Following the astounding success of its debut contemporary Indian art show, PHDCCI organized the 2nd edition of “Expression: A Contemporary Indian Art Show”.  The three day event starting from April 30th till May 2^nd, 2025 was inaugurated by Shri Yashpal Sharma, a renowned Bollywood actor at PHD House, New Delhi.

Actor Yashpal Sharma in his address congratulated PHDCCI for organizing such a meaningful event to promote artists and their work. He emphasized the importance of working on one’s uniqueness and individual talent. He added, while it is good to be inspired, one must not copy others; only by focusing on personal uniqueness and talent one can truly progress. Everyone has a spark within, and one should never consider oneself inferior.

The Actor further expressed the thought of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and discussed that the bond of humanity is the greatest of all. He added that while some things may seem insignificant the value lies in time. He cited examples like Charlie Chaplin and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who turned their weaknesses into strengths by listening to their inner voices something many people tend to ignore.

Dr. Sachidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) congratulated the artists to have brought out their creativity to the world. “Every person is creative in some way, but it is the artists who have the courage to bring their creativity to the outside world”. He also took this opportunity to share his thoughts about the possible threats of AI. Our habits are becoming increasingly AI oriented.

While some paintings take months or even years to create, AI can produce them within minutes. Dr Joshi further emphasized the efforts of artists like Ravi Verma and Nandalal Ghosh, whose work took immense hard work and mental exercise to produce. The real threat he warned is not today but lies ahead, 5 to 20 years from now when everything will move to the cloud it will be difficult to identify original work. This, he said is a serious threat to artists.

He also stressed that it is the responsibility of artists and society to preserve our inherent creativity, talent, intellect, and motivation to create something new. He urged that artistic expression should become the voice and moral conscience of society, and we must all work to make society aware of the future dangers of a digital world.

Anuradha Goel, Chairperson, PHD Family Welfare Foundation, who is at the helm of PHD’s family welfare initiatives, including 25 centers across the country where around 5,000 students are being skilled and also being taught painting and art.  She expressed her hope to see those children growing up to become an artist and presenting their works here one day.  Ms Goel further added that while AI is useful, one should only use it as much as needed and must not become completely dependent on it.

Ms. Sonali Jain, Co-chair, PHDCCI Education Committee, and Vice Chairperson, Sumermal Jain Educational & Welfare Society (Regd.) expressed that literature, music and art hold great importance in a person’s life. She discussed that art is the only form of expression that promotes dialogue without conflict. The empathy and compassion that art brings cannot be brought by a bureaucrat or a politician. She added that art is the most humane way to build a community where people can relate to their culture and ethos by showcasing their work through this medium.

She further explained how PHDCCI has been working for the progress and development of industry for the past 120 years. She expressed hope that through this initiative, PHDCCI would continue to promote the art industry in its true essence and wished for the event to be a sounding success for the artists.

Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & Secretary General, PHDCCI exclaimed that PHDCCI is delighted to welcome Mr. Yashpal Sharma one of the finest actors of Hindi cinema. He added that the actor’s journey from stage to screen is inspiring and full of motivation especially for artists coming from tier 3 and 4 cities. He emphasized that the contribution of such talented artists will further promote the art community and boost their confidence.

Further he mentioned that PHDCCI which was established in 1905 had recently celebrated its 120th anniversary. He said that the presence of such a legendary artist at the art show would inspire many budding artists. He expressed hope that stalwarts like him would continue to support and motivate such initiatives by PHDCCI in the future as well.

Ms. Preeti Wadhwa Acclaimed Singer & Director, Virva International Pvt. Ltd., said that art is a language and a bond between human beings, behind every piece of art is an artist who is a storyteller. She applauded the initiative by PHDCCI to provide a platform to such artists and expressed that it would encourage them to continue their remarkable work. Lastly she called upon everyone to celebrate this beautiful expression of art. 

As one of India’s oldest and most respected industry bodies, PHDCCI has been a pillar of support for economic growth, industrial development, and policy advocacy for over 120 years. Now, it has extended its reach beyond commerce, lending its voice and support to the immense artistic and creative talent that lies untapped across the country.

A three day event, scheduled from April 30 to May 2, 2025, Expression is a vibrant and thought provoking contemporary Indian art show that celebrates the diverse perspectives and diverse range of paintings of emerging and established Indian artists. It showcases a curated selection of artworks that push boundaries, spark conversations, and inspire new ways of thinking. The exhibition aims to highlight the vibrant and dynamic nature of Indian art, exploring themes that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage, social issues, and personal narratives. And provide them with a platform to reach a wider audience for their artworks thereby empowering them economically.

