Archives July 2024

Mid-year online sales clock 16percentage order volume growth: Unicommerce

30th July 2024, New Delhi: With the mid-year online sales by multiple marketplaces coming to a close, Unicommerce, one of India’s leading e-commerce enablement SaaS platforms, analysed over 8.5 million order items processed through its platform to uncover trends during this sale period.

Analysis of orders processed through the Unicommerce platform shows that customers cashed in on the mid-year sales offers extended by multiple marketplaces with 16% order volume growth during the week-long sale period between 19th – 25th of July 2024. This volume growth is in comparison to the 2023 mid-year sales that took place between 14th – 20th July last year. The volume growth was accompanied by an upward trend in gross merchandise value, which grew 19% YoY in 2024 over 2023.

While marketplaces offered attractive discounts across different categories, the rising consumer focus on healthy products and nutraceuticals noted higher demand leading to an impressive YoY order volume growth of over 78% in the health & pharma segment during the sale period in 2024. Categories including FMCG & agriculture and beauty, wellness & personal care also witnessed a YoY order volume growth of over 48% and 21% respectively during the sale period this year.

Products including protein supplements & muscle gainers, anti-aging collagens, face serums and ayurvedic shampoos among others witnessed higher consumer demand during the period. The average order value in the electronics & home appliances category (excluding mobile phones) increased more than 24% in 2024 sales as compared to the sales in 2023. Trends analysed by Unicommerce indicate higher consumer spend on electronic items like RO & water purifiers, smart tv stabilisers, lunch boxes and water kettles etc.

Unicommerce’s integrated e-commerce enablement SaaS platform enables end-to-end management of e-commerce operations for D2C brands, brand aggregators, traditionally offline brands, marketplaces, logistics players, and SMBs through a comprehensive suite of SaaS products. The company serves e-commerce brands and retailers across several categories. Some of Unicommerce’s clients include names like Lenskart, Zivame, Fabindia, TCNS (W, Aurelia), Mamaearth, Pharmeasy, WoW Skin Science, SUGAR Cosmetics, BoAT Lifestyle, Portronics, Emami, Cello, GNC and GOAT Brand Labs among others.

Client Associates Projects India’s $10 Trillion Economy at India@2030 Conference

Client Associates

New Delhi, 30th July 2024: Client Associates (CA), India’s leading private wealth management firm, successfully organized a session titled “India@2030: Investment Horizons” under its financial awareness initiative #WealthWiseWithCA. The power-packed session focused on assessing the investment horizons for the next 5 years following the Budget 2024 announcement made on 23rd July 2024, by the Finance Minister of India. The session saw huge participation of High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs) and Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNIs).

The event featured prominent speakers including Mr. Nilesh Shah, Managing Director of Kotak AMC, Mr. Himanshu Kohli, Co-founder of Client Associates, and Mr. Amarjeet Makhija, Partner at PWC. The discussion was moderated by Ms. Aprajita Sharma, Senior Journalist and YouTuber.

The session covered various speculations and insights around the budget announcement, particularly focusing on its impact on the HNI and UHNI space, start-up investments, alternate investments, mutual funds, and the market.

Mr. Nilesh Shah – Managing Director and Group President, Kotak Mahindra AMC said, ” One of the standout aspects of this budget was the government’s commitment towards fiscal consolidation, aiming to bring the primary deficit down to 0.5-0% by 2027-28. This approach is expected to significantly reduce the cost of capital in India, which will support sustainable equity valuations and provide ample capital for private entrepreneurs to invest and grow their businesses.” He further added, “The global trends are also propitious for investments as India became a part of the Global MSCI index. This, in turn, indicates the increasing interest of foreign investors in India.”

Himanshu Kohli, Co-founder, Client Associates said, “Recent developments suggest promising improvements for India’s financial landscape. As we aim for a $10 Trillion mark and anticipate significant returns—around 12% in INR and 9.5% in USD—the potential for market doubling within eight years highlights our growth trajectory. Enhanced credit ratings will facilitate better borrowing conditions and attract more investors, boosting overall market efficiency and portfolio profitability. Currently, only about 2% of the population files tax returns, starkly below the international norm of 50–70%. Addressing this, the government is simplifying tax laws and enhancing compliance measures. Expanding the tax base to include 15-20% of the population and improving the user-friendliness of the tax system will be crucial for sustainable economic growth and greater tax compliance. Digitalization will further support these efforts, making the tax system more accessible and efficient.”

