Vonage Recognized as CPaaS Leader for the Fifth Time in Frost & Sullivan Report

Business Wire India

 

Vonage, part of Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC), announced today that it has earned dual recognition from Frost & Sullivan for its leadership and innovation in Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS). The company has been recognized as Leader in the most recent Frost & Sullivan CPaaS Radar™ and awarded the prestigious APAC CPaaS Company of the Year Recognition.

 

As a five-time leader in the annual Frost & Sullivan CPaaS Radar, Vonage is recognized for its deep innovation in AI-powered tools, branded calling, and network powered solutions for fraud prevention and detection. Additionally, having earned the CPaaS Company of the Year from Frost & Sullivan for six consecutive years, this award celebrates Vonage’s ability to address new challenges and opportunities, strengthen market leadership, and meet evolving customer needs.

 

 

Advancing Security and Customization

 

 

Vonage Network APIs, such as location services, silent authentication, SIM swap detection, and quality on demand, offer new ways for enterprises to transform their technology stack and develop next-generation digital strategies. By leveraging these network-powered solutions, enterprises can deliver leapfrog innovation and unlock new levels of operational efficiency through previously untapped network capabilities and intelligence. Developer tools like Bring Your Own AI (BYOAI) connectors and sandbox environments help streamline developer onboarding and speed up time-to-value for new enterprise use cases.

 

 

“Vonage’s placement as a Leader on the Frost Radar™ and its recognition as the APAC CPaaS Company of the Year reflect its strengths in delivering technology solutions that serve developers and enterprises across a global client base,” said Krishna Baidya, Senior Industry Director, Frost & Sullivan. “With its deep innovation leadership, robust global execution, and the strategic advantage of being part of Ericsson, Vonage continues to shape the market through programmable mobile network APIs and AI-native intelligence.”

 

 

The report also highlights Vonage Video APIs that include AI-enhanced features such as live captions, transcription, translation, and content moderation, enabling secure, tailored solutions for industries including telehealth, education, and retail.

 

 

“These recognitions from Frost & Sullivan are a testament to our commitment to deliver scalable, AI-enhanced solutions that meet the evolving needs of enterprises,” said Christophe Van de Weyer, President and Head of Business Unit API, Vonage. “By exposing advanced network capabilities intelligence through network powered solutions – such as location services, silent authentication, and SIM swap detection – our APIs empower developers and enterprises. Our network powered solutions enable greater automation, strengthen security, and drive customer engagement, delivering measurable business outcomes and unlocking new value.”

 

 

Click here to learn more.

 

 

About Vonage

 

 

Vonage, a part of Ericsson, creates technology that empowers enterprises and equips developers to lead in the next era of digital transformation. Its AI-powered platforms and tools enable new value creation and innovative customer experiences across mobile networks and the cloud.

 

 

The company’s technology portfolio includes Network APIs, CPaaS, CCaaS, and UCaaS solutions. Trusted by enterprises across industries and embraced by developers around the world, Vonage is committed to reimagining every digital interaction.

 

 

Vonage is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) and operates within Ericsson Group Business Area Global Communications Platform (BGCP). For more information visit www.vonage.com and follow @Vonage.

 

 

Copyright © 2026 Vonage. All rights reserved. VONAGE®, the V logo, and other Vonage marks are registered trademarks of Vonage or its affiliates in the United States and other countries.

 

 

 

 

 

PMMY Fuels Micro Enterprise Growth, Empowers Women Entrepreneurs Across India

New Delhi, April 8: The Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) continues to play a transformative role in India’s economic landscape, driving the growth of micro enterprises and significantly empowering women entrepreneurs across the country.

Launched in 2015, the scheme was designed with a simple yet powerful vision—to fund the unfunded. Over the years, it has opened doors for millions of small business owners who previously struggled to access formal credit. By offering collateral-free loans, PMMY has enabled individuals to start and expand small businesses, creating livelihoods and strengthening local economies.

One of the most remarkable outcomes of the scheme has been its impact on women. Today, a substantial share of Mudra loans are availed by women entrepreneurs, helping them achieve financial independence and build sustainable businesses. From running small retail shops and tailoring units to launching service-based enterprises, women across urban and rural India are using these loans to turn their ideas into reality.

The scheme operates through different categories—Shishu, Kishor, and Tarun—catering to businesses at various stages of growth. This flexible structure allows first-time entrepreneurs to take their first step while also supporting existing businesses in scaling up operations.

Beyond financial support, PMMY has contributed to a broader cultural shift by encouraging self-employment and entrepreneurship. It has particularly benefited youth and individuals from underserved communities, giving them the confidence to participate in the formal economy.

Economists note that micro enterprises form the backbone of India’s economy, and initiatives like PMMY are crucial for sustaining inclusive growth. By improving access to credit and promoting entrepreneurship at the grassroots level, the scheme is helping generate employment and reduce dependence on traditional job markets.

As India moves toward its long-term development goals, PMMY is expected to remain a key driver of economic empowerment—supporting small businesses, strengthening communities, and ensuring that growth reaches every corner of the country.

Native South Kitchen & Brew House Opens Its Doors in Hyderabad

Hyderabad April 8: Native South Kitchen & Brewhouse, a vibrant new dining destination dedicated to traditional South Indian cuisine, opened its doors to the people of Hyderabad. Located in Narsingi, the restaurant is set to become a go-to hub for food lovers and enthusiasts in the city and the neighbouring IT hub.Native South  Kitchen & Brew House Opens Its Doors in Hyderabad

 Native South Kitchen & Brewhouse brings together time-honoured recipes from Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala, prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features regional staples with regional variations alongside innovative plant-based and wellness-oriented dishes tailored for modern palates.

