Manila, Philippines | January 2025 – As fintech adoption continues to rise in the Philippines, financial services increasingly serve a role in addressing vulnerabilities and safeguarding information in the evolving digital landscape.

Data breaches, fraud, and identity theft are amongst these  significant challenges, especially in a digital environment where artificial intelligence (AI) plays a growing role in the digital ecosystem. Amid this rapid digital advancement, there is a rising concern on data protection and application of security measures. Survey data released by Statista in 2024 revealed that 50% of respondents reported being targeted by phishing attacks, while 42% encountered smishing, a type of fraud scheme carried out through text messages.

Considering this, and as the global business landscape commemorates Data Privacy Day on January 28, a heightened awareness to combat these challenges and a recurring prompt highlighting the importance of taking proactive measures in safeguarding personal data are necessary

Moreover, financial services are the bearer of not only offering secure platforms, but also educating consumers on how to manage good financial hygiene. UnaCash takes a proactive approach by integrating both. The focus is to empower consumers to actively seek steps on understanding digital risks and become vigilant against potential threats, all the while learning how to choose a platform that demonstrates a commitment to security.

Here are detailed recommendations from UnaCash to support Filipino consumers on the best practices for safeguarding personal data.

Use strong and unique passwords.  One of the most effective ways to protect online accounts is by using strong, unique passwords. Ensure that the corresponding accounts per platform uses a different password to guarantee that they are individually protected.

Enable two-factor authentication. Make sure to enable the two-factor authentication (2FA) on your financial apps and online accounts to add an extra layer of security. The second verification step, such as a one-time password (OTP) sent to your mobile device or email, helps reduce the chances of unauthorized access for the account.

Learn to identify and beware of phishing scams. Phishing scams are one of the most common ways where personal information is obtained illegally. These can appear as emails, social media posts, or SMS messages from seemingly legitimate companies. Always double-check the source of any communication and avoid clicking unfamiliar links. Upon receiving one, you can immediately visit the official website of the company or inform their customer service to verify its authenticity.

Make regular updates on your software and apps. Updates ensure that security vulnerabilities are mitigated against potential hacking attempts. These updates often contain important security patches that can help you protect your data against emerging threats and keep your digital environment secure.

Always monitor personal transactions. Track transaction histories for any unusual activity or discrepancies. For unauthorized changes, immediately report to the service provider to ensure that the account remains protected from fraud.

“We have witnessed the digital landscape rapidly evolve in recent years. Financial solutions like us advocate consistently on educating consumers on how to practice good financial hygiene, and of course, navigate the digital space safely,” said Sean Plantado, channel manager of UnaCash. “We want our customers to be better equipped to safeguard their personal information, regardless of what platform they are using.”

The Commitment to Secure Data by UnaCash

Consumers belonging in the GenZ bracket are increasingly entering the marketplace, highlighting the need for robust data protection since this generation is a significant player in the retail space. Statista indicates that vulnerabilities can impact individuals as early as 18 years of age, matching the analysis from UnaCash where 23 million working-age individuals in Southeast Asia will be poised as primary contributors in the digital economy by 2030. With this emerging consumer base, the financial services reinforces its mission to provide a secure and informed financial platform for its client-base.

Below is a list of simple practices of UnaCash to promote data privacy protection:

• Advanced security features. Integration of encryption, a multi-layer authentication, and a dedicated fraud detection team to ensure that user data remains protected against cyber threats. 

• Continuous consumer education. The data source and storage is found only in the UnaCash app, which consumers are responsible when it comes to and encourages users to generate a pin to open their account apart from the one-time password (OTP) authentication process.

• Responsive support. A dedicated customer support team ensures that users have access to timely assistance, be it in the physical store or through the UnaCash communication channels. This applies to suspicious activity or even resolving account concerns, a swift and effective support is being prioritized.

