Sundaram Finance AUM grows 17 Percent to Rs. 53,278 crores

August 4, 2025: The Board of Directors of Sundaram Finance Ltd. (SFL) approved the unaudited standalone and consolidated financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, at its meeting held on August 4, 2025, in Chennai.

“Q1FY26 has seen continued macroeconomic sluggishness of the past few quarters and economic activity has been slower compared to Q1FY25. Under these circumstances, Team Sundaram has delivered 17% growth in AUM to Rs. 53,278 crores, asset quality with net stage 3 at 1.08% vs 0.84% last year and profits after tax growing 39% year-on-year. Our Group companies in asset management, general insurance and home finance have continued their trajectory from FY25 and recorded strong results. We continue to rely on our time-tested approach of steady and sustainable growth with best-in-class asset quality and consistent profitability,” said Harsha Viji, Executive Vice Chairman.

Disbursements for Q1FY26 recorded a growth of 6% over Q1FY25. Gross stage 3 assets as on June 30, 2025, stood at 1.91% with provision cover of 44% as against 1.56% as on June 30, 2024, with provision cover of 47%. Profits from operations performed strongly, growing by 14% in Q1FY26. Profit after tax registered a 39% rise in Q1FY26, with net profit at Rs. 429 crores. Return on assets closed at 2.91% in Q1FY26 as against 2.38% for Q1FY25 and capital adequacy at 20.0% remains quite comfortable.

Rajiv Lochan, Managing Director, stated, “Overall, for the quarter, industry sales in segments and geographies we operate in were well below market expectations. Our focus on extending our market share remains resolute. Looking ahead, the monsoons have been above normal, procurement likely to be robust and therefore, rural sentiment is expected to improve. Government infrastructure spending will also gain steam. However, geopolitical tensions & global macro conditions remain unpredictable. Given these external uncertainties, our Q2 priorities remain focused on improving our asset quality position significantly while driving growth in disbursements at healthy margins. We are well positioned to continue our marathon running and delivering the Sundaram experience to our customers, people and partners,” he added.

STANDALONE PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR Q1FY26

· Disbursements for Q1FY26 grew by 6% to Rs. 7,310 crores as compared to Rs. 6,908 crores registered in Q1FY25.

· The assets under management grew by 17% to Rs. 53,278 crores as on 30th June 2025 as against Rs. 45,671 crores as on 30th June 2024.

· Net interest income grew by 25% to Rs. 781 crores in Q1FY26 from Rs. 623 crores in Q1FY25.

· Gross stage 3 assets as on 30th June 2025 stood at 1.91% with 44% provision cover as against 1.56% with provision cover of 47% as on 30th June 2024. Net stage 3 assets as on 30th June 2025 closed at 1.08% as against 0.84% as on 30th June 2024.

· The Gross and Net NPA, as per RBI’s asset classification norms for NBFCs, are 2.66% and 1.71% respectively as against 2.21% and 1.41% as of 30th June 2024.

· Cost to income ratio improved to 29.84% in Q1FY26 as against 32.90% in Q1FY25.

· Profits from operations grew 14% to Rs. 436 crores in Q1FY26 as against Rs. 383 crores in Q1FY25.

· Higher dividend income resulted in profit after tax registering 39% rise in Q1FY26, with net profit at Rs. 429 crores as against Rs. 308 crores in Q1FY25.

· Return on assets (ROA) for Q1FY26 closed at 2.91% as against 2.38% for Q1FY25. Return on equity (ROE) was at 16.70% for Q1FY26 as against 13.64% for Q1FY25.

· Capital Adequacy Ratio stood at 20.0% (Tier I –17.3%) as of 30th June 2025 compared to 19.3% (Tier I – 16.2%) as of 30th June 2024.

CONSOLIDATED PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR Q1FY26

The consolidated results of SFL include the results of its standalone subsidiaries Sundaram Home Finance, Sundaram Asset Management and joint venture company Royal Sundaram General Insurance.

