HDB Financial Services and AWS Bring Together India’s Brightest Minds to Solve Critical Fintech Challenges in India

Business Wire India

HDB Financial Services, a leading Non-Banking Financial Company serving the evolving financial needs of aspirational India, in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS), successfully concluded the HDB–AWS Ideathon. The initiative brought together some of the country’s most promising innovators to develop production-ready fintech solutions addressing key challenges across lending, risk management, customer experience, and operational efficiency.

 

The Ideathon saw participation from 38 fintechs, techfins, and technology innovators who submitted solutions aligned with real business use cases identified by HDB Financial Services. The program aimed to explore scalable technology-driven approaches that can accelerate the digital transformation of India’s financial services ecosystem. The innovations at The Ideathon aimed to strengthen financial services delivery while improving accessibility and operational agility. 

 

The Ideathon served as a high-energy launchpad for 10 shortlisted teams who spent weeks working closely with mentors from HDB Financial Services and AWS. During this period, participants leveraged AWS’s cloud, data, and generative AI capabilities to design solutions addressing real operational challenges drawn directly from HDB’s business ecosystem.

 

The final showcase featured Shark Tank-style presentations, where innovators demonstrated how emerging technologies can break long-standing barriers in financial services.

 

Following the evaluation process, Noventiq was announced as the winner of the Ideathon for their Agentic AI solution, while Nugget by Zomato and Ganit Business Solutions Pvt. Ltd. were recognised as runners-up for their scalable and technology-led solutions.

 

Speaking on the successful conclusion of the initiative, Mr. G Ramesh, MD and CEO, HDB Financial Services said, “Through this Ideathon, we have seen how startups can build enterprise-scale solutions that improve operational efficiency while also supporting financial inclusion across India. The collaboration demonstrates the potential of combining innovation with the scale and reach of established financial institutions.”

 

Selected winners from the Ideathon will now enter a pilot phase with HDB Financial Services, with the potential for long-term commercial partnerships. These pilots will explore integrating the solutions into HDB’s pan-India network of more than 1,700 branches. These innovations are expected to translate into faster, more seamless, and highly personalized financial solutions for customers—improving access to affordable credit, reducing turnaround times, and enhancing the overall service experience across HDB’s extensive network.

 

Through initiatives like the HDB Ideathon, HDB Financial Services continues to strengthen its focus on technology-led transformation, responsible innovation, and creating long-term value in India’s evolving financial services ecosystem.

TECNO SPARK 50 5G With a Massive 6500mAh Battery Goes on Sale Today

Business Wire India

The TECNO SPARK 50 5G goes on sale today across India. The 4GB+128GB version is priced at Rs. 16,999, while the 6GB+128GB model is available at Rs. 18,999. The device can be purchased immediately on Flipkart or through physical retail stores nationwide, with no-cost EMI options available for up to 8 months.

 

TECNO Spark 50 5G is built for anyone tired of constantly looking for a charger or worrying about accidental damage. Backed by a massive 6500mAh battery, it easily lasts through a full day of heavy use. On top of that, military-grade drop protection and a solid splash and dust rating mean it easily handles daily tumbles and sudden rain showers.

 

The design pulls inspiration from natural tones, offering style without sacrificing durability. It comes in four distinct colors: Fantasy Purple, Mint Green, Champagne Gold, and Ink Black. In hand, the 120Hz display makes scrolling through feeds and switching between apps feel smooth and responsive.

 

To prevent dropped connections, TECNO Spark 50 5G uses smart antenna technology to hold a signal even in tricky, low-coverage spots. It also comes packed with handy features to make daily tasks a bit easier, including segment-first active noise cancellation, a helpful assistant for WhatsApp, and quick AI tools to clean up photos or help draft text.

Maven – Statement Regarding MCJ’s TOB Price

Business Wire India

Maven Investment Partners Ltd. Hong Kong Branch (“we” or “our”) announces today that we have increased our stake in MCJ Co., Ltd (“MCJ” or the “Company”), which is now closer to 4%, consistent with the tremendous value we see in the Company.

 

Bain’s announcement of yesterday comes as no surprise – it is a well-trodden path seen in other tender offers to encourage opposing minority shareholders to tender at the original offer price. We continue to firmly believe for the reasons outlined in our letter dated 19th March 2026 that the current offer materially undervalues MCJ. We therefore also continue to encourage other shareholders not to tender unless fairer terms are offered for minority shareholders.

