Reconnect, Recalibrate, Renew at Four Seasons Resorts Maldives

MALDIVE

There’s a certain kind of exhale that happens only in the Maldives, a release so subtle you barely notice it at first. It arrives the moment the speedboat slows, the water shifts from deep cobalt to luminous turquoise, and the only sound left is the ocean breathing against the hull. Out here, surrounded by islands that seem to float rather than rise, you’re reminded how restorative simplicity can be.

Somewhere between the deadlines, the endless notifications, and the culture of always being available, rest has quietly become a luxury we no longer know how to claim. To put it in perspective, India is now the most vacation-deprived nation in the world, with three out of four Indians longing for rest yet unable to fully unplug. Even when they travel, many remain tethered to their screens, their inboxes, their to-do lists stepping away, but never fully stepping back.

Which is why in 2025, luxury travel is no longer defined by excess. It’s defined by the ability to disconnect, recalibrate, and return to yourself. And nowhere does this more gracefully than Four Seasons Resorts Maldives, a trio of experiences that move like chapters of a personal reset: Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru for deep healing, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives at Kuda Huraa for mindful connection, and Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah for complete liberation.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru

At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru is the rare wellness destination that feels both deeply spiritual and uncompromisingly scientific. Spread across 44 acres of wilderness in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the island blends modern integrative medicine with ancient philosophies of healing. At its core is AyurMa, a pioneering wellness centre led by experts in Ayurveda, naturopathy, yoga therapy and planetary wellbeing. Every journey begins with a thoughtful, unhurried consultation and exploration of your dosha, circadian rhythm, emotional state, and lifestyle.

Guests can choose from signature experiences such as:

Panchakarma Cleanse: A personalised detox involving massages, herbs, treatments and therapeutic movement

Yoga Therapy Sessions: Personalised practices tailored to physical and emotional imbalances

Naturopathic Healing: Consultations addressing chronic fatigue, anxiety, digestion and sleep

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

Designed as a charming Maldivian village, the island is woven with coral-lined pathways, fragrant frangipani trees, and warm, intuitive hospitality that feels almost familial. Rooms and suites look out onto lagoon blues or sunrise surf breaks, creating a quiet visual rhythm that immediately softens the mind.

Wellness at Kuda Huraa is centered around experiences:
The Island Spa accessible by a boat ride offers marine-centric rituals infused with seaweed, ocean minerals, and local botanicals.

The signature Healing Tent Ritual blends breathwork, Reiki, sound healing, and sensory meditation.
The nightly Night Spa transforms the treetop deck into a celestial cocoon for stargazing massages and nocturnal treatments.

Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah

Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, a seven-bedroom private island that remains one of the world’s most exclusive hideaways. It is the first exclusive-use island within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and it feels exactly as extraordinary as that sounds. Guests wake when they like, dine where they like, drift through the lagoon on their own timetable, and choose their days by intuition rather than itinerary.

Signature experiences include:

  • The Ocean of Consciousness Spa, specialising in sound baths, vibration therapy, meditative journeys, crystal resonance and chakra balancing
  • Snorkel with manta rays and whale sharks at Baathala and Hanifaru Bay
  • Unscripted adventures aboard Voavah’s private yacht
  • Beachfront meditations where time seems to dissolve entirely

Together, these three properties invite guests to experience something that feels increasingly rare: spaciousness, clarity, stillness. A feeling of coming home not to a place, but to oneself. Because at Four Seasons Resorts Maldives, true luxury isn’t measured by what surrounds you. It’s measured by what shifts within you when the world finally goes quiet.

A Legacy of Trust: Janapriya Upscale Celebrates Janapriya’s 40 Years and 40,000 Homes

Janapriya Group

Hyderabad, Nov 26: Janapriya Group, a name with trust and reliability in the real estate sector, has crossed a significant historic milestone. The company celebrated the completion of 40 successful years and the delivery of 40,000 Homes, marking a new chapter in its legacy. The dual celebration, which also marked the 72nd birthday of Chairman and Founder Janapriya Group Mr K. Ravinder Reddy, was held grandly at the JRC Convention in Jubilee Hills.