· The assets under management (AUM) in our lending and general insurance businesses stood at Rs. 80,939 crores as on 30th June 2025 as against Rs. 69,234 crores as on 30th June 2024, a growth of 17%. The assets under management of our asset management business stood at Rs. 80,501 crores as on 30th June 2025 as against Rs. 80,565 crores as on 30th June 2024.

· Profit after tax for Q1FY26 grew by 9% to Rs. 475 crores as compared to Rs. 435 crores in Q1FY25.

GROUP COMPANY PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS

Our group companies continued to perform well.

· The asset management business closed the year ended 30th June 2025 with assets under management of Rs. 80,501 crores (over 80% in equity) and consolidated profits from the asset management businesses were at Rs. 45 crores as against Rs. 29 crores in Q1FY25.

· Royal Sundaram reported a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of Rs. 1,289 crores as compared to Rs. 1,114 crores in the previous year, representing a growth of 16%. The company reported a profit after tax of Rs. 127 crores for Q1FY26 as against a profit of Rs. 65 crores in Q1FY25.

· Sundaram Home Finance continued to grow strongly with disbursements up by 10% to Rs. 1,488 crores in Q1FY26. The profit for Q1FY26 was Rs. 62 crores, as against Rs. 66 crores in Q1FY25.

ABOUT SUNDARAM FINANCE

Sundaram Finance was established in 1954 and the company has today grown into one of the most trusted and diversified financial services groups in India providing financing for commercial vehicles, cars & utility vehicles, tractors and farm equipment, construction equipment, SME finance and a range of working capital products for financing diesel, tyres, insurance as well as working capital for SMEs. Through its subsidiaries and group companies, the company offers home finance, loans against property, mutual funds and investment management solutions and the full range of general insurance products and services. It has a nationwide presence of over 700 branches, over 1 lakh depositors and over 5 lakh lending customers.

Sundaram Finance’s vision is to be the most respected NBFC in the country and its mission is to deliver the Sundaram experience to all customers, big and small, in keeping with the ethos of the Company. Sundaram Finance embraces a philosophy that balances Growth with Quality and Profitability and remains rooted in its ideal of protecting and enhancing shareholder value. The founding philosophy of the company is that everything begins with the customer. Our founder, Late Sri T S Santhanam, enshrined in the company its core values – The Sundaram Way – that have been the company’s guiding light over the decades. The company is deeply rooted in its values and proud of its heritage, also constantly innovating in terms of technology and processes to deliver the unique Sundaram experience to its customers and stakeholders.

ABOUT TSF GROUP

With a legacy spanning a century, the TSF Group’s interests cover the automotive and financial services sectors. Companies promoted by the TSF Group have combined revenue of more than Rs. 26,000 crores, 42,000 employees, 1,200 branches, and 36 factories. In the automotive industry, the TSF group operates across segments from component manufacturing, parts distribution, vehicle dealership and vehicle financing. The Group serves marquee customers across the globe and is known for high quality design‐led manufacturing. The TSF Group companies are market leaders in their segments and include Brakes India, Wheels India, Axles India, Turbo Energy, IMPAL, Madras Auto Service, and Sundaram Motors. In financial services, the TSF Group promoted Sundaram Finance (founded 1954), one of the most respected names in the NBFC sector, with interests in automotive lending, general insurance, housing loans, and asset management. The financial services business has more than Rs. 80,000 crores in assets and a further Rs. 80,000 crores in assets managed. The TSF Group comprises the T.S. Santhanam branch of the erstwhile TVS group and continues the tradition of Trust, Value and Service that the group has been known for this past century.

Four Seasons to Open New Private Residences in Mumbai’s Renowned Worli District

4th August 2025: Construction is complete, and 80 percent of units are sold at the latest Four Seasons branded residential project in Mumbai. The world’s leading luxury hospitality company, in collaboration with Provenance Land, a distinguished Indian real estate developer, have partnered once again to deliver an unprecedented statement of design, hospitality, and exceptional living.