Native South Kitchen & Brewhouse aims to be more than just a restaurant—it aspires to be a community space where families, friends, and professionals gather to celebrate South Indian culture and convivial dining.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Praveen Rao Gandra, owner of Native South – Kitchen & Brew House, said,

“With Native South, we want to create a place where Hyderabadi families and young professionals can come together to relish authentic flavours and enjoy time with family and friends. South Indian cuisine has a rich heritage, but we wanted to present it in a way that feels fresh, modern, and inclusive. By combining traditional recipes, we are creating a space where every guest can explore bold flavours and create new memories.”

According to Shiva Shanmugam, Executive Chef, Native South Kitchen & Brewhouse,

 “Hyderabad has always had a deep love for South Indian food. With Native South Kitchen & Brewhouse, we are proud to offer a premium-quality dining experience that celebrates our roots while embracing innovation. The menu is refreshing and reinforces the brand’s commitment to clean, wholesome, and flavour-forward South Indian food”

Designed as a neighbourhood hub for families, friends and office groups, Native South combines traditional South Indian warmth with sleek, modern interiors. The restaurant features home delivery, takeaway, wheelchair access, live sports screening and a kid-friendly environment, allowing guests to enjoy South Indian food in a space that balances comfort and style.

What sets Native South Kitchen & Brewhouse apart is its integrated brewhouse concept, where curated craft beers are designed to complement the spicy, tangy, and aromatic notes of South Indian cuisine. The in-house brew masters have developed a signature beer list that pairs seamlessly with everything from fiery pickles to cool coconut-based curries. Guests can enjoy the brews in a relaxed, contemporary setting that blends rustic South Indian aesthetics with modern urban energy.

Business News For Profit

RBI Holds Repo Rate at 5.25 percent, Realty Sector Bets on Demand Momentum

The decision by the Reserve Bank of India to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% has been widely welcomed by real estate developers, who see it as a stabilizing move amid global uncertainties and inflationary pressures. Industry leaders believe the status quo will ensure steady borrowing costs, support homebuyer sentiment, and sustain demand across residential segments, particularly in high-growth markets like NCR where interest in larger and luxury homes is rising. While some stakeholders indicated that a rate cut could have further boosted affordability, the current pause is viewed as a balanced approach that provides policy clarity, strengthens economic confidence, and allows existing monetary measures to effectively transmit through the system.

Manoj Gaur, CMD, Gaurs Group says, “We welcome the RBI’s decision to maintain status quo on the repo rate at 5.25%. Given the global uncertainties, particularly the West Asia situation impacting crude prices, the RBI’s move signals predictability. Further the continuation of a neutral stance ensures flexibility while maintaining growth momentum. Along with stable EMIs and proactive liquidity management, this will support end-user demand and sustain real estate activity, especially as the economy continues to navigate a balanced growth-inflation trajectory.”

Deepak Kapoor, Director, Gulshan Group says, “In the backdrop of global volatility and inflationary pressures driven by high energy prices, the RBI’s move to hold the repo rate steady at 5.25% reinforces confidence in India’s economic resilience. The upward revision in near-term GDP projections further strengthens this outlook. For real estate, stable borrowing costs and policy continuity create a conducive environment for sustained demand, and we remain optimistic about steady growth across residential segments through the year.”

Yash Miglani, MD, Migsun Group, said, “The RBI’s decision to hold the repo rate at 5.25% could not have come at a more decisive moment for the housing market. Buyer sentiment is already strengthening, and this stability will make home loans more comfortable for buyers. In NCR, where demand for larger formats and luxury housing is already surging, we expect accelerated conversions in the coming quarters.”

Prateek Tiwari, Managing Director, Prateek Group, says “The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% is a balanced approach against a backdrop of global economic uncertainties and geopolitical pressures. For the housing sector, the consistent rate helps strengthen sentiment, reassuring buyers and keeping financing conditions stable. This plays a key role in home buyers purchasing decision particularly for first-time buyers and end-users exploring opportunities in strong demand corridors. While we believe a rate cut could have further eased borrowing costs, the pause gives lenders clarity and allows existing monetary easing to fully transmit through the system.”

Sandeep Chhillar, Founder & Chairman, Landmark Group, says, “We welcome the RBI’s decision to hold rates steady. The announcement comes at a time when global uncertainty is still quite high. By keeping the repo rate at 5.25%, the RBI has avoided a premature shift that could have unsettled the broader economy. The neutral stance shows a clear awareness of both inflation risks and uneven global growth trends. For the real estate market, this means near stable home loan rates. It’s a measured pause that gives policymakers space to assess data more carefully, instead of reacting to short-term global volatility.”

Pankaj Jain, Founder and CMD, SPJ Group, says, “Maintaining the repo rate at 5.25% is a pragmatic move in an environment still shaped by global headwinds. It brings much-needed stability to home loan markets. For borrowers, this effectively means EMIs are likely to remain in the same range for now, without any immediate easing in interest burden. While a slight rate cut would have offered some relief and improved affordability at the margin, the RBI has clearly chosen to wait for stronger macro signals before shifting direction. Overall, it keeps borrowing conditions steady, giving homebuyers predictability in their financial planning, even if the expectation of softer loans gets pushed further down the line.