• Compliance on data privacy security measures. UnaCash is compliant with the NPC, adhering to the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and is continuously implementing data protection protocols. There are consistent security assessments to uphold the transparency and accountability in handling every customer’s data. Alongside this, UnaCash never stores application details physically or digitally through any other platform aside from its app to protect its overall storage location.

“It is important to highlight that awareness on financial security goes hand-in-hand with the broader goal of protecting personal data. A financially literate consumer is most likely to use secure platforms, easily identify risks, and take proactive steps to protect their respective data. UnaCash remains committed to fostering a culture of security and trust, ensuring that Filipino customers are confident with their financial journey without compromising their personal information in the digital space,” Plantado concluded.

Jaipur, 28th January 2025:IIHMR University, a leading health management research university, successfully conducted an Orientation Program for the National Service Scheme (NSS). The program witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 60 volunteers who pledged to dedicate their time and energy toward NSS activities. These initiatives include community service projects aimed at strengthening the fabric of the nation through impactful grassroots work.

The event was graced by Shri S.P. Bhatnagar, Regional Director of NSS, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, as the keynote speaker. He provided an insightful orientation to the NSS volunteers, emphasizing the core objectives and functioning of the NSS and its pivotal role in fostering nation-building and the personal development of India’s youth. Shri Bhatnagar also highlighted the profound meaning of the NSS motto, “Not Me But You,” underscoring the spirit of selfless service.

Dr. PR Sodani, President, of IIHMR University, inspired the volunteers to contribute wholeheartedly to nation-building through community service, and shared, “At IIHMR University, we firmly believe in empowering youth to lead transformative change through selfless community service. The National Service Scheme is a powerful platform that instills a sense of responsibility, compassion, and leadership among students. By working with marginalized communities, our volunteers will not only contribute to building a stronger nation but also enrich their personal growth through meaningful experiences. Together, we can make a difference, one step at a time.”

As part of the event, nine students were felicitated for their outstanding contributions in competitions such as quizzes, e-poster designs, and reels conducted on the 150th Birth Anniversary of Shri SardarVallabhbhai Patel and Constitutional Day.

New Delhi, 28^th Jan, 2025:  Square Yards, India’s largest integrated real estate platform, today announced its Q3’ FY25 results continuing its upward trajectory, marked by 45% year-on-year (Y-Y) revenue growth and a return to profitability with INR 22cr EBITDA (6% margin). Revenue for the quarter stood at Rs 358.6cr and Gross Transaction Value (GTV) stood at Rs 16,271 Cr, up 54% Y-o-Y. With this, company’s 9M revenue for FY24 now stands at Rs 938.4 Cr up 46% Y-Y.

Tanuj Shori, Founder & CEO of Square Yards, expressed his enthusiasm for the company’s progress: “This would mark our 2nd consecutive year of profitability, and first year of operating cash flow break even. We expect to close at USD 170mn+ revenue for FY that would put us at more than 3x the size of any other proptech platform in the country (and the only profitable platform). It would also entail a ~55% CAGR over the last 4 years. We also expect operating leverage to continue to increase, with next FY to be in the range of 15% EBITDA margins. 

Key Achievements in Q3FY25

Square Yards demonstrated impressive growth across all key metrics in Q3FY25. Gross Transaction Value (GTV) grew by 54% for the quarter and 52% for the first nine months of the fiscal year, driven by a healthy 44% year-on-year increase in the order book. Overall revenue for the 9M FY25 period surged 46% year-on-year, with revenue from the India business growing even faster at 50%. Gross profit for Q3 reached INR 90 crore, representing a 25% gross margin, while EBITDA stood at INR 22 crore, reflecting a 6% margin. Financial services led the company’s growth with a 58% year-on-year jump, supported by fintech platform Urban Money, which is expected to close the year with USD 5.5 billion in GTV. Real estate recorded a 41% year-on-year rise in the order book, and the home renovations platform maintained its upward momentum with over 50% year-on-year growth. With strong fundamentals and diversified growth across its core verticals, the company is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the proptech industry.