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Standing as one of the world’s tallest branded residential towers, Four Seasons Private Residences Mumbai is centrally located in the coveted Worli district, which is known as one of India’s most prestigious residential enclaves. Featuring just 41 homes spread across 64 floors, the exceptionally low-density configuration ensures the pinnacle of privacy and luxury, with each home crafted to the highest standards of contemporary urban living. From expansive three-bedroom residences spanning entire floors to five- and six-bedroom duplexes, these palatial residences will offer spacious seclusion from the vibrant energy of the city below.

“In a city known for its dynamic culture and as one of South Asia’s key commercial markets, this development represents a significant milestone for Four Seasons,” says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development, Portfolio Management and Residential, Four Seasons. “Our established residential presence in India, paired with our two existing Hotels, allows us to build on the renowned service for which we are so well known. Together with our esteemed partners at Provenance Land, we will deliver a lifestyle that is thoughtfully curated and operated end-to-end by Four Seasons, ensuring our residents experience the exceptional experiences, world-class amenities, and personalized service that they have come to know and enjoy.”

In Mumbai, the legendary service of Four Seasons is enhanced with tailored residential services, opulent hotel-inspired offerings, and meticulous property management. Whether at home or abroad, homeowners can have complete confidence and peace of mind knowing that one of their greatest assets will benefit from homes that are overseen only by Four Seasons employees, under the dedicated leadership of a Director of Residences.

This project will set a new benchmark for sophistication in Mumbai’s luxury branded residential market,” says Adarsh Jatia, Managing Director, Provenance Land. “With over 80 percent of the residences already sold, the strong demand highlights Mumbai’s enthusiasm for unparalleled living experiences. We are excited to continue our collaboration with Four Seasons and ensure that the residences offer not only stunning views and luxurious interiors but also a tranquil retreat from the bustling city.”

An urban retreat in the heart of the city, Four Seasons Private Residences Mumbai has been designed to offer a tranquil yet dynamic living environment. Homeowners will have access to their own Residents’ Club featuring a lounge and media room, a private dining room, and a fully equipped gym. For outdoor activities, residents will enjoy over an acre of greenspace, a meditation garden, a pickleball court, and an elevated pool with a cascading water feature. For private events, the rooftop lounge and outdoor cinema will set the stage for unmatched entertainment and celebrations from the 65th floor with a viewing deck and bar area – all set in harmony with stunning coastline views.

The residences are designed by world-class architectural firm Gensler and the award-winning interior design studio, Yabu Pushelberg. Combining contemporary design with thoughtful floorplans, Gensler and Yabu Pushelberg redefined modern multi-generational living with magnificent vistas, multiple principal bedrooms and flowing family spaces, while also incorporating timeless Vastu principles where directional alignments and shapes are incorporated to promote well-being and prosperity. Spacious kitchens and state-of-the-art home automation systems further emphasize careful consideration and attention to every detail to support modern living at its finest.

As a grand extension of their home, residents will enjoy exclusive access to the adjacent, newly renovated Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, where traditional Indian design is seamlessly integrated with world-class amenities. The Hotel’s recent transformation showcases textile-inspired rooms and state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring an unmatched guest experience. Located near Worli Sea Face, Willingdon Golf Course, Mahalaxmi Racecourse, and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, the Hotel and newly completed Residences now provide a unique blend of privacy and convenience. The Hotel’s culinary highlights include the iconic rooftop bar, AER, offering breathtaking sunsets and an ideal setting for Sunday brunches; and Opus, an art deco restaurant with a culinary experience that spans continents.

Four Seasons Private Residences Mumbai joins a growing lineup of Four Seasons properties across India, including Four Seasons Private Residences Bengaluru and Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai.

Weekend Home, Full-Time Return: Vibez Estates’ Hybrid Model of Retreat and Rental

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With urban life growing increasingly chaotic, more Indians are seeking spaces that offer both peace of mind and a return on investment. Vibez Estates, a Karnataka-based agro-realty company founded in 2009, has tapped into this growing desire by blending rural retreat with revenue-generating potential. Through a carefully crafted model that combines managed farmland and eco-friendly holiday homes, the company is offering what it calls a “dual-income lifestyle” – a weekend getaway that also works full-time to earn passive returns.