Amarjeet Makhija, Partner, PwC said “In the changing landscape of taxation, the latest tweaks to capital gains tax rates show a big move to push long-term investing. By widening the gap between short-term and long-term tax rates, the government wants to create a more stable environment for investments and boost savings. This step is in line with the bigger plan to guide the economy to lasting growth. While market volatility and fluctuating tax policies can pose challenges, investors are advised to carefully consider their financial goals and risk appetite. The path shown by recent policies hints at a positive trend towards steady taxes and a more even way to handle capital investment.”

Simple Energy Raises Dollar 20Million in Series A to Scale Up Production and Expand National Footprint

 30th July 2024: Simple Energy, India’s leading electric vehicle and clean energy start-up, announced today that it has raised $20 million in its Series A funding round. This round included participation from the company’s current investors, such as high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) from notable family offices like the Haran family office, Dr. A Velumani’s family office, Vasavi family office, and the Desai Family office—promoter group of Apar Industries, among others.

Simple One

The newly raised funds will be used to scale up the production of Simple Energy’s two key offerings, Simple One and Simple Dot One. Additionally, the funds will support the company’s entry into new markets, expand its presence across India, and facilitate new product development. In alignment with its aggressive growth plans, Simple Energy aims to achieve a top line of INR 150 crore this fiscal year.

Mr. Suhas Rajkumar, Founder & CEO of Simple Energy, said, “As the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates significantly in India, we are committed to playing a pivotal role in this burgeoning ecosystem. The enthusiastic reception from our initial customer base in Bangalore has been truly remarkable, and we extend our heartfelt appreciation to all our investors for their trust in our brand. The capital raised will be tactically deployed to bolster our production capacity and expand our dealership network nationwide.”

Mr. Balamurugan Arumugam, Chief Growth Officer at Klarity, an HNI who participated in the round, said, “In the realm of sustainable transportation, Simple Energy shines as a beacon of innovation and progress. With a clear vision and a strategic roadmap mapped out for the next phase of growth, Simple Energy is primed to redefine the landscape of technologically advanced EV two-wheelers in India and beyond. As the brand gains momentum, it is poised to not only capture the local market but also emerge as a globally recognized leader in sustainable mobility, resonating with individuals worldwide who value innovation and environmental consciousness.”

Simple Energy, renowned for building India’s longest-range electric scooter, the Simple One, sets itself apart from competitors by manufacturing 95% of its scooter components in-house. Additionally, it is the only OEM in the country with a state-of-the-art motor manufacturing line within its 200,000 sq ft plant located in Shoolagiri, Tamil Nadu.

Simple Energy has two offerings in its portfolio—Simple One with 212 km of certified range and Simple Dot One with 151 km of certified range. Currently in a pilot phase in Bangalore, Simple Energy has begun deliveries in the city and is preparing to open dealership stores in Bangalore, Mysore, Chennai, Vijayawada, Goa, Vizag, Kochi, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Surat, Delhi, and Hyderabad in the coming weeks.

BMEG Adds Rohit Shaw as Senior VP and Rrahul Deo Manerao as West Media Head

New Delhi, 30 July 2024Bharat Media & Entertainment Group (BMEG), a leading player in the media and entertainment industry dedicated to helping brands and businesses grow, proudly announces the appointment of two senior executives to strengthen its leadership team. These strategic hires highlight BMEG‘s commitment to driving innovation, enhancing brand engagement, and accelerating growth across India.

rohit shaw

BMEG has appointed Rohit Shaw as the Senior Vice President of Integrated Media for BMEG India. With over 14 years of experience in FMCG, QSR, and mobile sectors, he will lead the planning function nationally and strengthen BMEG India’s Delhi operations. Meanwhile, Rrahul Deo Manerao joins as Business Head for West (Media), bringing more than two decades of industry experience in integrated media strategy, planning, and new business development.

