Archives February 2026

Pond’s Anti-Blue Light UV Miracle SPF 50 PA Protects Skin from Screen-Related Damage

Pond’s Anti-Blue Light UV Miracle SPF 50 PA Protects Skin from Screen-Related Damage

Late-night Netflix binges and long screen hours expose skin to frequent blue light from phones, tablets, and TVs. This digital light can penetrate the skin, contributing to pigmentation dullness and early ageing alongside traditional UV damage. The impact becomes stronger in a dark room where the contrast makes your skin absorb more concentrated light from screens.

This is why skin protection now goes beyond outdoors. Pond’s Anti‑Blue Light UV Miracle SPF 50 PA++++ & DPF offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 PA++++ protection, plus a Digital Protection Factor (DPF) to help shield skin from blue light emitted by screens as well as UVA and UVB rays. Its lightweight, tinted formula blends seamlessly with no white cast, enhancing natural radiance and helping blur imperfections, making it ideal for daily indoor and outdoor use.

Angelini Pharma and Quiver Bioscience Announce Strategic Research Collaboration and Licensing Agreement to Discover and Advance Novel Therapeutics for Genetic Epilepsies

Business Wire India

 

  • Angelini Pharma secures exclusive global license rights to future identified drug targets
  • Quiver receives undisclosed advance payment and is eligible for future milestone-dependent payments and royalties
  • Collaboration further expands Angelini Pharma’s focus on brain health, building on its deep therapeutic expertise and drug development experience

 

Angelini Pharma, part of the privately owned Angelini Industries, and Quiver Bioscience (“Quiver”), a discovery technology and therapeutics company advancing programs for the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, announced today that they have entered into a collaboration and licensing agreement to advance novel therapeutics for genetic epilepsies. The collaboration brings together Quiver’s unique drug discovery capabilities, data assets, and AI models with Angelini Pharma’s established expertise in brain health and epilepsy drug development.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260223465174/en/

 

 

Under the terms of the multi-year agreement, Quiver will receive an undisclosed advance payment and support for defined research activities along with additional licensing fees granting Angelini Pharma exclusive access to collaboration-generated data during the research term. Quiver is also eligible to receive additional milestones payments of up to $120 million and additional royalties upon Angelini’s election of drug targets identified through the collaboration.

 

 

“The prospects of our collaboration with Quiver Bioscience are very promising,” said Rafal Kaminski, MD, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer at Angelini Pharma.” The aim is to generate novel scientific insights on a scale and richness that has been unprecedented in this area of research. By applying cutting-edge technologies and advanced data analytics approaches, including AI, this partnership will generate a unique data set to inform the development of novel therapies in the future.”

 

 

In its latest collaboration, Angelini Pharma will leverage Quiver’s technology platform to break new grounds in deeper understanding a broad set of Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs). DEEs are a group of rare diseases affecting children worldwide, causing a spectrum of neurodevelopmental symptoms and severe treatment-resistant seizures linked to genetic mutations. They are often caused by gene mutations, but functional and molecular consequences of such mutations are not well understood in most cases. Despite introduction of recently approved treatments for some DEEs, there is still a pressing unmet need for more effective therapies. Quiver Bioscience’s advanced platform uses human neuronal models coupled with single-cell transcriptomic resolution, optical electrophysiology, and AI to accelerate the discovery of precision therapies for these complex conditions. The ultimate goal of the partnership is to discover and develop differentiated therapeutics that can address multiple DEEs.

 

 

“We’re excited to embark on this collaboration with the excellent team at Angelini Pharma,” said Graham T. Dempsey, PhD, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at Quiver Bioscience. “Together we are pursuing a novel approach uniquely enabled by Quiver’s technology platform. By leveraging altered electrophysiology in response to genetic perturbations as the core neuronal classifier and integrating paired multi-modal data, we aim to link functional phenotypes with the underlying molecular drivers. We look forward to translating this science into new medicines for a disease area in urgent need of innovation.”

 

 

“This new partnership is another step forward to advance our strategic priorities, strengthen our global presence and potentially expand our pipeline of innovative medicines and promising candidates”, said Sergio Marullo di Condojanni, Chief Executive Officer at Angelini Pharma. “It follows a number of strategic acquisitions and collaboration agreements that we have entered over the course of the past two years and will further boost our leadership and portfolio in brain health”.

 

 

Destum Partners acted as transaction advisor to Quiver Bioscience.

 

 

About Quiver Bioscience

 

 

Quiver Bioscience is a technology-driven biotechnology company focused on accelerating discovery of empirically grounded, AI-driven therapeutics that deliver transformative value to patients with neurological disease. Quiver has built the first-of-its kind perturbation atlas of neuronal behavior using its proprietary Genomic Positioning System (GPS) platform, enabling precise target identification, functional validation, and safety assessment. Their empirical-in-a-loop approach integrates scalable human neuronal models, advanced single-cell optical electrophysiology and multi-omics techniques, with machine learning and surrogate models, to identify novel therapeutic targets and optimal candidate molecules. For information, including scientific publications describing the application of Quiver’s GPS platform to drug discovery, visit www.quiverbioscience.com.

 

 

About Angelini Pharma

 

 

Angelini Pharma is an international pharmaceutical company, part of the privately owned multi-business Angelini Industries. The Company researches, develops and commercializes health solutions with a focus on the areas of Brain Health, including Mental Health and Epilepsy, and Consumer Health. Founded in Italy at the beginning of the 20th century, Angelini Pharma operates directly in 20 countries, employing more than 3,000 people. Its products are marketed in over 70 countries through strategic alliances with leading international pharmaceutical groups. More information: https://www.angelinipharma.com.

 

 

About Angelini Industries

 

 

Angelini Industries is a multinational industrial group founded in Ancona in 1919 by Francesco Angelini. Today, Angelini Industries represents a solid and diversified industrial reality that employs approximately 5,800 employees and operates in 21 countries around the world with revenues of over 2 billion euros, generated in the health, industrial technology, and consumer goods sectors. A targeted investment strategy for growth; constant commitment to research and development; deep knowledge of markets and business sectors, make Angelini Industries one of the Italian companies of excellence in the sectors in which it operates. To learn more visit https://www.angeliniindustries.com.

