February 2025, New Delhi:   The season of love is here and Andaz Delhi by Hyatt invites you to celebrate the Month of Love with an array of captivating culinary experiences designed to make every moment unforgettable. Embrace the spirit of romance with indulgent delicacies, vibrant desserts, and intimate settings that promise to elevate your celebrations. The highlight of this month-long celebration will be a spectacular Valentine’s Day extravaganza on the 14th of February, 2025, at AnnaMaya food hall and its serene poolside venue.

To quench your Italian cravings, the Valentine – Pan to Plate menu will offer Culurgiones– Sardinian ravioli stuffed with potato, mint, and pecorino, Pappardelle alla Sugo – artisanal pappardelle with slow-braised pulled lamb shank and rosemary oil, and so much more. The Italian delicacies are perfectly paired with sparkling wine for a romantic touch.

One can take a culinary voyage across Asia, while being seated on comfortable seating with the Asian menu, featuring Phad Thai Noodles and Clay Pot dishes. End your meal on a sweet tooth with delectable desserts like Strawberry Flambe, Rose & Butter Pudding, Strawberry Tart, and the refreshing Mint Mojito Delight. The price for Valentine’s Day Pan to Plate menu begins with INR 3999 ++ for soft beverage packages. Guests can also avail early bird offers by reserving their spot any day between 7th February to 10th February at 3499++.

Step up your romance game with an intimate poolside affair. For a more exclusive experience, the poolside menu features delicacies that are a fusion between Indian and Italian cuisine with a hint of aphrodisiac ingredients. The menu includes appetisers such as Gol Gappe with an Italian twist, Astice – a flaky pastry with lobster bisque cream, Purani Dilli Jama Masjid Paneer Kormas and Golbari Kosha Mangsho. The meal, crafted by Executive Chef Matteo Fracalossi, concludes with a decadent Chocolate Heart made from 64% Manjari chocolate and soft caramel, perfect for sharing with your special someone. The price for this menu begins at INR 15999 ++. Guests can also avail the early bird offer at 12999++ by reserving their spot any day between 7th February to 10th February.

Not to miss, AnnaMaya’s pastry shop will be a haven for those who have a sweet tooth! It will be available from 11th February till 14th February, 2025 and the menu will feature Dark Chocolate Mousse Heart Cake, the delightful Miniature Toffee Heart Cake made with toffee cream and milk chocolate, and the irresistible Chocolate Love Bar. The price begins at INR 320++.

Throughout February, Andaz Delhi, by Hyatt will celebrate the Month of Love with thoughtfully designed culinary promotions, immersive dining experiences, and enchanting settings. Whether you choose a romantic dinner at AnnaMaya, an indulgent poolside meal, or a visit to the pastry shop, this is your chance to create unforgettable memories with your loved one. So this Valentine’s Day, head over to Andaz Delhi for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day celebration.

The young learners of JBCN International School are proud to participate in the 25th Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, Asia’s largest multidisciplinary street arts festival, running from January 25th to February 2nd, 2025, in the heart of Mumbai.

This year, learners from JBCN’s Parel, Oshiwara, Borivali and Chembur campuses present three stunning art installations that celebrate creativity and imagination:

• The Parel campus captured a Timeless Sanctuary as its theme through an installation of a tranquil house-like structure made of translucent acrylic sheets, offering visitors a timeless serene escape to reconnect and reflect.

• Through a vibrant display of abstract art by Grades 1 to 8 learners, inspired by legends like Kandinsky and Mondrian, showcasing the unfiltered creativity of young minds, the Oshiwara learners captured a theme of Colours of Infinity.

• Echoes Within – The learners of Borivali Campus created an immersive journey of self-discovery and imagination, blurring the lines between reality and the infinite potential of the human spirit.

• Reflections of Infinity – Grade 8 and 9 learners of Chembur Campus created a giant cube, balanced on one vertex, symbolizing the blend of time and evolution. This artwork, featuring mirrors and black-and-white elements, reflects their interpretation of the theme of Timeless Abstractions.

As the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival marks its 25th milestone, JBCN’s installations stand as a testament to the transformative power of art and education.

Don’t miss this chance to witness the boundless creativity and talent of JBCN’s learners. Visit the installations from January 25th to February 2nd, 2025, and experience the magic they’ve brought to life.

