Author: News Desk
In a groundbreaking move, Saudi Arabia’s national tourism brand, ‘Saudi Welcome To Arabia,’ has launched a global marketing campaign featuring football sensation Lionel Messi, who also serves as a Tourism ambassador for the country. The campaign, titled ‘Go Beyond What You Think,’ is strategically targeting key markets in Europe, India, and China. This initiative, spanning TV, social media, digital platforms, and online travel agencies (OTA), aims to dispel lingering misconceptions about the destination while inviting global audiences to witness the vibrant cultural transformation unfolding in Saudi Arabia. The campaign is rooted in consumer insights, revealing prevalent stereotypes and misunderstandings about…
One97 Communications, the parent company of Paytm brand, said it would disassociate from Paytm Payments Bank and partner with other banks. The move comes in aftermath of RBI’s actions against PPBL, which led to 20% drop in OCL’s shares. Addressing analysts, Paytm Founder and OCL CEO Vijay Shekhar said the development was a “speed bump” and the company will tide over the crisis. On January 31, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed restrictions on Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL) after reviewing a system audit report and a subsequent compliance validation report from external auditors. The bank, a subsidiary of India’s…
Pankaj and Radhika Oswal, a distinguished Indian-origin couple currently residing in Switzerland. They have recently acquired one of the world’s top 10 most expensive and lavish residences. This exquisite abode, known as ‘Villa Vari,’ comes with an astounding price tag of $200 million, which is approximately equivalent to Rs 1,649 crores. Originally owned by Greek heiress Christina Onassis, the Swiss mansion has undergone extensive renovations by the Oswals, who possess immense wealth and a penchant for extravagance. Renowned interior designer Jeffrey Wilkes was tasked with the redesign, and his remarkable work includes furnishings and artifacts sourced from around the globe.…
In the recently announced Union Budget 2024, the Indian government is extending its support to startups and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) by continuing tax benefits and exemptions for investments by sovereign wealth and pension funds until March 2025. This move is part of the budget’s efforts to create a favorable environment for business growth. The extended tax benefits for startups provide more financial flexibility, recognizing their importance in driving innovation and economic development. The budget also highlights support for the MSME sector through timely financial assistance, technological aid, and training programs to enhance global competitiveness. To foster innovation, the…
Nirmala Sitharaman, India’s esteemed Union Finance Minister, is renowned not only for her astute financial acumen but also for her taste in fashion. The scrutiny of her wardrobe, particularly the selection of sarees she adorns during the Union Budget presentation, has become a subject of considerable interest and discourse. Sitharaman’s Selection of Blue and Cream Silk Saree In the Union Budget presentation for the fiscal year 2024, Nirmala Sitharaman grabbed attention in a resplendent blue and cream printed silk saree, embellished with intricate Kantha embroidery. l. The ash-blue colour and intricate motifs showcased her blend of cultural heritage and aesthetic…
The Indian government is intensifying its efforts to bolster the Electric Vehicle (EV) industry and fortify the associated charging infrastructure, aligning with its commitment to achieve a net-zero emission target by 2070. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during her presentation of the Interim Union Budget 2024 on February 1, emphasized the nation’s focus on expanding the EV ecosystem and enhancing the charging infrastructure to support the transition to cleaner modes of transportation. “With India’s aim to achieve net zero emissions by 2070, the government is dedicated to expanding and fortifying the EV ecosystem while concurrently developing the essential charging infrastructure,” stated…
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her presentation of the Interim Budget 2024, highlighted several women-centric schemes aimed at empowering women economically. A notable announcement was made regarding the expansion of the Lakhpati Didi Scheme, which previously benefited 2 crore women and will now cover 3 crore women. The decision to enhance the initiative stemmed from the positive impact observed in the lives of 1 crore women who have already availed its benefits. During her Budget speech, FM Sitharaman emphasized, “The Lakhpati Didi initiative will be enhanced from 2 to 3 crore beneficiaries. Nine crore women have experienced transformation in their lives, achieving…
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today said India’s economy is going through a profound transformation while presenting the Narendra Modi government’s last budget before the Lok Sabha polls due by May. The government is focused on improving conditions for the poor, women, youth and farmers, Ms Nirmala Sitharaman said in her Budget 2024 speech, setting the tone for welfare schemes to be announced in these areas. The Finance Minister said that the next five years will see unprecedented economic growth in India. As per the Finance Minister, India’s economy, the fastest growing among major nations, is going through profound change. The Budget has…
E-commerce giant Flipkart is expanding its horizons, venturing into the realm of payments to offer customers a seamless and comprehensive shopping experience. This move puts it in direct competition with rival Amazon, as both platforms aim to provide a full suite of financial services. Diversifying Beyond E-commerce Flipkart is no longer just an online marketplace; it’s evolving into a multifaceted platform. In addition to its core business, it now offers insurance, mobile recharges, and a range of payment products, mirroring the strategies of leading fintech players. Comprehensive Payment Suite Both Flipkart and Amazon are vying for dominance by providing a…
The Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) has successfully tested personal loan transactions with Easypay and DMI Finance in January 2024, paving the way for further innovations in the financial services sector. This achievement comes amid ONDC’s continued growth, witnessing over 1 lakh daily transactions in retail and ride-hailing, a year after its entry into hyperlocal commerce. ONDC is actively building infrastructure for credit, insurance, and wealth management, with key players like Aditya Birla Capital, Tata Capital, and Bajaj Finserv in various stages of integration. A significant focus for ONDC is facilitating loan transactions for small business owners, with plans…