatriates to the country.”
Other Key Findings from CIEL HR – Institutional Investors Talent Trends and Insights Report
- Approximately 25% of the workforce in the Institutional Investors sector has switched jobs in the past year, emphasizing the dynamic and competitive nature of the industry.
- The average tenure across the Institutional Investors sector is 3 years, reflecting high mobility and talent competition.
- Professionals in the industry often hold advanced qualifications, including MBAs from top Indian and international business schools, as well as prestigious CA / CFAs.
Akvarious Productions Celebrates 25 Years with Two-Day Festival at NCPA
Mumbai, 24th February 2025: Akvarious Productions, one of India’s most prolific theatre companies, is marking 25 years of storytelling with a special two-day celebration at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Mumbai. Since its inception, Akvarious has staged over 80 plays across multiple languages and genres, with seven nominations and two wins at the prestigious Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards. With over 1,600 performances across 30 cities, including international stages, the company has also carved a niche in children’s theatre with ten productions.
As part of the anniversary festivities, the lineup includes four acclaimed plays — In the Beginning Was the Word, Teen Kahaaniya, The Verdict, and It’s a Wonderful Life — and an engaging ‘Explore, Apply, Perform’ workshop with theatre veteran Shaun Williams. The celebration also introduces new initiatives such as rehearsed readings, open auditions, and even a theatre cricket tournament—bringing together artists in both performance and play.
Reflecting on the milestone, Akarsh Khurana, Founder, Akvarious Productions, said: “I think the gravity of the achievement gets clearer when people react to the number and think it’s a big deal. Which is when we’re like, hey, that’s true. We’re constantly rehearsing or performing, because it’s what we love, and we want to do much more of the same this year. But yes, because we should celebrate the journey, we’re looking back, taking stock, scaling up, taking some risks as well, and just going a little above and beyond. These microfests, the first of which the NCPA has been wonderful enough to collaborate with us on, are a new idea. We’re also doing new plays, rehearsed readings, workshops, open auditions, and even a theatre cricket tournament.”
BML Munjal University’s Propel Pitchfest25 Fuels India’s Startup Innovation
Gurgaon, 24th February 2025: BML Munjal University (BMU) successfully hosted Propel Pitchfest25, the flagship annual event organized by ACIC-BMU Foundation (ACIC-BMU), Atal Community Innovation Centre at BML Munjal University in collaboration with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, bringing together India’s most promising entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders.
With a USD 1 million (₹8+ Cr) investment pool, supported by the Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) and MeitY GENESIS Scheme, the event provided crucial` financial backing to emerging ventures.
The startups that participated were from various sectors like Deeptech, Medtech, Textile Innovation, Sustainability, and Social Impact.
Investors include Indian Angel Network, India Accelerator, Pontaq VC, Sanchi Connect, Foxhog Ventures, JITO, Campus Fund, Campus Angels, Agility Ventures, Fluid Ventures, RTAF, She Capital, lead Angels, Inflection Point ventures, Indian Healthcare Angels, Venture Catalysts were among the various investors who were a part of the event.
Speaking about the event Mr. Davinder Singh, CEO, of ACIC-BMU Foundation, said, “Propel Pitchfest25 is more than just an event; it is a Launchpad for innovation and a catalyst for entrepreneurial success. Over the past, we’ve been at the forefront of supporting innovators across different sectors or industries. Through our programs and support, we’ve proudly nurtured more than 70 startups, catalyzed the creation of 500+ jobs, and facilitated investments. Our mission at ACIC-BMU is to nurture ground-breaking solutions that drive meaningful change, and this event is a testament to that commitment.”
During the event, ACIC-BMU Foundation showcased the achievements and progress of startups supported under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, recognizing their contributions to innovation and entrepreneurship
The event witnessed the launch of the Singapore India Startup Corridor Program, aimed at driving innovation between the two countries and giving market access, and networking opportunities to the Indian Startups.
Beyond funding, student founders also benefited from masterclasses, boot camps, and investor clinics, where industry experts guided them on refining business models, attracting investments, and scaling their innovations.
Propel Pitchfest25 also championed inclusivity in entrepreneurship, with dedicated tracks for women-led and student-founded start-ups, ensuring a diverse and equitable platform for innovators to thrive.
Ishq Jabariya’s Siddhi Sharma on Maha Shivratri: I Fast for Career & Growth, Not Marriage
Maha Shivratri is a night of divine energy, a time when devotees come together to worship Lord Shiva with full faith and dedication. For Siddhi Sharma, who plays Gulki in Sun Neo’s show Ishq Jabariya, this day holds deep significance. She believes in observing Maha Shivratri with full faith and dedication, embracing the rituals with sincerity.
Talking about her Maha Shivratri rituals, Siddhi shares, “Maha Shivratri is the best time to worship Lord Shiva with full devotion. While many girls observe Monday fasts for a good husband, I do it solely for my career and growth. Fasting on Maha Shivratri is a way to express our faith and dedication. My sister and I wake up early, around 5 AM, to visit the temple before the queues get long. We take our Rudraksha, place it before Lord Shiva, perform the puja, and also follow rituals for Naag Dosha. Barefoot, we offer fruits and prayers, embracing the traditional rituals with devotion.”
