Archives 2026

As artificial intelligence evolves beyond passive automation, agentic AI platforms are emerging as the next foundational layer for digital businesses. These systems do not just execute tasks; they observe, decide, and act autonomously across workflows, channels, and tools. From marketing and personalization to operations and developer productivity, agentic AI is redefining how software delivers outcomes rather than features. As enterprises prepare for this shift, here are five agentic AI platforms that are expected to shape adoption and innovation in 2026:

1. Adsocial.ai
   AdSocial.ai is a visual personalisation platform for D2C brands, designed to help brands deliver truly individualized experiences at scale. Brands using its AI-agent–led visual personalisation have reported 40–60% improvements in conversion funnels and up to 2X revenue growth. The platform uses multimodal AI agents to translate customer signals into adaptive visual experiences across digital touchpoints in real time. By shifting brands away from campaign-heavy execution to autonomous, agent-driven workflows, AdSocial.ai enables scalable, customer-led personalisation without added operational complexity.
   
2. Fundamento.ai
   Fundamento.ai focuses on building autonomous financial and decision-support agents designed to assist businesses with planning, forecasting, and strategic analysis. Its agentic systems continuously ingest internal and external data to surface insights, flag anomalies, and recommend actions in near real time. Rather than static dashboards, Fundamento.ai emphasizes AI-driven decision loops that evolve with business conditions. This makes it especially useful for finance, strategy, and leadership teams navigating complex environments.
   
3. Jeeva.ai
   Jeeva.ai is developing agentic AI solutions centered on revenue operations and go-to-market efficiency. Its AI agents assist sales and growth teams by autonomously qualifying leads, prioritizing accounts, and recommending next-best actions across the pipeline. By reducing manual CRM work and fragmented decision-making, Jeeva.ai helps teams focus on high-impact interactions. The platform reflects a broader shift toward AI agents acting as active collaborators rather than background tools.
   
4. Pype.ai
   Pype.ai is building agent-driven systems aimed at automating and orchestrating complex workflows across data, analytics, and business operations. Its agents are designed to independently manage multi-step processes, adapt to changing inputs, and coordinate between systems without constant human intervention. This approach reduces operational friction in environments where speed and accuracy are critical. Pype.ai is particularly relevant for organizations scaling data-heavy or process-intensive functions.
   
5. Composio
   Composio provides an agent infrastructure layer that allows developers to connect AI agents with hundreds of tools, APIs, and SaaS products. Instead of building brittle integrations, teams can deploy agents that autonomously execute actions across software ecosystems. This enables faster development of real-world, action-oriented AI applications. As agentic systems become more prevalent, Composio is emerging as a critical backbone for reliable agent-to-tool orchestration.

As agentic AI moves from experimentation to enterprise adoption, platforms like Adsocial.ai, Fundamento.ai, and others highlight a clear shift toward outcome-driven software. In 2026, the competitive advantage will not come from who uses AI, but from who deploys intelligent agents that can reason, act, and continuously improve at scale.

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 8: CGS International Securities Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. kicked off its 18th Annual Malaysia Corporate Day 2026, themed “Racing Towards Singularity”, the event brought together corporate leaders, capital market players, fund managers, and government officials to discuss key structural reforms and developments shaping Malaysia’s economic and investment landscape amidst ASEAN’s energy transition priorities and artificial intelligence (AI) adoption.

As Malaysia enters a critical transition year following its ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, the conference explored the concept of an economic singularity – the point at which technological advancement, particularly AI, becomes a fundamental and irreversible driver of productivity, competitiveness, and capital allocation. For Malaysia, 2026 represents a decisive execution phase as national policies move from planning stage to implementation, aligned with the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan 2026–2030 (13MP)’s AI Nation framework.

The conference also featured a keynote address on titled “Racing Towards Singularity, Investing in Future Intelligence” by Yang Berbahagia (YBhg.) Tan Sri Shahril Ridza Ridzuan, Chairman of Axiata Group Berhad and Independent Non-Executive Director at CGS MY. The event’s panel sessions and presentations on the Ringgit boost, carbon tax, data centres and Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) featured CGS MY’s award-winning research team, listed corporates, and industry experts across technology, energy, and services sectors.