28th January 2025: As India eagerly anticipates the Union Budget 2025, industry leaders across the food and beverage, startup, beauty, and sustainable luxury sectors share their expectations and key recommendations for policy reforms that could drive growth and innovation. Addressing sector-specific challenges and introducing progressive measures will be pivotal in shaping a resilient and forward-looking business environment.

By – Mr. Ganesh Sonawane, Founder and CEO of Frido

 “India’s startup ecosystem is a thriving hub of innovation, and we hope that the Union Budget 2025 reflects its potential. Startups, particularly those focusing on health-focused innovations, stand to benefit greatly from policies that streamline GST processes, introduce R&D tax incentives, and provide easier access to funding could ignite a wave of innovation, empowering manufacturers and startups to meet the increasing demand for wellness products. Encouraging startups to scale manufacturing for global markets will also be crucial in reinforcing the Make in India for the World initiative. With the right support, entrepreneurs can position India as a global hub for wellness and ergonomic solutions, showcasing the country’s ingenuity and innovation on the world stage.”

By – Aji Nair, CEO at Mirah Hospitality

“As we approach the Union Budget 2025, the F&B sector looks forward to measures that address key challenges such as rising food inflation, operational costs, and the intricate tax structures on alcohol and aerated beverages that impact profitability. A progressive framework that fosters innovation, simplifies policies and enables sustainable growth will be pivotal for the industry’s success.

The restaurant sector specifically urges the restoration of the GST Input Tax Credit, which would significantly ease operational expenses and enhance efficiency.
Additionally, revisiting the GST notification on commercial leases under the Reverse Charge Mechanism is essential to reduce financial burdens. With these steps, the sector can focus on innovation, customer experiences, and long-term growth.”

By – Shrishti Yadav and Shubham Godara, Co-founders at SCINQ Neurocosmetics

 “We are optimistic that the 2025 Union Budget will address critical areas like streamlining the GST framework to reduce complexities, particularly for the beauty and skincare industry, where multiple tax slabs create challenges. A more uniform and industry-friendly tax structure would ease operations and lower costs, benefiting both businesses and consumers. Support for the retail and e-commerce sectors through industry-friendly policies would further encourage growth and innovation, creating a more dynamic marketplace. These steps can help Indian beauty and skincare space to reach a broader audience and contribute to the overall growth of the economy.”

By – Ricky Vasandani, Co-founder and CEO of Solitario

 “As India increasingly embraces sustainable luxury, this year’s Union Budget presents a valuable opportunity to encourage eco-conscious consumption. By fostering an environment that supports sustainable businesses and innovation, particularly in sectors like lab-grown diamonds, we can create a thriving ecosystem for luxury brands. Simplified regulations and forward-thinking policies will enable brands to flourish in an evolving market, helping India strengthen its position as a leader in environmentally responsible luxury while promoting a new era of conscious consumerism.”

New Delhi: In a bid to strengthen industry-academia partnership and promote entrepreneurship and hands-on skilling, the Directorate General of Training (DGT) inked an MoU with the Pilani Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development Society, BITS Pilani, for conducting innovation and incubation programs for NSTI students and make them future-ready. This collaboration is expected to create opportunities for start-ups.

“The collaboration between DGT and PIEDS (Pilani Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development Society) is a transformative step in bridging the gap between education and industry. We aim to combine the academic excellence of BITS Pilani with the robust training and skilling ecosystem of DGT. The aim is to equip youths with practical skills, fostering entrepreneurship and creating a future-ready workforce for the job market,” said Ms. Trishaljit Sethi, Director General Training, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

The partnership has two major components: The Innovation Challenge and The Open Incubation Program. They nurture the entrepreneurial mindset and help spot talent and sweep up creative thoughts to be successful startups. The Innovation Challenge encourages NSTI trainees and alumni, featuring an Open Track for all participants and a Women NSTI Track that helps women pursue entrepreneurship and fill the gender gap in innovation. The Open Incubation Program is a 6-month grant-based initiative that covers ideation, incubation, mentorship, workshops, and funding to help participants scale their ideas. Projects supported by PIEDS are reviewed at the institute level, zonal level, and DGT level to identify innovations with high potential for recognition and rewards.