 

 

 

 

 

IQM, a Global Leader for Quantum Computing, to Become the First Listed European Quantum Company, Through Merger with Real Asset Acquisition Corp.

Business Wire India

  • Global commercial leader with 21 systems sold to 13 customers to date – including 4 out of the top 10 supercomputing centres globally.
  • Industrial leader with 15 systems delivered (largest number publicly disclosed by selected quantum companies1), 30+ computers built, own chip factory and quantum data centre.
  • The transaction values IQM at a pre-money equity valuation of approximately USD 1.8 billion and makes IQM the first European quantum company to go public.
  • With the close of this transaction, IQM’s cash position expected to exceed USD 450 million.2
  • Significant business momentum, with at least USD 35 million3 2025 revenue (unaudited) and over USD 100 million bookings / visibility as of year-end 2025.
  • Strong commercial integrations with high-performance computing and enterprise platforms across the quantum/AI value chain such as NVIDIA, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, AWS, Toyo Corporation and Bechtle AG.
  • Technical successes, achieving greater than 99.9% fidelity for single-qubit and two-qubit gates and readouts in their processors, and on track to deliver broad commercialization with the release of its next generation system, Halocene.

 

IQM Finland Oy, a global leader in full-stack superconducting quantum computers (“IQM”, “IQM Quantum Computers” or the “Company”), and Real Asset Acquisition Corp. (Nasdaq: RAAQ), a special purpose acquisition company (“RAAQ”), today announced they have entered into a definitive business combination agreement, which will result in IQM becoming a public company and listing American Depositary Shares on one of the two leading U.S. stock exchanges. The transaction provides funding with the aim to accelerate IQM’s technology and commercial development towards fault-tolerance quantum computing, further advancing its position as a leading provider of quantum computers.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260223639678/en/

 

 

IQM Quantum Computers is going public

IQM Quantum Computers is going public

 

Headquartered in Finland, IQM is also considering a dual listing that would see the trading of IQM’s ordinary shares on the Helsinki stock exchange, which would be expected to take place following the completion of this transaction.

 

IQM is a quantum computing company that builds full stack, open-architecture systems that can be deployed on-premise or accessed via the cloud. IQM operates a vertically integrated business model, boasting a unique combination of proprietary infrastructure from their own chip design tool and software developer platform, to a quantum chip fab, assembly line and data centre, allowing the company to accelerate its innovation cycles, deliver best-in-class quantum computing to its customers and enabling the quantum ecosystem to grow.

 

 

Transaction Highlights:

 

 

Following completion of the transaction, IQM’s cash on its balance sheet is expected to be in excess of USD 450 million cash at closing4 (including IQM’s existing cash), providing runway for continued broad commercial advantage:

 

 

  • Approximately USD 175 million of cash held in RAAQ’s trust account (based on the current amount in the trust account and assuming no redemptions);
  • Approximately USD 134 million in proceeds from a PIPE financing at USD 10.00 per share from leading new and existing and institutional investors, to close concurrently with the business combination, subject to the satisfaction of certain customary closing conditions;
  • Expected USD 24 million in proceeds from the cash exercise of outstanding IQM warrants prior to the closing;
  • Existing cash on IQM’s balance sheet of USD 172 million (unaudited as of year-end 2025); and
  • The transaction values IQM at a pre-money equity valuation of approximately USD 1.8 billion.

 

 

Jan Goetz, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, IQM,said: “We built IQM from the beginning for one purpose — to put working quantum computers in the hands of the people who will use them to solve real problems. Not someday. Now. Quantum computing is a science project no more. It is an industry where customers own, operate, and build on advanced quantum computers. That’s what IQM makes possible.”

 

Peter Ort, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Chairman, Real Asset Acquisition Corp, said: “IQM has built and delivered more on-premises quantum systems than any other competitor5 — to some of the most demanding research institutions on earth. This transaction will accelerate the growth of a company that has already earned its position in the field, with real customers, running real quantum systems, today.”

 

 

Sierk Poetting, Chairman of IQM’s Board of Directors, said: “Going public is not a change of direction but is rather an acceleration. The board stands fully behind IQM’s mission and goals to make quantum infrastructure as foundational and accessible as classical computing.”

 

 

The existing IQM shareholders will not sell any shares or receive any cash consideration as part of the transaction and all material IQM shareholders have committed to a customary lock-up agreement at close of this transaction.

 

 

The board of directors of both IQM and RAAQ have each unanimously approved the proposed business combination. The closing of the proposed business combination is subject to, among other things, the approval by shareholders of RAAQ and IQM of the business combination agreement and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

 

 

Additional information about the proposed business combination, including a copy of the business combination agreement, will be provided in a Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed by RAAQ with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

 

 

The securities being sold in the PIPE financing have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or applicable state securities laws and accordingly may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration with the SEC or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and such applicable state securities laws.

 

 

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities, nor shall there be any sale of the securities being offered in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

 

 

Conference Call Information

 

 

Management of IQM and RAAQ will host an investor conference call to discuss the proposed transaction and review an investor presentation, with exact details to be updated and confirmed with a follow-up announcement. Interested investors will be able to access a recording of the conference call by visiting https://meetiqm.com/investors/. A transcript of the call will also be filed by RAAQ with the SEC.

 

 

Advisors

 

 

J.P. Morgan SE is serving as financial advisor and capital market advisor to IQM. J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and TD Cowen are serving as PIPE placement agents to IQM. Rothschild & Co. is serving as financial advisor and capital markets advisor to IQM’s and its Board of Directors. TD Cowen is serving as financial advisor and capital markets advisor to RAAQ. Cohen & Company Capital Markets is serving as a capital markets advisor to RAAQ. Cooley LLP and Borenius Attorneys Ltd are serving as legal advisors to IQM, and Perkins Coie LLP, Krogerus Attorneys Ltd and Conyers Dill & Pearman LLP are serving as legal advisors to RAAQ. DLA Piper LLP (US) is serving as legal advisor to J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and TD Cowen. The Blueshirt Group is serving as investor relations advisor to IQM.