 

 

DISCLAIMER

 

 

This press release (“Document”) has been issued by Maven Investment Partners Ltd, Hong Kong Branch (“Maven”). The Document is for discussion and informational purposes only. The views expressed herein represent the opinions of Maven as of the date hereof. Maven reserves the right to change or modify any of its opinions expressed herein at any time and for any reason and expressly disclaims any obligation to correct, update or revise the information contained herein or to otherwise provide any additional materials. Nothing within this Document promotes, or is intended to promote, and may not be construed as promoting, Maven.

 

 

All of the information contained herein is based on publicly available information with respect to MCJ Co., Ltd. (the “Company”), including public announcements, filings and disclosures made by the Company and other sources, including information derived or obtained from filings with regulatory authorities and from third parties, as well as Maven’s analysis of such publicly available information. Maven has relied upon and assumed, without independent verification, the completeness and accuracy of all information and data available from public sources, and no representation or warranty is made that any such data or information is accurate. Maven recognises that there may be confidential or otherwise non-public information with respect to the Company that could lead the Company or others to disagree with Maven’s conclusions, and could also alter the opinions of Maven were such information known to it.

 

 

Save for the historical information in this Document, the information and opinions set out herein constitute forward-looking statements, including projections and estimates prepared with regard to, among other things, the value of the Company’s securities, debt or any other related financial instruments that are based upon or relate to the value of securities of the Company (collectively, “Company Securities”), the Company’s anticipated operating performance, general economic and market conditions and other future events. You should be aware that all forward-looking statements, estimates and projections are inherently uncertain and subject to significant economic, competitive, and other uncertainties and contingencies and have been included solely for illustrative purposes. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the estimates, projections and forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation as to future results or that the objectives and strategic initiatives expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements will be achieved. Actual results may differ materially from the information contained herein due to reasons that may or may not be foreseeable. There can be no assurance that the Company Securities will trade at the prices that may be implied herein, and there can be no assurance that any estimate, projection or assumption herein is, or will be proven, correct. Maven will not undertake and specifically disclaims any obligation to disclose the results of any revisions that may be made to any forward-looking statements herein to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.

 

 

No express or implied representation, warranty or undertaking is given and no responsibility or liability or duty of care is or will be accepted by Maven, its affiliates or any of its or their directors, employees, agents, officers, or advisors (each a “Maven Person”) concerning: (a) this Document and its contents, including whether the information and opinions contained herein (whether obtained or derived from the Company, any third party source or otherwise) are complete, reliable, accurate, fair, or current; (b) the provision of any further information, whether by way of update to the information and opinions contained in this Document or otherwise to the recipient after the date of this Document; or (c) that Maven’s investment objectives or processes will or are likely to be successful or achieved or that Maven’s investments will make any profit or will not sustain losses. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Maven and all Maven Persons expressly disclaim any and all liability based, in whole or in part, on such information, errors therein or omissions therefrom. To the fullest extent permitted by law, none of the Maven Persons will be responsible for any losses, whether direct, indirect or consequential, including damages, loss of profits, claims, costs or expenses relating to or arising from the recipient’s or any person’s reliance on this Document.

 

 

Maven has an investment in the Company. Accordingly, Maven may have conflicts of interest and this Document should not be regarded as impartial. Nothing in this Document should be taken as any indication of Maven’s current or future trading or voting intentions which may change at any time. Maven reserves the right to change such intentions at any time notwithstanding any statements in this Document. To the extent that Maven discloses information about its position or economic interest in any Company Securities in this Document, it is subject to change, and Maven expressly disclaims any obligation to update such information.

 

 

No agreement, commitment, understanding or other legal relationship exists or may be deemed to exist between or among Maven and any other person by virtue of furnishing this Document. Maven is not acting for or on behalf of, and is not providing any advice or service to, any recipient of this Document. Maven is not responsible to any person for providing advice in relation to the subject matter of this Document. Before determining on any course of action, any recipient should consider any associated risks and consequences and consult with its own independent advisors as it deems necessary.

 

 

Maven has not sought or obtained consent from any third party to use any statements or information contained herein. Any such statements or information should not be viewed as indicating the support of such third party for the views expressed herein. All registered or unregistered trademarks and trade names referred to herein are the exclusive property of their respective owners.