Speaking about a lesson she finds relevant in today’s fast-paced world, she says, “One story of Lord Shiva that truly inspires me is how he never had attachment to anything. In today’s generation, instant gratification has become a big issue. We want everything immediately, whether it’s success, happiness, or material things. But somewhere, we need to stay spiritually aligned so that our desires remain in control. That’s my belief. From Lord Shiva, I have learned to be content with whatever I have. Maya (illusion and attachment) should always be within limits. The mind is restless it will keep running after one thing or another. That’s why I try to stay in a spiritual zone, so that I don’t take extreme steps in life that many people end up taking.”
Ishq Jabariya airs at 10:00 PM on Sun Neo it’s a beautiful love story of Gulki, a strong and ambitious young woman with big dreams. The show features a talented cast, including Kamya Panjabi, Dipshikkha Nagppal, Siddhi Sharma, and Lakshay Khurana. With a mix of deep emotions and drama, this show is sure to keep viewers hooked.
GUERRILLA 450 Royal Enfield’s Street Machine Gets New Colours
India, February 24, 2025 – Royal Enfield showcased exciting new upgrades on the Guerrilla 450 in an action-packed weekend of drift and drags, at Generation Speed 2025. Designed to match the unpredictability of the streets, the quintessential muscular roadster now dons a new, solid ‘Peix Bronze’ colourway in Dash variant. Earlier showcased at Motoverse 2024, the new matte shade with white highlights enhances the muscular appeal of this urban roadster, perfectly complementing the black alloy wheels, fork tubes, gaiters, and headlamp casing.
Additionally, the popular ‘Smoke Silver’ colorway has been added to the Dash variant that features upgraded TFT Tripper Dash as standard feature and priced at INR 2,49,000. Tripper Dash is Royal Enfield’s indigenously-developed, full-feature TFT display that helps riders access navigation and important ride related information at the touch of a button/ via a smartphone app. Bookings for the new colourways begin today, with test ride and retails starting on March 10, 2025.
A first-of-its-kind Drift and Drag experience showcased Guerrilla’s versatility at Generation Speed 2025 – a perfect platform to spotlight the updated colour and features. The Drift stunt show displayed the full potential and capabilities of the Guerrilla 450 while the clinic and tryouts offered riders an opportunity to enhance their skills on the motorcycle in a controlled environment. Participants also got the opportunity to flex the Guerrilla 450’s muscles and unleash its full potential in the adrenaline-fuelled drag race.
Powered by the advanced 452cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled Sherpa engine, the Guerrilla 450 is engineered for an eager and spirited performance. It offers power on demand matching the unpredictability of the streets. With its muscular design, commanding road presence and premium build quality, the Guerrilla 450 challenges the conventions bringing a fresh approach to the performance roadster segment.
AESL Celebrates Success of 93 Students in Mukhyamantri Scheme
New Delhi/Mumbai, February 24, 2025: Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), the national leader in test preparatory services, proudly announces that 93 of its students have qualified for the prestigious Mukhyamantri Vigyan Pratibha Pariksha (MVPP) scholarship 2025. This success highlights AESL’s role in guiding students toward academic excellence and preparing them for competitive exams.
The MVPP 2025 results showcase the outstanding efforts of AESL students. Among the top achievers, Tejas Agarwal and Vridhi Singla secured Rank 5, Keshav Rai achieved Rank 11, and Showaiz Noor Ahmad earned Rank 15, among others.
Sharing his thoughts on this achievement, Mr. Deepak Mehrotra, Managing Director & CEO, of Aakash Educational Services Limited, said, “At AESL, we believe in empowering students with the right guidance, knowledge, and resources to achieve academic excellence. The success of our students in MVPP 2025 is an exemplification of their dedication and our faculty’s relentless efforts. We will continue to provide top-tier coaching and mentorship, ensuring that students are well-prepared to excel in competitive examinations and build a strong foundation for their future.”
The Mukhyamantri Vigyan Pratibha Pariksha (MVPP) is a scholarship examination for Class 9 students enrolled in recognized schools, Government or Government Aided, and Unaided recognized Pvt. Schools including the Kendriya Vidyalaya, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, School of MCD, NDMC, DCB, etc., in GNCT of Delhi. Formerly known as the Junior Science Talent Search Exam (JSTSE), MVPP aims to identify and nurture young talents. This exam is conducted at the state level by the Science Branch of the Directorate of Education in Delhi generally between November to January. The student applying for the examination must have secured 60% marks in Class 8. The qualified candidates whose merit is within 1000 (Category) are eligible for a one-time scholarship of Rs.5000/- and a certificate.
The examination consists of two papers: A mental Ability Test (MAT) comprising Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and Data Interpretation, and a Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) covering various subjects including Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Physics, Civics, History, Economics, and Geography. Both the papers are MCQ-based, comprising 100 questions of 100 marks each, and have a duration of 100 minutes, respectively.