YBhg. Tan Sri Shahril Ridza in his keynote address said, “Technology today is not merely enhancing how we work; it is fundamentally redefining how value is created. Today, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as the next great multiplier for productivity and economic growth. For the capital market, we are seeing how investors value and reward future-ready organisations – from their ability to demonstrate scalable intelligence, operational agility, and robust digital infrastructure, AI-driven processes and capacity for long-term innovation.

But more importantly, AI is not about replacing people but about augmenting human capabilities to create new jobs and competencies. It is about enabling mobility, resilience and greater participation in a rapidly evolving economy. People are a critical pillar in the AI strategy, and this means empowering people with intelligent tools to ensure our teams understand not only how AI works but also its implications on governance, risk and long-term performance to sustain participation, competitiveness and value.

Nationally, it demands forward looking policies, public–private collaboration, and strategic investment in digital infrastructure to move up the value chain, attract high-quality investments and strengthen regional competitiveness. As Malaysia positions itself within the wider regional transformation, we need to ensure our investments in intelligence – in people, data and technology – translates to durable, long-term value for our customers, shareholders and employees.”

Khairi Shahrin Arief bin Baki, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CGS MY, said, “Racing Towards Singularity reflects a fundamental shift in how economies, industries, and capital markets are evolving. CGS MY too, has been transforming as an organisation. Our aspirations to be Asia’s global investment house has seen us shift from a traditional stockbroker to offer integrated financial services including investment banking, private wealth and asset management, with deeper advisory capabilities, stronger sector expertise, and wider regional connectivity. We focus on providing access and insights needed to navigate structural shifts in technology, sustainability, and high-value industries, whether from a G2G, B2G or retail perspective. Backed by our direct China heritage and extensive ASEAN and global networks, CGS MY is uniquely positioned to serve as a trusted partner that connects capital with opportunities, links businesses to markets, and supports stakeholders across the full spectrum of their investment and financing needs in Malaysia and the wider region.”

CGS MY also noted that while global uncertainties persist, Malaysia’s outlook is underpinned by structural reforms, improving investment quality and a clear policy direction toward innovation-led growth. As the country races toward economic singularity, collaboration between government, businesses, and capital markets will be essential to translate technological progress into sustainable value creation.

Bangalore, Jan 8: Cyber threats are expanding in scale, sophistication, and frequency. Recent years have seen large-scale data breaches, ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure, and AI-driven cybercrime eroding trust in digital systems. As organizations accelerate digital transformation, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals continues to surge.

The shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals remains one of the most pressing global workforce gaps. To help bridge this need, SecurEyes, a distinguished Bangalore-based cybersecurity firm, is pleased to announce the launch of its 14th batch of the Cybersecurity Certification Program, an intensive 3-month online course beginning on 2nd February 2026.

Designed to provide participants with cutting-edge skills and knowledge, the program includes live sessions led by certified cybersecurity professionals who are actively involved in global projects. Students will have 24/7 access to online labs and extensive study materials that cover essential topics such as Information Security, Network Security, Infrastructure Security, Application Security, Governance, Risk & Compliance, Security Operations, and Incident Management.

Mumbai,  Jan 8 : Romanos, the city’s premier destination for authentic Italian cuisine at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, presents Formaggi d’Italia, a curated, cheese-led culinary experience that places cheese at the heart of the table. Launched on 7th January 2026, the experience celebrates Italian tradition through craftsmanship, interaction, and immersive culinary storytelling.

Inspired by Italy’s regional cheese culture, the menu takes diners on a sensory journey, blending flavour, aroma, and narrative. Guests begin with an artisanal Italian cheese board featuring Bocconcini, Mozzarella, Gorgonzola, pine nut-crusted goat cheese, Pecorino, and Provolone, complemented with JW herb crackers and mostarda.

Pasta offerings include indulgent Four Root Cheese Gnocchi with Brie, Fettuccine Quattro Formaggi, and Tortellini alla Fonduta, highlighting Italy’s rich, cheese-forward traditions. Comforting mains such as Chicken Parmigiana and Spinach Ricotta Lasagna with Brie add depth and warmth to the menu, while desserts like Classic Tiramisu and Sicilian Cannoli filled with Ricotta provide a sweet, timeless finish.