Saurabh Jain, Country Head – Media at BMEG India, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Rohit and Rrahul, to BMEG India. Rohit’s stellar background across agencies and brands, Rrahul’s exceptional leadership skills, bring a powerful combination of talent to our team. These strategic additions are crucial as we continue to grow and innovate in the dynamic media landscape. I’m confident that their collective expertise will propel BMEG to new heights, enabling us to deliver even more remarkable results for our clients and solidify our position as a leader in the industry.”

Rohit Shaw, Senior Vice President of Integrated Media at BMEG India, said, “I’m excited to join BMEG as the Senior Vice President of Integrated Media and contribute to our national strategy. I’m enthusiastic about working with our talented team to develop impactful media strategies and achieve significant results for BMEG.”

“I’m thrilled to join BMEG during this transformative time in the media industry,” said Rrahul Deo Manerao, Business Head for West (Media) at BMEG India. “In my role as Business Head for West, I’m focused on harnessing the power of intelligence, creativity, and passion to propel BMEG’s business growth in the market.”

These appointments come at a time of transformation for BMEG as it expands its capabilities and strengthens its position in the industry. Each executive brings unique skills and experiences that will contribute to the company’s mission. The leadership team’s commitment to excellence and innovation promises exciting opportunities ahead for both BMEG and its clients in India.

Vernost Unveils New Brand Identity for Future of Loyalty, Payments, and Travel

Vernos

New Delhi, 30th July 2024 – Vernost, a leading B2B technology company, is rebranding itself to emphasize its commitment to developing digital innovation

across various sectors. In this reference, the company takes pride in introducing its new website and logo, which have been given blue and green colors, signifying trustworthiness, innovation, sustainability, and a balance that further confirms Vernost’s adherence.

Founded in 2014, Vernost, well-known for its advanced solutions in loyalty, payments, and travel technology, is rebranding to reinforce its market position. With the current rebranding, Vernost showcases its dedication to AI and cloud technologies, aiming to offer revolutionary, purchaser-driven solutions with lasting impact. Vernost’s focus has shifted to being an AI-powered, cloud-based, API-centric organization, and the rebranding aligns with the company’s goal to enhance digital innovation.

The company has delivered tailored experiences to over 50 million users. Vernost’s mission is to deliver innovative, customer-driven solutions that provide distinct value and lasting impact for clients and their customers.

“Although our business has evolved significantly in recent years, it became clear that perceptions of the company have not advanced at the same pace. Our rebranding reflects Vernost’s ongoing dedication to improving and excelling. By focusing on delivering value and driving innovation, we are set to transform the digital landscape for businesses worldwide,” said Pankaj Tripathi, CEO of Vernost. “We aim to push the boundaries of technology, providing tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of companies globally.”

Vernost’s impressive clientele includes Axis Bank, Emaar, Tata NEU, SBI Card, GEMS Education, and Google. These partnerships highlight Vernost’s ability to deliver exceptional value and innovative solutions to leading organizations. Recently, Vernost, already partnered with Expedia Group, teamed up with IndiGo. This partnership expands IndiGo’s travel services, giving access to over 700,000 properties in 250,000 destinations worldwide.

The company offers three main services:

ClubClass Loyalty Suite: A comprehensive engagement platform with loyalty management, marketing automation, global rewards, and multi-tenancy support.

VePay Payment Solutions: Tailored for banks and enterprises, providing payment orchestration, gateway solutions, merchant onboarding, and dispute management.

VeTravel Solutions: Enhances retention and satisfaction in travel, supporting B2C, B2B, and corporate bookings for OTAs, agencies, and corporate travel.

With a decade of operations, a workforce of over 350 employees, and clients in more than 10 countries, Vernost has established a strong global footprint. The company serves more than 50 brands across 15 industries. Vernost’s integration of over 60 global suppliers and partnerships with 5000+ brands worldwide underscores its commitment to customer success.

As Vernost continues to move forward, its commitment to innovation, excellence, and customer-centric solutions remains its north star. With CEO Pankaj Tripathi at the helm, Vernost is ready to grow its influence and spark digital transformation across different product verticals and industries.

Genpact Supports embecta’s Spin-Off into an Independent Diabetes Care Company

NEW Delhi, July 30, 2024 – Genpact (NYSE: G), a global professional services and solutions firm delivering outcomes that shape the future, has been working with Embecta (Nasdaq: EMBC), a global diabetes care company, to support its spin-off from Becton Dickinson and Company (BD) and subsequent evolution as an independent leader in the diabetes technology market.

