The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das announced the Monetary Policy statement on February 8, 2023, increasing the repo rate by 25 bps as widely expected. The repo rate hike will undoubtedly push up the home loan interest rates, which had already crept up after five consecutive rate hikes this year.

Here is what real estate industry experts have to say:

Mr. Kaushal Agarwal – Chairman, The Guardians Real Estate Advisory

“Consecutive rate hikes by the RBI this year were aimed at re-anchoring the inflation expectations and maintaining financial stability. Thus far, the rising cost of house ownership led by higher EMI, higher stamp duty and other factors has not affected real estate sales, which is a firm indicator of genuine demand for housing. But any further hike in the repo rate might temporarily limit the growth momentum of the real estate sector. Although the recently concluded budget was tailor-made keeping the salaried and the middle class in mind, a rate cut at this stage could have triggered the sentiments of the homebuyers sustaining the growth momentum.”

Mr. Pritam Chivukula – Co-Founder & Director, Tridhaatu Realty and Treasurer, CREDAI MCHI

“RBI’s decision to hike the interest rates to tackle the inflation and ensure domestic economic recovery was a no-brainer. But a rate cut would have been a big booster for the real estate sector which was overlooked in the recently concluded budget. The sharp acceleration of rates consecutively for the sixth time in a short period will have a short-term effect on the sentiment of homebuyers as low-interest rates have been the biggest factor in the resurgence of real estate demand in the last two years. We hope that the State Government will step in again to lighten the homebuyer’s load by reducing stamp duty to boost the sentiments.”

Mr. Himanshu Jain, VP – Sales, Marketing, and CRM, Satellite Developers Pvt. Ltd. (SDPL)

“Keeping the current market conditions and inflation in mind, the move by the RBI was expected to keep the economy on track in the current highly volatile scenario. The rising property prices had already added to the woes of the homebuyers and now the decision of RBI to increase the repo rate will temporarily dent the current demand momentum. Also, for first-time home buyers, acquiring a home is considered as the biggest asset and these short-term decisions are likely to have a major impact on a buyer’s decision.”

Mr. Bhushan Nemlekar, Director, Sumit Woods Limited

“Earlier, due to the pandemic and the geopolitical issues, the input costs were already high and now with these consecutive rate hikes, it will only dampen the spirit of the entire real estate value chain. The cost of borrowing for both developers and buyers will be impacted and this will result in undesired rate hikes across the spectrum. However, we did not see much impact on the buying spree in the last couple of quarters since there are genuine buyers in the market to keep the momentum going.”

Dr. Sachin Chopda, Managing Director, Pushpam Group

“RBI’s decision to hike the policy repo rate was anticipated, factoring in the rise in inflation. The rate hike is likely to shrink liquidity in the economy overall, especially impacting the investor’s sentiments. There will be a short-term pause on the minds of the investors while assessing the volatility of the current market dynamics. However, they are bound to return soon in the market once it is stable.”

Chennai, 9th February 2023: The New India Assurance Company Ltd (NIA) has been certified ISO 27001:2013 compliant on Information Security. It is among the very few General Insurance Companies in India being awarded such a certificate.

Information security breaches can be extremely detrimental to businesses both in terms of financial loss and reputational damage. Implementing a robust security system can help minimize the risk of security breaches, making the company more reliable and reputable in the eyes of customers, suppliers, and business partners.

The ISO certification, completed via a third-party audit, helps establish an organization’s reputation as a trusted and secure business. It validates the applicant’s commitment towards following international best practices and certifies it as a world-class entity.

Accordingly, after internal and external audits assessing the organisation’s current IT security levels and threat perceptions, NIA has been considered fit to receive an ISO 27001:2013 certificate. ISO 27001:2013 is an internationally used information security standard that covers business operations, especially those with potential information security risks. The standard covers all the procedures from establishing a security framework to maintaining it and improving company security systems. Accordingly, NIA has enhanced and secured its processes to mitigate security threats.