Janapriya

Building on Resilience Mr Kranti Kiran Reddy, Managing Director, Janapriya Upscale reflected on the company’s journey, stating, “Reaching this height is a result of 40 years of resilience. We have withstood financial tides and changing political landscapes to stand tall today.” He dedicated the success to the strong foundation laid by his father, Mr Ravinder Reddy, and promised that Janapriya would continue to unveil landmark projects.

The Vision of Affordability Taking a trip down memory lane, Chairman Mr K. Ravinder Reddy spoke about his enduring vision: Homes for all. Citing the Housing Board, HUDA, and HDFC as key influences, he recalled the struggles homebuyers faced decades ago regarding loans. “Those experiences shaped our mission to build affordable communities,” he said, sharing the highs and lows of the last four decades.

Janapriya—which translates to “People’s Favorite”—lived up to its name, celebrating a legacy built on 40 years of unwavering trust.

Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach & The Bheemili Resort Lead Hospitality for 30th CII Partnership Summit 2025

Visakhapatnam, Nov 25:  Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach and The Bheemili Resort Managed by Accor successfully led the hospitality and hosting for the 30th CII Partnership Summit 2025, held in Visakhapatnam from 14–15 November. The landmark international gathering drew ministers, global business leaders, senior diplomats, and delegates from 61 countries, igniting high-level dialogues, business engagements, and structured collaborations.

As the primary hospitality partners, the two Accor-managed properties delivered seamless accommodation for more than 200 international delegates. Their unified operational strength ensured smooth check-ins, elevated guest service, and meticulous coordination across departments reflecting Accor’s global benchmark in service excellence and large-scale event management.

A defining moment of the summit was Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach’s complete oversight of the event’s multi-day catering operations. At Andhra University Engineering Ground, the Novotel team catered to approximately 8,000 delegates during the summit. From high-capacity meal services to thoughtfully curated menu, the hotel demonstrated its proven capability to execute complex, large-format F&B programmes with precision, speed, and hospitality finesse. This reaffirmed the property’s position as a preferred venue for high-profile business, diplomatic, and government events in the region.

“This accomplishment is a reflection of our team’s dedication and readiness to deliver at a global standard. Hosting dignitaries and delegates from around the world reinforces our commitment to operational excellence and strengthens Visakhapatnam’s growing position as a destination for large-scale international events,” said Lakshmi Sridhar, General Manager, Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach & The Bheemili Resort Managed by Accor.

With this successful summit delivery, both properties further cement their leadership in Visakhapatnam’s MICE and corporate events landscape, contributing significantly to the city’s evolution as a world-class destination for international conventions and business gatherings.

TZÁR: Redefining Modern Menswear with Timeless Sophistication

New Delhi, India, Nov 25: TZÁR, a contemporary menswear label founded by Shalini and Vaibhav Singh, is redefining wardrobe essentials for the discerning modern man. Rooted in timeless design and refined minimalism, TZÁR stands for quiet luxury—crafted to transcend fleeting trends while embodying enduring sophistication.

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At its heart, TZÁR celebrates artisanal craftsmanship and thoughtful design, merging traditional techniques with a forward-thinking aesthetic. Every piece reflects precision, purpose, and purity of form—engineered for men who value both comfort and understated elegance.

Currently focused on menswear, TZÁR’s curated offering spans elevated wardrobe staples—from crisp everyday apparel to soft, luxurious leather accessories, designed to blend versatility with lasting appeal. The brand’s commitment to quality and detail ensures that each garment meets international benchmarks of excellence, from fabric selection to finish.

“TZÁR was born from the desire to create something timeless yet relevant—pieces that age gracefully, not go out of style,” shares Shalini Singh, Co-founder and Creative Director.

With an ethos deeply rooted in conscious consumption, TZÁR integrates sustainability into its design philosophy—balancing people, planet, and profit. The label’s vision extends beyond fashion, toward building a mindful lifestyle brand that resonates with the evolving global mindset.

Handcrafted in India, TZÁR’s debut menswear collection will be available through its official e-commerce platform, www.tzar.co.in, followed by a selective presence on premium digital marketplaces. Plans for a flagship offline store is also underway, marking the next chapter in TZÁR’s growth.

Over the next five years, the brand aims to scale across India and expand globally, gradually introducing womenswearand a broader range of lifestyle products.

As Vaibhav Singh, Co-founder, adds, “We’re building TZÁR as a brand that stands for authenticity, integrity, and excellence—crafted for those who appreciate the art of subtlety.”

