Marriott International Announces Global Launch of New Regional Collection Brand: Series by Marriott™

India, May 23, 2025- Marriott International, Inc. , announced the global launch of its new collection brand for the midscale and upscale lodging segments—Series by Marriott™—as the company continues to expand its lodging offerings around the world. Series by Marriott is expected to expand Marriott’s global presence by bringing well-established regionally created brands and hotels that champion consistent quality and service into the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. Series by Marriott will offer guests comfortable stays in more places and provide regional owners access to the benefits of Marriott’s platforms, including the company’s award-winning Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, all while maintaining their portfolio’s independent identity.

Series by Marriott marks its initial launch through a founding deal with Concept Hospitality Private Limited (CHPL) in India, a key growth market for Marriott. Established in 1996 by Param Kannampilly, CHPL, is one of India’s leading hotel management companies with a portfolio of six brands and over 100 hotels operating in 90 locations. Under the strategic agreement between CHPL and Marriott, CHPL’s flagship brands—The Fern, The Fern Residency, and The Fern Habitat—will affiliate with Series by Marriott on an exclusive basis across India and Marriott will make a small equity investment in CHPL. The Fern portfolio is currently comprised of 84 open properties and 31 executed pipeline deals, totaling 115 properties and approximately 8,000 rooms. Fern properties are expected to join Marriott’s portfolio in India over time following discussions with the third-party hotel owners and execution of long-term franchise agreements with those owners. CG Hospitality, the hospitality division of the multi-national conglomerate CG Corp Global, is the majority stakeholder in CHPL.

“Series by Marriott furthers Marriott’s commitment to delivering lodging offerings in the right place at the right price with basics done well,” said Anthony Capuano, President and CEO of Marriott International. “Creating a new, regional collection brand will further Marriott’s reach among value-conscious travelers, provide additional choice for our existing Marriott Bonvoy members and guests, and offer more affiliation opportunities for local owners.

“We are thrilled to launch Series by Marriott through our founding deal with CHPL. This deal will help meaningfully expand Marriott’s leading position in India, a key market for the company.  We see this multi-unit conversion deal as a strong foundation as we look to accelerate growth of the Series by Marriott collection in additional markets around the world. The Fern portfolio throughout India is highly regarded and CHPL’s commitment to operational excellence and meeting the needs of regional travelers embodies the spirit of the Series by Marriott brand,” said Capuano.

“India is one of Marriott’s most dynamic and strategic markets, making it the ideal launchpad for Series by Marriott,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “Our founding deal with CHPL allows us to scale purposefully with a trusted local brand that resonates with regional travelers. This collaboration combines CHPL’s deep market knowledge with Marriott’s global platform—broadening access to quality hospitality and unlocking strong growth potential across the country. Launching Series by Marriott in India reflects the region’s critical role in our long-term growth strategy.”

“Through our majority stake in CHPL, we’ve nurtured The Fern brands as standard-bearers for eco-sensitive, high-quality hospitality in India. Being part of Series by Marriott will allow us to amplify our reach. The Fern brands are expected to benefit not only from the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program and global distribution systems, but also from strategic growth opportunities,” said Dr. Binod Chaudhary, Chairman of CG Corp Global.

“We are thrilled to partner with the world’s largest hospitality company in driving a new era of growth in India’s midscale segment. Our vision is to unlock the immense potential of Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, as well as lesser-known destinations across India that are rich in culture, heritage, and opportunity. This strategic collaboration underscores our commitment to expanding access to quality hospitality, fostering local economies, and meeting the rising demand for sustainable, comfortable, and accessible stays in emerging markets,” said Param Kannampilly, Chairman, Concept Hospitality Private Limited.

 A Series of Hotels: Regionally Created, Globally Connected

Series by Marriott is designed to deliver a simple and approachable experience for travelers with a focus on fundamentals and well-executed basics. Hotels in the portfolio will offer quality and value with clean, comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, daily coffee or tea, with breakfast, fitness centers and meetings and event spaces available at certain properties. Hotels will reflect the regions and customers they serve while delivering Marriott’s global standards for safety and cleanliness. As part of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, members staying at Series by Marriott properties will be able to earn and redeem points and enjoy member benefits.