Commenting on the achievement, Mrs. Neerja Kapur, Chairman cum Managing Director, said, “The world is in the midst of a data and digital revolution. While these are exciting times, they come with their set of unique challenges. Data security has now become paramount and every business entity needs to build robust safeguards and checks to prevent tech-related mishaps. We have realised the severity of the challenge and geared ourselves to face it. The recommendation for ISO 27001:2013 testifies to our commitment. During the course of obtaining the accreditation, we subjected ourselves to an intense examination. I am glad that our processes and systems have passed the most stringent examinations and come out with flying colors. It will be our constant endeavour to implement and maintain the best practices for our customers in India as well as internationally.”

New Delhi, 9th February 2023: On this year’s World Unani Day, Hamdard Laboratories, India’s leading Unani brand, focuses on strengthening immunity and advocates it as a Public Health right as it encourages people to visit the Hamdard Wellness Centres to avail free consultation from the doctors and Hakeems, and get 15% off on select medicines along with free BP/Sugar test. Unani Day every year observed on 11th February, will be celebrated across all Hamdard wellness centres from 30th January to 12th February 2023.

Hamdard Laboratories is a progressive, research-based health and wellness organization offering Unani medicines to provide preventive, curative, and rehabilitative healthcare. Hamdard Laboratories believes that in the modern age, having a strong immune system is one of the biggest advantages for humans; therefore, it’s crucial to build a robust immune system to fight infections and reduce the risk of contracting highly contagious diseases.

Unani, a form of traditional medicine based on a holistic approach compared to conventional medicine targeted on organs, is now getting a boost more than ever. Moreover, time and again, Unani has proved its scope in boosting immunity and its efficacy. Hamdard Laboratories’ Unani product range is the first line of defence against any infection and disease.

“Our immune system is the natural defence system that fights invading diseases. Such invaders can be viruses, parasites, and fungi. But, if the system gets compromised, one might end up becoming sick. That’s why we should always strive to boost our immune systems. We believe the Unani system of medicine, is a natural way of boosting our immunity. Therefore, we encourage everyone to utilize the opportunity and take free consultation from our doctors.” said, Suman Varma, CMO, of Hamdard Laboratories.

In the past, Hamdard launched twelve OTC immunity-boosting products that also treats illness like fever, cold, cough, etc. Hamdard’s special initiative of boosting immunity on Unani Day is another step towards uplifting everyone to prioritize their health and strengthen their immunity through holistic Unani solutions.

Mumbai, February 9th, 2023: Warner Music India has signed a deal to acquire a majority stake in Divo, a leading digital media and music company in India with a presence across all four South Indian language music markets. This investment will help deliver Warner Music India’s strategy of having a leading presence in the entertainment sector across the whole country.

Divo offers online video, music distribution, publishing, digital, and influencer marketing solutions for brands, celebrities, and movies. It has been working with labels, artists, and musicians to help distribute and monetize its content across digital platforms, radio, and TV stations. With a large presence in the Tamil market, and a fair share of the Kannada, Malayalam, and Telegu music industries, Divo released more than 30,000 songs last year.

Warner Music India has grown its presence across the vast majority of regions and cultures in the country with chartbuster releases and strategic partnerships with companies including Global Music Junction, Sky Digital, Tips Music, and Ziiki Media. The label recently forayed into Marathi and Gujarati music with the release of official film soundtracks as part of its strategy to strengthen its presence in the regional music scene. The company also has a regional imprint with its sub-label Maati.

Jay Mehta, Managing Director, Warner Music India, says: “I’m so delighted that we’re able to bring the Divo brand under the Warner Music India banner. This move will strengthen our presence in the south of the country, enabling us to have a truly strong Pan-India presence. Divo’s extensive portfolio will not only bolster our core music offering in South India, but its entire artist-influencer ecosystem will further enhance our overall entertainment footprint.”

Alfonso Perez Soto, President, of Emerging Markets, Warner Recorded Music, adds: “The acquisition of Divo is a major milestone in our Indian journey. We opened for business in 2020 and through a series of strategic deals and culturally relevant artist signings have fast established ourselves as a key player in the market. We’re excited to partner with Shahir and Vishu and the team at Divo, who have built an amazing company that operates at the intersection of four key music markets. Together, we’ll take South Indian music to a global audience.”

Shahir Muneer, Founder and Director, of Divo, comments: “It gives us immense pleasure to partner with Warner Music India. Having the backing of a global partner will put us on the map, helping us to be a force to be reckoned with when it comes to attracting talent and clients. Our music business will benefit from better access to Warner Music’s global footprint and that will help us drive growth for our artist and label partners.”