B.K. Malagi, Vice Chairman, Experion Developers says “”The decision to hold the repo rate at 5.25% supports a mature housing cycle. Housing thrives on consistency, in terms of policy, financing, and buyer expectations. Stable interest rates protect affordability while allowing developers to plan long-term projects without funding uncertainty. As global investors reassess emerging markets, India’s housing sector stands out for its stability and depth. This policy continuity strengthens the foundation for sustained residential growth rather than short-term demand distortions.”

Mr. Sanchit Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108, A steady repo rate combined with a neutral policy stance bodes well for the commercial real estate sector. It provides greater visibility on borrowing costs, fostering confidence among developers, investors, and occupiers alike. For developers, this stability enables more predictable project planning and efficient liquidity management. Such a macro environment supports sustained demand for Grade A office and retail spaces while maintaining healthy leasing momentum. Going forward, a consistent policy approach is expected to attract stronger institutional participation and further reinforce India’s position as a preferred commercial real estate destination.

Mr Harinder Singh Hora, Founder Chairman, Reach Group says, “The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% brings much-needed stability across lending and liquidity channels. It ensures that borrowing costs for businesses, retailers, and developers remain predictable, which is crucial for planning expansions, leasing strategies, and new project rollouts. The neutral stance indicates that the central bank is comfortable with the current balance between liquidity and inflation, reducing uncertainty around credit pricing and enabling institutional players to take more structured, long-term decisions, especially amid evolving global conditions.”

Amit Modi, Director, County Group says, the RBI’s decision to hold the repo rate at 5.25% and maintain a neutral stance signals continuity at a time when global variables remain unsettled. From the real estate sector, this stability is reassuring. However, a marginal rate cut at this juncture would have offered meaningful relief to homebuyers, especially first-time borrowers managing stretched affordability in key urban markets. Equally, the Middle East tensions are adding a layer of imported inflation risk, keeping input costs and financing sentiment slightly guarded. For the sector, this is a phase of resilience rather than acceleration, where confidence matters as much as the cost of capital.

Sanjay Sharma, Director, SKA Group says maintaining the repo rate at 5.25% reflects a clear “wait and watch” approach from the RBI amid global uncertainty. For real estate, this brings stable but subdued financing conditions. While developers would have welcomed a rate cut to further unlock demand momentum, especially in the affordable and mid-housing categories, the current geopolitical backdrop is keeping inflation risks elevated. The sector is therefore likely to lean on end-user-driven demand to sustain sales momentum through the coming quarters.

Salil Kumar, Director, Marketing, CRC Group says, “The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% gives a clear message of continuity over experimentation. At a time when global macroeconomic signals remain mixed, the central bank has opted for a steady policy environment rather than introducing volatility through a rate adjustment. The neutral stance further signals that future moves will be guided by evolving inflation and growth dynamics. For the broader economy, this is a calibrated pause that prioritises stability while keeping policy optionality open.”

Bhupindra Singh, COO, Rise Infraventures says the MPC’s decision to keep the repo rate at 5.25% clearly shows that inflation control remains the priority. The current rate level feels balanced—it supports demand without overstimulating it. The neutral stance indicates that the RBI is still watching inflation closely and wants to keep flexibility for future moves. For housing, this means home loan rates are likely to remain steady, keeping EMIs predictable but without any immediate relief. On the commercial side, borrowing costs for developers and businesses also stay stable, which helps in planning investments and leasing strategies. Overall, it’s a stable credit environment, even if rate cuts are still some distance away.

Shyamrup Roy Choudhury, Founder and Managing Director, Aura World, says, the RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25%, while continuing with a neutral stance, ensures continuity in the benefits accrued from last year’s cumulative rate cuts. Stable EMIs and predictable financing conditions will encourage new homebuyers to enter the market. While inflationary risks persist due to global developments, such as crude prices, in particular, the stance taken by the RBI ensures policy certainty. The overall environment remains supportive for homebuyers and investors.

Gurpal Singh Chawla, Managing Director, TREVOC, says, “With GDP growth projections revised upwards and inflation expected to remain within a manageable range despite near-term pressures, the RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% will provide continued stability to the sector. The neutral stance reflects a calibrated approach amid global uncertainties. This, coupled with stable liquidity conditions and improving investment sentiment, will help maintain the current momentum in real estate, particularly across emerging urban centres.

Raj Kumar Sisodia, COO of Biigtech, says, “The decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% works as a stabilising factor for the commercial real estate sector. In a market where long-term commitments drive decision-making, consistent interest rates help occupiers and investors move ahead with greater confidence. Office leasing and expansion plans are less likely to be delayed when borrowing costs are predictable. For developers, it allows better control over project timelines and capital planning. Rather than triggering a surge, this kind of policy environment quietly supports steady momentum, where demand builds gradually, and investment decisions are made with a longer-term view.”

Rajjath Goel, Managing Director, MRG Group: For first-time homebuyers, the unchanged repo rate brings a sense of clarity and comfort. With rates holding steady, EMIs remain predictable, which helps reduce the hesitation many end-users have been feeling. For developers, this kind of certainty supports more consistent booking activity, particularly in the mid-income and premium segments. Amid rising inflationary prices, this stability allows us to plan and build around genuine demand, rather than short-term rate movements, making the housing cycle more balanced and resilient.