 

 

About IQM Quantum Computers

 

 

IQM Finland Oy (“IQM”, “IQM Quantum Computers”, “Company”) is a global leader in superconducting quantum computers. IQM provides both on-premises full-stack quantum computers and a cloud platform to access its systems. IQM customers include leading high-performance computing centres, research laboratories, universities, and enterprises that require full access to quantum hardware and software. IQM has over 300 employees, with headquarters in Finland and a global presence including France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, UK and the United States.

 

 

About Real Asset Acquisition Corp.

 

 

Based in Princeton, NJ, Real Asset Acquisition Corp. is a Nasdaq-listed (Nasdaq: RAAQ) special purpose acquisition company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The RAAQ team includes seasoned quantum computing experts with deep technical and industry experience.

 

 

1 Represent publicly announced on-premises deliveries from each of IBM, D-Wave, Pasqal, Rigetti, IonQ, OQC, Quandela, Anyon Systems, QuEra, Atom Computing and Quantinuum

 

 

2Inclusive of cash commitments in excess of $130M from the PIPE, in addition to approximately $24M from expected exercises of warrants prior to transaction close, in addition to cash proceeds of the RAAQ trust (assuming nil redemptions) and IQM existing cash as of 12/31/25, less expected transaction expenses of $25M

 

 

3 Exchange rate of EUR/USD of 1.174 as of December 31, 2025

 

 

4 Inclusive of cash commitments in excess of $130M from the PIPE, in addition to approximately $24M from expected exercises of warrants prior to transaction close, in addition to cash proceeds of the RAAQ trust (assuming nil redemptions) and IQM existing cash as of 12/31/25, less expected transaction expenses of $25M

 

 

5 Represent publicly announced on-premises deliveries from each of IBM, D-Wave, Pasqal, Rigetti, IonQ, OQC, Quandela, Anyon Systems, QuEra, Atom Computing and Quantinuum

 

 

Additional Information About the Proposed Transaction and Where to Find It

 

 

In connection with the proposed business combination, IQM intends to file with the SEC a registration statement on Form F-4 (the “Registration Statement”), which will include a preliminary proxy statement of RAAQ and a preliminary prospectus of IQM, and after the Registration Statement is declared effective by the SEC, RAAQ will mail the definitive proxy statement/prospectus relating to the proposed business combination to its shareholders as of a record date to be established for voting at the extraordinary general meeting of its shareholders (the “Extraordinary General Meeting”). The Registration Statement, including the proxy statement/prospectus contained therein, will contain important information about the proposed business combination and the other matters to be voted upon at the Extraordinary General Meeting. This communication does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the proposed business combination and is not intended to provide the basis for any investment decision or any other decision in respect of such matters. RAAQ and IQM may also file other documents with the SEC regarding the proposed business combination. RAAQ’s shareholders and other interested persons are advised to read, when available, the Registration Statement, including the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus contained therein, the amendments thereto and the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed in connection with the proposed business combination, as these materials will contain important information about RAAQ, IQM and the proposed business combination. Shareholders may obtain copies of the Registration Statement, including the preliminary or definitive proxy statement/prospectus contained therein, and the other documents filed or that will be filed by RAAQ and IQM with the SEC, once available, without charge, at the SEC’s website located at www.sec.gov.

 

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

 

This communication includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. federal securities laws and “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable non-U.S. securities laws (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “intend,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “seek,” “target,” “continue,” “could,” “may,” “might,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict” or similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements are based upon current estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by IQM and its management, and RAAQ and its management, as the case may be, are inherently uncertain. These statements include: projections of market opportunity and market share; estimates of customer adoption rates and usage patterns; projections regarding the Company’s ability to commercialize new products and technologies; projections of development and commercialization costs and timelines; expectations regarding the Company’s ability to execute its business model and the expected financial benefits of such model; expectations regarding the Company’s ability to attract, retain and expand its customer base; the Company’s deployment of proceeds from capital raising transactions; the Company’s expectations concerning relationships with strategic partners, suppliers, governments, state-funded entities, regulatory bodies and other third parties; the Company’s ability to maintain, protect and enhance its intellectual property; future ventures or investments in companies, products, services or technologies; development of favorable regulations affecting the Company’s markets; the successful consummation and potential benefits of the proposed business combination and expectations related to its terms and timing; the stock exchanges on which the securities of the combined company are expected to trade; proceeds from the business combination and related PIPE; funds received by the combined company from RAAQ’s trust account and redemptions by RAAQ’s public shareholders; the Company’s ability to commercialize its hardware and software; the expectation that the Company is building the sovereign infrastructure that allows quantum ecosystems to grow; and the potential for the Company to increase in value.

 

 

These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company and RAAQ.

 

 