Vishu Ramaswamy, Director Divo, concludes: “We are glad to partner with Warner Music India for the next phase of our growth. Our ideologies and long-term approach towards expansion in India connected in the right manner and with this association we’re sure that we will become the biggest entertainment entity in South India.”

Mr. Ramani Sastri – Chairman & MD, Sterling Developers

There is no denying the fact that the increase in the repo rate would definitely impact housing affordability. The repeated rate hikes may have a short-term impact on overall housing demand and the buyers’ overall acquisition cost would go up. This comes at a time when the real estate sector had shown recovery across important property markets driven primarily by end-users, and this hike may again impact the rate-sensitive sector. However, there is a silver lining as the government has earmarked a huge outlay on infrastructure and is geared towards higher public expenditure as outlined in Budget 2023-24. Additionally, the buying power of consumers has gone up with greater income flow in recent times. Hence, we believe that the demand for residential segment would remain robust in the near future, any hike in interest rates notwithstanding. Also, the strong fundamentals for housing demand will keep the momentum upwards for realty sales. It also has to be kept in view that real estate is considered as the safest bet for investment compared to other instruments. All of this will boost real estate and enhance economic growth in the larger context.

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Mr. Lincoln Bennet Rodrigues, Chairman & Founder, The Bennet and Bernard Company, known for luxury themed homes in Goa

While interest in homeownership has increased in recent times, the luxury segment was the real estate sector’s growth engine, and this trend is expected to continue in 2023 given change in lifestyles. The hike will not have a significant impact on luxury housing as the demand of home buyers in this segment is beyond these considerations. While the hike has been moderate, the affordability of the home loan is still very good. Luxury real estate has also emerged as a preferred choice for NRIs, HNIs, and the uber-rich during the past couple of years. As buyers become progressively more discerning in their choices for a signature style of living, they will be more willing than ever before to take the leap and purchase luxurious homes. However, a cut in the key rates going forward would be widely appreciated as low-interest rates have played a crucial role in the revival of overall real estate demand and improvement in the liquidity situation, which is vital for the sector.

Mumbai, February 09, 2023: Arkade Group today announced it has completed the acquisition of approx. 8300 Square meters plot in the Eastern suburb of Mulund West from Hercules Hoists Limited (Bajaj Group Company). Significantly, this is the first transaction in this CY 2023 in Mumbai for the transfer of land of above Rs 100 crore.

Arkade has also perused the document pertaining to the registration of the conveyance deed done at Chembur, on February 07, 2023. The composite deal value of the deal is Rs. 103.40, which includes transaction value of Rs 90 crore plus stamp duty of Rs 5.40 crore and ULC payment of Rs 8.00 crore. The sale deed shows that payment is made in full and possession is transferred to the buyer.

Sharing details of the transaction, Amit Jain CMD, Arkade Group, “We are looking forward to launching an exclusive residential project offering 2 & 3 BHKs with a construction area of approx. 5,00,000 square feet and a topline of Rs. 600 Crore. This acquisition is in addition to the two million sq. ft. development ongoing across Western suburbs” under the Arkade banner. This deal reassures the belief in Mumbai Real Estate Market which is witnessing an upward trend post-lockdown.

Mumbai, 09 February 2023: foundit (formerly Monster APAC & ME), one of India’s leading talent management platforms, today published the foundit Insights Tracker (fit) for January 2023. Hiring activity in the Indian white-collar space recorded a slight dip of 2% month-on-month, as observed in the fit. Despite facing numerous challenges and trying times in the global economy, many industries in India have showcased commendable resilience and growth.

With the announcement of the 2023 Budget, the employment outlook for the Indian job market remains optimistic with huge potential for growth and economic progress in the months to come. Key industries such as Retail, Travel & Tourism, Advertising/PR, and Agro have exhibited continuous growth, with the report reflecting a 6% growth in job posting activity over the last 3 months. Year-on-year, a decline of 2% was registered as January 2023 saw an index of 277. This dip can be attributed to the hiring slowdown in sectors such as IT, BFSI, Telecom, Manufacturing, and Healthcare.