Mayank Jain, CEO, KREEVA, says, “For homebuyers, the decision to keep repo rate unchanged feels like a moment of pause rather than progress; expectations of softer borrowing costs have been gently deferred. Even a small reduction in the repo rate would have eased EMIs and improved eligibility, particularly in the mid-income housing segment, where every basis point matters. That said, the RBI’s neutral stance brings predictability, which buyers appreciate in volatile times. However, with Middle East tensions influencing oil prices and broader inflation sentiment, borrowing costs are unlikely to soften immediately. In that sense, this is a moment for buyers to act with clarity, not delay decisions waiting for cheaper credit.”

Umang Jindal, Ceo, Homeland Group The status quo on the repo rate at 5.25% creates a balanced and predictable environment for both residential and commercial real estate segments. Stable financing conditions support homebuyer confidence in tier 2 cities, where affordability plays a major role, while also enabling investments in commercial assets. Amid global uncertainties and moderate inflation pressures, this continuity in policy will help sustain demand momentum and reinforce growth across key real estate segments.

Paras Rai, Managing Director and Co-Founder, Property Master, “The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged while maintaining a neutral stance reflects a conscious effort to stay flexible. It gives the central bank room to respond as macro conditions evolve, rather than committing to a fixed direction too early. This kind of pause is less about inaction and more about staying prepared. For the real estate sector, it means a stable interest rate environment for now, with loan costs, both housing and commercial, remaining broadly unchanged. At the same time, it signals that future rate moves will be closely linked to how inflation and global factors play out in the coming months.”

Ashok Singh Jaunapuria, MD & CEO, SS Group says, the RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged brings a sense of stability for the housing market, especially at a time when affordability is closely linked to borrowing conditions. For homebuyers, steady benchmark rates translate into more predictable home loan offerings, which helps build confidence while planning long-term purchases. For developers, too, it brings comfort on the financing side, allowing smoother cash flow management and uninterrupted project execution. With India continuing to attract global interest as a stable growth market, this steady policy stance quietly supports housing demand by keeping sentiment steady and avoiding any disruption in credit conditions.

Mohit Batra, Regional Director , Realistic Realtors says, “The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged reflects a clear, data-led and cautious approach. Inflation is still being shaped by global commodity movements and uneven supply-side pressures, so the central bank has rightly chosen to stay watchful rather than take a directional call. The neutral stance is equally important; it signals that policy is balanced for now, with no bias towards easing or tightening. For the real estate sector, this reinforces a sense of predictability. It allows both residential and commercial markets to operate in a stable interest rate environment, while the RBI waits for stronger, more sustained signals before making its next move.”

Udit jain, Director,One group says, the unchanged repo rate strengthens the outlook for housing in Tier 2 cities, where markets are still evolving and respond sharply to interest rate signals. In these regions, buyers tend to be more cautious and value clarity over short-term incentives. Stable home loan rates help build that confidence, allowing purchase decisions to move forward without hesitation. For developers, it creates a more predictable demand environment, where launches can be planned with greater alignment to actual absorption. As Tier 2 cities continue to benefit from improving infrastructure and local job creation, this kind of steady policy backdrop supports more organic, end-user-led growth rather than speculative spikes

Ashwani Kumar, Pyramid Infratech, said, “Keeping the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% is a careful balanced approach as it will facilitate stability for home loan borrowers at a crucial time. For prospective buyers, stable interest rates encourage affordability levels and lessen uncertainty around long-term financial commitments. Since home loans are directly subjected to the impact of rate cut movements, the status quo ensures that EMIs remain unchanged for existing borrowers, offering much-needed predictability in household cash flows. This will help families to plan their purchase decisions with greater confidence, without the fear of sudden rate-linked EMI spikes. Over all, the policy move strengthens homebuyer sentiment by ensuring continuity in borrowing costs and supporting responsible financial planning.”

Nitin Shrivastava, Managing Partner, Big FM Realty, says, “Stability in policy matters more than aggressive interventions. The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate at 5.25% comes as a reassuring signal, especially for the housing sector. For homebuyers, it means EMIs remain predictable, making it easier to plan purchases with confidence. For developers, it supports pricing discipline and allows supply to be introduced in a more measured way. With India’s economic outlook holding steady despite global shifts, this kind of rate environment helps build trust among both buyers and investors. A stable interest rate cycle encourages more considered, long-term decisions, which is important for healthy and sustainable growth in the housing market.”

Piyush Kansal, Executive Director, Royale  Estate Group says, the RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% with a continued neutral stance provides much-needed stability for residential real estate, particularly in tier 2 cities where affordability and EMI sensitivity play a critical role. Despite near-term inflationary pressures driven by global factors, the current rate environment ensures predictable borrowing costs. This will encourage end-users, especially in the price-sensitive segments, to make purchase decisions, supporting steady demand across emerging cities.

Ajendra Singh, Vice-President – Sales & Marketing, Spectrum Metro, says, RBI’s announcement to keep repo rate stable comes as a positive step for the retail segment, where consumption and expansion plans are closely linked to borrowing conditions. With interest rates holding steady, retailers and brands get better visibility on financing costs, which supports store expansion and leasing decisions. It also helps maintain consumer confidence, which is critical for footfall-driven retail formats. For developers, this stability allows more structured planning of retail assets and tenant mix. In a broader sense, a predictable rate environment supports steady leasing activity, healthier occupancies, and sustained growth across organised retail spaces.