The concept is straightforward but powerful. Buyers invest in a plot of land – often planted with coffee, pepper, or pomegranate – and have the option of building a villa on it. Vibez Estates takes over from there, managing the plantation operations and, where applicable, renting out the villa to holiday-goers when not in use by the owner. The result is a smooth mix of personal leisure and financial growth, with owners earning from both farm produce and short-term rentals.

Several of Vibez’s projects bring this hybrid approach to life. At Vanasya in Sakleshpur, lush plots come with active coffee and pepper plantations, and space for a future villa. At the Kaira holiday homes development, buyers can choose from studio, 1 BHK, or 2 BHK villas surrounded by landscaped gardens, herbal parks, and water features – ideal for personal use or vacation rental. Other projects like Sirivana in Chikkaballapur and Bilva Dhara near Dharmasthala extend the concept to teakwood farming and spiritually rooted living, offering further diversity for investors with varying preferences.

What sets Vibez apart is the full-stack support it provides. All legal paperwork, land conversion, plantation upkeep, and hospitality management are handled by the in-house team. Buyers do not have to worry about sourcing farm labor, maintaining the home, or listing it for rent. Even revenue collection and distribution are automated. This hands-off model is particularly attractive to busy professionals and NRIs looking for long-term value without short-term headaches.

Underlying all of this is a deep commitment to sustainability. Vibez’s estates emphasize organic farming, vastu-compliant architecture, rainwater harvesting, and minimal ecological disruption. The villas are designed to blend into the natural landscape, while farming practices are geared toward soil health and biodiversity.

For investors, this translates into more than just rental yield or crop output. It’s about participating in a slower, more grounded lifestyle – without giving up on the practical need for returns. In a post-pandemic world where flexible living and hybrid working are changing traditional real estate norms, Vibez Estates has positioned itself as a forward-thinking alternative. It isn’t just selling land or homes – it’s offering a new rhythm of living, where your weekend home works for you even when you’re not there.

New Initiative Expands Health Benefits to Rural Missouri Child Care Educators

Child Care Aware of Missouri secures $15,000 to support 51 child care educators with a comprehensive health care plan.

Rural Missouri Child Educators' funding -Child Care Aware of Missouri

(St. Louis, Mo., July 30, 2025) Child Care Aware of Missouri (CCAMO) recently obtained $15,000 in funding to launch a new initiative that will deliver vital health and mental health services to 51 rural child care educators across five Missouri counties. Through this project, led by CCAMO, participating educators will receive memberships to Show Me Child Care Resources and access to comprehensive telehealth and mental health benefits – all at no personal cost.

The 51 child care educators residing in Franklin, Jefferson, Lincoln, Warren, and Washington counties will have access to unlimited health visits with zero copay along with 10 free mental health therapy sessions per year. According to County Health Rankings & Roadmaps by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, between 12% to 18% of rural professionals remain uninsured in these counties. The American Community Survey also reports poverty rates ranging from 8.6% to 19.7%, highlighting the critical need for support in these communities.

Since 2010, CCAMO has served as the exclusive statewide license holder for Show Me Child Care Resources, a web-based portal providing more than 2,000 resources for child care educators and business owners. The organization also provides consulting, training, and technical assistance to child care business owners to help them understand operational activities, leadership development, expense budgeting, and revenue recognition training to improve business viability.

“Child care professionals don’t often receive benefits, yet their well-being is essential to our communities so they can be present in the child care classroom,” said Robin Phillips, CEO of CCAMO. “Show Me Child Care Resources delivers not only peace of mind to child care staff but also convenient 24/7 access to doctors through our telehealth feature.” Phillips added, “our nonprofit is committed to pursuing ongoing funding annually to continue supporting educators’ health and well-being as they care for Missouri’s children.”