TZÁR is more than a brand—it’s a philosophy of mindful modern living, created for a world that values elegance with purpose.

CheapOair Unwraps a Holiday Lineup of Airfare Coupons, Giving Travelers More Reasons to Take Off This Season

NEW YORK, NY (Nov 25) – The holidays are in the air and so is the urge to get away. Whether it’s traveling to see family, chasing winter sunshine, or planning a dream trip for the New Year, travelers are already searching for ways to fly without stretching their budgets. This season, CheapOair is stepping in with a sleigh-full of savings designed to make holiday travel smoother, smarter, and more affordable.

Kicking off Thanksgiving weekend, CheapOair is rolling out an extended celebration of travel deals that span across four of the biggest shopping moments of the year. Rather than limiting travelers to a single day of discounts, the brand is offering a series of promotions, each one opening the door to more destinations and additional opportunities to fly for less. Enjoy these savings on airfare, hotels, car rentals, and package deals for your dream vacation.

CheapOair.com’s Savings Lineup includes:

· Black Friday (Nov. 24–30): up to $40*

· Cyber Monday (Dec. 1): up to $50*

· Travel Tuesday (Dec. 2): up to $60*

· Travel Tuesday Extended (Dec. 3–7): up to $50*

*Savings on CheapOair service fees. Savings available on eligible flights, hotels, car rentals, and packages. See website for details.

Think of it as a holiday gift for planners and spontaneous travelers alike. Whether you’re looking to snag a December deal or book a far-off 2026 adventure, these offers let travelers secure airfare before peak-season spikes set in.

“With the holiday season coming up, travelers who book now can take advantage of great options for dates and destinations,” said Thomas Spagnola, Sr. Vice President, Partner Relationships at CheapOair. “It’s a simple way to save on flights while planning ahead for a smooth, stress-free season.”

CheapOair encourages travelers to embrace a few insider tips: stay flexible with departure dates, use airline apps for real-time updates, and consider midweek flights to stretch savings even further. Together, these insights can turn a typically stressful travel season into something that feels effortless.

India’s Top Finance Influencer Rachana Ranade Speaks at FLO Hyderabad on “Money Matters. Mindset Matters More.

Hyderabad, Nov 25: FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO), Hyderabad Chapter, organised a unique and empowering session titled “Money Matters. Mindset Matters More,” featuring India’s leading financial educator and fin-fluencer, Rachana Ranade, at Hyatt Place, Banjara Hills.

FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO), Hyderabad Chapter

One of India’s most influential voices in financial literacy, Rachana Ranade is widely respected for simplifying complex financial concepts for the masses. By breaking down financial jargon into relatable, easy-to-understand insights, she has made investing accessible to beginners and seasoned investors alike — including millions who are not fluent in English.

With a mission to democratise financial education, her content has reached millions through YouTube and other digital platforms. Her impact on India’s financial learning ecosystem has earned her a place in Forbes India’s Top 100 Digital Stars.

FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO), Hyderabad Chapter

Separate the finance and gender. Women think that finance management is not their cup of tea. That is not correct. It doesn’t have any gender difference said Rachana Ranade

Warren Buffet started making long term vestments at the age of 92 years. Age is just a number. It doesn’t matter what is your age to invest money, she added

For learning, age is not the bar. Before you start your financial journey, be aware of fundamentals of finance management, she said. She spoke to the packed hall.

At the FLO Hyderabad session, she covered a broad spectrum of topics — personal finance, stock market investing, mutual funds, IPO evaluation, and practical strategies for building long-term wealth.

The theme resonated deeply with FLO’s objective of helping women rethink their relationship with money — emphasising not just financial tools, but the mindset that shapes investment behaviour, wealth creation, and financial confidence.

FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO), Hyderabad Chapter

Delivering her welcome address, Prathibha Kunda, Chairperson, FLO Hyderabad, said the global economic landscape has positioned women as key drivers of financial decision-making.

She observed, “The world is waking up to a powerful truth: women are not just participants in the economy — they are becoming the largest economic force on the planet. When we change how women think about money, we unlock not just personal wealth but global economic potential.”

Highlighting the urgency of financial literacy, she added, “Only one in three adults globally is financially literate, with women disproportionately disadvantaged. Mindset matters more than ever. Financial education isn’t a luxury — it is a necessity. Our goal is to help women own their financial stories with confidence.”