Mr. Tejpreet Gill, Managing Director, Gillco Group says, the RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 5.25% with a neutral stance underscores policy stability at a time of global uncertainty and inflationary concerns. For the real estate sector, stable interest rates enable long-term planning and execution, while supporting sustained traction across residential and commercial projects. It is particularly important in markets where demand is closely aligned with affordability and long-term value.

Ram Raheja Shares Perspective on RBI MPC’s Decision to Keep Repo Rate Unchanged

Perspective by Mr. Ram Raheja, Managing Director, S Raheja on RBI MPC unchanged repo rate

“The RBIs decision to hold rates at 5.25% reinforces policy consistency at a time when global uncertainty and rising crude prices could have warranted a more reactive stance. Instead, it reflects confidence in the underlying strength of the Indian economy. With GDP projected at 6.9% in Q1 FY27 and private sector investment continuing to hold, the fundamentals remain intact. At this point, the repo rate is no longer the primary driver of demand in the luxury housing market—it’s simply a signal of stability. Credit growth and sustained greenfield FDI interest further indicate that the growth story is not just cyclical, but structural. In Mumbai, luxury homebuyers are increasingly making decisions independent of short-term rate movements. They are driven by long-term value, design, and trust. A stable macro environment doesn’t create demand—it validates it..” –  MrRam RahejaManaging DirectorS Raheja

 

DLF Mall of India strengthens its premium portfolio with the launch of TAG Heuer boutique

DLF Mall of India strengthens its premium portfolio with the launch of TAG Heuer boutique

New Delhi, India Apr 08:  DLF Mall of IndiaIndia’s largest destination led retail mall, has further elevated its premium brand mix with the addition of globally renowned watchmaker TAG Heuer. Marking the brand’s first franchise boutique in India, launched in partnership with Kapoor Watch Company, the opening reflects DLF’s continued focus on building a future forward retail ecosystem and strengthening its positioning as a destination hub for premium and aspirational brands.

India’s luxury and premium retail landscape continues to witness strong momentum, driven by rising affluence, accelerated premiumisation and a clear shift towards aspiration led consumption. Categories such as fine watchmaking are emerging as key growth drivers, with consumers increasingly seeking brands that represent legacy, craftsmanship and innovation, complemented by immersive and experience led retail formats. The introduction of TAG Heuer at DLF Mall of India aligns with these evolving consumer trends, further elevating the mall’s curated product mix and strengthening its standing as a go to destination for all its patrons. 

Commenting on the launchMs. Pushpa Bector, Senior Executive Director & Business Head, DLF Retail, said “At DLF Malls, our focus is on continuously evolving our retail mix to stay ahead of consumer aspirations and global trends. The introduction of TAG Heuer at DLF Mall of India further strengthens our premium portfolio, while adding greater depth to our watch and accessories category. As we continue to refine our brand and product mix, our aim is to create a destination that offers not just leading global brands, but a differentiated and future ready retail experience for our consumers.” 

Highlighting the significance of the partnership, Mr. Prateik Kapoor, Director of Kapoor Watch Company said “Our long-standing partnership with TAG Heuer has been built on a shared commitment to bringing world-class watchmaking to discerning consumers in India. We are proud to further strengthen this association by launching TAG Heuer’s first franchise boutique in India in partnership with the brand. Partnering with DLF Mall of India allows us to present TAG Heuer’s iconic collections in a setting that reflects the brand’s spirit of innovation and precision, while deepening our engagement with watch enthusiasts across the country. As India’s luxury watch market continues to evolve, we look forward to building on this partnership and expanding our presence across key markets in the years ahead.”

Marking the brand’s expansion in India, Mr. Guillaume Boilot, Managing Director MEIAT – TAG Heuer from TAG Heuer added “This is a landmark moment for TAG Heuer. We are officially expanding our footprint in India with the opening of our first franchise boutique at DLF Mall of India. This market is central to our growth, and this new space allows us to connect directly with a new generation of luxury consumers that values both heritage and performance. We’re excited to invite our community to this new boutique

The TAG Heuer boutique spans approximately 517 sq. ft. and features a curated selection of the brand’s iconic collections, including Carrera, Monaco, Aquaracer, Formula 1 and Link. Designed with a contemporary aesthetic, the space offers an elevated retail experience, bringing together innovation, design and Swiss watchmaking excellence for the Indian consumer.

Store Details:
TAG Heuer Boutique
DLF Mall of India, Noida
Floor: Ground Floor

Timings: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

NoBrokerHood: The Millennial Operating System for Community Living

Business Wire India

NoBrokerHood is reflecting a broader shift in urban community living, as platform data indicates increasing adoption of app-first solutions across gated societies. From on-demand services and digital payments to structured communication and in-app marketplaces, residential communities are moving toward more streamlined, technology-led management systems driven by convenience, speed, and transparency.

The urban Indian millennial doesn’t call a plumber. They book one. They don’t walk to the society office for a maintenance receipt. They download it. They don’t argue about parking in a WhatsApp group. They rise and resolve via app. This shift from effort-heavy, people-dependent living to instant, app-first convenience is quietly reshaping how gated communities operate across Indian cities. And platforms like NoBrokerHood are being built precisely around these behaviors.