Global Growth Opportunity for Owners

Series by Marriott has been created to bring strong, regionally relevant brands and hotels into the Marriott portfolio with industry leading revenue generation capabilities and affiliation cost structures. Owners will have the ability to maintain their portfolio’s independent identity while leveraging the power of Marriott’s award-winning Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program with nearly 237 million members globally, and digital platforms like Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app to generate direct bookings.

In addition to its founding deal with CHPL, Marriott is also in active discussions about the Series by Marriott brand with owners in the United States, the Caribbean and Latin America, Europe, Middle East, and Africa.

New Delhi, 23rd May 2025 – GAIL (India) Limited, the nation’s leading natural gas company, has launched the next phase of its acclaimed “Waah Kya Energy Hai” campaign, this time harnessing the power of influencer marketing to promote the widespread adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Piped Natural Gas (PNG). This fresh leg of the campaign continues GAIL’s efforts to position natural gas as a clean, accessible, and future-forward fuel alternative for millions of Indians.

Building on the emotional and engaging storytelling of the original “Waah Kya Energy Hai” mini-series which portrayed relatable narratives around domestic and commercial gas usage—the new phase shifts focus to real-time demonstrations and lived experiences.

Content creators and influencers from across the country are now at the forefront, showcasing how CNG and PNG are seamlessly powering everything from automobiles to commercial kitchens, while significantly contributing to India’s sustainable energy journey.

Through reels, vlogs, user testimonials, and behind-the-scenes footage, key influencers are creatively documenting how natural gas is not just a cleaner fuel, but also a lifestyle upgrade—offering safety, affordability, and efficiency. These stories are crafted to resonate with both urban and semi-urban audiences, delivering powerful messages through platforms where people spend the most time: social media.

With over 2,800 CNG stations set up by GAIL and its group companies across 72 locations in 20 states and UTs, covering various cities of India, CNG is positioned as a highly reliable and environmentally friendly fuel for India’s expanding transportation ecosystem. Meanwhile, PNG is gaining ground as the preferred energy choice in both residential and commercial segments, including in high-demand areas like restaurants and hotels where uninterrupted, clean energy is essential.

Dr. Jyoti Kumar, Head – Corporate Communications, GAIL(India) Limited remarked, “This campaign is a celebration of the quiet but impactful transition to clean energy happening across the country. By collaborating with influencers who connect authentically with their audiences, we are making conversations around sustainability more relatable, actionable, and widespread.”

“It’s not just about fuel—it’s about empowering citizens to make better choices for the environment and their everyday lives. This phase of the campaign ensures that energy awareness goes beyond information, becoming a movement shaped by voices people trust,” the spokesperson added.

The influencer-led content is further amplified by high-impact visuals of infrastructure, animated explainers, and user success stories, creating a 360-degree narrative around the many benefits of CNG and PNG. From reducing vehicular emissions to powering smart kitchens, GAIL’s messaging reinforces its vision of a greener and more energy-resilient India.

This latest extension of the “Waah Kya Energy Hai” campaign underscores GAIL’s unwavering commitment to carbon mitigation, cleaner alternatives, and public education on sustainable energy. With strategic content tailored for digital natives and aspiring change-makers, the initiative reflects a bold step forward in India’s mission to foster a cleaner, smarter future.

Chennai – 23rd May 2025: Kia India, a leading mass-premium automaker, today launched its Big, Bold Family Vehicle, the new Kia Carens Clavis for Indian consumers at a compelling price starting at INR 11.49 lacs. Designed for modern, big families, this premium recreational vehicle bridges the gap between MPVs and SUVs. With its bold exterior, spacious interior, and advanced features, the Carens Clavis caters to new-age families seeking comfort, versatility, and style.