Founded in 1999, CCAMO is a statewide nonprofit that focuses on a comprehensive early childhood education experience through impactful programs and partnerships. The organization’s services include workforce development, child care business supports, advocacy and policy work, and its new Child Care Keeps Missouri Working, a regional campaign offering concierge solutions to businesses undergoing employee recruitment and retention challenges due to the overwhelming shortage of quality child care options. For more information, call (314) 535-1458 or visit www.mochildcareaware.org.

India’s Digital Finance Boom Powers Inclusive Growth

By – Mr. Dilip Modi, Founder & CEO, Spice Money

India is in the midst of a financial revolution, driven by the rapid rise of digital infrastructure, payments adoption, and data-driven credit enablement. The RBI’s Digital Payments Index, which rose 10.7% year-on-year to 493.22 as of March 2025, and the over 65,000 crore digital transactions amounting to ₹12,000 lakh crore recorded over the past six financial years, as recently mentioned in Parliament, are strong indicators of this transformation highlight the depth and scale of this transformation.

What is especially encouraging is that this growth is not confined to metros, it is reaching tier 2, 3, and rural areas, powered by targeted initiatives like the Payments Infrastructure Development Fund and collaborative efforts across government, RBI, NPCI, fintechs, and banks.

In parallel, we are also witnessing a fundamental shift in how credit is assessed and delivered. The launch of the New Digital Credit Assessment Model for MSMEs also signals the transition from traditional underwriting to real-time, data-driven evaluation.

Together, these developments mark a new chapter in India’s financial journey, one that is digital-first, inclusion-led, and innovation-driven. For the fintech industry and financial inclusion players like us, this is an unprecedented opportunity to unlock economic potential at the grassroots and build a truly inclusive digital India.

Ozone Urbana – A World-Class Integrated Township, Far Away from the Maddening Crowd

Bengaluru, India | 28 July 2025: In a city that never slows down, an oasis of calm, connection, and convenience is redefining modern living. Ozone Urbana — a masterpiece integrated township by Ozone Group — rises far from the urban chaos yet remains deeply connected to the heartbeat of Bengaluru. Here, residents enjoy a life of balance, wellbeing, and spirited community.

Ozone Urbana

Spread across expansive, thoughtfully planned acres, Ozone Urbana is more than just a residential enclave. It is a self-sufficient urban ecosystem — seamlessly bringing together homes, businesses, education, senior Living, and leisure within one harmonious township. With a design philosophy built on sustainability, comfort, and connectivity, Ozone Urbana meets the aspirations of today’s discerning urban families in the Bengaluru real estate sector.

Key Features of Ozone Urbana:

A Living Mosaic of All Generations
Ozone Urbana stands out as a truly intergenerational community, where seniors with a lifetime of experience, energetic working adults, and playful kids all co-exist and thrive. Community parks, open spaces, and extraordinary landscaping ensure everyone—from elders enjoying peaceful walks to children laughing in playgrounds—finds their space here.

Ozone Urbana

  1. State-of-the-Art Infrastructure & Utilities
  • Well-laid, wide, and well-lit roads with clear signage
  • Equate power systems with robust backup systems
  • Clean, treated water accessible throughout
  • Modern sewerage and drainage for hygiene and safety
  • Effective waste management and recycling programs
  • Excellent connectivity via public transport to key Bengaluru hubs
  1. Diverse Residential Options
  • Choice of finely crafted apartments, spacious villas, and custom plots
  • Smart home features for optimized energy use and convenience
  • Options for every budget, blending affordability with luxury
  1. Abundant Recreational Amenities
  • Swimming pool, gymnasium, sports courts, and event venues
  • Vast landscaped gardens, inviting green zones, and tranquil walking trails
  • Vibrant community centres encouraging social interaction and festive celebrations
  1. Essential Services Within Easy Reach
  • One of India’s largest senior care resident committees
  • Leading schools for world-class education
  1. Sustainable Living Initiatives
  • Rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge
  • Green building standards across the township
  • Waste reduction and proactive recycling practices
  1. A Truly Connected Community
  • Regular events, festivals, and cultural programs to foster bonds
  • Common gardens and open seating areas that encourage neighbourly interactions
  • A township where every resident is welcomed and feels at home

Ozone Urbana: Where City Life Meets Tranquil Living

Whether you’re a young professional seeking urban convenience, a growing family looking for safe and enriching surroundings, or a retiree yearning for serenity without compromise, Ozone Urbana offers an unmatched lifestyle. It’s not just where you live — it’s how you live that sets Ozone Urbana apart.