Building on the exceptional growth in the first half of this financial year, the Room AC business continued its strong upward trajectory during the quarter. Fueled by a strong festive season demand, the Room AC segment was an outlier amongst all consumer durables. Other key businesses also showed robust growth, driven by demand from several sectors. The increase in revenue and profit can be attributed to the Company’s continued investments in expanding distribution channels, innovation, R&D, digital transformation, and strategic supply chain planning.

Consolidated Financial Performance for Q3FY25

• The Company’s Revenue from Operations increased by 25.3% to Rs 2807.36 crores for the quarter ended Dec 31, 2024, compared to Rs 2241.19 crores during the same period the previous year.

• The Operating Profit (PBIDTA excluding Other Income) for the quarter improved significantly to Rs 209.38 crores (7.5% of Revenue) compared to Rs 155.35 crores in Q3FY24 (6.9% of Revenue).

• Other Income including treasury income for Q3FY25 was Rs 8.73 crores compared to Rs 12.67 crores in Q3FY24.

• Tax expense for the quarter was Rs 46.53 crores compared to Rs 33.93 crores in Q3FY24.

• Profit Before Exceptional Items and Tax grew by a significant 24.5% to Rs 167.2 crores during the quarter compared to Rs 134.29 crores in the same period of the previous year.

• Consequently, Net Profit for the quarter (after Exceptional Income) grew a significant 32% to Rs 132.46 crores compared to Rs 100.46 crores in the same quarter last year.

• Earnings per share (Face value of Rs 2.00) for Q3FY25 stood at Rs 6.44 as compared to Rs 4.89 for Q3FY24.

• Carried-forward order book as of December 31, 2024, is at a record high of Rs 6809.99 crores, as compared to Rs 6038.53 crores as of December 31, 2023, representing a growth of 12.8%.

• Capital Employed as of December 31, 2024, stood at Rs 2763.44 crores as compared to Rs 2298.88 crores as of December 31, 2023.

• The Company ended the quarter with a net cash position of Rs 102 crores as compared to a net cash position of Rs 157 crores as of December 31, 2023.

Consolidated Segment Performance for Q3FY25

• Revenue from the Electro-Mechanical Projects and Commercial Air Conditioning Systems segment grew by 32.2% to Rs 1562.41 crores during the quarter compared to Rs 1182.3 crores in the same quarter of the previous year. The Segment Result was Rs 118.73 crores (7.6% of Revenue) compared to Rs 96.66 crores (8.2% of Revenue) in Q3FY24. During the quarter, the Electro-Mechanical Projects business saw strong progress in order finalisations within the factories and data centre segments, while demand from the commercial real estate and infrastructure sectors was subdued. The Company continues to prioritise faster project execution while maintaining a healthy cash flow. The Commercial Air Conditioning business achieved moderate growth driven by demand from the manufacturing, educational, retail, and auditorium sectors. While the market potential for this business remains promising, the Company is witnessing liquidity challenges in certain segments, resulting in delays in order finalisations. The focus here continues to be on delivering innovative and customised solutions to meet evolving needs of customers.

• Unitary Products revenue grew by 21.9% to Rs 1164.36 crores in Q3FY25 compared to Rs 955.38 crores in Q3FY24. The Segment Result grew to Rs 94.78 crores (8.1% of Revenue) in Q3FY25 compared to Rs 67.93 crores (7.1% of Revenue) during the same period last year. The Room AC business, driven by a successful festive season, maintained its exceptional growth trajectory during this quarter as well. In the Commercial Refrigeration business, regulatory challenges in water coolers and deep freezers have been resolved, and the Company’s focus is now on preparing for the forthcoming summer season. The quick commerce and food delivery sectors are fueling growth in modular cold rooms, while the visi cooler market is expanding as retailers nationwide invest in upgrading stores.

• The Professional Electronics and Industrial Systems segment revenue declined by 22.1% to Rs 80.59 crores in the quarter compared to Rs 103.51 crores in Q3FY24. The Segment Result was Rs 6.2 crores in Q3FY25 (7.7% of Revenue) compared to Rs 15.21 crores (14.7% of Revenue) in Q3FY24. During the quarter, the Industrial Solutions business maintained strong momentum and growth, while both the Med-Tech and Data Security businesses experienced subdued performance. The operating cycle in these businesses is yet to revive, which is impacting order inflow.

Consolidated Financial Performance for the nine months ended December 31, 2024

• For the nine months ended December 31, 2024, the Company reported Revenue from Operations of Rs 7948.69 crores compared to Rs 6357.59 crores over the same period in the previous year, a growth of 25%.