“The new trend underscores the value of hands-on training and job-oriented skills given by ITIs and NSTIs, which are known for skilling, practical training, and experienced faculty,” the DGT training said, amid the government setting out Rs. 60,000 crores for five years for overhauling hundreds of ITIs across the country in the last budgetary allocation.

The event observed that engineering students are keen to upskill themselves by joining skill-oriented programs, which indicates demand for job-ready, future-ready skills in the current job market. The partnership between DGT and PIED, BITS aims to integrate industry-relevant skilling into the curriculum and encourage stronger collaboration with industry for on-the-job training and apprenticeship, including dual training systems.

The partnership is set to address a unique phenomenon in India’s education and skill training landscape as the skill ecosystem is set to be overhauled, courtesy of multiple initiatives of the government with the support of the industry. The meet observed a phenomenon of reverse pathway where engineering students, postgraduates, and even diploma holders are enrolling in skilling programs like the Crafts Instructor Training Scheme (CITS) offered by various National Skill Training Institutes.

Prof. Arya Kumar, Dean of Alumni Relations, BITS Pilani, said, “The collaboration between PIEDS and BITS Pilani for promoting competencies and capabilities amongst skilled youth, especially women, will go a long way in giving momentum to the creation of startups, employment, and wealth creation for the nation.”

Head Alumni & PIEDS Society Sachin Arya also played a crucial role in setting up these entrepreneurial pathways for NSTI and ITI students for creation of a supporting excelling ecosystem. The DGT expects leveraging the industry connection and historic reputation of BITs Pilani to further spread awareness about ITIs and NSTIs among the student community and industry stakeholders. The tie-up will also create opportunities for start-ups and entrepreneurial ventures in order to enrich the skilling ecosystem of India.

The initiative aims to align skill training with industry needs by facilitating internships and apprenticeship programs to boost employability. The central government has been taking a slew of steps to make skilling a mass movement, and the recent inaugural QS World Future Skills Index report is a testament to the efforts of the government, which said that India is one of the world’s most-ready job markets to recruit talent skilled in the key areas, such as that of AI, digital, and green technologies.

Taking the number of international airports in India to 36, two new international airports are set to become operational in 2025. At present, the country has 103 domestic airports and the Union Government has granted an in-principle nod for establishing 21 Greenfield Airports across India. These include facilities at Mopa in Goa, Navi Mumbai, Shirdi, and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, Kalaburagi, Vijayapura, Hassan, and Shivamogga in Karnataka, Dabra (Gwalior) in Madhya Pradesh, Kushinagar as well as Dholera and Rajkot in Gujarat. Expanding air travel infrastructure to Tier-II and Tier-III cities will not only improve accessibility but also encourage new air carriers to enter the market, intensifying competition and making air travel more affordable.

“We observed that almost a decade ago, India’s economic activity was largely concentrated in a few metropolitan cities. These major cities were the primary contributors to the country’s GDP, with trade and economic activities predominantly centred there. However, this trend has shifted. Growing disposable income among the middle class, rapid adoption of technology, and widespread internet penetration have had a transformative effect on the lives of people in Tier-II and Tier-III cities. As the gap between these cities and metros continues to narrow, focusing on developing airport infrastructure in smaller cities, along with the ongoing emphasis on major urban centres, is the need of the hour,” says Jaideep Mirchandani, group chairman of Sky One.