These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions that may cause the actual results of the combined company following the proposed transaction, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Such risks and uncertainties include: that the Company is pursuing an emerging technology, which faces significant technical challenges and may not achieve commercialization or market acceptance; the Company’s historical net losses and limited operating history; the Company’s expectations regarding future financial performance, capital requirements and unit economics; the Company’s use and reporting of business and operational metrics; the Company’s competitive landscape; the Company’s dependence on members of its senior management and its ability to attract and retain qualified personnel; the potential need for additional future financing; the Company’s concentration of revenue in contracts with government or state-funded entities; the Company’s ability to manage growth and expand its operations; potential future acquisitions or investments in companies, products, services or technologies; the Company’s reliance on strategic partners and other third parties; the Company’s ability to maintain, protect and defend its intellectual property rights; risks associated with privacy, data protection or cybersecurity incidents and related regulations; the use, rate of adoption and regulation of artificial intelligence and machine learning; uncertainty or changes with respect to laws and regulations; uncertainty or changes with respect to taxes, trade conditions and the macroeconomic environment; the combined company’s ability to maintain internal control over financial reporting and operate a public company; the possibility that required shareholder and regulatory approvals for the proposed transaction are delayed or are not obtained, which could adversely affect the combined company or the expected benefits of the proposed transaction; the risk that shareholders of RAAQ could elect to have their shares redeemed, leaving the combined company with insufficient cash to execute its business plans; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the business combination agreement; the outcome of any legal proceedings or government investigations that may be commenced against the Company or RAAQ; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction; the ability of IQM or the combined company to issue equity or equity-linked securities in connection with the proposed transaction or in the future; and other factors described in RAAQ’s and the Company’s filings with the SEC. These forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions, including that none of the risks identified above materialize; that there are no unforeseen changes to economic and market conditions, and that no significant events occur outside the ordinary course of business. Additional information concerning these and other factors that may impact such forward-looking statements can be found in filings and potential filings by the Company, RAAQ or the combined company resulting from the proposed business combination with the SEC, including under the heading “Risk Factors.” If any of these risks materialize or assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. In addition, these statements reflect the expectations, plans and forecasts of the Company’s and RAAQ’s management as of the date of this communication; subsequent events and developments may cause their assessments to change. While the Company and RAAQ may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, they specifically disclaim any obligation to do so, unless required by applicable securities laws. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon these statements.

 

 

In addition, statements that “we believe” and similar statements reflect our beliefs and opinions on the relevant subject. These statements are based upon information available to us as of the date of this communication, and while we believe such information forms a reasonable basis for such statements, such information may be limited or incomplete, and our statements should not be read to indicate that we have conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all potentially available relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain, and investors are cautioned not to unduly rely upon these statements. An investment in RAAQ is not an investment in any of RAAQ’s founders’ or sponsors past investments, companies, or affiliated funds. The historical results of those investments are not indicative of future performance of RAAQ, which may differ materially from the performance of RAAQ’s founders’ or sponsors past investments.

 

 

Participants in the Solicitation

 

 

RAAQ, the Company and certain of their respective directors, executive officers and other members of management and employees may, under SEC rules, be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from RAAQ’s shareholders in connection with the proposed transaction. Information regarding the persons who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation of RAAQ’s shareholders in connection with the proposed transaction will be set forth in the Registration Statement, including the proxy statement/prospectus contained therein, when it is filed with the SEC. You can find more information about RAAQ’s directors and executive officers in RAAQ’s final prospectus related to its initial public offering filed with the SEC on May 15, 2025 and in the subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed by RAAQ with the SEC. Shareholders, potential investors, and other interested persons should read the Registration Statement, including the proxy statement/prospectus contained therein, carefully when it becomes available before making any voting or investment decisions. You may obtain free copies of these documents from the sources described above.

 

 

No Offer or Solicitation

 

 

This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction, including any European Economic Area member state or the United Kingdom. This communication is not, and under no circumstances is to be construed as, a prospectus, an advertisement or a public offering of the securities described herein in the United States or any other jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or exemptions therefrom. Any potential dual listing of IQM’s ordinary shares on the Helsinki stock exchange referred to in this communication would be made by means of a prospectus as set out in the EU Prospectus Regulation. INVESTMENT IN ANY SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED BY THE SEC OR ANY OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY NOR HAS ANY AUTHORITY PASSED UPON OR ENDORSED THE MERITS OF THE OFFERING OR THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.

 

 

 

 

 

Sapaad to Showcase AI Powered Restaurant Tech at AAHAR 2026

New Delhi, Feb 24: Sapaad, a bootstrapped, Make-in-India cloud-based restaurant technology company with a strong global footprint, today announced its participation at AAHAR 2026, to be held from 10th – 14th March, 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. At the upcoming edition of India’s leading food and hospitality industry exhibition, Sapaad will showcase its enterprise-grade, cloud-native restaurant technology solutions designed to support the evolving needs of organised and growth-focused foodservice brands across the country.

Sapaad to Showcase AI-Powered Restaurant Tech at AAHAR 2026

Vishnu Vardhan Madabhushi, Founder & CEO, Sapaad, said, “Across global and Indian markets, the foodservice industry is being reshaped by rising operational complexity, multi-channel demand and cost pressures, making real-time visibility and data-led decision-making critical for sustainable growth. In India, high-growth formats such as cloud kitchens, QSRs and café chains are expected to grow at around 12–14% CAGR, compared to 5–7% for unorganised formats, highlighting the need for scalable, enterprise-grade digital infrastructure. At AAHAR 2026, we will showcase our unified, cloud-native platform with live demonstrations, highlighting how restaurant brands can streamline operations and leverage AI-driven insights to build scalable, future-ready businesses. With our interactive conversational tool and a unified one-stack platform, we plan to capture at least 8 to 10% of India’s organised food services space by 2030.

After a decade of successful global operations, the company has entered the Indian market to bring its proven technology solutions to support the country’s rapidly growing food services sector. India’s organized food services market is expected to reach approx. US$120–125 billion by 2030, from an estimated US$78 billion in 2025 with roughly 60% absolute growth over the period. The company’s participation in AAHAR 2026 aligns with its broader India market strategy, which focuses on serving the organised and technology-ready segment of the country’s foodservice ecosystem and enabling operators to adopt scalable, reliable and future-ready digital infrastructure.

At AAHAR 2026, Sapaad will present live demonstrations of its solutions – Cloud-Native Restaurant POS its unique AI conversational BI tool Ask Vantage. Built inside Sapaad’s Unified Commerce platform, Ask Vantage analyses real-time signals across POS, inventory, recipes, purchasing, labour, and delivery channels, delivering actionable intelligence on the go. Sapaad’s solutions play a critical role in enabling restaurants, cafés and QSR chains, cloud kitchens and multi-outlet brands to digitise and streamline end-to-end operations, from ordering and payments to kitchen operations, inventory, analytics and AI-driven decision support.

Sapaad will be exhibiting at AAHAR 2026 in Hall 14 – First Floor (14FF), Booth No. 14F-12-D. Alongside live demonstrations, visitors will have the opportunity to engage with the company’s leadership and product teams, and discover Sapaad’s modular cloud-first platform enables multi-format restaurant operations and scalable digital infrastructure for both Indian and international food service brands.