“Genpact’s deep expertise in the life sciences and healthcare sectors enables us to leverage extensive knowledge alongside our capabilities in data, technology, and AI. This combination allows us to drive positive outcomes and provide innovative solutions tailored to our clients’ needs,” said Balkrishan “BK” Kalra, President and CEO, of Genpact. “Together, we are dedicated to realizing Embecta’s mission – to develop and provide solutions that make life better for people living with diabetes – and furthering Genpact’s purpose: the relentless pursuit of a world that works better for people.”

Genpact initially supported Embecta’s spin-off from BD and over time, the partnership has evolved to modernize Embecta’s operations. More specifically, Genpact supported the implementation of a robust ERP and launched an operating model with standardized global processes to meet the needs of a newly formed medical device company. Additionally, Genpact established end-to-end HR, finance, and procurement processes. This provided uninterrupted customer support and supply chain stability enabling Embecta to continue providing insulin injection devices to 30 million people in more than 100 countries without interruption.

“From the beginning, our relationship was rooted in shared values and a commitment to mutual success,” said Devdatt (Dev) Kurdikar, President and Chief Executive Officer of Embecta. “Our seamless collaboration resulted in the successful transition of Embecta to an independent entity, ensuring a continuous flow of goods and working capital, maintaining supply chain continuity, and providing critical support for our customers and the people they serve.

Lexicon IHM & IMA Host Innovative Food Styling and Photography Workshop

Pune, 30 July 2024: In a captivating confluence of culinary art and media expertise, Lexicon Institute of Hotel Management (Lexicon IHM) and Lexicon Institute of Media & Animation (Lexicon IMA) proudly hosted an exclusive Food Styling & Food Photography workshop led by the distinguished Chef Michael Swamy.

chef

Chef Swamy, a pioneer in food media, brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the workshop. Based in Mumbai, Chef Swamy is not only a renowned chef but also a food stylist, writer, and travel photographer. A graduate of the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu, London, he has authored several acclaimed cookbooks, including The East Indian Kitchen, Easy Guide to Pairing Indian Food and Wine, and Masala Dabba. His exemplary work has earned him multiple Gourmand Awards, underscoring his contributions
to the culinary arts and media.

True to its motto, “By the Hoteliers, For the Hoteliers,” Lexicon IHM aimed to bridge the gap between culinary practice and visual storytelling through this workshop. It provided a unique opportunity for students to delve into the creative and technical aspects of food presentation, honing skills essential for the modern hospitality industry. Integrating practical training with real-world applications, the event enhanced students’ ability to present culinary creations appealingly. Additionally, it provided valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to interact with an industry veteran and fellow peers, fostering connections that could be beneficial throughout their careers.

Chef Savita Patil, Vice Principal, Lexicon IHM, added, “Workshops like these are invaluable in shaping our students into well-rounded professionals. By learning the art of food styling and photography, they gain critical skills that enhance their culinary creations and open new career avenues.”

Lexicon IMA students were equally engaged, gaining hands-on experience in the intricate world of food photography. The workshop covered vital topics such as the importance of the right lighting, optimal camera angles, and meticulous food placement. Students learned how these elements are crucial in creating visually appealing and appetizing images, significantly influencing customer perceptions and enhancing marketing strategies.

Ms. Dipta Joshi, Principal, Lexicon IMA, emphasized, “While our goal is to build an institution that sets a standard for others to follow, our driving force remains the passion to be a part of a flourishing media and marketing world. Workshops like these empower our students with essential skills and inspiration to excel in the dynamic field of media, allowing them to blend creativity with technical expertise and stand out in the industry.”

The workshop concluded with an interactive session where students from both institutes had the opportunity to ask questions and seek guidance on pursuing careers in food styling and photography. Chef Swamy emphasized the growing demand for skilled professionals in this field and how mastering these skills can open diverse career paths in the hospitality and media industries.

The workshop was a resounding success, reflecting the commitment of Lexicon IHM and Lexicon IMA to provide holistic and industry-relevant education. This event not only enriched students’ academic experience but also inspired them to explore new dimensions of their chosen fields.