• Operating Profit (PBIDTA excluding Other Income) was Rs 596.52 crores (7.5% of Revenue) compared to Rs 423.04 crores (6.7% of Revenue) during the same period last year, reflecting a growth of 41%.

• Net Profit was Rs 397.28 crores compared to Rs 254.6 crores during the same period in the previous year, representing a significant growth of 56%.

Mumbai, India, January 29, 2025: Choice International Limited (BSE: 531358, NSE: CHOICEIN), one of the leading financial services companies operating across India (“CIL”, “Choice” or the “Company”), announces its results for quarter and nine months ending December 31st, 2024.

Consolidated Financial Performance for Q3 FY25 v/s Q3 FY24

• Total Revenue of Rs. 212 Cr v/s. Rs. 210 Cr [á 1%]
• EBITDA of Rs. 62 Cr v/s. Rs. 69 Cr [â11%]. EBITDA Margins of 29.17% v/s 33.00%
• PAT of Rs. 31 Cr v/s. Rs. 40 Cr [â24%]. PAT Margins of 14.53% v/s 19.20%
• Revenue contribution of 65% from Stock Broking, 23% Advisory and 12% NBFC

Consolidated Financial Performance for 9M FY25 v/s 9M FY24

• Total Revenue of Rs. 667 Cr v/s. Rs. 543 Cr [á23%]
• EBITDA of Rs. 198 Cr v/s. Rs. 158 Cr [á25 %]. EBITDA Margins of 30.00% v/s 29.00%
• PAT of Rs. 109 Cr v/s. Rs. 91 Cr [á19 %]. PAT Margins of 16% v/s 17%

Business Highlights

• NumberofDematAccountsstood at 998K, a growth of 24%YoY
• AUM for Stock Broking stood at Rs. 46.5K Cr, a staggering growth of 38% YoY
• AUM for Wealth Products stood at 1,090 Cr, surge of 99% YoY
• Insurance premium generated of 73 Cr, an increase of 43 % YoY
• Number of policies sold stood at 54,892, a surge of 429% YoY
• Total Loan book for NBFC segment at the end of Q3 FY25 stood at Rs. 754 Cr
• Retail Loan Book for Q3 FY25 stood at Rs. 604 Cr
• Net Non-Performing assets (NNPA) as on 31^st Dec, 2024 is 0%
• Advisory segment Order book stood at Rs. 555 Cr

Commenting on the Q3 & 9M FY25 performance Mr. Kamal Poddar, Managing Director said:

India, the fifth-largest economy with a $3.89 trillion GDP, continues to demonstrate resilience, growing 8.2% in 2024. Despite market volatility at the beginning of the year, India’s financial landscape remains robust. Against this backdrop, Choice International remains steadfast in its commitment to long-term growth and value creation. Choice ended the quarter reporting revenue of Rs. 212 Cr for Q3 FY25. For the nine months ended, revenue reached Rs. 667 Cr, with EBITDA and PAT at Rs. 198 Cr and Rs. 109 Cr, respectively. This performance underscores our ability to navigate market challenges while maintaining a strong foundation for sustainable growth.

Choice delivers across all key business segments:

1. The broking and distribution business, which accounts for 65% of our total revenues, recorded a YoY growth of 9%, generating Rs. 135 Cr in revenue for Q3 FY25
2. 1. The stock broking business has added 67K demat accounts, increasing the total to 998K demat accounts. Our stock broking division has seen significant growth, driven by a strong emphasis on user retention and expanding into Tier III cities and beyond.
   2. The Wealth Product business’ AUM has reached Rs. 1,090 Cr, marking an impressive YoY growth of 99% fuelled by cross-selling initiatives and an extensive product portfolio.
3. Our insurance broking operations continue to gain momentum, driven by a customer-centric approach and innovative cross-selling strategies. Choice Insurance Broking achieved a premium of Rs. 73 Cr in Q3 FY25, demonstrating a robust YoY growth of 43%. The total number of policies sold surged to 54,892, marking a YoY increase of 429%. Our ongoing focus on corporate B2B and institutional clients has led to a higher conversion rate, achieving an impressive ratio of 74%.

• The NBFC business, which contributes 12% to total revenues, has seen strong growth, with a total loan book of Rs. 754 Cr, including Rs. 604 Cr in retail loans. The growing demand for retail lending in Tier II-III cities presents a significant opportunity. Our focus on retail loans and digital lending through our mobile app, ‘Choice Money,’ has streamlined operations and driven revenue growth in this segment.