Interestingly, the Tracker has observed a resurgence in the job market for entry-level and intermediate positions, particularly in the HR/Administration and Purchase/Logistics/Supply Chain sectors, after a temporary dip in the recent months.

Commenting on job trends for September 2022, Sekhar Garisa, CEO – foundit (previously Monster APAC & ME), a Quess company said, “The Union Budget 2023 has identified the acceleration of growth and job creation as key priorities for economic development, while undoubtedly reiterating the need for Indian youth to be skilled and employable. The government’s impetus towards the creation of jobs in tourism as well as the green economy holds expansive potential. Along these lines, foundit has noted a 64% growth in demand for green jobs since January 2022 and this growth is expected to continue. Upskilling measures in niche areas like coding, artificial intelligence, robotics, mechatronics, and Internet of Things (IoT) will enable a pool of opportunities in the upcoming months allowing for expansive adoption of tech across all sectors.”

Retail and agro-industries continue to hire while IT, BPO, and Telecom witness a slowdown

In January 2023, Retail (+8%) and Agro-Based (+7%) industries showcased the highest job posting activity on a month-on-month basis. Personalisation and omni-channel innovations through the adoption of advanced analytics, automation, and complex inventory systems have created a tech-focused pool of opportunities in retail with analytical skills high in demand. In fact, the Tracker reflects that Retail was the top industry with hiring growth of 19% on a year-on-year basis as well.

Job prospects for the agro-industry continue to soar and this is expected to grow considering recent Budget allocations supporting the growth of Agri-Tech players. Travel & Tourism (+5%) continued to hire on a monthly basis and even showed remarkable growth from the previous year at 15%. Keeping in mind the tourism push in the Budget with ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ and similar initiatives, it is safe to say that Indian tourism will steadily pick up in the months to come. Other industries such as Oil/ Gas/ Petroleum, Power (+6%), Ad, MR & PR (+6%), Import/Export (+3%), and BPO/ITES (+2%) reflected similar trends (Jan 2023 vs Dec 2022).

However, Production & Manufacturing (-8%) noted a drop in hiring intent, as did Healthcare (-7%), IT Hardware & Software (-7%), Telecom (-5%), and BFSI (-3%). While Indian IT faces a lull due to global macro conditions and course correction from last year’s hiring surge, production hiring was impacted due to cost pressures and a rise in input prices. BFSI, which had continuously monitored positive hiring numbers, has noted a marginal dip of 1% annually. That being said, tech skills are still in high demand by recruiters across all sectors.

Hiring dips across several metro cities

City trends indicate that Chandigarh recorded a growth of 1% month-on-month in January 2023, and Delhi-NCR, Kochi, and Ahmedabad saw stabilized hiring demand. While Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, and Jaipur witnessed a marginal hiring drop between 1-2%, metro cities such as Hyderabad (-5%), Chennai (-5%), and non-metro cities such as Kolkata (-8%) and Coimbatore (-5%) recorded a greater fall in demand for talent due to the dip seen across multiple industries.

Demand for Logistics personnel adept in tech skills grows

Jobs in HR and Admin (+5%) showed a positive outlook as companies aim to sustain human resource planning, employee welfare, L&D, and recruitment practices. Interestingly, hiring for Purchase, Logistics, & Supply Chain (+3%) professionals saw a rise as India Inc. looks to build resilience through tech-enabled resilient supply chain ecosystems. Engineering & Production (+3%) and Marketing & Comms (+1%) professionals reflected positive demand growth as well.

However, owing to the recruitment dip across BFSI, IT, and similar industries, demand for Finance & Accounts, Software Hardware Telecom, Healthcare, and Customer Service roles tumbled by 3-5%.

Hybrid work model continues to prevail across key sectors

Post-pandemic, several work models were introduced globally, helping organisations stay afloat through testing times. Three years in, workforce and workplace dominate many debates and conversations with continuous shifts in employee and employer preferences. Pre-pandemic, foundit recorded a total of 8% work-from-home (WFH) jobs on the portal, whereas this number spiked up to 72% during the pandemic. In 2022 as many companies moved back to offices implementing newer models, the concept of hybrid working came up which offered flexibility and work-life balance to employees. Hybrid jobs held a 40% share of total job postings on foundit in 2022, while the share of remote jobs went down to 18%.