Formaggi d’Italia combines craftsmanship, indulgence, and storytelling, reinforcing Romanos at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar as a destination where authentic Italian flavours are elevated through immersive, experience-driven dining.

Bagepalli, Jan 8: United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), with the CSR support of Marvell, is implementing Rural Rising, an integrated rural development flagship campaign in Bagepalli taluk of Chikkaballapura district. The initiative is guided by a shared vision to strengthen rural communities through focused interventions in education, health and sanitation, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability.

As part of this Rural Rising program, an E-Bike Handover Ceremony was organised to support frontline healthcare delivery in the district. The event witnessed the key handover of 10 E-Bikes to the Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs), aimed at improving mobility and outreach of healthcare staff in remote and underserved areas.

The District Collector of Chikkaballapura highlighted the practical impact of enhanced mobility on healthcare delivery and the importance of people-public-private partnerships in accelerating rural development outcomes.

The Rural Rising program has improved the quality of early childcare and development services, supported school infrastructure, promoted drinking water, improved the health and sanitation standards and livelihood enhancement resources such as solar lights, and e-bikes for the PHCs. Distinguished delegates and community leaders graced the occasion, including representatives from District Collectorate, Marvell Technology, United Way Bengaluru, and Gram Panchayats, and the local community.

Through Rural Rising, United Way Bengaluru and Marvell continue to demonstrate how collaborative efforts can create sustainable, on-ground impact and contribute meaningfully to holistic rural transformation in Karnataka.

At Marvell, we believe that lasting change in rural India comes from investing in foundational needs that drive sustainability. Our partnership with United Way Bengaluru through Rural Rising is aligned with our vision of greater self-reliance and long-term wellbeing,” said Navin Bishnoi, Associate Vice President and Country Head (India), Marvell Technology.

United Way Bengaluru works as an ecosystem enabler. In Rural Rising, collaboration is not just a principle but a practice, bringing together communities, government systems, and partners to deliver change that is locally anchored and scalable,” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.

LAS VEGAS, Jan 8: This week At CES 2026, HP Inc. debuted new technologies that position personal fulfilment as the next frontier for driving business growth.

Knowledge workers worldwide are feeling under pressure; just 20% have a healthy relationship with work. But given the right tools and technology, the likelihood of workers having a healthy work relationship more than doubles – and increases five-fold when the workforce sees their company investing in them. In an era marked by disruption and change, HP recognizes a growing fulfilment deficit in the workforce and is committed to empowering organizations to transform this challenge into an opportunity for innovation and resilience.

Innovations Designed for the Future of Work

As businesses navigate unprecedented challenges, HP remains steadfast in its commitment to pioneering solutions that foster professional fulfilment and accelerate business growth, ensuring that the future of work is both human-centered and technology-driven.

New products and solutions include:

• Designing for the future of work means creating solutions that move, connect, and adapt to any workspace. HP’s newest form factor, the HP EliteBoard G1a, is the world’s first full AI PC built into a keyboard and a CES 2026 Innovation Award Honoree.
• Built for leaders shaping the future of work, HP introduced its HP EliteBook X G2 Series, the next generation of premium business laptops built for the AI era and a CES 2026 Innovation Award Honoree.
• Bringing passion-ready experiences so consumers can work smarter, look sharper, and lead better, HP unveiled new updates to the full HP OmniBook consumer portfolio – including the new HP OmniBook Ultra 14 and HP OmniStudioX.
• Delivering AI-powered productivity right at the printer, HP introduced the first integration of Microsoft Copilot into HP Office Print devices with HP for Microsoft 365 Copilot, providing document summarization, translation, and smart organization to help businesses work faster, smarter, and more securely.
• Keep hybrid work running smoothly and strengthen IT’s ability to maintain business continuity across distributed environments with enhancements to the company’s Workforce Experience Platform (WXP) employee device management features.
• Pair your new HP PC with intuitive, ergonomic, and sustainable peripherals for every workspace, including a stylish pink version of the HP Tilt Ergonomic Mouse 720M, a new compact USB-C HP 65W GaN Wall Charger, lightweight and durable HP Protective Series laptop sleeves, and more.
• When it’s time to clock out, get your game on. HP is redefining how gamers play, create, and perform, unifying its OMEN and HyperX brands under one master gaming brand – HyperX – and engineering the world’s most powerful gaming laptop with fully internal cooling, the HyperX OMEN MAX 16.
• To understand your PC’s origin story, HP developed HP Digital Passport, a CES 2026 Innovation Award Honoree, giving customers one place to access PC essentials: from getting started, discovering unique product features and their device’s sustainability story, to finding support options as their needs evolve.