AESL, known for its innovative approach to education and commitment to academic excellence, has been at the forefront of providing comprehensive coaching solutions for students preparing for Medical and Engineering entrance examinations, School/Board exams, eminent Olympiads such as IOQM, NSEs, NSO, IMO, etc. and other competitive exams. With a network of over 400 Aakash centers nationwide and a student count exceeding 4 lakhs, AESL continues to lead the way in test preparation and educational services.
Action TESA launches Studio on wheels 3.0 at MATECIA 2025
24th Feb 2025, Bangalore: Action TESA, the largest manufacturer of engineered wood panel products in the country and leader in the category, proudly announces the launch of its innovative revolutionary mobile experiential center “Studio in wheels 3.0” at MATECIA 2025, the premier exhibition for architecture and interior products.
Studio on wheels 3.0 is the upgraded version of Action TESA’s revolutionary mobile experiential center designed to bring the latest trends and sustainable innovations in interior and building solutions directly to customers’ doorsteps. The experiential center will also showcase Action TESA’s cutting-edge products, including HDHMR, BOILO, MDF, Particle Boards, and Flooring solutions, all under one roof. Visitors to MATECIA 2025 will have the exclusive opportunity to explore the “Studio on Wheels 3.0” and experience the superior quality and versatility of Action TESA’s products firsthand. Interior designers, architects, students etc. shall also benefit from the knowledge sharing and insights as they interact with the studio during its national journey.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ajay Aggarwal, Managing Director, Action TESA said, “Since its inception, Action TESA has been driven by a simple yet powerful goal – delivering best-in-class products that combine innovation, quality, and reliability. As a testament to our KOI NAHI AISA philosophy, we are extremely delighted to introduce the new version of the mobile experiential center “Studio on wheels 3.0” aimed at providing first-hand opportunity for all stakeholders to experience the cutting-edge products and design innovations in the INR8000crore engineered wood industry”.
He further added that, “As a market leader and responsible corporate citizen, we are committed to creating sustainable solutions that allow us to give back to the environment what we consume. To achieve this goal, we plan to invest in research and development of innovative solutions while collaborating closely with farmers and other channel partners as well. These initiatives represent our modest contributions to the national agenda of promoting sustainable living and growth across all segments.”.
MATECIA 2025 will bring the business ecosystem in the building material and interior products industry under one roof. The annual event encourages dialogue, discovery, research and analysis and promotion of best market practices through various programmes organized as part of the exhibition. Action TESA’s showcase at MATECIA will grow the company’s exposure to and visibility among global peers, and also deepen its network in cities where the housing and real estate market is experiencing rapid growth.
KLF Nirmal Celebrates Love with a Tribute to Purity & Tradition
24th February 2025: KLF Nirmal, a leader in the production of coconut-based FMCG products, has unveiled a unique video campaign honoring Love in its purest form. Released in observance of the month of love, this video encapsulates KLF Nirmal’s love for coconuts and how that’s transformed KLF Nirmal into a company with the largest range of coconut products.
A company that started with coconut oil more than 80 years ago, today has a long list of products and brands. The products which were later launched include coconut milk powder, coconut milk, coconut chutneys, etc. The products are available across India and also exported.
With the help of the nourishing properties of coconuts, KLF Nirmal skillfully demonstrates the enduring connection between humans and the natural world in this visually stunning video. With a legacy of excellence, KLF Nirmal has been a trusted name in households for generations, delivering high-quality coconut oils and products that preserve the natural benefits of coconuts. The brand’s commitment to authenticity and sustainability continues to make it a preferred choice among health-conscious consumers.
‘As the season of love unfolds, we launched this campaign to showcase how our deep passion for coconuts has led KLF Nirmal to create the largest range of coconut products. As a company, we also wish for everyone’s love stories to last as long as our enduring love for coconuts. A huge credit goes to our Marketing team for conceptualizing this campaign. Since its launch, we have received immense appreciation for the thought behind it,” said George, Business Head- KLF Nirmal.
ASUS Announces Pre-Order Offers on Zenbook A14 & Vivobook 16
India, 24th February: ASUS India is excited to introduce exclusive pre-order offers on its latest laptops, the Zenbook A14 and Vivobook 16. Launching the world’s lightest Copilot+ PC featuring a sleek aesthetic of Ceraluminum chassis, the newest Zenbook A14 UX3407QA with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X chipset and the Zenbook A14 UX3407RA with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor, deliver exceptional AI-driven performance and efficiency, transforming the way users engage with their devices and streamlining everyday tasks with the power of AI.
The sleek, lightweight and stylish Vivobook 16 X1607QA powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor comes with an unmatched battery of 20 plus hours will become the perfect companion for professionals and students.
For those pre-order any variant of the Zenbook A14 (UX3407QA or UX3407RA), ASUS is offering branded earbuds, a 2-year additional warranty, and 3 years of local accidental damage protection, with total benefits worth INR 15,998 available only at INR 1.
On preordering the Vivobook 16 X1607QA offer includes a 2-year warranty extension, 3 years of local accidental damage protection, and an ASUS Marshmallow Keyboard & Mouse set, with total benefits worth INR 11,197 available at a sweet price of INR 1.