A look at current-day trends indicates that as of January 2023, hybrid jobs take up 29% share of total job postings indicating that this work model is still widely adopted and preferred by many. However, the share of remote jobs has slid down to 11%, which is a smidge higher than pre-pandemic levels.

Indian IT, which held the highest share of remote jobs on foundit (74% in 2022) also saw a drop in remote and hybrid jobs to 58% in January 2023. However, it is noteworthy to mention that the industry still contributed to over half of the total number of remote (23% share) and hybrid (35% share) jobs on the platform.

By Mr. Filip Cotfas, Channel Manager, CoSoSys

Several in-depth market reports were released in 2022, predicting the state of the DLP market in 2023 and beyond. The news is that they all predict similar market dynamics for the upcoming years – steady growth. The reasons why steady DLP market growth is expected.

All reports point towards steady DLP market growth in the next few years, but they rarely explain the factors behind such reasoning other than showcasing the numbers. What we did to complement that is we’ve identified three key data security and data loss prevention market drivers that are clearly visible around the world and that may have an impact on the global data loss prevention market, DLP solution functionality developments, as well as on the organizations deciding that it may be a good time to invest in this class of cybersecurity tools and stakeholders interested in investing in DLP initiatives.

1. Remote/hybrid work – increased risks of accidental exposure

The sudden switch to the remote/hybrid work model was initially regarded by businesses as a temporary measure to mitigate the COVID-19 impact. Who could have known that so many of us would find that model much more appealing than working on-premises and it would be here to stay?

During the time of the pandemic, when businesses had to very quickly switch to the remote model, there were a lot of urgent needs that had much higher priority than additional data protection measures, for example, secure communication with internal company assets. Now that the situation has stabilized and solutions have been introduced for the most pressing issues, it’s time to expand the security infrastructure around the new work model.

Unfortunately, a remote/hybrid work model brings a lot of new threats to company data. Many businesses attempt to resolve this by introducing harsh restrictions for company-owned devices, but this doesn’t eliminate such threats:
If the user has no restrictions on their business device and is able to mix work with personal activities such as social media or private email, there is a high risk that they will share some sensitive company information by mistake using these platforms.

On the other hand, if you prevent the user from using private software and/or social media on your company devices, they will be more likely to move data between their private and work computers using, for example, USB drives or transferring information using private and company email addresses or private cloud storage.

No matter how you solve this, you have to accept that your employees are now out of your direct control and often mix work with their private lives. Therefore, the risk of accidental exposure to sensitive data is much higher than before. This urgently calls for data loss prevention.

Takeaway: Due to the increased risk of accidental exposure of sensitive data in a remote/hybrid work model, the need for DLP solutions increases, and such solutions must focus on end-user activities. Therefore, we expect DLP solution growth trends to focus on end-user devices.

2. Recession – more incentives for data breaches

The pandemic-related lockdowns were already financially difficult for many businesses. However, nobody expected that right after COVID-19 phases out, we would face even more financial crises and stalled market growth. Calling the recent developments in the world’s political situation volatile is an understatement. The ongoing political situation affects key markets, causing prices to rise globally, especially in Europe. We’re seeing the beginning of a major recession period, and it’s difficult to estimate its ultimate effects on businesses. One thing is for sure, though – people are suffering.

Faced with food prices and energy costs going sky-high, people need more money to survive. At the same time, businesses cannot afford to match the rise in prices as they are affected by diminishing growth rates and increasing costs as well. As a result, we can already see mass layoffs in large enterprises and SMBs. This means there’s already quite a lot, and there are going to be even more people out there who will consider questionable financial incentives. This also means that there will be more businesses that would be willing to go beyond what’s legal and ethical to gain an advantage in the competitive landscape.

A well-implemented DLP solution may provide early warning against internal and external threats leading to the loss of data. In 2023, businesses may need to shift their focus even more from accidental data loss to intentional inside threat actors and attacks such as spear phishing. And this means that DLP solutions will need to serve as an early warning system for any type of suspicious activity by the remote/hybrid employees as well as a lifebuoy for targets of well-prepared attacks.