 

 

Maven plans to review its investments in the Company on an ongoing basis and, depending on various factors, including without limitation, overall market conditions, the outcome of any discussions with the Company, the Company’s strategic direction and financial position, other investment opportunities available to Maven, and the availability of Company Securities at prices that would make the purchase or sale of Company Securities commercially reasonable, desirable or possible, Maven may from time to time (in the open market or in private transactions, including since the inception of Maven’s position) buy, sell, cover, hedge or otherwise change the form or substance of any of its investments (including Company Securities) to any degree in any manner permitted by law and expressly disclaims any obligation to notify others of any such changes. Maven also reserves the right to take any actions in respect of its investments in the Company as it may deem appropriate.

 

 

This Document is for informational and reference purposes only, and does not constitute (i) any action constituting “investment advisory business” as defined in Article 28, Paragraph 3, Item 1 of the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan (the “FIEL”); (ii) any action constituting “investment management business” as defined in Article 28, Paragraph 4 of the FIEL; (iii) any form of financial promotion, investment advice, or investment research or any investment recommendation; (iv) an offer or invitation to buy or sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell or to otherwise engage in any investment business or provide or receive any investment services in respect of, any security or other financial instrument and no legal relations shall be created by its issue; or (v) financial promotion, investment advice or an inducement or encouragement to participate in any product, offering or investment. No information contained herein should be construed as a recommendation by Maven. In making this Document publicly available, Maven does not intend the Document to form the basis of any investment decision or as suggesting an investment strategy. Any reference to Maven’s research and analysis process is incidental to the presentation of Maven’s views in respect of the Company. This Document is not (and may not be construed to be) legal, tax, investment, financial or other advice. Each recipient should consult their own legal counsel and tax and financial advisers as to legal and other matters concerning the information contained herein. All investments involve risk, including the risk of total loss. This Document does not purport to be all-inclusive or to contain all of the information that may be relevant to an evaluation of the Company, Company Securities or the matters described herein.

 

 

 

 

 

SES Announces Results of the Annual General Meeting

Business Wire India

SES (the “Company”) held the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) of Shareholders today in Betzdorf, Luxembourg.

 

Following the recommendations made by the Board of Directors of SES, the shareholders have voted in favor of all resolutions, including the Company’s 2025 annual accounts and the proposed annual dividend of EUR 0.50 per A-share (EUR 0.20 per B-share). The total dividend amount comprises the interim dividend of EUR 0.25 per A-share (EUR 0.10 per B-share), which has already been paid to shareholders on October 16, 2025. The final dividend of EUR 0.25 per A-share (EUR 0.10 per B-share) will be paid to shareholders on April 16, 2026.

 

 

“I would like to sincerely thank our shareholders for their active engagement, visionary support and continued confidence in SES’ strategy,” said Adel Al-Saleh, CEO of SES. “The outcomes of today’s AGM underscore our shared commitment to a bold multi-orbit approach, with Medium Earth Orbit as the strategic backbone of a dynamically evolving global interconnected network—designed to support today’s requirements and future new business. Following the acquisition of Intelsat, the newly combined SES is steadily progressing towards verticalization, leveraging innovative partnerships and fostering an iterative approach to building future space solutions. This progress will support long-term value and enable customer success.”

 

 

Additionally, in line with the recommendations made by the Board of Directors of SES, the shareholders voted in favor of setting the number of Directors at nine (9) and re-elected Mr Frank Esser and Mrs Anne-Catherine Ries as Directors for another 3-year and 1-year term, respectively.

 

 

Furthermore, the shareholders also approved the appointment of Mr Joseph Cohen to the Board of Directors for a period of 3 years.

 

 

The Board of Directors re-elected Mr Frank Esser as Chairperson for a period of one year, and both Mrs Anne-Catherine Ries and Mr Peter van Bommel, in the capacity of Vice-Chairperson also for a period of one year.

 

 

Detailed results on all matters voted on at the AGM will be available on the company’s webpage: https://www.ses.com/company/investors/shareholder-information/general-meeting-shareholders

 

 

The 2025 Annual Report is available for download at:
https://www.ses.com/company/investors/reports-and-presentations

 

 

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About SES

 

 

At SES, we believe that space has the power to make a difference. That’s why we design space solutions that help governments protect, businesses grow, and people stay connected—no matter where they are. With integrated multi-orbit satellites and our global terrestrial network, we deliver resilient, seamless connectivity and the highest quality video content to those shaping what’s next. Following our Intelsat acquisition, we now offer more than 100 years of combined global industry leadership—backed by a track record of bringing innovation “firsts” to market. As a trusted partner to customers and the global space ecosystem, SES is driving impact that goes far beyond coverage. The company is headquartered in Luxembourg and listed on Paris and Luxembourg stock exchanges (Ticker: SESG). Further information is available at: www.ses.com

 

 

Forward-looking Statements

 

 

This press release contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “will”, “enable”, and “building”.