Future of Work Accelerator 2026: Applications Open Soon

As part of HP’s commitment to business growth and professional fulfillment, the Future of Work Accelerator expands access to technology and skills for disconnected communities. Since 2022, the Accelerator has served 35 nonprofits across 13 countries, reaching 11.3 million people. The Accelerator provides USD $100,000 in funding, USD $100,000 worth of HP hardware and solutions, and a six-month training and mentorship program to participating organizations.

In 2026, the Accelerator is returning to the U.S., where it was piloted, and will be open to both nonprofits and for-profits for the first time, with a focus on AI and the Future of Work. Applications open on January 12, and the deadline to apply is February 6.

Park Medi World Limited Sets Sights on Becoming North India’s Largest Hospital Chain, Eyeing Nationwide Impact with Accelerated Growth Toward 5,000+ Beds by FY28

With a clear ambition to emerge as North India’s largest and most integrated hospital chain, Park Medi World Limited is accelerating a well-structured national growth strategy designed to build meaningful scale, deepen clinical capabilities, and deliver consistent, high-quality healthcare across diverse geographies. The Group’s expansion is anchored in a long-term vision of creating a cohesive, national healthcare network that combines operational efficiency with strong clinical governance and patient-centric care.

As part of this broader vision, the Company has recently strengthened its footprint across Delhi NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab through the acquisition of KP Institute of Medical Sciences in Agra, Febris Multispeciality Hospital in New Delhi, and Krishna Super-speciality Hospital in Punjab. Together, these additions have expanded Park Medi World’s network by approximately 810 beds through strategic, all-cash transactions, advancing the Group’s clearly articulated roadmap to scale beyond 5,000 beds by FY28.

Importantly, these acquisitions are not viewed as standalone transactions, but as deliberate execution milestones within a clearly defined national growth framework. Each asset has been evaluated through the lens of market relevance, clinical depth, integration readiness, and long-term value creation, ensuring that expansion remains both ambitious and disciplined.

Park Medi World’s growth strategy is anchored in building a nationally integrated hospital platform, enabling the Group to scale efficiently by creating continuity and operating depth across priority healthcare markets. This approach supports faster operational integration, stronger utilisation of clinical talent and infrastructure, standardisation of clinical and operating protocols, and tighter cost control at scale. By replicating proven operating models across its expanding national footprint, the Group is able to pursue rapid growth while maintaining uniform standards of care, strong governance, and financial prudence.

In Western Uttar Pradesh, the integration of a large, multi-super-specialty facility strengthens Park Medi World’s ability to deliver advanced tertiary care closer to patients in a high-potential market. In Delhi NCR, expansion within dense urban and peri-urban catchments deepens access to organised, affordable healthcare in one of the country’s most competitive healthcare corridors. In Punjab, the transition to full ownership of an already stabilised hospital enables sharper execution, faster decision-making, and deeper integration within the Group’s expanding network.

Together, these expansions underscore Park Medi World’s intent to scale decisively yet responsibly, combining ambition with structure and speed with operating discipline, as it advances toward leadership in North India’s organised healthcare sector.