Alstom’s trains and ETCS signalling solutions inaugurated for the balance stretch of Namo Bharat RRTS corridor and Meerut Metro

Feb 24: Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, celebrates the commencement of commercial operations of the balance stretch of the  Namo Bharat corridor, India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) connecting Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut and the Meerut Metro, an urban Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) for the city of Meerut, powered by Alstom’s India-made trainsets and advanced ETCS Hybrid Level 3 over LTE 4G signalling solutions. The inauguration of the balance section of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat Corridor includes sections connecting New Ashok Nagar to Sarai Kale Khan (5.5 km) and Meerut South to Modipuram (21 km) along with the Meerut Metro section (21 km). 

This milestone, spearheaded by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), is a significant step in enhancing urban mobility in the National Capital Region and intra-city commute for the residents of Meerut. This also makes Meerut Metro India’s first metro system to be powered by the European Train Control System (ETCS) Hybrid Level 3 signalling over Long-Term Evolution (LTE) 4G, a significant technological leap promising enhanced safety, efficiency, and operational flexibility. 

Commenting on the milestone, Olivier Loison, Managing Director, Alstom India said, “NCRTC created a breakthrough with RRTS and now Meerut Metro and we are proud to be their preferred partner in this journey. The opening of the complete corridor for RRTS and commencement of revenue service for Meerut Metro will unlock inter and intra city growth opportunities through this advanced urban rail network. It will be our endeavour to support NCRTC in this feat in every possible way.” 

Designed at Alstom’s Hyderabad engineering centre and manufactured at Savli (Gujarat), these trains are 100% made in India, in line with the government’s ‘Make-in-India’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat ambition. The propulsion systems and electricals have been manufactured at Alstom’s facility in Maneja (Gujarat). 

Committed to support urban mobility with advanced solutions for the Meerut Metro project

The new Meerut Metro (MRTS) commuter trains provide an attractive sustainable choice for the promotion of public transport, with outstanding ergonomics, safety and comfort, low life cycle costs and high recyclability, while reducing traffic congestion, air pollution and fuel consumption. They will save travel costs and time, changing the lives of millions of citizens by connecting suburban places with the economic centre of the region. 

The MRTS trains, which are part of Alstom’s Adessia commuter train family offer passenger-centric amenities, including overhead luggage racks, information screens within the coaches, and USB sockets near the seats. They also feature wheelchair spaces for individuals with disabilities and stretcher space for emergency medical transfers. Emergency communication capabilities are integrated into the cars, designed, and manufactured in alignment with International Safety Standards.

The Meerut Metro Line covers a 21-km stretch, connecting Meerut South to Modipuram via 12 stations. Four stations on this line will integrate seamlessly with the Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat RRTS, offering residents enhanced inter-city and intra-city travel. 

Providing world-class solutions for the Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System

In 2020, Alstom was awarded the contract, with a scope of work including:

  • Design, manufacture, and deliver 180 RRTS train cars (30 trainsets) and 30 MRTS train cars (10 trainsets) based on the Adessia commuter platform.
  • Design, supply and install the signalling, train control and telecommunication system, platform screen door & LTE radio communication
  • Provide comprehensive maintenance services for 15 years 

The primary purpose of this Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) is to relieve the traffic congestion in the national capital by enabling allowing faster commute between nearby satellite towns. Since 2002, after the opening of the first section of Delhi Metro , the metro network has grown at a rapid pace. The RRTS network will complement the metro. 

Alstom designed the train and unveiled it in September 2020. It is a game changer in the commuter and inter-regional rail transport space which is set to change the way India travels.

SITL 2026 Strengthens European Focus as International Exhibitor Presence Accelerates

March 31–April 2, 2026 | Paris Nord Villepinte – Hall

Feb 24: SITL 2026, one of Europe’s leading gatherings for transport and logistics professionals, returns this year with a reinforced European outlook and a notable increase in international participation. Under the theme “New territories to conquer,” the exhibition will provide decision‑makers with actionable insights and operational solutions as the continent navigates a pivotal moment for supply chain resilience and competitiveness. This year, international exhibitors represent 30% of the show floor, up from 25% in 2025, with 83% coming from Europe. Strong contingents from Germany (24 exhibitors), Spain (15), Italy (12), Belgium (11), the Netherlands (8), and Switzerland (5) underscore the growing need for coordinated European approaches to logistics transformation. Europe’s Logistics Outlook: A Sector Under Pressure European freight transport accounts for nearly 1,870 billion tonne‑kilometres, with a modest +1% to +3% recovery forecast across segments in 2025–2026. However, companies continue to face intense structural pressures:

  • 400,000+ driver vacancies across Europe
  • Escalating operational and compliance costs
  • Rapid regulatory evolution and customs complexity
  • Accelerated sustainability and emissions requirements
  • These conditions are reshaping priorities across the continent, pushing logistics players to strengthen resilience, sovereignty, and interoperability. Europe Day: Turning Strategic Challenges into Practical Action Held on Tuesday, March 31, Europe Day will serve as the strategic anchor of SITL 2026. The half‑day program links EU‑level issues with on‑the‑ground execution, offering practical guidance for operators, exporters, carriers, ports, and corridor authorities. Program Highlights“Make Europe Compete Again!” 2:00–2:45 p.m. A debate on Europe’s competitiveness in a market increasingly dominated by non‑European players.
  • “Compete globally, act locally: can it work for logistics?” 3:00–3:45 p.m. A discussion on the operational impact of TEN‑T corridors and the scale needed to boost performance.
  • “Exporting today: time to relearn the basics?” 4:00–4:45 p.m. A practical exploration of customs fundamentals at a time of rising regulatory complexity.
  • Paolo Rangoni, Logistics Director at COOP ALLEANZA 3.0, will speak during Europe Day. “Europe does not lack strengths — it lacks integration, speed, and discipline in execution. Making logistics a strategic capability is essential to regain competitiveness, resilience, and industrial sovereignty.” A Broader European Ecosystem on Display Throughout Hall 7, exhibitors will present solutions in automation, intralogistics, supply chain security, export support, and performance & compliance optimization. Confirmed international exhibitors include: Autoritat Portuària de Barcelona, GEBHARDT Fördertechnik GmbH, Troax Group AB, EP Equipment Europe, GAMMA WOPLA SA, PERIPASS, AR Racking S.A, ULMA Manutención S.Coop., CABKA Group GmbH, System Logistics, FS Logistix S.p.A, and PORTES BISBAL S.L. List as of 11 February 2026.Practical InformationOpening Hours:March 31: 09:00–20:00
  • April 1: 09:00–19:00
  • April 2: 09:00–17:00