 

 

Forward-looking statements are not assurances of future performance and are subject to inherent uncertainties and risks that are difficult to predict. Factors that might cause such a difference include those discussed in our filings with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Form 20-F, such as the ability integrate the Intelsat acquisition; operational and technological risks relating to our satellite fleet; and risks relating to competitive and market developments, regulatory decisions, and macroeconomic conditions. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date hereof and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

 

 

 

 

Andersen Consulting Adds Multiplica

Business Wire India

Andersen Consulting enters into a Collaboration Agreement with Multiplica, a digital consulting firm that helps organizations design, build, and scale impactful digital experiences.

 

Founded in Spain with a presence in Latin America and the U.S., Multiplica focuses on user research and discovery, customer experience research, digital strategy, data modeling and analysis, report automation and data visualization, conversion rate optimization, product design, and user experience design. The firm helps organizations accelerate digital transformation by building digital capabilities, teams, and assets that advance expertise across digital products, consulting, and talent development. Multiplica enables clients to forecast emerging trends in digital experience and transform their businesses through enhanced digital channels and customer engagement.

 

 

“Collaborating with Andersen Consulting represents an exciting opportunity to extend our reach and impact,” said David Boronat, CEO of Multiplica. “By combining Multiplica’s strengths in digital product development, growth marketing, and technology with Andersen’s global consulting capabilities, we will be able to deliver greater value and innovation to clients around the world.”

 

 

“Multiplica’s capabilities and expertise complement our consulting platform,” said Mark L. Vorsatz, global chairman and CEO of Andersen. “Together, we will help organizations accelerate digital transformation and achieve lasting impact through solutions that integrate insight and execution.”

 

 

Andersen Consulting is a global consulting practice providing a comprehensive suite of services spanning corporate strategy, business, technology, and AI transformation, as well as human capital solutions. Andersen Consulting integrates with the multidimensional service model of Andersen Global, delivering world-class consulting, tax, legal, valuation, global mobility, and advisory expertise on a global platform with more than 50,000 professionals worldwide and a presence in over 1,000 locations through its member firms and collaborating firms. Andersen Consulting Holdings LP is a limited partnership and provides consulting solutions through its member firms and collaborating firms around the world.

 

 

 

 

 

The LYCRA Company Announces Strategic Partnership on Renewable LYCRA® Fiber

Business Wire India

The LYCRA Company, a global leader in innovative and sustainable fiber solutions for the apparel and personal care industries, today announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement with Texhong International Group Limited (“Texhong”), one of the world’s largest suppliers of core-spun cotton textiles. Under the agreement, Texhong will exclusively partner with The LYCRA Company to bring Renewable LYCRA® fiber made with 30 percent plant-based content* to China’s core-spun yarn sector. This collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of bio-derived spandex across the global apparel and textile industry.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260402505834/en/

 

 

The LYCRA Company announced a strategic partnership with Texhong International Group for renewable LYCRA® fiber. Pictured at the signing ceremony held in Shanghai (left to right): Jason Wang, Vice President, Asia, The LYCRA Company, and Zhou Xia, Chief Operating Officer of Texhong International Group.

The LYCRA Company announced a strategic partnership with Texhong International Group for renewable LYCRA® fiber. Pictured at the signing ceremony held in Shanghai (left to right): Jason Wang, Vice President, Asia, The LYCRA Company, and Zhou Xia, Chief Operating Officer of Texhong International Group.

 

Renewable LYCRA® fiber made with 30 percent plant-based content is the latest achievement in The LYCRA Company’s efforts to develop more sustainable materials. Partly derived from dent corn, this new offering is expected to retain the outstanding elasticity, comfort, and durability of standard fossil-derived LYCRA® fiber. Information from a recent Cradle-to-Gate Life Cycle Assessment indicated up to a 32 percent** reduction in carbon emissions compared to fossil-derived LYCRA® fiber.

 

“This strategic partnership fully underscores The LYCRA Company’s leading capabilities in sustainable fiber innovation and industrial application,” said Jason Wang, vice president of Asia at The LYCRA Company. “Renewable LYCRA® fiber already boasts a mature foundation for commercial adoption. The partnership with Texhong will further expand its industrial scale. By working closely with value chain partners, we aim to continuously drive the widespread adoption of lower impact, innovative materials across the textile industry.”