Commenting on the Group’s growth trajectory, Dr. Ankit Gupta, Managing Director, Park Medi World Limited, said:

“Our vision is unambiguous: to build the most trusted, scalable, and clinically strong hospital network in North India. We are pursuing growth with intent and structure, not simply for size. Our expansion is guided by a clear national roadmap that allows us to scale efficiently while maintaining consistent clinical standards and strong governance across geographies.Every acquisition and expansion decision is anchored in long-term value creation by strengthening clinical depth, investing in medical talent, improving utilisation, and embedding operating discipline from day one. This enables us to grow aggressively, yet responsibly.As we move decisively toward a 5,000-plus bed platform by FY28, our focus is on building institutions that are resilient, outcome-driven, and deeply trusted by patients, clinicians, and communities. We believe this combination of scale, structure, and clinical excellence will define the next phase of healthcare leadership in North India.”

Park Medi World’s expansion roadmap combines targeted acquisitions, greenfield developments, and operational optimisation, allowing the Group to scale rapidly while maintaining governance rigor, financial prudence, and patient-centric care delivery.

 Sony SAB’s Pushpa Impossible continues to strike a chord with audiences through the inspiring journey of Pushpa (Karuna Pandey), an ordinary woman with extraordinary grit. From a devoted homemaker to a determined lawyer, the show traces her rise against every challenge, as she refuses to be defined by life’s setbacks and remains steadfast in her beliefs and resilience.

In the upcoming episodes, Pushpa’s daughter Rashi (Akshaya Hindalkar) marries Rishabh (Shrey Maradiya) amid intense drama. Before the wedding, Swara (Pari Bhatti) suspects Rishabh of gaslighting Rashi with false promises, including a flat he never intended to buy. When her concerns are dismissed, a furious Swara runs away with Titli (Bhoomi Ramola) to meet her mother Kadambari (Brinda Trivedi) in jail, triggering panic during the wedding. Kadambari manipulates Titli into believing Pushpa was responsible for her father Jugal’s (Anshul Trivedi) death, leading Titli to leave home and move in with Viren (Hemant Kher). Pushpa is left at a painful crossroads as three daughters drift away from her. After the wedding, Rashi begins to see cracks in her marriage as Rishabh continues to emotionally manipulate her.

As Pushpa battles heartbreak on multiple fronts, will she be able to save her daughter trapped in a toxic marriage?

Speaking about the ongoing track, Karuna Pandey, who essays the role of Pushpa, shares, 

“This phase is one of the most painful chapters in Pushpa’s journey. As a mother, watching your children drift away, misunderstand you, and make choices that could hurt them is heartbreaking. Pushpa has always believed in raising strong, independent daughters, but here she realises that empowerment also means knowing when to step in and protect. This track reflects the silent strength of a mother who may be breaking inside, yet refuses to give up on her children or her values.”

ITRHD inaugurates 12th Annual Craft Festival initiative to connect rural artisans of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan directly with the market

New Delhi, Jan 7: The 12th Annual Craft Festival, organised by the Indian Trust for Rural Heritage and Development (ITRHD), opened in New Delhi on Wednesday. The event offers a rare platform to artisans from the border regions of Rajasthan and rural areas of eastern Uttar Pradesh. The objectives of the festival are to increase the reach of craftsmen to new markets while conserving cultural heritage.

The four-day festival is being held at Alliance Française New Delhi, Lodhi Estate. Artisans from Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh are participating, enabling direct interaction and sales between artisans and buyers without intermediaries. The exhibition will remain open till January 10, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, with free entry.

The festival was formally inaugurated by renowned Kathak dancer Shovana Narayan, who emphasised the cultural responsibility of preserving India’s living craft traditions. ITRHD Chairman Shri S.K. Mishra was also present at the event.

Addressing the gathering, Shri S.K. Mishra said, “ITRHD’s objective goes beyond showcasing crafts. Our effort is to increase the reach of craftsmen to new markets while ensuring that their cultural heritage and traditional knowledge systems are preserved.”

Shovana Narayan said, “Indian crafts are not static artefacts displayed in museums; they are living traditions sustained by families, memory, and daily practice. Platforms like this festival ensure that artisans are not reduced to anonymity and that the dignity of their labour and legacy is protected.”

A key focus of this year’s festival is Barmer district in western Rajasthan, located close to the India–Pakistan border. Six artisans from the region are participating, representing traditional skills such as embroidery, appliqué work, leather craft, dhurrie weaving, and Ajrak textile printing.