Venue: Paris Nord Villepinte – Hall 7, ZAC Paris Nord 2, 93420 Villepinte, France

Indira IVF Expands in Haryana with the Inauguration of a New Fertility Clinic in Gurugram

Gurugram, Feb 24: Indira IVF Hospital Limited announced the inauguration of its new fertility clinic in Sector 51, Gurugram, further strengthening access to organised fertility and reproductive healthcare services across Haryana and the National Capital Region.

Located on the First Floor, the centre will offer a comprehensive range of fertility and assisted reproductive services. The clinic will operate with standardised clinical protocols and technology-enabled systems designed to ensure consistency, patient safety, and transparency across every stage of treatment.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Ms. Neha Rathi, Indian Professional Wrestler, as the Chief Guest, Dr. Arvind Vaid, Zonal Business Director, Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist, Indira IVF Patel Nagar, Delhi as the guest of Honour & Dr. Abhilasha Mehta, Consultant Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist Centre Head, Indira IVF, Sector 51, Gurugram, & other dignitaries of Gurugram region.

Addressing the gathering, Ms. Neha Rathi said, “Access to specialised healthcare plays a crucial role in shaping healthier futures for families. The opening of Indira IVF in Gurugram strengthens the availability of structured fertility services in the region and underscores the importance of early evaluation and informed medical care.”

Commenting on the expansion, Mr. Nitiz Murdia, Managing Director, Indira IVF Hospital Limited, said, “The launch of our Gurugram centre reflects our continued commitment to improving accessibility to structured fertility care across growing urban hubs. As awareness around reproductive health increases, it is important that patients have access to evidence-based treatment supported by experienced clinical teams and standardised systems.”

 

Dr. Arvind Vaid, Centre Clinical Director, Zonal Business Director, Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist Indira IVF, Patel Nagar, Delhi, added, “Urban lifestyles, delayed parenthood, and underlying medical conditions are contributing to rising fertility concerns. The presence of a dedicated, technology-enabled fertility centre in Gurugram will encourage early consultation and structured treatment, which significantly improves clinical outcomes.”

Dr. Abhilasha Mehta, Consultant Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist and Centre Head, Indira IVF, Sector 51, Gurugram, said, “Fertility care requires timely diagnosis, scientific precision, and compassionate counselling. Our focus at the Gurugram centre is to provide personalised treatment plans backed by consistent protocols and advanced laboratory support, ensuring that couples receive comprehensive care under one roof.”

With this launch, Indira IVF continues to expand its national footprint, adding to its network of 200+ clinics across India. The Gurugram centre will offer a full range of fertility and assisted reproductive services for both male and female infertility, supported by standardised laboratory practices, electronic medical records and patient safety systems.

Omdia: Apple and HONOR Claim Record Market Shares as Europe’s Smartphone Shipment Dips 1% in 2025

Business Wire India

The latest research from Omdia reveals that the European smartphone market declined by 1% in 2025 to 134.2 million units, marking the end of a disruptive year defined by subdued demand and new regulations requiring eco-design and USB-C.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260223432918/en/

 

Europe (excluding Russia) smartphone market shipment, 2014 to 2025

Europe (excluding Russia) smartphone market shipment, 2014 to 2025

 

Samsung remained Europe’s largest smartphone vendor, with shipments marginally growing to 46.6 million units. After a slow 1H25 caused by the absence of the Galaxy A0x series, Samsung bounced back in 2H25, particularly by leveraging a discounted version of the Galaxy A16 alongside strong momentum for the Galaxy A56, which was the top-selling model in Europe in 2025.

 

Apple grew 6% to 36.9 million in 2025, reaching a record-high 27% market share in Europe, as iPhone refresh demand surged, boosted by strong interest from both consumers and businesses. Its performance was particularly driven by iPhone 16, the Pro Max version of both iPhone 16 and iPhone 17, and iPhone 16e. Compared to other markets worldwide, iPhone 16e was among Apple’s top-shipping models, largely driven by it replacing iPhone 14 and earlier models, which were discontinued in late 2024 due to the USB-C regulation.

 

Xiaomi remained third in the ranking at 16% market share as it declined 1% to 21.8 million units, largely driven by its budget-friendly Redmi series. Towards the end of 2025, Xiaomi’s overseas expansion of the ‘new retail strategy’ reached Europe, highlighted by several Xiaomi Stores opening and the company’s wider ecosystem portfolio expanding.

 

Motorola remained fourth despite declining 5% to 7.7 million units. Its shipments dipped in 1H25 as demand remained subdued, but recovered with strong momentum in the second half, highlighted by double-digit growth in 4Q. Its resilient performance was driven by continued successful expansion in key markets, including Poland, Italy, Spain, and the UK.

 

HONOR climbed into Europe’s top five for the first time as it grew 4% to 3.8 million units, particularly by leveraging its affordable X-series. The higher X-series focus highlights an increased focus on growing share, presence and relevance within its key channel partners –helping to build a foundation to support its premium ambitions.