Baird Medical Announces Engagement and Education Program for the Development of Thyroid Microwave Ablation Technology

Frisco, Texas – July 31, 2024 – Baird Medical Devices, Inc. (“Baird Medical”), a leading developer and provider of microwave ablation (“MWA”) medical devices in China and the United States, today announced a cross-market engagement and education program designed at fostering both knowledge and awareness of thyroid Microwave Ablation Technology. Baird Medical both hosts and participates in a range of programs over the course of the year to facilitate the safe development of the industry.

It is critically important to understand what makes MWA a preferred choice to radio frequency ablation as a procedure. There are numerous benefits for both patient and physician addressing both safety and aesthetic appearance. However, awareness of the key differences and the implementation of the procedure are still relatively low. This has led to Baird Medical developing a unique program of engagement and education about this new therapy.

“Regardless of where we develop our business, fostering meaningful relationships that contribute to industry excellence in microwave ablation is where we want to be,” said Ms. Haimei Wu, Founder and CEO of Baird Medical. “We are delighted to play a role in convening leading medical experts to drive meaningful progress in addressing any misconceptions as well as ensuring safe and efficient use of this innovative medical technology.”

Baird Medical hosts the third Global Thyroid Microwave Ablation Technology Exchange Conference

On July 25th, Baird Medical hosted the third Global Thyroid Microwave Ablation Technology Exchange Conference. This event drew together distinguished industry experts from both the United States and China to share their knowledge and experience during the event. From China, several luminaries gave talks including Dr. Xiaoqing Pei from the Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center; Dr. Chenfang Zhu from The Ninth People’s Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine; and, Dr. Yunjun Wang from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center.

Numerous esteemed experts from the United States also joined the conference and participated in the dialogue, including Dr. Alireza Falahati from Utah Endocrinology Associates; Dr. Jennifer Hong Kuo from Columbia University Irving Medical Center; Dr. Toni Beninato from Rutgers Cancer Institute; Dr. Kepal N. Patel from NYU Langone Hospitals; Dr. Iheoma Nwaogu from El Camino Health – Mountain View Hospital; Dr. Gary G. Tse from UCLA Radiology Medical Group; Dr. Melanie Goldfarb from Providence Saint John’s Health Center; Dr. Gregory W. Randolph from Harvard Medical School; Dr. Stephanie L. Lee from Boston Medical Center; Dr. Jagdish. K. Dhingra from BethIsrael Deaconess Medical Center; Dr. Julia E. Noel from Sandford Medicine; and, Dr. Ashok R. Shaha from Memorial Sloan Ketterinc Cancer Center.

The comprehensive educational exchange delved into various aspects of managing thyroid growth, addressing a range of topics from application and preparation to technical modifications and essentials for safe and effective microwave ablation of benign thyroid nodules. The conference also showcased hands-on procedures and techniques for safe and effective ablation work.

Baird Medical joins Greater Bay Area Medical Device Conference & 61st Medical Device Consumables Resource Expo in China

On June 26th, Baird Medical’s General Manager, Mr. Hou Wei, joined the Greater Bay Area Medical Device Conference & 61st Medical Device Consumables Resource Expo in Guangzhou, China. The event brought together a diverse group of experts and professionals from China’s medical device and healthcare sectors.

During the conference, Mr. Hou gave an informative presentation on Microwave Ablation Technology. He specifically highlighted the technology’s use in thyroid treatments and discussed the significant role it can play in shaping the future of healthcare in China.

Baird Medical is headquartered in Guangzhou, a major city in Southern China which sits at the apex of China’s Greater Bay Area, an area encompassing several cities and hubs across Guangdong province, Macao and Hong Kong that are critical to China’s future growth strategy in innovation.

Unforgettable Friendship Day Gifts to Delight Your Bestie

Swiss Beauty Craze Kit

Friendship Day is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to celebrate the unique bond you share with your best friends. This year, skip the ordinary and surprise them with something extraordinary. We’ve curated a list of fabulous gifts that are sure to bring a smile to their face and show just how much you appreciate them. From luxurious fragrances to versatile makeup kits to skincare, these thoughtful presents are perfect for making this Friendship Day truly memorable.