Welcome to the future of living in Bengaluru. Welcome to Ozone Urbana.

If you need a shortened version, quotes, or additional info, let me know!

FIRE – How Homeownership Anchors Financial Freedom

– by Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces

Financial Independence, Retire Early in India

In India’s high-rent, high-inflation environment, owning at least one sufficiently large primary home is the unavoidable first step toward achieving Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE). Without it, monthly rentals erode savings, limit your lifestyle options and flexibility, and make the 25× annual-expense rule, which is the foundation of FIRE, almost impossible to reach.

Owning your home does more than eliminate the burden of rent. It also locks in a predictable housing cost, creates and grows equity in a valuable asset, and gives you the physical space you need for a growing family, take up post-retirement remote or consulting work if you choose to, pursue hobbies and recreation, and host get-togethers.

Let’s explore exactly why homeownership is so central to successful FIRE in India. We will also look at the best cities in which to pursue the FIRE dream and where the numbers work in favour of retirees – early or otherwise.

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FIRE’s Core Formula Vs. the Rent Trap

The classic FIRE formula suggests that you must accumulate a retirement corpus equal to 25 times your annual expenses and factor in a 4% annual withdrawal rate. For a family with total annual spending of Rs. 600,000, that target corpus would be about Rs. 1.5 crore. However, if Rs. 25,000 of that monthly budget goes towards rent — and considering that rents rise at least 5% and often more every year — a retiree will perpetually chase an increasing target because rent inflation constantly pushes up the needed corpus.

Contrastingly, owning a home and servicing a fixed-rate home loan essentially provides your family with shelter for 15–20 years, after which housing becomes mostly cost-free, other than maintenance and property tax. This predictability eliminates the major tail risk of expected or unexpected rent hikes and speeds up the path to the 25× goal.

Growing Equity & Forced Savings Via Leverage

Property in growing real estate markets appreciates at a rate more less in tandem with inflation, and additionally along with the city’s own economic expansion. Over the last 10 years, property prices in Indian metros have risen by between 8–13% percent annually. A home bought for Rs. 50 lakh with a 20% down payment (Rs. 10 lakh) at an 80% home loan interest rate empowers the buyer with a Ts. 50 lakh asset.

With an expected property value appreciation of 10% over two years, the net equity gain on the original Rs. 10 lakh is 100%. This outperforms traditional equity returns on a direct investment of Rs. 10 lakh. That’s right – let that sink in.

Also, paying down the principal on the home loan amounts to forced savings of the very best kind. Every EMI allocates a portion to the build-up of equity in the property,  thereby converting living costs into ownership instead of a pure, ROI-less expense like monthly rent.

Space for Family, Work & Life

The FIRE lifestyle usually involves or should factor in:

– A growing family
– Operating a home-based business, or doing some form of remote work
– Pursuing hobbies that need dedicated space – for instance, an art studio, music/AV room, or an art studio
– Hosting guests and community activities

In India, renting usually involves a compact 1–2 BHK apartment of between 500–800 sq ft. Even if this space is all carpet area, it is far from enough for such requirements. On the other hand, a 2–3 BHK apartment admeasuring 1,000–1,500 sq ft bought either outright or with a home loan gives you the space you need for a smooth, enjoyable early-retirement lifestyle.

Cost of Living vs. Property Prices

Buying a mid-range flat of around 1000 sq ft in Pune costs about Rs. 80 lakhs. This is 40% lower than Mumbai, and 20% lower than Bengaluru. With the savings on living expenses once rent (~Rs. 25,000/month) is eliminated, homeowner in Pune saves and builds equity of Rs. 3 lakh every year. This is FIRE on, well, fire.