 

“Europe’s five largest smartphone vendors continued to gain combined share, reflecting the importance of scale for long-term success in the region,” commented Runar Bjorhovde, Senior Analyst at Omdia. “Even though shares continue to shift towards the largest players, fierce competition within the channel continues to reign across all markets, increasing the need to differentiate and understand how to most effectively capture customers. The fierce channel competition has also created a growing willingness amongst sales partners to introduce new vendors with attractive products and differentiated brands into their portfolios. Even though many vendors beyond the top 5 faced big hurdles last year, vivo, London-headquartered Nothing and Amsterdam-headquartered Fairphone grew by high double digits. These vendors are excellent examples that there are opportunities through strong differentiation even in such an established, mature and highly competitive region.”

 

“In 2026, concerns around memory pricing have created a challenging outlook. In Europe, which made up just 10.8% of all smartphones shipped worldwide in 2025, the biggest question is which vendors are most likely to prioritize the region if hit by price increases or supply shortages,” added Bjorhovde. “We expect the largest vendors to be more resilient due to their scale and price-band coverage. However, for many vendors, it will be critical to find the right balance between different regions and markets. Scaling a smartphone business within Europe can be very gradual and challenging, requiring consistent investment over time, making it very costly to scale back. Europe’s large premium segment makes it attractive to many vendors in the long-run alongside a less price-sensitive mass-market segment.”

 

“However, even in the face of short-term difficulties, capturing interest and demand from customers must be the top priority for all industry players. Both vendors and channel partners need to find key differentiation points, target core influence stages in the buying journey, and retain customers more effectively than ever before.”

 

Omdia’s analysts will be at Mobile World Congress 2026: Book a meeting or interview here to discuss these findings and more.

 

Europe (excl. Russia) smartphone shipments (market share and annual growth)

 

Omdia Smartphone Market Pulse: 4Q25

Vendor

4Q25
shipments (millions)

4Q25
market share

4Q24
shipments (millions)

4Q24
market share

Annual
growth

Apple

13.4

34%

12.7

33%

6%

Samsung

12.4

31%

11.2

29%

10%

Xiaomi

5.5

14%

5.9

15%

-7%

Motorola

2.5

6%

2.2

6%

13%

HONOR

1.3

3%

1.0

3%

24%

Others

4.7

12%

5.8

14%

-17%

Total

39.8

100%

38.8

100%

3%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note: Xiaomi includes Redmi and POCO.
Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding.
Source: Omdia Smartphone Horizon Service (sell-in shipments), February 2026

 

 

Europe (excl. Russia) smartphone shipments (market share and annual growth)

 

Omdia Smartphone Market Pulse: 2025

Vendor

2025
shipments

2025
market share

2024
shipments

2024
market share

Annual
growth

Samsung

46.6

35%

46.4

34%

0%

Apple

36.9

27%

34.9

26%

6%

Xiaomi

21.8

16%

22.2

16%

-1%

Motorola

7.7

6%

8.0

6%

-5%

HONOR

3.8

3%

3.7

3%

4%

Others

17.4

13%

20.9

15%

-17%

Total

134.2

100%

136.1

100%

-1%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note: Xiaomi includes Redmi and POCO.
Percentages may not add up to 100% due to rounding.
Source: Omdia Smartphone Horizon Service (sell-in shipments), February 2026

 

 

ABOUT OMDIA

 

Omdia, part of TechTarget, Inc. d/b/a Informa TechTarget (Nasdaq: TTGT), is a technology research and advisory group. Our deep knowledge of tech markets grounded in real conversations with industry leaders and hundreds of thousands of data points, make our market intelligence our clients’ strategic advantage. From R&D to ROI, we identify the greatest opportunities and move the industry forward.

 

 

 

 

 

Lenovo Unlocks Data Potential with Next Generation of AI-Driven ThinkEdge Solutions

Business Wire India

Lenovo™ expanded its ThinkEdge portfolio with a new generation of AI-driven edge computing solutions, including the compact and reliable ThinkEdge SE10n Gen 2, the AI-ready ThinkEdge SE30n Gen 2, the AI-powerhouse ThinkEdge SE60n Gen 2, and Lenovo’s first industrial all-in-one (AIO) Panel PC, the ThinkEdge SE50a.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260223166717/en/

 

 

ThinkEdge SE10n Gen 2

ThinkEdge SE10n Gen 2

 

As enterprises push intelligence closer to operations to improve resilience, reduce latency, and keep sensitive data local, edge computing has become a critical layer between devices, infrastructure, and cloud. Lenovo’s ThinkEdge solutions are purpose-built, industrial-grade edge systems designed to run reliably in harsh, space-constrained environments where traditional servers or PCs are impractical.

 

Powered by Intel Core processors with scalable AI options, the fanless rugged lineup features industrial design ideal for 24/7 operation in factories and warehouses, seamless connectivity with options for Wi-Fi 6E, cellular connectivity and more. Backed by Lenovo’s global supply chain, long lifecycle support, and enterprise-grade services, ThinkEdge solutions are engineered not just to deploy at scale, but to operate consistently over years of continuous use.

 

 

“Edge computing is where we turn insights into outcomes, and our next-generation ThinkEdge solutions place the power of AI exactly where decision making happens,” says Marc Godin, Vice President & General Manager, WW OEM Solutions – IDG Commercial. “Powering real-world AI applications delivering real-time data means loss prevention and instant inventory insights in retail; visual inspection and predictive maintenance in manufacturing; imaging workflow support and operation insights in healthcare; and even crowd management and infrastructure monitoring in cities and venues.”

 

 

“Our latest ThinkEdge portfolio delivers a truly comprehensive suite of solutions designed with AI in mind, from intelligent gateways to high-performance edge computing systems,” states Sanjeev Menon, Vice President & General Manager, Desktop Computing Business. “AI at the edge must be intelligent, protected and manageable at scale, and our lineup delivers by combining the latest computing core components, critical manageability and protection capabilities, and vertical industry ruggedization to help customers turn insights into recommendations and action.”