As per the draft prepared by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the total number of airports in the country is set to nearly double to 300 by 2047, up from the current 140. This plan involves not only the construction of new airports but also the upgrade of 70 existing airstrips into fully operational airports. Among the greenfield airports planned, 12 have already been operationalized, including Durgapur, Shirdi, Sindhudurg, Pakyong, Kannur, Kalaburagi, Oravakal (Kurnool), Kushinagar, Itanagar, Mopa, Shivamogga and Rajkot.

“The benefits of new airports in Tier-II cities will significantly boost tourism and the economy. They will also help travellers explore their favourite destinations with less travel time, aligning with busy schedules. For example, consider the new Pakyong Airport in Sikkim, located just 31 km from Gangtok. Previously, travellers had to fly to Bagdogra in West Bengal and then continue by road. This new airport greatly enhances both tourism and trade in the region,” adds Mr Mirchandani and concludes, “Most importantly, the expansion of airports in Tier-II and Tier-III cities will reduce stress and congestion at major airports.

New Delhi, January 28th, 2025— The annual Luxury Residential Outlook Survey 2025 conducted by India Sotheby’s International Realty (ISIR) revealed that confidence in India’s economic growth remains strong, albeit slightly tempered. Optimism has declined from 79% in 2024 to 71% in 2025. Nevertheless, most High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) and Ultra High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNIs) believe India will continue to be the fastest-growing major economy, with GDP growth projected to hover between 6% and 6.5%.

In the real estate sector, the outlook among UHNIs and HNIs has moderated, with 62% planning to invest in the next 12–24 months compared to 71% in 2024. Despite this slight dip, the steady confidence underscores real estate’s enduring appeal as a wealth-building asset.

HNIs and UHNIs remain primarily motivated by capital appreciation, with 55% citing it as their main reason for investing in luxury residential real estate in 2025, up from 44% in 2024. Nearly half of respondents expect real estate investments to deliver returns between 12% and 18%, while 38% anticipate returns below 12%. Fewer than 15% foresee returns exceeding 18%, reflecting more realistic expectations after three years of strong gains.

Mr. Amit Goyal, MD of India Sotheby’s International Realty, said “As we look ahead to 2025, India’s luxury real estate market is primed for continued growth, though with a more cautious optimism. We believe demand for trophy and bespoke luxury assets, especially spacious farmhouses and gated community villas in hill and beach destinations will be a significant trend in the coming year. Our conviction is driven by the fact that India stands out as a frontrunner, with billionaires here experiencing a staggering 42% surge in collective wealth, now exceeding $905 billion, according to the UBS “Billionaire Ambitions Report.” Over the past decade, India’s billionaire count has more than doubled to 185, with their total wealth tripling. This solidifies India’s position as the third-largest base for billionaires globally, just behind the US and China.”

The survey also highlighted a rising interest in second and holiday homes, with 54% of respondents considering properties in hill or beach destinations. Convenience is a key factor, as 55% prefer homes within a four-hour drive, while only 20% opt for international locations. Among global markets, Dubai has overtaken London as the top choice, with US cities also gaining attention.

While financial assets like equities and commodities remain the most favored, with 54% of respondents prioritizing them, real estate continues to attract 36% of HNIs planning to allocate surplus funds over the next two years. This underscores the value of real estate as a stable, tangible asset amidst market volatility.

With interest rates expected to ease moderately, 71% of respondents anticipate gradual reductions, although 23% remain cautious, citing inflation concerns. As India’s luxury real estate market evolves to meet the needs of affluent individuals and young wealth creators, the property landscape is evolving to offer a dynamic mix of lifestyle upgrades and wealth-generation opportunities.

Mr Ashwin Chadha, CEO of India Sotheby’s International Realty, said: ” The evolution of luxury real estate in India over the past decade has been remarkable. A segment once dominated by self-built bungalows has now added high-rise luxury apartments and gated community villas by renowned developers offering world-class amenities and assured quality to the demand bouquet of the rich and famous. Today, luxury real estate is more than a status symbol; it’s a robust investment avenue.”