Why Pune Tops the FIRE-Seekers List

It’s affordable – The average residential price in key markets of Pune is about Rs. 6,000–9,700/sq ft. It is therefore possible to buy a 2–3 BHK apartment in under Rs. 1 crore.
Lower cost of living – In Pune, monthly expenses other than rent come to about Rs. 32,300, which is lower than in other major cities. This boosts savings rate unless one allows lifestyle creep in – and that is something every FIRE-aspirant needs to stay on guard against.
An economic powerhouse – Pune has a thriving IT sector and infrastructure projects like the metro and Ring Road are connecting the city rapidly, resulting in strong end-user housing demand which guarantees steady property appreciation.
Quality of life – Like all Indian cities, Pune has its issues – but it also has a pleasant climate and a vibrant cultural ethos, renowned educational institutions, and superlative hospitals. In short, a fantastic place to settle down in.
Room to grow – Rapidly growing corridors like Hinjewadi, Baner, Kharadi and Punawale in PCMC have many options for big homes of 1,200+ sq ft which area highly suited for growing families and home-based work.

Bengaluru and Hyderabad – FIRE Runners-up

– Bengaluru has steeper living expenses (about Rs. 35,900/month) but this is offset by good income earning potential in IT and the city’s various start-ups. Peripheral areas like Whitefield and Sarjapur have homes available at prices between Rs. 7,000–10,500/sq ft.
– Hyderabad definitely boats of a well-balanced cost of living at around Rs. 31,000–32,000/month and also has relatively affordable property prices at Rs. 5,000–8,000/sq ft in some of the key locations. Emerging tech corridors like Gachibowli and HITEC City offer very good rental yields along with attractive long-term capital appreciation.

Homeownership – The FIRE Cornerstone

In India. homeownership is not just a lifestyle choice – it is a strategic financial imperative, especially for those pursuing the dream of financial independence and retiring early. While rent is a volatile expense category, homeownership is a predictable investment that leverages bank financing for fast equity build-up. Moreover, it provides you with the space you need for a fulfilling early-retirement life.

Among the top Indian cities, Bengaluru and Hyderabad are attractive for professionals earning higher salaries, but Pune stands out as the most FIRE-friendly deal because affordability and growth go hand-in-hand with a great quality of life here.

FIRE-aspirants should make buying a primary home large enough to accommodate family growth, remote work, leisure activities, and social life a top priority. Thereafter, they can pursue the early retirement of their dreams even as the powerful compounding of real-estate equity and freed-up savings set the stage for a smooth ride into a life of leisure backed by financial security.

About the Author:

Akash Pharande

Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in Greater Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in the region. With the recent inclusion of Puneville Commercial into one of its most iconic townships, Pharande Spaces taken a major step towards addressing Pune’s current and future requirements for fully integrated residential-commercial convenience

5 Real Estate Developers Setting New Standards in Customer Satisfaction

In a competitive and rapidly evolving real estate market, developers who prioritize customer satisfaction stand out as true industry leaders. From transparency in processes to timely delivery, post-sales service, and community-building, these developers are reshaping what homebuyers expect — and deserve. Here are five real estate developers setting new benchmarks in customer satisfaction across India.

1. Srijan Realty

Srijan Realty has built a strong reputation for quality and transparency, with over 12 million sq. ft. delivered and 27 million sq. ft. under development. Their projects reflect design intelligence and human insight, with a consistent focus on timely handovers and buyer support. From the first site visit to post-possession care, Srijan ensures that customer experience remains at the heart of its operations — building not just homes, but lasting relationships.

  1. Godrej Properties

With a strong legacy and future-focused approach, Godrej Properties consistently earns praise for its clear communication, on-time delivery, and after-sales support. Their customer-centric initiatives, including digital updates, service portals, and dedicated support teams, make the home-buying journey smooth and transparent.

  1. Lodha Group

Lodha is known for delivering high-quality residential experiences with a sharp focus on customer delight. From construction updates to move-in assistance and loyalty programs, Lodha ensures its customers feel supported at every step. Their approach blends operational efficiency with thoughtful engagement — creating an elevated ownership experience.