 

 

Texhong will leverage its well-established textile value chain to develop customized core-spun yarn products using Renewable LYCRA® fiber made with 30 percent plant-based content. These products deliver an integrated, sustainable solution from bio-derived raw materials to yarn manufacturing. Moving forward, the two companies will jointly drive collaborative innovation in bio-derived spandex materials, yarn manufacturing, and brand end-use applications.

 

 

“Texhong has long been dedicated to the R&D and manufacturing of high-value-added cotton textiles and core-spun yarn products,” said Zhou Xia, chief operating officer of Texhong. “Partnering with The LYCRA Company will bring new breakthroughs in bio-based material applications and further improve product sustainability. Together, we will jointly accelerate the innovation and market penetration of bio-derived core-spun yarn solutions.”

 

 

Texhong has used LYCRA® brand fibers for nearly two decades and has collaborated with The LYCRA Company on many technological advancements, including patented LYCRA® dualFX® fabric technology. The further deepening of this partnership reflects the companies’ shared commitment to technological progress, operational synergy, and sustainable development. It also demonstrates The LYCRA Company’s ongoing commitment to empowering the textile value chain through continuous innovation.

 

 

*30 percent renewable content to be confirmed via third-party testing.

 

 

**Comparative Life Cycle Assessment: LYCRA® fiber with Bio-derived PTMEG vs LYCRA® fiber with Fossil-Derived PTMEG, Ramboll, 2026.

 

 

About The LYCRA Company

 

 

The LYCRA Company is a leading global fiber and technology solutions provider to the apparel and personal care industries, committed to offering sustainable products made with renewable, pre- and post-consumer recycled ingredients that reduce waste and help set the stage for circularity. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, United States, it owns the LYCRA®, LYCRA HyFit®, LYCRA® T400®, COOLMAX®, THERMOLITE®, ELASPAN®, SUPPLEX®, and TACTEL® brands. The LYCRA Company adds value to its customers’ products by offering unique innovations that meet the consumer’s need for comfort and lasting performance. Learn more at thelycracompany.com.

 

 

LYCRA® is a trademark of The LYCRA Company.

 

 

About Texhong International Group Limited

 

 

Texhong International Group Limited, founded in 1997, is one of the world’s leading suppliers of core-spun cotton textiles, specializing in the manufacturing and sales of high value-added fashionable cotton textiles. The Group is currently ranked among the top three most competitive enterprises in China’s cotton textile industry, is listed among China’s Top 500 Enterprises, and is listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Guided by its core values of “Revering Heaven, Loving People, Benefiting Self and Others”, the Group is committed to becoming a happiness-driven enterprise characterized by continuous learning and growth, while striving to create a better and more inspiring life through innovation.

 

 

 

 

 

IFF Launches PureStrong™, a Probiotic Made Specifically for Dogs

Business Wire India

IFF (NYSE: IFF)—a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients and health & biosciences—is introducing PureStrong™, a new probiotic developed exclusively for canine digestive health.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260401736960/en/

 

 

IFF introduces PureStrong™, a probiotic made specifically for dogs.

IFF introduces PureStrong™, a probiotic made specifically for dogs.

 

Today, many people consider their pet dogs part of the family. This shift is fueling rapid growth in the $3.2 billion U.S. pet supplement market. With nearly half of U.S. pet owners having purchased or considering probiotics for their dogs, PureStrong™ sets a new standard: pet‑first science built specifically for canine biology.

 

“PureStrong™ is sourced directly from the microbiome of healthy canines and designed to support how dogs actually live—how they eat, travel, age and adapt to change,” said Allyson Fish, senior vice president of health sciences for IFF. “That’s how IFF leads pet wellness: science-driven innovation that performs in the real world.”

 

 

This unique probiotic for dogs is part of HOWARU® Pet, IFF’s portfolio of canine and feline-specific probiotic strains backed by microbiome science, quality manufacturing and clinical evaluation. With decades of leadership in probiotics and bioscience, IFF is helping pet health brands move beyond trend-driven formulations toward precision wellness.

 

 

Built for dogs, not repurposed for them
Unlike many probiotics on the market today, PureStrong™ is built around one targeted strain of Limosilactobacillus reuteri, rather than blends of generic strains originally developed for humans or livestock. Because this strain comes directly from the canine microbiome, it is naturally equipped to survive, attach and compete in a dog’s gut. This focused, single-strain approach allows pet supplement brands to create low-dose, highly targeted products without unnecessary complexity, delivering effective support that aligns with the biological needs of dogs. The strain is designed for the formats pet parents already trust—including powders, capsules, tablets and sticks—while giving brands a clear point of differentiation in one of the fastest-growing categories in pet care.