Speaking about Rachana Ranade’s inspirational journey, Prathibha noted, “Rachana didn’t enter classrooms — she built one for an entire nation. She transformed finance from fear into freedom for over five million learners.”

FLO Hyderabad continues to strengthen its role as a catalyst for women’s empowerment. This year alone, it has conducted 23+ impactful programmesacross digital literacy, STEM, grassroots livelihood development, sales leadership, women directors’ training, and community outreach — collectively benefiting more than 3,700 women across the region.

India Ranks 2nd in APAC Real Estate Private Credit Fundraising; Set to Capture Up to 25% of Regional Growth by 2028: Knight Frank Report

Mumbai, Nov 24th: India has emerged as one of the most dynamic real estate private credit markets in the Asia-Pacific region, ranking 2nd and contributing 36% of the region’s private credit fundraising between 2020 and 2024, according to Knight Frank’s latest Horizon Report: The Rise of Real Estate Credit in Asia-Pacific – Bridging the Gap.

The report reveals that India’s private credit assets under management (AUM) have grown from USD 0.7 billion in 2010 to USD 17.8 billion in 2023, highlighting the rapid institutionalisation of the market and rising investor confidence. Backed by regulatory reforms, innovative funding structures, and increasing demand for flexible capital, India is projected to account for 20–25% of the region’s anticipated USD 90–110 billion private credit growth by 2028.

Knight Frank notes that developers’ growing reliance on non-bank financing—amid evolving regulations and tighter bank lending—has accelerated the expansion of private credit. Global private equity firms and family offices are increasingly tapping into the segment for its attractive risk-adjusted returns, especially in residential development, refinancing, and special situation funding.

India’s Market Momentum

Shishir Baijal, Chairman and Managing Director, Knight Frank India, said:

“India’s rise as a leading private credit market is driven by strong economic fundamentals and deepening institutional participation. Structured and alternative financing are helping bridge capital gaps for developers and support the rising urban housing demand. With global interest rates remaining high, private credit offers compelling opportunities backed by robust underlying assets.”

The report also highlights how structured debt, last-mile funding, and special situation investments are increasingly critical in unlocking stalled projects and resolving liquidity challenges, attracting a wider base of institutional investors.

Asia-Pacific Private Credit on a Strong Upward Trajectory

The Asia-Pacific region raised USD 11.2 billion in real estate private credit between 2020 and 2024—a 40% increase that reflects the region’s rising prominence in alternative real estate lending.

Over the next three years, Knight Frank projects USD 90–110 billion in private credit growth across major markets including Australia, Hong Kong SAR, India, and South Korea.

  • Australia is expected to drive nearly 50% of this expansion.

  • India is projected to contribute 20–25%, supported by sustained real estate debt demand.

Despite representing just 5% of global private credit fundraising, Asia-Pacific is showing strong momentum with average fund sizes consistently exceeding USD 100 million since 2022.

Australia leads the region, accounting for 40% of fundraising, with private credit now representing USD 50 billion, or 16% of the country’s commercial real estate lending. South Korea and Japan account for 11% and 5%, respectively.

Growing Participation from Family Offices

The report points to rising interest from ultra-high-net-worth individuals and family offices, who collectively manage an estimated USD 3.1 trillion in global assets.

  • 37% of family offices plan to increase indirect real estate investments within 18 months.

  • Nearly one-third aim to boost private credit allocations the highest among all asset classes.

Private credit strategies typically target returns 3–6.5% above benchmark rates, with high-yield strategies offering double-digit potential. The high-rate environment is further strengthening the appeal of this asset class.

Key Investment Themes

  1. Development Financing
    Filling gaps left by banks reducing development lending due to regulatory pressures like Basel III.

  2. Bridge & Refinancing Solutions
    Supporting markets facing valuation adjustments or bank reluctance for refinancing—especially in Hong Kong SAR and Australia.

  3. Value-Add Strategies
    Funding ESG upgrades, office conversions, and bespoke financing needs.

  4. New-Economy Assets
    Capital flowing into data centres, logistics, and build-to-rent residential projects.

Market Outlook: Positive with Selective Opportunities

While the private credit sector faces risks such as regulatory evolution and liquidity pressures, the report suggests that market share will continue to grow. However, unlike Western markets where private credit often replaces traditional lending, Asia-Pacific home to deposit-rich banking systems—will see private credit complement bank lending rather than replace it.

