Archives December 2023

Bengaluru,2nd December 2023: : Tiger Woods teed off in his first semi-competitive round at the Pro-Am ahead of the 2023 Hero World Challenge at Albany in the Bahamas. The field of 20 elite stars includes World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who wants to end his run of two successive second places behind the Norwegian star, Viktor Hovland, who bids to become the first player to win the Hero World Challenge three times in a row.

Woods returns to action for the first time since he withdrew after the second round of the Masters in Augusta this April.

Playing without a limp, that has often been seen in Woods’ walk, the 15-time Major winning legend, played his Pro-Am round with Dr. Pawan Munjal, the Executive Chairman of Hero MotoCorp. It was clearly a moment to cherish as Woods plagued by injuries was teeing off at his own event for the first time since 2019. Woods is a five-time winner of the tournament.

Marking the tenth year of their association with the event, though the edition in 2020 was cancelled due to Covid, Hero MotoCorp have raised the prize pool to $ 4.5 million from the erstwhile $ 3.5. The winner picks a cool $ 1 million. The purse will swell to $ 5 million in 2024.

It is one of the most star-studded fields in a non-Majors in the entire year and it included a dozen Major champions, who among them have won 3 Majors, including 15 by Woods, who feels he still has some more Majors in him. He won his 14th Major in 2008 and the 15th in 2019 at the Masters. The same year he added a 82nd PGA Tour title at Zozo Championships in Japan.

The field includes the current World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and five others who at some stage have held World No.1 ranking. The club includes Woods, who has been World No, 1 for a record 683 weeks and the others are Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Justin Rose and Jason Day.

Hovland is coming off a great year. When he won his second HWC title, he was 10th in the world, now he is No, 4. He had a great Ryder Cup with the winning Europe team and won three times at the Memorial, the BMW and the Tour Championships. He was also the FedEx Cup champion for 2023.

Scottie won the Phoenix Open and the PLAYERS and was in Top-10 no less than 17 times and made cut in each of his 23 starts. His amazing consistency has been his hallmark.

Jordan Spieth recalling his debut at the HWC in 2014 and how well he played that week for 26-under, admitted that it was the “best week of his career”.

He said, “That was fun. I was 21, so I don’t think flying across the world and playing a few days later was that big of a deal to be honest. But it was a cool two-week stretch of Australia and then at the Hero World Challenge at Isleworth,” he recalled.

“That Isleworth week I would put that up there as maybe the best golf I’ve played in my life. I don’t think I’ve ever played better for four days than I did there. I still think about how it felt swinging the club that week and how the ball was coming off and how easy the game was.”

Justin Thomas and Collin Morikawa, both two-time Major champions have fallen out of Top-10. Thomas is as low as 27th, but is hoping that this week’s HWC will show him a better direction for 2024.

There are three debutants, including two major winners. They are the 2023 US Open champion Wyndham Clark and The Open champion, Brian Harman.

Then there is Will Zalatoris, who will also be making his first competitive start, since being forced to pull out 30 minutes before teeing off at Augusta this year.

The 2017 winner Rickie Fowler is another one looking to get set for 2024 after this week, as he resumes his walk to Top-10 in the world.

The HWC 2023 field (alphabetically)

Pune, 2nd December 2023: NIEM – The Institute of Event Management, Pune, recently concluded its much-anticipated Mr. & Ms. University Season 21, a dazzling spectacle of talent and beauty. The Pune Regional Finale witnessed participants from across the city, showcasing exceptional skills and beauty.

Organized by NIEM, this youth pageant celebrates the beauty and spirit of college life. Exclusive to students, it holds a special place in the Limca Book of Records as the world’s only student beauty pageant. The event provides a one-of-a-kind platform for young and aspiring individuals to showcase their talents in the glamour world. These remarkable individuals not only display exceptional prowess but also embodied the dedication and passion synonymous with NIEM’s commitment to fostering excellence and innovation.

After a thorough evaluation by a distinguished panel of judges, the winners emerged as true stars in their respective categories.

In the Ms. University category, Ms. Mohini Kshirsagar claimed the coveted title, with Ms. Tanisha Sathe and Ms. Ishwari Gondkar securing the positions of First and Second Runner Up, respectively.