Takeaway: Due to the recession and increase in data breaches, internal threats will become an even bigger concern, and DLP software will need to serve as an early-warning system for organizations to prevent intentional data breaches. It will also be instrumental in preventing the consequences of well-prepared spear phishing attacks coming from criminal organizations.

3. Compliance – growing requirements in response to increasing threats

Industries where data is of utmost importance, such as the healthcare and financial sectors or military/aerospace, are already facing a lot of compliance requirements that translate to the need for solutions such as DLP. However, with the continuous expansion of threats and risks, compliance practices are expected to ensure the safety of sensitive data further. This means we can expect more compliance standards to emerge, including in industries unaffected by such requirements. On the other hand, we can also expect current compliance standards to become stricter with time to ensure even better data protection.

Many businesses already face the legal necessity to purchase a data loss prevention solution to maintain such compliance. Introducing such solutions at the last moment, just to meet the requirements, is not the best idea, and so many businesses will hopefully decide to strike pre-emptively and implement DLP before it becomes required.

Takeaway: What may now be open to interpretation in compliance standards related to cybersecurity may soon be stated clearly, rushing organizations into adopting specific solutions such as DLP. On the other hand, DLP providers should be ready to adjust to cover any new standards emerging, even for currently non-regulated industries.

As an estimated 474 million tourists traveled internationally between January and July 2022 compared to 175 million in 2021, international tourism continues to bounce back.

But how will we travel in 2033? A global research study – Traveler Tribes 2033 – the third in a series that launched in 2007, identifies four Traveler Tribes that will develop in the next 10 years. It does so by examining the future forces of change transforming travel, alongside emerging traveler traits, behaviors and preferences, to understand exactly what it is that travelers will want a decade from now.

It suggests many travelers will be open to new and emerging technologies and will want to travel in more sustainable ways. But with some travelers concerned about the proliferation of technology and the increasing need for cyber-security and data privacy, the industry must work together to ensure all travelers benefit from technological advances.

“In a constantly evolving travel industry, the advent of emerging technologies and changing consumer preferences is making the travel ecosystem more diverse, and at the same time, complex. Our Traveler Tribes 2033 report is a ground-breaking study that provides valuable insights about traveler preferences and an outlook of how their distinct characteristics and personalities will shape the future of travel in India and around the world”, said Mani Ganeshan, Global Head of Engineering, Travel Sellers Unit and Centre Head, Amadeus Labs Bangalore. “Traveling is one of the greatest joys of our lives and Amadeus is here to ensure that every touchpoint in the travel journey is seamless to enhance travel experiences. Revealing the Traveler Tribes is an opportunity for the Indian travel industry to understand traveler preferences and collectively innovate to better meet the needs of travelers over the next decade.”

Moving beyond the limitations of traditional segmentation, this psychographic approach identifies four key Traveler Tribes likely to be dominant in 2033:

• Excited Experientialists – This group has a ‘try it and see’ approach to life and travel. 44% are without children and have a mid- to high-income job with flexible working options, which enables them to readily explore the world. They have a you only live once (YOLO) approach. They are more likely than other travelers to act on instinct, making them 2033s ‘anti-planners’, favoring less predictable and more exciting accommodation experiences. They are also open to technology that helps them ‘speed up’ certain aspects of their journey, with many expecting to use artificial intelligence (AI) in the airport environment. 32% Indian respondents identified themselves as excited experimentalists.
• Memory Makers – This group takes a more simplified approach to travel: to make memories and visit places. 44% are aged 42 and over and are habitual in their travel behaviors. The future can be a daunting prospect for them. They put people first and place less value on technology and sustainability, reassured by existing methods. However, despite their skepticism about technology, they are excited about virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) preview tours with the majority expected to use VR tours before purchasing a trip. 9% Indian respondents identified themselves as memory makers.
• Travel Tech-fluencers – 19% identified themselves as travel tech-fluencers. this group includes today’s young business travelers with a forward-looking perspective on life. 48% of the group are under the age of 32 and their perspective is symbolized by how much technology they own. However, there is a discord when it comes to what excites and concerns them around the future of technology and travel. While many want to travel sustainably, it seems they are more conscious about sustainability options around their method of travel, rather than where they’ll be staying. 19% Indian respondents identified themselves as travel tech-fluencers.
• Pioneering Pathfinders – Individuals in this group live a fast-paced life, always looking for their next adventure. Their life is in full swing with 82% between the ages of 23 and 41. They like to plan but are not afraid of risk and are open to new experiences. This group is more willing than others to let sustainability influence their decisions. They will also be very comfortable using all forms of alternative payment methods in 2033, whether via cryptocurrency or within a virtual reality environment. 40% Indian respondents identified themselves as pioneer pathfinders.