The Body Shop Full Rose Eau De Parfum – 75ML

This Friendship Day, celebrate your unique bond with your friends by gifting The Body Shop’s Full Rose Eau De Parfum. This unisex fragrance from the Full Flowers collection captures the essence of individuality with notes of soft rose petals, green leaves, woody stems, juicy fruits, and sweet resin. With its luxurious rose absolute from Grasse and a commitment to 90% natural ingredients, it’s a scent that evolves beautifully throughout the day, just like the special qualities of your friendships. This Eau de Parfum comes in a bottle made from recycled glass, with a cap designed to be more sustainable, made of naturally renewable wood and cork. And when you’ve spritzed the last few drops, the bottle can be recycled again.

Link: https://www.thebodyshop.in/full-rose-eau-de-parfum-75ml/p/p143012?srsltid=AfmBOoqfCprprGgvXkGFITxVa9g_O78PcKJgycIe8UlxyLd59tPo4Qjm

Swiss Beauty CRAZE Seriously Slayer Makeup Kit

Surprise your bestie with the Swiss Beauty CRAZE Seriously Slayer Makeup Kit—a perfect blend of practicality and glamor. This versatile kit features everything you need for a flawless look: the CRAZE Eyeliner and Stamp Duo for precision winged eyeliner, the Eyeshadow and Blush Duo with four eyeshadow shades and a gorgeous blush for on-the-go beauty, and the Duo Lip Colour crayon that seamlessly transitions from day to night with its two stunning shades. Plus, the CRAZE Makeup Fixer keeps your makeup fresh and your skin hydrated all day long. Celebrate your friendship with this all-in-one beauty kit that’s as stylish and fun as your bond.

Link: https://swissbeauty.in/products/craze-seriously-slayer-makeup-kit

Kass Vitamin C Serum – Brightening & Radiant glow

Brighten up your friendship with the Ultimate Brightening Serum of Kass Care. Infused with potent antioxidants like 3-O-ethyl ascorbate (Vitamin C), exotic Kesar, and Candida extract, it revitalizes, fights oxidation, and reveals radiant, healthy skin. Say goodbye to dullness and hello to a ravishing radiance.

Link: https://kasscare.com/products/vitamin-c-serum?_pos=1&_psq=bri&_ss=e&_v=1.0

Raizing Global Launches Liv Croatia Residency Programme for European Living Investment

Raizing Global, a leading provider of residency and citizenship solutions, is proud to announce the launch of the Liv Croatia Residency by Investment Programme. This innovative program offers a unique and affordable opportunity for Indian citizens to secure residency in beautiful Croatia, starting at just €40,000 (approximately ₹36 lakhs).

  1. The Liv Croatia program is designed to be particularly attractive for Indian citizens seeking a European residence permit. This program provides a gateway to European living and unlocks the door to a world of benefits, including:
  2. Hassle-Free Residency: Enjoy a streamlined application process guided by Raizing Global’s expert team.
  3. Unparalleled Value: Liv Croatia boasts one of Europe’s most accessible residency programs with a minimum investment of €40,000.
  4. Freedom of Movement: Experience the beauty of Europe with visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.
  5. World-Class Benefits: Residents gain access to Croatia’s top-notch healthcare system, esteemed educational institutions, and a high quality of life.
  6. Investment Flexibility: The program offers a variety of investment options to suit your financial goals.
  7. Choose from:

7.1. Real Estate: Invest in stunning Croatian properties.’

7.2. Business Ventures: Fuel your entrepreneurial dreams in a dynamic economy.

7.3. Government Bonds: Make a secure investment with guaranteed returns.

7.4. Bonus Inclusion: The program offers a unique perk – ownership of 1 acre of prime farmland!

“We are thrilled to launch Liv Croatia,” says Bharat Sidheshwar Rai, Founder, and Mayank Jagwani, Co-Founder of Liv Croatia.”This program provides a pathway for individuals to invest in their future, become part of a dynamic community, and experience the magic of Croatia. Croatia is a hidden gem in Europe, and we’re excited to make it accessible to more people.”

Croatia boasts a stunning Mediterranean climate, breathtaking Adriatic coastline, and rich cultural history. It offers a strategic location, a gateway to Central and Southeast Europe with excellent connectivity, a Thriving Economy, a stable and growing economy with exciting business opportunities, and a commitment to economic growth and development and safety and security, renowned as one of the safest countries in the world.