Simon Mathews, Director, Capital Advisory, Knight Frank, noted:

“Private credit offers speed, flexibility, and tailored solutions that are increasingly preferred by developers across Asia-Pacific. With interest rates expected to remain higher for longer, real estate private credit is positioned to deliver some of the most attractive risk-adjusted returns in over a decade.”

ace turtle Appoints Alok Dubey as Chief Business Officer

ace turtle Appoints Retail Veteran Alok Dubey as Chief Business Officer to Strengthen Leadership for Next Phase of Growth

Bengaluru, Nov 24: ace turtle, India’s tech-driven retail enterprise transforming consumer shopping experiences, has announced the appointment of retail industry veteran Alok Dubey as its Chief Business Officer, strengthening its leadership team as the company gears up for its next phase of growth.

AlokDubeyPhoto2

In his new role, Dubey will head the business vertical managing the iconic heritage brands Lee® and Wrangler® in India and select South Asian markets. He will report directly to Nitin Chhabra, Chief Executive Officer, ace turtle.

An alumnus of IIM Bangalore, Dubey brings over three decades of expertise in retail and brand management, having held leadership roles at Apparel Group, Reliance Brands, Arvind Fashions, Swatch Group, and Titan. His notable 18-year stint at Arvind Fashions saw him scaling US Polo Assn. and Flying Machine into large, profitable brands. At Reliance Brands, he launched La Martina and successfully turned around Gas Jeans and Vision Express. Most recently, he served as CEO at Apparel Group India, leading Beverly Hills Polo Club and R&B labels.

Nitin Chhabra, CEO, ace turtle, said:

“Alok brings deep experience in building and scaling fashion brands in India. His leadership will be crucial as we continue to strengthen and accelerate the growth of Lee and Wrangler. His market insight and proven track record will fuel our next growth chapter.”

Alok Dubey, commenting on his appointment, said:

“I am excited to join ace turtle at a pivotal moment in its journey. Lee and Wrangler are iconic brands with strong consumer trust and emotional connect. With ace turtle’s technology-led retail model and integrated supply chain, we have a unique opportunity to scale these brands in an efficient and future-ready manner. I look forward to contributing to the next wave of growth.”

This strategic leadership addition reinforces ace turtle’s momentum in expanding its vertically integrated, technology-driven retail model and strengthening the reach of its brand portfolio across physical and digital channels.

Last month, ace turtle further expanded its fashion portfolio by onboarding Amsterdam-based G-STAR, adding to its roster of globally acclaimed fashion brands alongside Lee and Wrangler.

FICCI’s Finance Conclave 2025 Charts the Future of Global Finance

Hyderabad, Nov 24: The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), organised the ‘Finance Conclave 2025’, themed ‘Navigating Transformation in a Dynamic Global Economy’, today at The Park, Hyderabad. The conclave brought together top policymakers, industry leaders, financial experts, and international stakeholders for an in-depth dialogue on the forces reshaping global finance.

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The event served as a premier platform to explore how the finance function is transforming from a traditional, transactional role into a strategic engine of business value. Sessions underscored the growing influence of digitalisation, automation, AI, and data analytics in redefining financial operations, governance, and decision-making. Speakers shared actionable insights on leveraging technology to boost agility, enhance forecasting precision, strengthen cross-functional partnerships, and enable finance leaders to steer growth, innovation, and sustainable performance in an increasingly volatile economic landscape.

The inaugural ceremony featured Special Addresses by Mr. CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda; President, ICAI, and Mr. CA. Ananda Rao Potnuru, President, Hyderabad Chartered Accountants’ Society. This was followed by a compelling Theme Address from Ms. Seema Grover, Head of Finance  India & Emerging Markets, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, and a powerful Keynote Address by Mr. CA. Salil Kumar Mishra, CFO, MEIL Group. Mr. V V Rama Raju, Chairman, FICCI Telangana State Council & Founder & MD, Gaja Engineering, delivered the welcome address, while Mr. Jayadev Meela, Co-Chairman, FICCI Telangana State Council & Managing Director, Sudhakar Group, proposed the vote of thanks.