Style That Commands Attention

The exterior design reflects Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy, that effortlessly combines a strong presence with a modern and futuristic look. Elements like the Kia Digital Tiger Face, Ice Cube MFR LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights, and Starmap LED connected taillamps, create a distinctive visual identity. Adding to its road presence are R17-43.66 cm (17″) crystal-cut dual-tone alloy wheels, durable front and rear skid plates with a satin chrome finish, metal-painted side door garnish inserts, and a new Ivory Silver Gloss body colour that enhances its premium quotient.

Crafted for Comfort, Built for the Journey

The interior of Carens Clavis combines everyday practicality with modern luxury and thoughtful design, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for families who love to travel together.

The key comfort features include:

●   Spacious 3rd-row seating and 2nd-row seats with sliding, reclining, and one-touch easy electric tumble for flexible comfort in 6- and 7-seater options

●   Segment-first walk-in lever (Boss Mode) for effortless access and optimal space adjustment

●   Best-in-segment 67.62 cm (26.62”) Dual Panoramic Display Panel for a seamless infotainment and driving interface

●   64-colour ambient lighting to customize the cabin atmosphere

●   Seat-mounted Smart Pure Air Purifier with AQI Display and roof-mounted diffused air vents for cleaner, evenly distributed airflow

●   Dual-pane panoramic sunroof offering expansive views and a light-filled cabin

●   Ventilated front seats and a 4-way powered driver’s seat for enhanced comfort

●   BOSE Premium Sound System with 8 Speakers delivering rich, immersive audio on every drive

Advanced Safety Suite

The Kia Carens Clavis comes equipped with Level 2 of the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), having 20 autonomous safety features, including:

●    Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop and Go

●    Front Collision-Avoidance Assist- Car, Pedestrian, Cyclist

●    Front Collision-Avoidance Assist – Direct Oncoming

●    Lane Keeping Assist

●    Blind Spot Collision Warning

●    Blind View Monitor in Cluster

●    Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist

Additionally, as part of the robust standard safety package, it comprises of 18 advanced safety features, including:

●    Six Airbags for Enhanced Protection

●    Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

●    Rear Occupant Alert System

●    HAC (Hill-start Assist Control) , DBC (Downhill Brake Control)

●    Rear Parking Sensors

●    Highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

Engine and Variants

The Carens Clavis comes with three powerful powertrain options to suit diverse driving needs:

●    Smartstream G1.5 and Smartstream G1.5 Turbo-GDi petrol engines

●    1.5l CRDi VGT diesel engine

Both Petrol Turbo & Diesel engines are offered with automatic transmission choices, including Kia’s first-ever Smartstream G1.5 T-GDi with a 6MT configuration.

The Carens Clavis comes in seven variants – HTE, HTE (O), HTK, HTK+, HTK+ (O), HTX, and HTX+ – offering a wide range for consumers. It is also available in eight colour options – Ivory Silver Gloss, Pewter Olive, Imperial Blue, Glacier White Pearl, Gravity Grey, Sparkling Silver, Aurora Black Pearl, and Clear White.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Joonsu Cho, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India, said, “At the heart of our strategy lies a relentless drive for innovation—powered by cutting-edge technology and distinctive design. The launch of the Carens Clavis marks a significant chapter in our journey, reflecting our unwavering commitment to a progressive, premium, and purpose-driven vision. We understand that our customers’ expectations are evolving, and with the Carens Clavis, we are delivering more than mobility, it’s a curated experience that enhances everyday journeys. As we chart new paths forward, we remain focused on offering smart, design-centric solutions that empower modern families and inspire trust with every drive.”

Carens Clavis offers a range of innovative ownership programs designed to enhance the customer experience and provide peace of mind. The My Convenience Secure add-on offers coverage for selected wear & tear parts, while the My Convenience program tailors maintenance packages based on individual usage and car care needs. For more comprehensive protection, My Convenience Plus combines maintenance, extended warranty, and roadside assistance.