Fix it now, not tomorrow

Speed of service remains a defining expectation for urban residents. When a tap leaks or a switch stops working, the instinct isn’t to ask neighbours for a contact, it’s to open the app and book a professional. This shift points to a broader transition from fragmented, contact-based service models to structured, on-demand fulfilment systems that mirror the responsiveness seen in other digital services.

 

The data backs this up. Across service categories, same-day resolution rates are remarkably high- 93% for cleaning requests, 89% for plumbing, 85% for appliance repairs, 84% for carpentry, and 83% for electrical work. Even painting, which by nature requires planning and multiple sessions, sees over 80% of requests addressed on the same day, with the actual work scheduled around the resident’s convenience. The old model of waiting two days for a plumber to show up is being replaced by a system that mirrors the responsiveness millennials are used to from food delivery and ride-hailing apps.

The society marketplace boom

Marketplace activity within residential communities has expanded significantly over the past year. Listings under “Items for Sale” have grown 120% year-on-year, with automobile-related listings increasing by 176%, electronics and appliances by 105%, and furniture by 93%.

 

The composition of listings reflects evolving consumption patterns within communities. Categories such as children’s furniture, gardening tools, gaming equipment, gym and sports gear, and home furniture indicate life-stage transitions and lifestyle upgrades among residents.

 

In parallel, property rentals, flatmate searches, and buy/sell listings have become prominent on community boards. Parking-for-sale and parking-for-rent listings have also emerged as one of the most active categories, addressing a persistent operational challenge in residential complexes through structured digital discovery.

 

Taken together, these trends suggest that residential communities are increasingly functioning as micro-markets, with digital platforms facilitating transactions that were previously informal or inefficient.

Pay in three days, not twenty-five

Payment cycles within housing societies are also becoming more compressed. Approximately 75% of maintenance dues are now settled within the first three days of the month, compared with extended collection timelines under manual systems.

This shift is being driven by the removal of friction in the payment process. Features such as UPI integration, auto-pay options, automated reminders, and access to invoices, NOCs, and payment records have simplified transactions for residents. The entire financial relationship between residents and society is now self-serve.

For housing societies, this has translated into improved cash flow visibility, reduced follow-ups, and lower administrative overhead. The digitisation of financial interactions is effectively standardising processes that were previously dependent on manual coordination.

This concentration of engaged, high-intent users within gated communities hasn’t gone unnoticed by brands either. With thousands of digitally active households transacting, browsing, and engaging on a single platform, community apps have become attractive surfaces for hyper-local brand placements, from home services and appliance brands to insurance and financial products. For residents, the ads are contextually relevant. For brands, the audience is pre-qualified by location, lifestyle, and spending behaviour. What started as a utility platform is quietly becoming a high-value advertising channel.

From WhatsApp chaos to structured participation

Transparency isn’t a feature, it’s the foundation.

Community communication is also becoming more structured with the shift to dedicated digital platforms. Traditional messaging channels often led to fragmented discussions, low visibility of important information, and limited participation.

 

The introduction of in-app forums, notice boards, and polling mechanisms has resulted in a more than 50% increase in participation in polls and community reviews. Residents are able to engage with information and decisions asynchronously, without the constraints of real-time communication.

 

For managing committees, this has led to operational efficiencies, including fewer physical meetings, reduced follow-ups, and improved transparency in decision-making. The availability of documented, accessible communication has also contributed to a reduction in disputes arising from information gaps.

The right targeting

The aggregation of digitally active residents within gated communities has also created a targeted channel for brands. Platforms such as NoBrokerHood provide hyperlocal access to residents, families, and homeowners, segments that typically represent high-intent, consumption-ready audiences.

It enables hyperlocal targeting within gated societies, giving companies direct access to high-intent users- residents, families, and homeowners who are active decision-makers.

By bridging digital and physical touchpoints, the platform allows brands to connect with affluent, urban households in a trusted environment. Backed by a network of 25,000+ societies, it combines scale with precision targeting making it a powerful channel for hyperlocal, high-conversion campaigns.

This makes it especially valuable for quick commerce, ecommerce, and D2C brands looking to drive timely and relevant engagement. With contextual and utility-driven ad placements embedded into everyday community interactions, brand messaging feels natural and impactful rather than intrusive.

Commenting on this trend, Amit Agarwal, cofounder and CEO of NoBroker, said, “A home isn’t just a physical space anymore — it’s an interface. The way a family manages their visitors, pays their maintenance, books a service, or connects with their neighbours has fundamentally shifted. NoBrokerHood is now the default layer through which over 30 lakh families run their daily lives — and when average users per flat grows from 1.4 to 1.9, it tells you something important: this is no longer one person managing admin. The whole family is on it.

 

That’s what makes NoBrokerHood an operating system, not just an app. And for brands that want to reach urban India’s most valuable families — not through a feed they’re scrolling past, but inside the rhythms of their daily home life — that’s a fundamentally different kind of relevance.”

Built for how people already behave

What makes this shift significant is that these platforms aren’t teaching residents new behaviours. They’re mirroring behaviours that millennials already practise everywhere else in their digital lives — ordering food, splitting bills, booking cabs, tracking deliveries. The expectation is simple: if I can do everything else from my phone, why should managing my home be any different? Community living platforms that understand this aren’t just solving operational problems for housing societies. They’re becoming the default operating system for how urban India lives together.