 

 

Why this matters for dog owners
Digestive health affects nearly every part of a dog’s daily life from comfort and hydration to nutrient absorption and immune health.

 

 

Diet changes, travel, stress and aging can all disrupt a dog’s gut, often showing up in ways pet parents notice immediately, like stool quality and digestive upset. PureStrong™ is designed to support dogs through everyday moments that can challenge digestive health. In a controlled study of healthy dogs undergoing an abrupt diet change, dogs receiving PureStrong™ showed improved markers of digestive health and hydration and diet tolerance, resulting in firmer stools without constipation.

 

 

“Dogs experience change just like we do from new food to new environments to new stages of life,” said Danielle Rendina, senior scientist for IFF Pet Health. “PureStrong™ works with a dog’s natural microbiome to support digestion gently and effectively, helping pet parents care for their dogs in a way that feels informed, intentional and personal.”

 

 

PureStrong™ delivers a clear and reassuring message to dog owners: this probiotic is made for dogs, powered by science, and supported by a company with deep microbiome expertise. This new probiotic for dogs reflects a broader evolution in pet care—one where dogs are treated with the same thoughtfulness, rigor and respect as the people who love them. To learn more about PureStrong™ and IFF’s pet health solutions, visit https://iff.co/4sy7WJL.

 

 

Welcome to IFF
At IFF (NYSE: IFF), we make joy through science, creativity and heart. As the global leader in taste, scent, food ingredients, health and biosciences, we’re innovating for the future. Every day, we deliver groundbreaking, sustainable solutions that elevate products people love—advancing wellness, delighting the senses and enhancing the human experience. Learn more at iff.com, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

 

 

©2026 International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF). IFF, the IFF Logo, and all trademarks and service marks denoted with ™, SM or ® are owned by IFF or affiliates of IFF unless otherwise noted. All Rights Reserved.

 

 

 

 

 

Kama Ayurveda Launches Sandanya, Anti-Blemish Skincare Collection, With Mahieka Sharma as Campaign Ambassador

Business Wire India

KAMA AYURVEDA proudly unveils Sandanya, its first ever anti-blemish skincare collection. Rooted in the science of Ayurveda and supported by clinical efficacy, Sandanya introduces a new generation of clarity-focused care designed for blemish-prone and imbalanced skin.

 

In Sanskrit, {Sandanya} describes the body’s natural ability to self-heal and regenerate – for the skin, this means calming inflammation, supporting post-acne recovery, and restoring balance. Crafted with 21 Ayurvedic botanicals and enriched with modern actives like botanical salicylic acid and niacinamide, the range offers a complete ritual to purify, soothe and refine the skin gently yet effectively. It targets the root causes of imperfections, from hormonal imbalance to pollution-induced stress, with a focus on long-term skin health.

 

The spirit of Sandanya embraces clarity over perfection.

 

Flawless, in my own way.

 

The launch marks a collaboration between KAMA AYURVEDA and Mahieka Sharma, who joins the brand as the face of the Sandanya campaign. Recognised within the fashion industry, Mahieka brings a modern, mindful voice to beauty, empowering young women to choose skincare that works and cares.

 

As a yogini, creative and entrepreneur, Mahieka approaches beauty with the same philosophy that guides her life: balance between mind, body and soul. Exposed daily to shoots, travel and long hours in makeup, she turned to Ayurveda not as a trend, but as a way of living – a science that restores harmony, rather than masking imbalance.

 

“My body – and my skin – are my temple. I don’t believe in fighting or overloading the skin, but in restoring balance with intention. Sandanya reflects everything I believe in: science rooted in tradition, care guided by awareness, and clarity that comes from within.” shares Mahieka Sharma.

 

The Sandanya Range

 

At the heart of the range lies Indian Licorice, a hero Ayurvedic ingredient treasured for centuries for its purifying, calming and brightening properties. Elevated with modern formulation methods and combined with high-performance actives, Sandanya works at the source of imbalance to restore clarity without harshness – respecting the skin’s natural rhythm, rather than disrupting it.

 

Dermatologically tested on all skin types, including sensitive, Sandanya delivers visible transformation without compromising the skin barrier.

 

Blemish-Clarifying Facial Dry Oil: A dry-touch facial oil powered by Indian Licorice, Black Cumin and Mastic Tree resin, which helps reduce blemishes, calm inflammation and fade post-acne marks – all while respecting even the most sensitive skin.