The second edition saw the participation of over 15 artists from all over the country including notable names like Ms. Kalyani, Ms. Abhipsa Pradhan, Ms. Sunita Lamba, Mr. JP Singh, Mr. Kedaram Viswanathan, Mr. Rangroop Ranjeet Singh, Mr. Ramchandra Pokale, Mr. Ramonkar, Ms. Shivraj Singh.   Through painting, sculpture and mixed media, the artists explore themes that resonate with modern India, such as identity, culture, social justice, and the human condition. The show provides a platform for artists to express themselves freely, sharing their unique visions and experiences with a wider audience.

INEOS and Covestro have today announced a significant long-term agreement for the supply of natural gas for up to eight years, starting 2027. The agreement builds on INEOS‘ newly established LNG supply chain, and both companies’ commitment to support European industrial competitiveness.

Covestro uses natural gas as a feedstock as well as an energy source. The partnership will enable the supply of natural gas sourced from INEOS’ global LNG portfolio, providing a stable and predictable feedstock and energy stream for Covestro’s European operations. This strategic collaboration addresses the critical need for secure and diversified energy sources in Europe.

David Bucknall CEO, INEOS Energy said: “Our goal is to supply customers with vital energy throughout the energy transition, not just at the end. That means maintaining competitive hydrocarbon supplies as alternatives emerge and grow. This long-term LNG deal with Covestro does exactly that, providing reliable, cost-effective energy to help our industrial partners manage volatility and avoid shortages.”

Thorsten Dreier, Chief Technology Officer of Covestro, added, “Securing a stable, competitive and predictable gas supply is essential for our operations right now. This agreement with INEOS provides us with the long-term security we need to maintain our production and contribute to the European economy. We value INEOS‘ commitment to supporting European industry and their proactive approach to addressing the region’s energy challenges. This contract is an important building block for us as a company in the energy intensive industry to transition towards an affordable renewable energy supply.”

This agreement reinforces the shared goal of both companies to maintain a strong and competitive industrial base in Europe. By ensuring a reliable gas supply, INEOS and Covestro are taking real, tangible steps to secure the future of their European manufacturing assets.

INEOS first entered the LNG sector in June 2022, signing a 20-year agreement with US-based Sempra Infrastructure to supply 1.4 million tonnes of LNG annually from the US Gulf Coast.

New Delhi ,April 30, 2025 – Xumane, a leading provider of ESOP advisory, financing, and liquidation services, announces its recognition in G2’s Winter 2024 and Spring 2025 Reports, earning ten top badges across categories for High Usability and High Performance.

G2, the world’s largest and most trusted software marketplace, is relied upon by more than 90 million users annually to make informed software decisions through authentic peer reviews. This achievement reflects Xumane’s relentless commitment to delivering innovative, user-centric solutions that simplify equity management while driving business growth.

“Being recognized in G2’s Winter 2024 and Spring 2025 Reports with ten badges is a tremendous honor and a clear reflection of the dedication and passion our team brings every day,” said Manish Panwar, Business Head of Xumane. “This recognition not only highlights the trust our customers place in us but also reinforces our mission to simplify ESOP and equity plan management through a secure, digital platform that drives long-term value for our clients.”

Key Details:

• 10 G2 Badges earned across High Usability, High Performance, and User Satisfaction.

• Consistently ranked as a High Performer in Equity Management and Cap Table Software categories.

• Praised by users for ease of use, personalized support, and feature-rich platform capabilities.

• Rated 5/5 on average for overall user satisfaction.

Highlights from G2 Reviews Include:

• “Users Love Us” Badge
  Awarded for maintaining over 20 reviews with an average rating of 4.0 stars or higher, reflecting a growing community of highly satisfied customers.

• High Performer Recognition
  Given to platforms that achieve outstanding customer satisfaction despite having less market visibility than larger competitors—showcasing the effectiveness of Xumane’s focused, impact-driven approach.

• Best Usability, Best Results, and Best Meets Requirements
  These accolades affirm the platform’s user-friendly design, tangible outcomes, and alignment with client needs.

Xumane‘s consistent recognition on G2 highlights its reputation as a trusted partner in equity management. These achievements reflect both the quality of the platform and the satisfaction of its expanding user base.

Trusted by over 100+ organizations across industries such as e-commerce, technology, fintech, professional services, manufacturing etc., Xumane helps drive productivity and enhance operational efficiency by streamlining the entire ESOP lifecycle—from grant issuance and vesting to exercise and forfeiture.