Additionally, Kia customers can benefit from the Extended Warranty, covering unexpected mechanical and electrical failures, and the Scratch Care Program, which offers free repair for one scratch within the first 12 months of ownership. Kia also provides Roadside Assistance, with standard coverage for 3 years, extendable for up to 6 years. These programs underscore Kia’s commitment to providing exceptional service and support to its customers.

“India has the potential to be a strong link in the global aviation supply chain,” says Jaideep Mirchandani

In March, global aircraft manufacturer Airbus announced annual plans to procure components and services worth US$2 billion from India by 2030. This marks a notable rise from the current figure of US$1.4 billion and highlights India‘s growing role in the global manufacturing and supply network. 

Not only Airbus, but global majors like Rolls-Royce and Collins Aerospace are also sourcing parts from India. Industry leaders believe that with the strength of India’s technological and component manufacturers, along with the country’s competitive edge in engineering, India has the potential to be a reliable and forward-looking player in the global aerospace supply chain, offering cost-effective solutions beyond the traditional markets of Europe and North America.

“India is quickly becoming a key source for manufacturing aircraft components such as landing gear, electrical switches, fuselage sections and motion control systems. This shift comes at a crucial time, as global aircraft and engine manufacturers are facing part shortages due to worker strikes, labour gaps, and supply chain disruptions. While traditional markets struggle to meet demand, India is stepping up, with several major aeronautics firms in the country now looking to scale up their production capacity,” says Jaideep Mirchandani, group chairman of Sky One.

He also believes that India benefits from a skilled, young and educated workforce, including technical experts and engineers, which positions the country to move up the value chain into areas such as design, engineering, and system integration. “It may be too early to say that India has reached the centre stage of global manufacturing, but this is the right time to take decisive steps toward becoming a major hub in a critical manufacturing sector,” adds Mr Mirchandani.

According to a report by Grand View Research, the aerospace parts manufacturing market in India, valued at US$ 13.6 billion in 2023, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% between 2024 and 2030.

Mr Mirchandani says that, in addition to supplying components to global companies, Indian manufacturers have the potential to contribute significantly to building a robust domestic aviation ecosystem.

“The demand for aerospace components is closely linked to the rising need for air travel, both within the country and internationally. India’s civil aviation sector has seen steady growth in recent years, and airlines are actively expanding their fleets. With more planes in operation, the maintenance frequency also rises. This, in turn, increases the demand for high-quality aircraft parts. New technological innovations, along with the expansion of MRO services, are further driving this demand. As more aircraft are serviced and maintained within India, the need for locally produced components continues to rise,” concludes Mr Mirchandani.

Chandigarh, May 23, 2025: Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha Shri Mohan Charan Majhi today inaugurated the expanded Tata Steel Kalinganagar (TSK) plant, taking the crude steel capacity from 3 to 8 million tonnes per annum (MTPA).

The inauguration event was held at the Kalinganagar plant in Jajpur district, in the presence of senior state leaders, members of the local community, Tata Steel’s CEO & MD T. V. Narendran, and other members of the senior leadership. Shri Pradeep Bal Samanta, Minister for Co-operation, Handlooms, Textiles & Handicrafts, Government of Odisha, Shri Sampad Chandra Swain, Minister for Industries, Skill Development & Technical Education, Government of Odisha, and Dr Rabindra Narayan Behera, Member of Parliament, Jajpur graced the occasion.

The expanded state-of-the-art facility marks a significant milestone in the Company’s journey to build a future-ready steel manufacturing ecosystem anchored in sustainability, technology, and inclusive growth.

T. V. Narendran, CEO and Managing Director, Tata Steel, said: “Kalinganagar is more than a manufacturing site for us. It symbolises what is possible when communities, government, and industry work together. This expansion reflects our deep belief in Odisha’s potential and our long-term commitment to this State. We are thankful to the Hon’ble Chief Minister, the people of Odisha, and the Government of India, for their continued support. Together, we are building not just steel, but a stronger, self-reliant India.”