Participating artisans are conducting live demonstrations, offering urban audiences insight into crafts practiced in geographically isolated regions where access to markets remains limited. According to the organisers, the festival enables artisans to generate independent income while building long-term relationships with buyers.

ITRHD said it has been working continuously with artisans from Barmer for the past six to seven years, expanding participation every year. Beyond exhibitions, the Trust supports artisans through design intervention, product diversification, and access to multiple platforms, while covering participation-related costs so that artisans retain the full proceeds from sales.

From Uttar Pradesh, the festival features artisans from three villages in Azamgarh district, each representing a distinct cultural tradition.

Mubarakpur, located about 100 km from Varanasi, is known for its skilled handloom weavers whose work is closely linked to the Banarasi saree tradition. Despite this proximity, the region has remained relatively under-recognised. The festival aims to establish Mubarakpur as an independent weaving centre through direct sales and wider exposure.

Another major highlight is Nizamabad’s black pottery, which has emerged over the past decade as a significant example of craft revival. The pottery received global recognition after Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted Nizamabad black pottery to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during the G7 Summit in Germany in June 2022. Several of the works on display have been created by members of the original artisan family associated with the revival of the craft.

Speaking at the festival, Ankit Prajapati, grandson of master artisan Rajendra Prasad Prajapati and a key figure in the contemporary revival of black pottery, raised concerns over misattribution and erosion of legacy.

“Black pottery is not just a product; it is a family-held knowledge system passed down through generations. Today, the biggest challenge is that the names of original artisans are disappearing, even as the craft gains fame. Our effort is to protect both the technique and the truth of its history,” Ankit Prajapati said.

The third cultural strand from Azamgarh is Hariharpur village, known for its classical music tradition linked to the Banaras gharana and musicians such as Pandit Chhannulal Mishra. Artists from the village will present a classical music recital on January 9, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Alliance Française auditorium.

Now in its 12th edition, the Annual Craft Festival is held every year in New Delhi. In addition, ITRHD also organises a similar annual craft event at Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, where space is provided by the fort’s trustees to support sustained engagement with artisans in Rajasthan.

Jan 7:- Total Environment Hospitality today announced the appointment of Jayandran Karunakaran as Corporate Mixologist. In this role, Jay will spearhead beverage strategy and cocktail innovation across the group’s hospitality portfolio, including Windmills Craftworks and Oota, while collaborating with culinary, operations, and brand teams to deliver elevated guest experiences. He will report to Ashish Saxena, Chief Executive Officer at Total Environment Hospitality.

Jay brings over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and F&B industry, having worked with leading hotels, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, breweries, luxury lounges, and global beverage programs. His career began at The Oberoi and Ista Hotels  and includes leadership roles at ITC Gardenia, Shangri-La  Ministry of Crab  and most recently at Jwala & Rakh  where he served as General Manager & Director of Mixology. He has also led entrepreneurial and consultancy projects, driving innovation in beverage programs and operational excellence.

Recognized as 1 Bartender in Mixology of South India and ranked among the Top 13 Bartenders of India Jay’s award-winning expertise has shaped him into a pioneer in mixology. His ability to craft vibrant cocktail experiences and foster team engagement aligns with Total Environment Hospitality’s vision of creating authentic, memorable experiences.

Commenting on the appointment, Ashish Saxena, CEO, Total Environment Hospitality, said:

 “Jay combines creativity with precision. His deep understanding of flavour, technique, and guest experience will help us redefine beverage programs across our restaurants while staying true to the care and detail that Total Environment stands for.”

Jayandran Karunakaran added: 

“Mixology is about storytelling through flavours. At Total Environment Hospitality, I look forward to creating beverage experiences that complement our culinary philosophy and resonate with our guests”

Jay’s approach to mixology is reflected in the new Signature Cocktails lineup at Windmills Craftworks. His creations like Dr. J’s Prescription, Shine On, Smoke on the Water, The Gift, Here Comes the Sun, and Champagne Supernova draw inspiration from music and culture. Each drink is designed as an experience, whether it’s the fleeting flame over water, the surprise of sipping unseen, or the burst of sparkling wine through a granita base. These creations embody the artistry and narrative that Jay brings to the craft.