1. The Choice Consultancy subsidiary, which drives our Advisory business contributes 23% of total revenues, with an impressive order book of Rs. 555 Cr. Our strong commitment in delivering exceptional performance in executing government projects on a grassroot level, enables us to win more orders thereby strengthening our order book

The Choice Business Associate Network continues to expand, with over 48,000 CBAs playing a crucial role in our outreach. Increased financial literacy, particularly in underdeveloped regions, is fuelling this growth and supporting our broader financial inclusion goals.

A key highlight this quarter was receiving in-principle approval from SEBI to sponsor and establish a mutual fund. This milestone allows Choice International to expand its financial services and reach a wider range of investors, strengthening our position in the industry.

Additionally, during the quarter, Choice Finserv, our NBFC division, successfully acquired the retail lending business through a slump sale. This strategic move has resulted in a 61% increase in total AUM, reaching Rs.7.54 billion, further enhancing our growth and ability to offer diversified financial solutions.

While the industry has experienced temporary headwinds in recent months, we remain confident in the strength of our business model and our strategic approach to achieve our long-term targets over the next five years. Our commitment to serving customers and stakeholders remains steadfast, guided by our vision to drive financial inclusion in India.

Mumbai, January 2025: Whistling Woods International (WWI), Asia’s premier Film, Communication, and Creative Arts institute, recently hosted its Annual Convocation for the Class of 2024, celebrating both legacy and new beginnings. The event recognised over 300 graduating students, the next wave of talent amidst applause and pride, ready to lead and innovate in the media and entertainment industry.

The convocation, held in two sessions, brought together esteemed industry stalwarts, visionary leaders, and graduates, celebrating the confluence of inspiration, education, and legacy.

In the morning session, the institute honoured two luminaries of Indian cinema: Javed Akhtar, the celebrated poet, lyricist, and screenwriter, and Pankaj Kapur, the versatile actor and filmmaker. Both were presented with the Maestro Award in recognition of their outstanding contributions to storytelling, cinema, and culture.

Expressing his gratitude for the recognition, Javed Akhtar further added, “Let there be power in your waves. Let there be determination. You lose the day you stop flowing, the day you give up.” Pankaj Kapur, reflecting on the significance of channelising energy and potential, remarked, “A wild river, when channelised, has the power to generate electricity. Similarly, through your training at Whistling Woods International, you have been equipped to harness your potential and transform it into an incredible force of creativity and energy.”

Delivering the keynote address, Ajit Andhare, COO of Viacom18 Studios, spoke about the convergence of creativity and business in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape. He emphasised the importance of resilience and determination, stating, “That spark, that revolution you must keep it alive when facing rejection. It is a difficult path; you have to keep the fire alive.”

The afternoon session honoured Manmohan Shetty, a visionary entrepreneur and producer who redefined the Indian entertainment industry. He was presented with the Maestro Award, acknowledging his trailblazing contributions as a producer and pioneer in cinema and experiential entertainment.

Grateful for the recognition, Manmohan Shetty shared his thoughts: “It is institutions like Whistling Woods International that provide the space and mentorship that turn ideas into reality. Thanks for bringing out new talent every day. Your dedication has made the institute the finest in the country.”

The keynote address by Roshan Abbas, Founder of Encompass and Kommune, encouraged the graduates to embrace storytelling as a powerful medium of change and innovation. Sharing a personal insight, he added, “It is an incredible time to be in this industry but strive to be the absolute best at what you do. Only then will you truly earn the pride of seeing your name roll in the credits, knowing the value of your contribution. When you step out into this world, have the best time in this industry, it needs your creativity, passion, enthusiasm, and unwavering ethics.”

As the convocation drew to a close, Subhash Ghai, Founder & Chairman of Whistling Woods International, addressed the graduating class with words of wisdom and encouragement. Reflecting on the institute’s journey and legacy, he urged graduates to embrace change and innovation, he said, “Embrace the evolving world by becoming seekers, inventors, and creators. Adapt to change and harness new technologies to tell your heartfelt stories.”

The convocation marked yet another step in WWI’s mission to nurture, guide, and inspire the next generation of leaders in media, arts, and communication. With over 300 graduates stepping into the world as confident and skilled professionals, the day was not just a celebration of achievements but also a promise of a brighter and more creative future for the industry.