Tata Steel Kalinganagar, as one of India’s most modern and advanced integrated steel plants, also supports the Government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, as it can produce world-class steel for critical sectors such as defence, automotive, infrastructure, engineering, capital goods, oil & gas, renewable energy, and shipbuilding.

The new blast furnace at Kalinganagar, the largest in the country with a volume of 5,870 m3, is equipped with state-of-the-art features for long campaign life and an eco-friendly design to optimise the steelmaking process. This blast furnace utilises four top combustion stoves, a first in India, along with two preheating stoves for optimum specific fuel consumption in hot metal production. Other key facilities in Phase II expansion at Kalinganagar include a Pellet Plant, Coke Plant, and Cold Rolling Mill, each incorporating advanced technologies and sustainable practices.

23rd May 2025: Geojit Financial Services Ltd approved its audited financial results for the quarter and the Financial Year ended 31 March 2025, following the meeting of its Board of Directors in Kochi on 21 May 2025. 

Consolidated Financial Highlights for the Financial Year 2024-2025:

                                                                         (Figures in Rupees crore)

Performance highlights for the year under review:

Consolidated Revenue increased YoY by 20% from Rs.623.97 crore to Rs.749.32 crore

EBITDA increased YoY by 19% from Rs.244 crore to Rs.291.38 crore

Profit Before Tax (PBT) increased YoY by 15% from Rs.198.14 crore to Rs.228.23 crore

Profit After Tax (PAT) increased YoY by 15% from Rs.149.38 crore to Rs.172.49 crore

Consolidated Financial Highlights for the Quarter ended 31 March 2025:       

                                                                                       (Figures in Rupees crore)

Performance highlights for the quarter under review:

·           Consolidated Revenue is Rs.177.48 crore, decreased YoY by 15%.

·           EBITDA is Rs. 54.09 crore, decreased YoY by 35%

·           Profit Before Tax (PBT) is Rs. 41.22 crore, decreased YoY by 40%.

·           Profit After Tax (PAT) is Rs. 32.21 crore, decreased YoY by 38%.

As on 31 March 2025, the company’s Customer Assets stood at Rs. 1,00,065 crore.

The Board has recommended a final dividend of Rs. 1.50/- (150%) per equity share of Rs 1/- each for the financial year 2024-25.

Geojit Private Wealth (DIFC) Ltd has received in-principle approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) to establish a new entity within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), aimed at serving the growing wealth management needs of HNIs and UHNIs across the UAE and the wider Middle East region.

By – Vaishali Parekh, Vice President – Technical Research at PL Capital Group,

According to Parekh, the Nifty index, after opening with a gap-down, managed to recover during the latter half of the trading session, closing near the 24,600 mark. “Despite intraday weakness, the index has managed to stay above the critical 24,500 level, keeping the overall tone marginally positive,” she noted. A sustained move above this level is essential, while a decisive breach above 25,000 would be required to confirm a renewed upward trend. On the downside, major support lies at the 200-period moving average near 24,000.

The Sensex, meanwhile, showed similar volatility but closed above its 20-day moving average at 80,890. Parekh warned that the index remains vulnerable. “A fall below 80,500 could lead to further downside pressure. For a sustainable recovery, Sensex must break above the 82,500 zone with conviction,” she said.

Commenting on the Bank Nifty, Parekh observed that the index remains stuck in a narrow range around the 55,000 level, with key resistance at 55,700 and support at 54,400. “A breakout from this consolidation is necessary to establish a directional bias. Until then, a cautiously positive stance is advisable,” she explained.

She also pointed out that the Bankex index is hovering below its 20-DMA of 62,480, with immediate support seen at 61,800. A move above 63,200 is essential for further upside momentum.

In conclusion, Parekh emphasized the importance of watching these critical levels closely. “The markets are at a tipping point, and any decisive move beyond the current ranges will set the tone for the next phase,” she added.