The number of Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals in India has reached 13,600 in 2024, with projections of a 50% increase by 2028. This rising affluence, coupled with the segment’s resilience as an inflation hedge and its ability to deliver long-term capital appreciation, makes luxury real estate a preferred choice for lifestyle upgrades and wealth creation. Add to this the growing influence of young wealth creators under 40, and it’s clear that luxury real estate is not just growing—it’s defining India’s property landscape.”

The activity was aimed at fostering creativity, boosting imagination, and motivating fun learning

The students of The Academy School (TAS), Pune, participated in a special event conducted to celebrate and understand art through the world of cartoons and animations. The ‘Animated Adventure’ activity was organised to boost students’ imagination, foster creativity, and motivate fun learning.

Students were excited to dress up as their favourite animated characters’ T-shirts, adding a colourful and playful vibe to the activity. Additionally, students witnessed a live skit inspired by the famous cartoon series Tom and Jerry and other cartoons. Students came dressed as their favourite cartoon characters and brought their roles to life by performing scenes from popular stories. They were engrossed in the performances, which opened up a new world of possibilities through art and entertainment.

Dr. Maithili Tambe, CEO of The Academy School (TAS), who spearheaded the initiative, said students learn best when they have fun. While learning never stops, students should not feel pressured to attain knowledge. Education can also be imparted in a fun manner. What better way to teach them art and animation than their favourite cartoons, which they can relate to and connect with?”

The activity also saw students display their creativity by painting and drawing their favourite animated characters, thereby allowing them to express themselves and polish their preferences through art.

I am reaching out to introduce Urban Space, a home furnishing brand revolutionising the decor industry with high-quality, and innovative designs. As the Union Budget 2025 approaches, we would like to share a quote from Rohit Agarwal, Co-Founder of Urban Space, for Republic Day story:

“This Republic Day, let us celebrate the warmth and comfort that make a house truly a home. Just as India is built on the foundations of diversity and unity, our homes are a reflection of who we are—deeply rooted in tradition yet embracing modernity.

As we envision a self-reliant India, it’s time to champion homegrown brands that bring our culture to life through thoughtful design and innovation. By supporting local craftsmanship and creativity, we not only build beautiful homes but also strengthen the foundation of our nation’s growth.

Panjim, 28th January, 2025: Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, whose Start-Up India vision has inspired countless entrepreneurial journeys across the nation, and with the steadfast commitment of Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant to foster innovation and self-reliance in Goa, the state continues to champion entrepreneurship.

With the support of the Government of Goa, the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Goa Centre, is organizing a transformative three-day Entrepreneurship Development Program from 28th – 30th January 2025, at Nalanda Hall, EDC House, Panaji. This initiative is a part of Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities, designed to nurture entrepreneurial talent and accelerate economic growth across the state. This initiative, aligned with the Chief Minister’s Rojgar Yojana (CMRY) and the Goa Tribal Employment Generation Program (GTEGP), is subsidized under EDC Goa’s CSR initiative to promote entrepreneurship across the state.

The comprehensive program is designed to equip entrepreneurs with the essential knowledge and skills to succeed in today’s competitive business landscape. The curriculum covers a range of critical topics, including the essence of entrepreneurship, where participants will learn about the characteristics of successful entrepreneurs, identifying business opportunities, and crafting a robust business plan. Additionally, the program will delve into marketing strategies, including branding, social media marketing, e-commerce, customer relationship management, sales strategies, and business pitching. Furthermore, participants will gain insights into financial and legal management, covering the fundamentals of financial management, business accounting, legal structures, operational efficiency, scaling, and diversification, providing a holistic understanding of what it takes to build and sustain a thriving business.

The subsidization of program fees under the EDC Goa CSR initiative ensures that the workshop is accessible to a wide range of participants, fostering inclusivity and economic empowerment. This initiative seeks to further bolster innovation, create job opportunities, and drive Goa’s journey toward becoming a hub for startups and self-reliant businesses.