The numbers reflect this momentum. NoBrokerHood now operates across 25,000+ societies, and the average users per flat has grown from 1.4 to 1.9, meaning it’s no longer just one household member managing things on the app. Multiple residents per home are actively engaged, a clear signal that the platform has moved from a nice-to-have to a household default. Community living platforms that understand this aren’t just solving operational problems for housing societies. They’re becoming the default operating system for how urban India lives together.

Himanshu Vashisht, a resident of Mahaveer Ranches which uses NoBrokerHood, says, “Our society has 400+ flats and most residents are young working professionals. They don’t have time to attend meetings or read notice boards. Since we moved to NoBrokerHood, poll participation has increased, maintenance collections happen in the first week, and we barely get parking complaints anymore. The app does what ten committee meetings couldn’t.”

HPE Takes Licence to Patents Offered Through the Sisvel Wi-Fi Multimode Pool

Business Wire India

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has become the latest company to take a licence to the patents offered through the recently launched Sisvel Wi-Fi Multimode pool. It joins Sony Group Corporation, Huawei, Panasonic, Philips and ZTE as a licensee of the programme. The latter four are also licensors, along with KPN, Mitsubishi Electric, Orange, Aegis 11 SA (a Sisvel affiliate), SK Telecom and Wilus.

 

HPE is a major presence in the global WLAN market and is a leading manufacturer of both consumer and enterprise routers. The deal with Sisvel was reached on an amicable basis.

 

 

The Sisvel Wi-Fi Multimode pool is the successor programme to the Sisvel Wi-Fi 6 patent pool. Over a three-year period, this closed agreements with nearly 40 companies, including Acer, Netgear, Cisco and HP.

 

 

Covering Wi-Fi 7 as well as 6, the Multimode programme offers an efficient way to access essential Wi-Fi rights for years to come.

 

 

“We are delighted to welcome Hewlett Packard Enterprise as the latest licensee of the Sisvel Wi-Fi Multimode pool,” says Legal and Licensing Counsel Meagan Leslie, who led the negotiation for Sisvel. “We are grateful to the HPE team for the constructive way in which they engaged with us throughout. It was a tough negotiation but one that produced a positive outcome for all the parties concerned.”

 

 

“HPE becoming a Wi-Fi Multimode pool licensee is a major validation for the programme,” says Sisvel Chief IP Officer Heath Hoglund. “That the deal was reached amicably is not only a testament to the professionalism and skill of everyone concerned in the negotiation but also a testament to the value of what the pool offers over an extended timeframe. I am confident that we will be welcoming further licensees in the near future.”

 

 

About Sisvel

 

 

Sisvel is driven by a belief in the importance of collaboration, ingenuity and efficiency to bridge the needs of patent owners and those who wish to access their technologies. In a complex and constantly evolving marketplace, our guiding principle is to create a level playing field through the development and implementation of flexible, accessible, commercialisation solutions.

 

 

Sisvel | We Power Innovation

 

 

 

 

 

Critical Manufacturing to Demonstrate MES-Powered Industrial Operations Platform for AI-Driven Manufacturing at Hannover Messe 2026

PORTO, Portugal, 08.04.2026 – Critical Manufacturing, the Industrial Operations Platform company that unites execution, connectivity, analytics and trusted AI, will exhibit at Hannover Messe 2026, demonstrating how manufacturers can transform production complexity into confident, intelligent operations.

Critical Manufacturing to Demonstrate MES-Powered Industrial Operations Platform for AI-Driven Manufacturing at Hannover Messe 2026

At the event, the company will showcase more than MES. As the execution core, the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) is the foundation of a broader Industrial Operations Platform where execution, data, and intelligence are continuously connected. This creates a closed feedback loop in which data captured on the shopfloor is transformed into insights and actions that are fed back into operations in real time. 

A connected platform for complex manufacturing

As manufacturing environments become more complex, companies across industries such as industrial equipment, semiconductors, electronics, and medical devices are under increasing pressure to manage variability, maintain strict quality standards, and respond quickly to operational changes. Critical Manufacturing addresses these challenges with a a unified system that captures and contextualizes production data at the source, creating the trusted operational foundation needed for visibility, analytics, and continuous improvement.

At Hannover Messe, visitors will see how this foundation powers the Critical Manufacturing Industrial Operations Platform, which combines MES with a built-in Enterprise Data Platform and a growing native ecosystem of applications. Together, these capabilities enable manufacturers to connect machines, processes, and operational data across the factory while extending insight and intelligence across plants and enterprise systems. More importantly, it enables a continuous feedback loop between data and execution, where insights generated from the data platform can directly trigger and optimize actions within MES.

Critical Manufacturing to Demonstrate MES-Powered Industrial Operations Platform for AI-Driven Manufacturing at Hannover Messe 2026

From coffee to copilots: experience the platform in action

Live demonstrations at the booth will bring this vision to life through a connected journey. Visitors will see how MES coordinates shopfloor execution, experiencing a coffee machine scenario that highlights execution and connectivity, while the Enterprise Data Platform structures and organizes manufacturing data across systems and sites. Built on the operational layer, applications and analytics tools provide teams with the visibility needed to monitor performance, identify trends, and respond more quickly to operational challenges. Additionally, visitors will experience AI Copilots within the MES environment, allowing users to ask questions about manufacturing data in natural language and instantly generate charts, dashboards, and insights that make operational decision-making faster and more intuitive. From execution to intelligence, visitors will discover how Critical Manufacturing goes beyond MES providing a unique and connected Industrial Operations Platform.