This recognition from G2 is a reflection of Xumane’s dedication to building a secure, scalable, and intuitive platform tailored to the needs of startups, investors, and employees alike. As the company continues to evolve, it remains focused on delivering transformative value and expanding its global footprint.

Chandigarh, April 29, 2025: Axis Finance Limited (AFL), one of India’s fastest-growing non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), today announced the launch of Axis Finance Disha Home Loans on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. The product is aimed at catering to the needs of aspiring homebuyers from the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and Low-income Group (LIG) segments.

Disha Home Loans aim to provide customized home loan solutions across various geographies, with a seamless experience throughout the loan lifecycle – backed by best-in-class talent and agile systems to ensure speed in execution and responsiveness to customer needs

This product caters to a diverse range of employment types, covering the entire spectrum of salaried (resident & NRI) and self-employed customers. It addresses the needs of individuals who have formal, semi-formal or informal income documents and are looking for financial assistance. The loan can be availed for the purchase of ready / under-construction / resale property, plot + construction, self-construction, home renovation / extension and more.

Speaking on the launch, Sai Giridhar, MD & CEO, Axis Finance, said, “The launch of ‘Axis Finance Disha Home Loans’ on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya reflects our commitment to making home ownership more accessible. This product aims to empower individuals from economically weaker sections by bridging the financial gap and in making their dream of owning a home a reality. This is in line with the government’s relentless efforts to enhance access to housing finance in this segment. Disha Home Loans provide a wide range of customised solutions to meet the diverse needs of customers across geographies.”

He further added, “We aim to provide solutions that customers are looking for, along with superior service and transparency in our dealings. Technology and data science will be our backbone as we enter different markets across the country.  Providing easy access to housing finance with a seamless experience will be our focus.”

Axis Finance has a long and successful presence in secured mortgage products with existing systems, processes, technology, talent, underwriting capabilities and a strong distribution.

New Delhi, April 30, 2025: Magicbricks, India’s leading real estate platform, has released fresh insights highlighting a robust surge in real estate activity across North India’s Tier 2 cities—Kanpur, Lucknow, Jaipur, and Dehradun—driven by infrastructure development, employment opportunities, evolving buyer preferences, and increasing appetite for premium housing.

According to the platform, Kanpur recorded the highest YoY increase in property prices in North India at 24.53%, with the average rate reaching INR 6,986 per square foot (psf). The growth has been primarily driven by increased interest in the premium housing segment. The city also saw a 29.13% YoY rise in housing demand, attributed to rapid industrialization and improved connectivity. Professionals from textiles, manufacturing, and the education sector are increasingly investing in the city’s housing market. In terms of supply, Kanpur recorded a 4.73% YoY increase, including a 47% jump in the availability of multistorey apartments.

Lucknow continues to emerge as a high–growth city with a 22.61% YoY increase in property prices. Infrastructure upgrades such as the Lucknow Metro expansion, and enhanced inter-city connectivity via Agra-Lucknow and Purvanchal Expressways, have catalyzed a 20.69% YoY rise in housing demand. The city also led in new supply, witnessing a 12.73% YoY growth, with multistorey apartment listings surging 65% and residential houses 27%.

According to the portal, Jaipur posted an 18.61% YoY increase in property prices, largely due to a 56% rise in the supply of 3BHK units, catering to a growing base of mid-to-premium homebuyers. The city recorded a 78% YoY increase in multistorey apartment listings, contributing to an overall 11.77% increase in residential supply. Jaipur also stands out as the most budget-friendly market for 1 and 2 BHK units, offering affordability in a rapidly growing urban environment.

Dehradun, known for its lifestyle appeal and natural surroundings, observed a 4.90% YoY price appreciation, with multistorey apartments priced highest at INR 6,500 psf among all unit types. While the city experienced a 4.87% dip in overall residential supply, multistorey apartment listings grew 49% YoY, indicating shifting buyer interest. Dehradun also leads in supplying larger homes, with 26% of new supply in the 2,000–3,000 sq ft segment—more than any of the other cities.

Across these Tier 2 cities, the platform has observed that multistorey apartments are gaining traction, with average prices ranging from INR 5,600 to INR 6,700 psf. Over 50% of homebuyers prefer units larger than 1,250 sq ft, and units between 1,250–2,000 sq ft saw the highest demand. Lucknow and Jaipur lead in supplying spacious units in this range, while Dehradun has the highest share of even larger homes.