 

 

Edge AI – More Adaptability and Less Latency

 

 

Lenovo’s newest ThinkEdge lineup delivers optimized on-device AI, enabling businesses to act faster while removing reliance on cloud connectivity, decreasing latency, strengthening data privacy, and lowering operational costs. Spanning lightweight gateways to high-performance AI edge systems and operator interfaces, the ThinkEdge portfolio integrates seamlessly into existing environments and can be remotely managed, allowing customers to start small and scale edge intelligence with confidence as their use cases evolve. The latest ThinkEdge portfolio includes:

 

 

  • ThinkEdge SE10n Gen 2, a compact intelligent gateway that provides reliable mobile management where needed. Built for connectivity, data capture and lightweight edge analytics, the fanless nano gateway is easy to deploy and delivers essential performance for customers of all sizes without the commitment of large investments.
  • ThinkEdge SE30n Gen 2, a versatile AI-ready gateway that turns data into decisions with real-time inferencing right next to the equipment. A rugged yet compact device built for real-world edge conditions, the fanless gateway optimizes the Intel Core processor to streamline device orchestration and fleet-level manageability for complex edge deployments.
  • ThinkEdge SE60n Gen 2, a high-performance edge computer solution with AI capability that supports multi-camera vision, predictive analysis and autonomous workflows across industry and enterprise edge deployments. Powered by Intel Core Ultra processors with integrated AI accelerators delivering up to 97 TOPS, the device brings reliable edge AI to the most demanding conditions, including industry automation, commercial autonomous robots, smart retail, healthcare, transportation, and more.
  • ThinkEdge SE50a, Lenovo’s first industrial all-in-one Panel PC that embeds local AI intelligence into operator stations, reducing complexity while enhancing visibility, control, and insight at the point of interaction. Built for demanding environments, the rugged AIO is available in three different sizes (12.1”, 15.6” or 21.5”). It can be expanded to fit individual needs and is Lenovo’s most intuitive interface for frontline operations.

 

With its latest ThinkEdge portfolio, Lenovo is extending AI from the data center to the point of action, helping businesses turn operational data into real-world outcomes at the edge.

 

Lenovo’s latest generation of ThinkEdge devices now on display at EuroShop 2026, a major international retail fair held in Düsseldorf, Germany from February 22nd to 26th. To experience a complete ecosystem of solutions, including 11 interactive demos, visit the Lenovo booth at Hall 6 A22.

 

 

Availability 1

 

 

  • Lenovo ThinkEdge SE10n Gen 2 will be available in select markets worldwide starting July 2026.
  • Lenovo ThinkEdge SE30n Gen 2 will be available in select markets worldwide starting April 2026.
  • Lenovo ThinkEdge SE50n Gen 1 will be available in select markets worldwide starting June 2026.
  • Lenovo ThinkEdge SE60n Gen 2 will be available in select markets worldwide starting April 2026.

 

Visit the ThinkEdge web page to find out more or contact your local Lenovo sales representative.

 

1 On-shelf dates and color options may vary by geography and products may only be available in select markets. All offers subject to availability. Lenovo reserves the right to alter product offerings, features and specifications at any time without notice.

 

 

About Lenovo

 

 

Lenovo is a US$69 billion revenue global technology powerhouse, ranked #196 in the Fortune Global 500, and serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets. Focused on a bold vision to deliver Smarter Technology for All, Lenovo has built on its success as the world’s largest PC company with a full-stack portfolio of AI-enabled, AI-ready, and AI-optimized devices (PCs, workstations, smartphones, tablets), infrastructure (server, storage, edge, high performance computing and software defined infrastructure), software, solutions, and services. Lenovo’s continued investment in world-changing innovation is building a more equitable, trustworthy, and smarter future for everyone, everywhere. Lenovo is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange under Lenovo Group Limited (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY). To find out more visit https://www.lenovo.com, and read about the latest news via our StoryHub.

 

 

LENOVO and THINKEDGE are trademarks of Lenovo. ©Intel, the Intel logo and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries. Wi-Fi is a trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2026 Lenovo Group Limited. All rights reserved.

 

 

 

 

 

Hiver Appoints Gaurav Bhadoria as Chief Product Officer to Advance Its AI-Powered Product Strategy

Bangalore, Karnataka Feb 23: Hiver, an omnichannel, AI-powered customer service platform built for fast-growing businesses, today announced the appointment of Gaurav Singh Bhadoria as Chief Product Officer (CPO).

Gaurav brings deep experience in building and scaling global SaaS products, with a strong track record across product strategy, growth, and AI-powered platforms, reinforcing Hiver’s focus on delivering enterprise-grade customer service that remains intuitive and fast to adopt. As Chief Product Officer, Gaurav will lead Hiver’s product vision and strategy, overseeing roadmap planning, AI-native platform innovation, and close alignment with go-to-market teams. 

Gaurav joins Hiver at a pivotal stage of growth, as the company expands its AI-native capabilities and deepens its product readiness for mid-market and enterprise teams. As demand grows for customer service platforms that scale without becoming complex, Hiver is strengthening its product leadership to accelerate innovation, deepen enterprise readiness, and maintain its hallmark speed to value.

“Gaurav’s experience building large-scale SaaS platforms and AI-powered products makes him a strong addition to Hiver’s leadership team,” said Niraj Ranjan Rout, Founder and CEO of Hiver. “His background at Salesforce and his ability to translate complex systems into simple, real customer value will be critical as we continue to evolve Hiver into a leading AI-native customer service platform.”

“Hiver is building a customer service platform that applies AI in a practical, human-centered way. Reducing complexity for teams while preserving the human element behind every interaction,” said Gaurav. “The company’s focus on simplicity, speed, and real operational impact strongly aligns with how I approach product leadership. I look forward to working with the team to scale the platform and help organizations deliver high-quality customer service without added complexity.”

Prior to joining Hiver, Gaurav held senior product leadership roles at Salesforce and Capillary Technologies, where he worked on enterprise-grade platforms spanning CRM, ecommerce, marketing, loyalty, and revenue lifecycle management. Across his career, he has built and scaled multiple global products, driving significant user adoption and revenue growth across large, complex SaaS ecosystems.Gaurav’s appointment underscores Hiver’s continued investment in senior leadership as the company scales its AI-native product innovation, expands its enterprise footprint, and grows its global customer base.