Extending the partner ecosystem

The journey at the booth extends into the partner area to explore Critical Manufacturing’s global partner ecosystem, including FrontWell, Athena, Regenesia, LTTS and Manufacture Next. These partners deliver and integrate the Industrial Operations Platform worldwide. This space also features Twinzo, a digital twin application that integrates seamlessly with Critical Manufacturing MES, reinforcing the value of connectivity and real-time operational insight.

“Our industry has reached a point where execution, data, and analytics can no longer operate in isolation,” said Francisco Almada Lobo, CEO and Co-founder of Critical Manufacturing. “Manufacturers need a system that connects what happens on the shopfloor with the intelligence needed to improve performance across the organization. MES provides that operational backbone by capturing and contextualizing production data at its source. At Hannover Messe, we are demonstrating how this platform enables manufacturers to turn operational data into actionable intelligence that drives better decisions and continuous improvement.”

Ask Jeff: conversations on the future of manufacturing

Visitors will also have the opportunity to join the “Ask Jeff” area on April 20 and 21st, where Jeff Winter will attend as a Strategic Advisor to Critical Manufacturing. During those days, attendees can engage in informal conversations about manufacturing leadership, digital transformation, and the evolving role of software platforms in modern production environments.

Visit Critical Manufacturing at Hall 15, Booth C14 to experience the platform in action. Attendees can claim a complimentary Hannover Messe ticket through the company’s event page and book a meeting or live demonstration with Critical Manufacturing experts to explore how MES-driven operations help manufacturers connect systems, gain clearer operational insight, and improve performance across their factories.

To book a meeting or demo in advance, visit: https://www.criticalmanufacturing.com/campaign/hannover-messe-2026/

Veolia celebrates 25 years at Hoskote in Bangalore: a world-class hub for advanced water technologies and global innovation

Veolia celebrated a landmark moment in its India journey on 1st April with the inauguration of its new Customer Experience Center at the company’s Hoskote plant in Bangalore, a world-class hub for membrane manufacturing, specialty chemicals and advanced water technologies. The event also marked the 25th anniversary of the Hoskote manufacturing and technology facility and the launch of a solar panel decarbonization initiative — underscoring Veolia’s long-term commitment to India as a global hub for water technology, innovation, and sustainable operations.

Veolia celebrates 25 years at Hoskote in Bangalore: a world-class hub for advanced water technologies and global innovation

Anne Le Guennec, CEO of Veolia’s water technologies activities, said: “India holds a unique place in Veolia’s global strategy, not only as a dynamic market, but as a true center of excellence for engineering, digital innovation and manufacturing. Today’s milestones at Hoskote reflect 25 years of dedication, talent and ambition, in line with our GreenUp strategic program. Water is at the heart of environmental security, and as India faces growing water challenges, we are committed to delivering the technologies and solutions that will help cities and industries become more resilient, more efficient and more sustainable.”

The Hoskote plant: a quarter century of innovation

Established in 2001, the Hoskote plant has evolved into a world-class hub for membrane manufacturing, specialty chemicals and technology development, exporting to more than 20 countries. Its co-located Technology Center stands as a unique asset for global innovation, having generated over 100 patents. Located in a region renowned for its strong engineering expertise and talent pool, the site is driven by a highly skilled team of engineers and scientists developing innovative water solutions that advance environmental security for communities and industries worldwide.

As part of Veolia’s GreenUp strategy and its broader commitment to ecological transformation, the Hoskote plant has also inaugurated a new solar panel installation, marking a significant step in its decarbonization journey. The installation is expected to avoid more than 600 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year, a tangible demonstration of Veolia’s determination to reduce the carbon footprint of its own operations while guiding customers towards the same goal: transforming sustainability pledges into measurable results.

Inauguration of the Veolia Customer Experience Center

The newly inaugurated Customer Experience Center at Hoskote is designed to bring Veolia’s technological capabilities, innovations and customer solutions to life in an immersive, interactive environment. It will serve as a hub for collaboration, knowledge exchange and joint innovation with customers across South Asia and beyond.

The center brings together an interactive technology showcase spotlighting Veolia’s smart water solutions with live demonstrations of remote monitoring, data analytics and digital systems. Visitors can engage directly with industry experts, explore service and support capabilities — from onsite engineering to remote inspection, auditing and operator training — and experience firsthand the innovations that are shaping the future of water management. A dedicated training facility accommodating up to 50 participants further cements the center’s role as a place for learning and capability-building.

Veolia in India: a track record of excellence in water technologies

As the largest industrial water company in South Asia, Veolia has delivered more than 500 projects for municipalities and industries across the region, spanning drinking water, sewage treatment and zero liquid discharge (ZLD). Recent municipal contracts in Mumbai — including the Bandra wastewater treatment project, one of India’s largest greenfield sewage treatment plants using advanced membrane bioreactor technology, and the Bhandup drinking water plant upgrade integrating smart clarifier technology and real-time monitoring — further demonstrate Veolia’s growing footprint in India’s urban water infrastructure.

Irshaad Hakim, Executive Vice President of Veolia’s water technologies activities in Asia Pacific, said: “South Asia faces a pivotal moment in its pursuit of water security. The magnitude of the challenge, from declining groundwater to undertreated municipal wastewater, demands bold, scalable solutions. Veolia’s track record in India proves that we have both the expertise and commitment to make a lasting difference. Our goal is clear: to deliver performance and sustainability while supporting safe, healthy communities across the region.”