This is the third in Amadeus’ Traveler Tribes research initiative, the first launched in 2007, the second in 2015. It is part of Amadeus’ commitment to driving innovation at scale and making travel better for travelers and travel companies everywhere.

Jack Miles, Lead Researcher and Senior Director, Northstar: “Future predictions are difficult, especially in travel. This is because travel is about humans and how they think and behave – all of which are complex as people aren’t always rational. However, using extensive traveler research based on behavioral science and consumer psychology, expert insight from diverse fields like forecasting, technology and academia, and data-analytics, this study has uncovered many insights to help understand travelers and predict their future behavior. From the importance and challenge of sustainability to the need to reassure travelers about the changing role of technology, one thing is clear, travel will continue to play a vital role in enriching our lives as we head towards 2033.”

To read more about the research and identified Traveler Tribes, please click here or visit amadeus.com/traveler-tribes.

TAKE OUR QUIZ to find out which Traveler Tribe you are part of.

HDMI 2.1 delivers increased bandwidth to support higher resolutions and boosted framerates.

Dubai, UAE – 8th February 2023: Gaming display specialist AOC have announced the release of two new gaming monitors, the U28G2X/D and the G4309VX/D, both supporting the new HDMI 2.1 standard for higher resolutions and better framerates. It is now available in the Middle East, these monitors bring blazing-fast refresh rates as well as razor-sharp imagery perfect for mainstream and hardcore gamers.

HDMI 2.1: Expanding the limits of possibility

The new version of this connector features an amazing 48Gbps transmission bandwidth that brings faster refresh rates and higher resolution. HDMI 2.1 also allows gamers to experience 4K 120Hz gaming on the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X. HDMI 2.1 is backwards compatible with all previous versions, meaning that older devices will work with the new port.

AOC U28G2X/D: Brilliant Visuals

The new AOC U28G2X/D delivers the best visuals thanks to its 4K (3840 x 2160) screen resolution. An IPS display provides 178/178 viewing angles without compromising visual quality and colour uniformity. A 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time also eliminates screen blur, perfect for an intense esports tournament.

Moreover, the monitor supports AMD FreeSync Premium, which keeps the monitor’s refresh rate synched with the processor effectively eliminating stuttering and tearing when playing fast-paced games. The monitor also brings DisplayHDR 400, which delivers incredible brightness, contrast, and colours. To ensure a healthy viewing experience, a Low Blue Mode setting is provided to avoid strain on the eyes without affecting the image quality.

AOC G4309VX/D: Ultimate Immersion

Brandishing a 43-inch gaming monitor with 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution, the AOC G4309VX/D offers plenty of pixels and a large screen to showcase more detail for sharper images. It brings a 144Hz refresh rate that conforms to the latest esports gaming standard and eliminates screen blur for the best gaming experience. This monitor also brings AOC flicker-free technology to minimise eye fatigue.

Adaptive sync technology also means that each game you play is fluid and artefact-free made even better with the quick refresh and ultra-fast response time. Multitask like never before with Picture-in-Picture and Picture-by-Picture, where content is fine-tuned from different inputs that makes it easier for you to work on multiple projects simultaneously.

“We’re excited to bring these new gaming monitors to the Middle East market,” said Pankaj Budhiraja, Category Manager – Middle East & Africa. “AOC has always been at the forefront of display technology. The launch of the AOC U28G2X/D and the AOC G4309VX/D with HDMI 2.1 support further proves our commitment to all casual and professional gamers in the region,” he concluded.

The AOC U28G2X/D and the AOC G4309VX/D will be available through AOC’s distributors in the Middle East and comes with a 3-year warranty. The monitors are available with SDC FZE in UAE, DAR Technical General trading in Kuwait and Ibda technologies in Saudi Arabia.