Elaborating on the same, Prasun Kumar, Chief Marketing Officer, Magicbricks said,
“North India’s real estate landscape is evolving rapidly. These Tier 2 cities are no longer secondary markets—they’re becoming prime investment destinations. With expanding infrastructure, increasing supply of modern housing, and rising demand from young professionals and first-time buyers, these cities are poised to play a major role in India’s real estate growth over the next decade.”

As infrastructure continues to improve and demand remains high, these Tier 2 cities are expected to drive a significant portion of India’s residential real estate activity, offering both end-users and investors lucrative opportunities.

Chandigarh, India, April 30, 2025: Embassy Office Parks REIT , India’s first listed REIT and the largest office REIT in Asia by area, reported results today for the fourth quarter and full year ended March 31, 2025. 

Ritwik Bhattacharjee, Chief Executive Officer of Embassy REIT, said,

 “We’re delighted to report another excellent year for Embassy REIT as we mark six years since our listing in April 2019. In FY2025, we leased 6.6 msf, delivered 2.5 msf of new development and acquired a 5.0 msf high-quality asset. Notably, we increased distributions by 8% and are pleased to guide to double–digit distribution growth in FY2026. Our business is in excellent shape and our world-class office portfolio continues to see strong demand from leading companies across the globe.”

 The Board of Directors of Embassy Office Parks Management Services Private Limited (‘EOPMSPL’), Manager to Embassy REIT, at its Board Meeting held earlier today, declared a distribution of ₹538 crores or ₹5.68 per unit for Q4 FY2025. With this, the cumulative distribution for FY2025 totals ₹2,181 crores or ₹23.01 per unit. The record date for the Q4 FY2025 distribution is May 3, 2025, and the distribution will be paid on or before May 9, 2025. 

Business Highlights

· Leased 6.6 msf across 98 deals in FY2025 including 4.0 msf of new leases, 1.6 msf of renewals and ~1 msf of pre-leases

·  Global Capability Centers (GCCs) across sectors accounted for ~60% of the annual leasing activity

·  Portfolio occupancy stands at 91% by value* —Bengaluru at 92%, Mumbai at 100%, and Chennai at 95%

Financial Highlights

·  Grew Revenue from Operations and Net Operating Income (NOI) by 10% YoY to a record ₹4,039 crores and ₹3,283 crores, respectively

· Delivered Distributions of ₹2,181 crores or ₹23.01 per unit, up 8% YoY for FY2025; Cumulative distributions of over ₹12,000 crores since listing

·  Refinanced ~₹6,300 crores debt at an average rate of 7.98%; Continue to maintain a strong balance sheet with dual AAA/Stable credit ratings 

Operational & Growth Highlights

·   Delivered 2.5 msf new development in Bengaluru; Current development pipeline of 6.1 msf in Bengaluru & Chennai at 18% yield on cost

· Acquired 5.0 msf premium business park in Chennai; Actively evaluating inorganic growth opportunities including ROFO assets from the Embassy Sponsor as well as other assets from third parties

· Hotel portfolio performed strongly with 63% occupancy up 7% YoY, 12% ADR growth and growth in annual EBITDA by 25% 

 

Bengaluru, April 30, 2025 — Germany-based BRITA Group, a family-owned business and global leader in drinking water optimisation, today formally announced the inauguration of its India headquarters and Global Support Center in Bengaluru. The event was led by Kelvin Mow, Senior Vice President of Asia Pacific, BRITA Group, and Rajani Hankammer, a member of the founding family. Spread over 12,000 sq. ft. and located at Embassy Manyata Business Park, the newly inaugurated office is a modern, collaborative space that fosters innovation and teamwork.

 Speaking at the inauguration, Kelvin Mow, Senior Vice President of Asia Pacific at BRITA Group, said, “Asia has rightly been identified as key to BRITA Group’s future growth, as several of the largest water filtration markets are located in this region. The regional HQ in Hong Kong was the first in a series steps arising from this insight, with the new India HQ in Bengaluru being the next.”

“We know Bengaluru represents the future of India, with aspirational customers who are open to experimentation and eager to embrace new innovations. It is also one of the region’s foremost hubs for technology and related talent. That’s why we chose to set up a Global Support Center here, with initial focus areas being IT and infrastructure,” he added.

“Proudly family-owned, BRITA has been driving innovation in the global drinking water optimisation market—starting with the first-ever mobile filter for domestic use in 1966. Travelling across Asia, I have observed that each country in this region has unique water consumption needs and preferences—and I’m sure India does as well. We will continue to invest in understanding the evolving Indian consumer better, to ensure we have the right strategy for this high-growth, high-potential market,” said Rajani Hankammer, Shareholder and member of BRITA Group’s promoter family.