 

  • 88%1saw visibly clearer skin
  • -30%2 marks after 2 months
  • 100% natural origin ingredients

 

1Use test on 42 volunteers after 14 days

2Scoring use test on 42 volunteers after 2 months 

 

Purifying Fresh Serum:A lightweight, fast-absorbing serum powered by purifying licorice and plant-based salicylic acid, which helps unclog pores, reduce excess sebum, and smooth skin texture.

 

  • 97%1 agreed pores looked less visible
  • 85%2 noticed fewer blemishes in 2 weeks
  • 98% natural origin ingredients

 

1Use test on 35 volunteers after two months of application

2Use test on 35 volunteers after two weeks of application

 

Perfecting Matte CreamA pore-refining moisturiser powered by purifying licorice and anti-sebum botanicals. Perfected to control shine, rebalance skin, and provide a soft matte finish that works across routines.

 

  • 100%1 agreed skin is mattified
  • 24h2 shine control
  • 99% natural origin ingredients

 

1Use test on 18 volunteers after 14 days

2Instrumental measures on 18 volunteers  

 

The range is designed as two distinct rituals – one for day, one for night – to align with the skin’s natural rhythm.

 

  • Daytime Ritual
     

    • Step 1: Purifying Fresh Serum
    • Step 2: Perfecting Matte Cream

 

  • Nighttime Ritual
     

    • Step 1: Clarifying Facial Oil
    • Step 2: Perfecting Matte Cream

 

Availability

 

Available from April 1st, 2026, online at www.kamaayurveda.com and across KAMA AYURVEDA stores.

 

Purifying Fresh Serum: Rs. 4775 (50ml) / Rs. 3495 (30ml) / Rs. 1995 (15ml)  

Clarifying Facial Oil: Rs. 6195 (30ml) / Rs. 3595 (15ml)

Perfecting Matte Cream: Rs. 4295 (50ml) / Rs. 2875 (30ml) / Rs. 1750 (15ml)

Gradiant Wins Major Water Contract for UK Hyperscale Data Center

Business Wire India

Gradiant, a global leader in advanced water and wastewater solutions, has been awarded a contract to design and deliver a water treatment facility for a hyperscale data center in Didcot, Oxfordshire, in the United Kingdom. The project will support one of the world’s foremost AI and cloud infrastructure providers and is being developed on the site of a former power station.

 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260402848011/en/

 

 

Gradiant will design and deliver a water treatment facility for one of the world’s foremost AI and cloud infrastructure providers, ensuring reliable cooling operations while reducing water use and environmental impact.

Gradiant will design and deliver a water treatment facility for one of the world’s foremost AI and cloud infrastructure providers, ensuring reliable cooling operations while reducing water use and environmental impact.

 

As data center growth accelerates, water is becoming a defining constraint on where and how data centers can be built and scaled. Operators are increasingly seeking partners who can ensure reliable water performance across the entire site. Gradiant will deliver an integrated solution covering treatment, recycling, and zero liquid discharge. The system is designed to ensure reliable cooling operations while reducing water use and environmental impact.

 

The project underscores Gradiant’s Site-Wide Peace of Mind approach, taking full ownership of water performance across the entire facility. Rather than treating water as a standalone utility, Gradiant delivers comprehensive water management, integrating treatment, reuse, and operational reliability into a single, accountable partner. This approach reduces risk, simplifies operations, and ensures consistent performance in increasingly resource-constrained environments.

 

 

“This project reflects how we combine deep regional expertise with Gradiant’s global technology platform to deliver critical infrastructure with confidence,” said Philipp Sausele, Managing Director of Gradiant Europe. “Our teams understand the local regulatory, environmental, and operational landscape, while leveraging proven solutions deployed worldwide. That balance of global strength and local focus is what enables us to execute reliably at scale.”

 

 

“AI is driving one of the largest infrastructure buildouts in history, and water is quickly becoming the limiting factor,” said Prakash Govindan, CEO of Gradiant. “At Gradiant, we are building the water backbone for the next generation of industry. This project reflects our strategy to partner with leading infrastructure players to deliver resilient, sustainable solutions where reliability is non-negotiable.”

 

 

This project further strengthens Gradiant’s role at the intersection of water and AI infrastructure, where performance, sustainability, and reliability are essential to success.