Mr. CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda; President, ICAI; in his virtual address said, The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) was established in 1949, even before India adopted its Constitution. The Constituent Assembly envisioned a disciplined corps of financial professionals who could guide a young nation out of uncertainty and onto a path of sustained growth. Today, ICAI stands as the world’s largest accounting body, with over five lakh members and eleven lakh students. From being partners in nation-building, we have evolved into partners in global progress. In this dynamic environment, finance professionals are no longer mere custodians of numbers; they are strategic navigators, regulators, stakeholders, and enablers of societal resilience and confidence. To stay ahead, we must align with international best practices, adapt them to our local context, and integrate them into our work to deliver the highest standards of excellence.

Mr. CA. Ananda Rao Potnuru; President, Hyderabad Chartered Accountants’ Society; said, the global economy today is deeply interconnected, capital, goods, technology, and talent move seamlessly across borders. A policy shift in Washington can ripple through Mumbai, and an innovation in Bengaluru can reshape markets in Europe. In such a world, survival hinges on adaptability, and leadership demands constant reinvention. This decade calls for strategic, sustainable, and systematic transformation. Our standards must evolve from being compliance-driven to intelligence-driven, with data, cybersecurity, and AI forming the core of financial governance. In an era of rising digital fraud, staying updated and digitally proficient is no longer optional, it’s essential.

Ms. Seema Grover; Head of Finance  India & Emerging Markets, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories; said, today, institutions like ICAI, SEBI, and NFRA are driving a new era of robust corporate governance. To deepen this understanding, we are privileged to have two distinguished speakers who will share their insights on the future of corporate governance, financial reporting, and evolving standards. Our second session explores the power of technology, can AI close our books, can MIS sharpen decision-making, and how far can automation transform our processes? A seasoned CFO will bring these ideas to life with real-world experiences. The third session turns to the global landscape, focusing on how financial leaders can navigate geopolitical shifts and macroeconomic uncertainty with agility and confidence.

Mr. CA. Salil Kumar Mishra; CFO, MEIL Group; said, the role of a finance professional today goes far beyond being a business partner, we are co-founders in spirit and function. Promoters now expect finance to support every dimension of the business, not just balance the books. Traditional balancing is outdated; with AI and advanced software handling routine tasks, our real value lies in interpretation and strategic insight. A CFO’s core responsibility is to drive the business alongside the promoters. Finance is the powerhouse behind execution, and even a small analytical error can derail an entire project. We’ve seen several infrastructure companies in Hyderabad collapse due to weak financial planning and execution. Predictive finance now shapes project strategy, it’s no longer about post-mortem analysis. As CFOs, we must shed conventional mindsets and bring forward ideas that are technology-driven, ownership-driven, and responsibility-driven. Ultimately, we are custodians of growth that is sustainable, ethical, and resilient.

Mr. V V Rama Raju; Chairman, FICCI Telangana State Council & Founder & MD, Gaja Engineering; in his welcome address said, today’s theme, “Navigating Transformation in a Dynamic Global Economy,” highlights the finance function’s shift from transactional reporting to strategic leadership. It is especially relevant as we face rapid technological change, rising risks, and constantly shifting global dynamics. Geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressures, rising tariffs, and economic volatility are reshaping financial strategy and limiting forecasting clarity. In this environment, the future belongs to organisations that are bold in adopting digital technologies, strong in governance, high in performance, and agile in decision-making. The future of finance will be global, digital, data-driven, and sustainable. The finance function is now firmly recognised as a strategic partner aligned with the organisation’s core objectives.

Mr. P R Ramesh, Independent Non-Executive Director, Nestlé India Ltd., responding to a point during the panel discussion he said, across the world, the credibility of financial reporting has hit its lowest point. Despite subsequent corrective measures by regulators in the US, India, and elsewhere, we continue to witness major corporate failures in financial reporting, raising a fundamental question, as to what were the Boards doing? Many of these companies were audited by top firms, had celebrated boards, and operated with sophisticated systems. Yet the cracks were massive. As far back as 1988, the Chairman of the Securities Exchange Commission remarked that most US financial statements were “cooked” some lightly, others completely roasted. For the regulator of the world’s financial capital to say this was alarming, and several Fortune 500 companies soon proved him right. The reality is that Board members, including audit committee members, typically spend only 75 to 100 hours a year on a company. They don’t review books of account, aren’t involved in day-to-day operations, and yet are expected to uphold governance. With strict insider-trading laws, most blue-chip companies share financials with Directors only on the day of the meeting or, at best, a day prior. Even the most brilliant Chartered Accountant on a Board cannot meaningfully analyse such limited, last-minute information. Given this structure, governance inevitably relies heavily on what auditors present. And when that foundation cracks, the entire system falters.