  1. M3M India

M3M has emerged as a trusted name through a combination of timely delivery, design excellence, and responsive customer care. The developer actively invests in post-sale services, feedback mechanisms, and resident-focused initiatives that keep buyers informed and satisfied throughout the ownership journey.

  1. Prestige Group

Prestige Group stands out for its consistent quality and strong customer relationships. Buyers value the professionalism shown in everything from project updates to possession processes. The brand’s dedicated customer care teams and long-term service model contribute to high levels of customer retention and referrals.

Introducing the ‘Serenity Collection’: Earth-Toned Lights for Minimalist Interiors

Jaipur|26, July, 2025– In a world increasingly attuned to mindful design and quiet luxury, Lumeil — India’s premier e-commerce destination for curated decorative lighting — introduces its most evocative collection yet: The Serenity Collection.

A sensorial symphony of sculptural silhouettes, artisanal craftsmanship, and organic finishes, the Serenity Collection pays homage to the beauty of restraint. Drawing from a palette grounded in nature — clay, sandstone, terracotta, and soft dusk grey — each lighting piece is a poetic embodiment of stillness, form, and emotional refinement.

“We envisioned Serenity as more than a lighting collection,” shares Naman Jain, Founding Member of Lumeil. “It is a meditative experience. Each piece is designed not just to illuminate, but to soften — to slow the pace of life and offer a more conscious way of inhabiting space.”

From hand-blown glass pendants that hover like warm celestial forms, to clay-finished wall sconces that breathe light across walls like a sunset across stone — every detail in the Serenity Collection is deliberate, tactile, and timeless. It invites a sensorial pause; a reconnection with spatial poetry.

Rooted in minimalist ideology and elevated by contemporary craftsmanship, the Serenity Collection is aligned with the new global aesthetic of understated elegance — where luxury is felt, not flaunted. In an era defined by conscious consumption, Serenity speaks to those who seek meaning behind every object they bring into their home.

Every product in the collection transcends mere functionality. These are sculptural objects of desire — designed to complement architectural spaces with graceful quietude, yet commanding presence. A subtle echo of global design maisons, Serenity is where Wabi-sabi meets modernism, and the elemental meets the editorial.

This release further cements Lumeil’s position at the intersection of high design and seamless digital luxury. With an intuitive online platform tailored for both design professionals and design-forward homeowners, Lumeil offers a rare blend of exclusivity and accessibility — from digital discovery to white-glove doorstep delivery.

For those who collect experiences, not just objects — and for whom every corner of a home must whisper intent — the Serenity Collection is now available exclusively on Lumeil.com.

RPG Lifesciences: Q1 FY26: Revenue up by 2.1% Y-o-Y and EBITDA margin at 24.1%

Mumbai, 26 July, 2025: RPG Life Sciences Limited has announced its financial results for the first quarter ended June 30, 2025.

 

Q1 FY26 Highlights

Y-o-Y Revenue from operations

Y-o-Y PBT

Rs. 168.9 crores vs. Rs. 165.4 crores

Rs. 35.4 crores vs.  Rs. 36.0 crores

In Q1 FY26, RPG Lifesciences revenue recorded 2.1% Y-o-Y increase in sales (18.1% Q-o-Q growth) along with a healthy EBITDA margin of 24.1%. Profit before tax remained largely in line with previous year.

Commenting on the results as well as the outlook of the business, Mr. Ashok Nair, Managing Director, RPG Life Sciences Ltd. said, “In Q1, we have sustained our sales growth momentum, reflecting the strength of our strategic execution and operational excellence. Our Domestic Formulations business continues to deliver market-beating growth, propelled by a focused transformation agenda and a customer-centric approach. We remain firmly on track to accelerate both our International Formulations and API segments, with growth driven by rapid onboarding of new customers, strategic expansion into newer markets, and launch of newer molecules that broaden our therapeutic reach.”

“We are actively exploring inorganic growth opportunities across both formulations and APIs to further accelerate our growth trajectory and create lasting value for all stakeholders,” added Nair.