 

 

About Gradiant

 

 

Gradiant is a Different Kind of Water Company. With a full suite of differentiated and proprietary end-to-end solutions for advanced water and wastewater treatment powered by the top minds in water, the company serves its clients’ mission-critical operations in the world’s essential industries, including semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, lithium and critical minerals, and renewable energy. Gradiant’s innovative solutions reduce water used and wastewater discharged, reclaim valuable resources, and renew wastewater into freshwater. The Boston-headquartered company was founded at MIT and has over 1,400 employees worldwide. Discover us at gradiant.com.

 

 

 

 

 

Visa Defines the Next Era of Commerce: When AI Becomes the Customer

Business Wire India

A majority of business leaders are preparing for a world where artificial intelligence doesn’t just assist commerce, it participates in it. New research from Visa (NYSE:V) underscores how quickly that shift is gaining momentum.

 

The Visa Business-to-AI (B2AI) Report, conducted in conjunction with Morning Consult, highlights how AI is already influencing demand. Nearly 40% of Americans have made a purchase they normally would not have considered as a result of using an AI agent or tool. This is an early indication that intelligent systems are beginning to shape how people discover and decide what to buy.

 

 

The new report also reveals that 53% of U.S. businesses in the survey would allow AI agents to negotiate prices or terms directly with other AI agents on their behalf, signaling that AI-to-AI commerce is poised to scale.

 

 

At the same time, 71% of businesses say they are willing to optimize products, offers and experiences specifically for AI agents, while 77% are already using or piloting AI in their operations.

 

 

Why B2AI Has Arrived

 

 

Visa defines this next phase of commerce as B2AI, an emerging economic model in which AI agents act as active participants in commercial decision-making and execution, while humans remain accountable for intent and outcomes.

 

 

“Commerce is moving from market-to-human to market-to-machine,” said Frank Cooper III, Chief Marketing Officer at Visa. “B2AI describes what happens next as AI agents begin evaluating, negotiating and transacting on behalf of people. In that world, as always, trust becomes the critical infrastructure. If we don’t build it into machine-mediated commerce, adoption stalls.”

 

 

AI Is Moving from Assistant to Economic Proxy

 

 

For years, AI has optimized recommendations and streamlined operations. The new data suggests it is now crossing into decision-making territory. Among business decision-makers surveyed:

 

 

  • 53% would permit AI agents to negotiate directly with other AI agents
  • 88% are willing to provide pricing or inventory data to enterprise AI systems
  • 55% are already familiar with the concept of B2AI commerce

 

This signals a turning point: brands are no longer just marketing to humans — they are preparing to transact more freely with intelligent systems acting on behalf of customers and enterprises.

 

Consumers Are Ready, with Guardrails

 

 

On the consumer side, acceptance is accelerating, but trust remains the defining factor for full adoption. The report found:

 

 

  • 58% of Americans are comfortable with AI comparing prices
  • 55% are comfortable with AI applying discounts
  • 38% are comfortable with AI completing a purchase

 

Meanwhile:

 

  • Only 27% are comfortable allowing AI to spend money autonomously without limits
  • 60% would not allow AI to spend any amount without approval

 

“The message is unmistakable: people are open to AI acting for them, not instead of them,” added Cooper. “Our findings show that trust is the adoption switch for agentic commerce. Consumers are willing to let AI act on their behalf, but only when they retain visibility, control and the ability to intervene.”

 

Notably, trust increases significantly when financial institutions are involved:

 

 

  • 36% trust bank-backed AI systems
  • 35% trust payment network-enabled AI
  • Only 28% trust independent AI agents

 

Generation Acceleration

 

The shift is especially pronounced among younger consumers.

 

 

Nearly half of Gen Z (48%) say they trust payment network-enabled AI systems, compared to only 20% of Boomers. Among Gen Z and Millennials using AI shopping assistants, nearly half report making purchases they wouldn’t otherwise have considered due to AI recommendations.

 

 

A Defining Moment for Commerce

 

 

The data signals that AI is shifting from support system to transaction participant. Businesses are preparing for it. Consumers are cautiously embracing it. Trust will determine how fast it scales.

 

 

To learn more about the report, visit here.

 

 

Methodology

 

 

This survey was conducted between January 29th to February 6th, 2026, among a sample of 2,000 Gen Pop Adults in the U.S. and 512 Business Decision Makers in the US. The interviews were conducted online and the results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points for Gen Pop and plus or minus 4 points for Business Decision Makers. The Gen Pop results are weighted to the U.S. general population based on gender, age, race/ethnicity, region, and education. The Business Decision Maker results are unweighted.

 

 

About Visa

 

 

Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating payments transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com.