A thought-provoking panel on Indian Standards & Governance in Accounting, featuring Mr. P R Ramesh, Independent Non-Executive Director, Nestlé India Ltd., and Mr. Govind Ahuja, Partner, S. R. Batliboi & Co. LLP, examined the evolution of Indian Accounting Standards, their convergence with global IFR principles, compliance challenges, emerging governance frameworks, and the pivotal role of transparency in building stakeholder trust.

FICCI’s Finance Conclave 2025 Charts the Future of Global FinanceSession on Insights on Finance TransformationMr. M V NarasimhamCFO, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories; highlighted the finance function’s shift from a transactional role to a strategic driver of enterprise value. He underscored how digitalisation, automation, AI, and analytics are reshaping financial operations and governance, and shared practical insights on using technology to enhance agility, improve forecasting, and strengthen business partnerships, empowering finance leaders to drive innovation, growth, and long-term sustainability.

Another engaging session, led by Mr. Jitendra Gohil, CIO, Bajaj Alternate Investment Management Ltd., addressed Economic Peace, Geopolitics, Supply Chain Impact, Rising Prices & Tariffs. The discussion unpacked how geopolitical tensions, tariff shifts, and global realignments are influencing trade flows, investment patterns, and business resilience. Experts highlighted India’s emerging opportunities, the urgency for adaptive financial planning, and strategies to navigate global uncertainties.

In the panel on Leadership Perspective on the Strategic Role of Finance, speakers Mr. KVS Ramrao, Partner, VB Group, and Mr. Rahul Chattopadhyay, Chartered Accountant, illuminated how finance leaders are expected to drive customer-centric value, proactively mitigate business risks, and deliver advanced analytics that guide competitive strategy.

A standout feature of the conclave was the exclusive CXO Dialogue, featuring Ms. Lakshmi Iyer, Group President  Investments & CEO, Bajaj Alternate Investment Management Ltd., and Mr. M V Narasimham, CFO, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, joining virtually; along with Mr. Jitendra Gohil and Ms. Seema Grover, engaging in person. This rare interactive exchange offered delegates deep insights into leadership philosophies, financial stewardship, and strategic decision-making amid today’s rapidly shifting economic environment.

The Finance Conclave 2025 concluded on a high note, equipping participants with forward-looking perspectives, strategic frameworks, and transformative ideas to navigate the future of finance with confidence.

AMFI Honours Surinder Verma for Excellence in Investor Awareness & Education – 2025

New Delhi, Nov 23: The Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) honoured Shri Surinder Verma, Chairman of the Citizens Awareness Group, for his outstanding contribution to investor awareness and financial education.

The felicitation took place at the SEBI Pavilion, Hall No. 3, Pragati Maidan, during the India International Trade Fair (IITF), in the presence of senior officials, industry representatives, and key stakeholders from the financial sector.

AMFI Honours Surinder Verma

AMFI conferred this recognition to acknowledge Shri Verma’s sustained efforts in promoting financial literacy and equipping citizens with reliable, accessible, and practical investment knowledge. His extensive outreach initiatives and educational programmes have played a significant role in strengthening investor awareness across the country, particularly at the grassroots level.

AMFI Honours Surinder Verma

An AMFI official, while appreciating Shri Verma’s work, said, “Shri Surinder Verma has made a notable contribution to advancing investor education in India. His initiatives have helped thousands of individuals better understand their financial rights, responsibilities, and opportunities. AMFI is honoured to recognise his exemplary service.”

The felicitation was part of the programme titled “Investor Education and Awareness – 2025,” held in the “Bharat Ka Share Bazar” Pavilion. The event witnessed active participation and smooth coordination, supported by AMFI’s dedicated team.

AMFI Honours Surinder Verma

This recognition highlights the importance of individuals who continue to strengthen India’s financial awareness ecosystem. The event concluded with appreciation from attendees and reaffirmed AMFI’s ongoing commitment to promoting investor education nationwide.