Meanwhile, in the Mr. University category, Mr. Prem Golande stood out as the winner, followed by Mr. Karan Maske as the First Runner Up and Mr. Aarush Bagade as the Second Runner Up.

The College Idol Winners were also celebrated, with The Endless Crew taking the top spot, Angel’s Crew as the First Runner Up, and Anand Broadway B Boyz securing the Second Runner Up position.

Speaking of the occasion, Dr. Karna Upadhyay, Centre Head at NIEM Pune and Franchise Head, All India, said, “The winners have not only showcased skills but also a deep understanding of the event industry, embodying the values that NIEM stands for.”

The event also featured esteemed guests, including Chief Guests; Sunny Nimhan (Owner of Sunny’s World), Daisy Shah (Bollywood Actress), Vishal Malhotra (famous Actor and Model), Sharad Sankla (commonly known as Abdul from TMKOC) and Atharva Sudame (Digital Influencer) other Judges such as : Mr. Sandip Soparrkar (legendary Dance Choreographer), Mr. Pranav Misshra ( Bollywood Actor – Kerala Story Fame), Ms. Priyadarshini Indalkar ( Hasya Jatra Fame), Mr. Shyam Mashalkar (Actor and Model), MR. Sandeep Dharma ( Ace Fashion Choreographer) and Mr. Subhash Dhang ( Ace Dance Choreographer) were also a part of the event.

In conclusion, Mr. & Ms. University Season 21 not only crowned deserving winners but also reaffirmed NIEM’s commitment to excellence and empowerment in the world of event management. The journey continues, promising more brilliance in the years to come. The institute remains steadfast in its commitment to providing a platform for talent to flourish, empowering the next generation of event industry leaders.

Odisha, 2nd December 2023: — Startup Odisha, an initiative of the MSME Department, Government of Odisha successfully hosted the Utkal Fab Fest 2023. This groundbreaking event marked a significant stride towards integrating Odisha into the prestigious international fab lab network and establishing a state-of-the-art regional world-class all-inclusive Fab City.

The Utkal Fab Fest 2023 kicked off with a compelling keynote from Dr. Omkar Rai, Executive Chairman of Startup Odisha, setting the stage for a day of exploration. Dr. Rai announced plans for a Fab Academy at O-Hub, training 30 individuals for fabrication excellence, aligning with the vision of a Super Fab Lab connecting R&D institutions, fab-labs, incubators, and more. This collaborative hub aims to unite researchers, artisans, students, entrepreneurs, and startups within Odisha’s growing fabrication ecosystem.

In the Fab 2.0 virtual session led by Prof. Neil Gershenfeld, Director of MIT’s Center for Bits and Atoms and acclaimed as “The Father of Digital Fabrication,” the spotlight turned to Odisha’s brilliant minds. Emphasizing a vision for a thriving fabrication ecosystem, he stressed the importance of actively engaging with these dynamic intellects.He presented a vision to harness Odisha’s abundant “brain power” to its fullest potential, laying the foundation for a future of innovative excellence.

Ms. Sherry Lassiter, CEO of Fab Foundation, provided insights into the global Fab world, community, programs, and reach. The visionary concept of a Fab City was elucidated by Tomas Diez, Co-Director, Strategic Advisor of Fab City Foundation, and IAAC Board Member. Distinguished speakers from the global Fab community, including Luciano Betoldi, VP & COO of Fab Foundation, and Kate Armstrong, Executive Board Member of Fab City Foundation, provided comprehensive introductions to their respective organizations, paving the way for insightful discussions and collaborative endeavours. The event featured workshops on Ecosystem Mapping and Co-creation, conducted by Mitalee Parikh, Program Manager at Fab City Foundation. These workshops aimed to sensitize stakeholders to the latest concepts, trends, and advancements in digital fabrication, fostering a deeper understanding of the needs of the Odisha ecosystem.

Dr. Omkar Rai, Executive Chairman of Startup Odisha, said, “As we embark on this transformative journey at the Utkal Fab Fest 2023, we’re not merely embracing innovation; we’re sculpting a narrative of progress for Odisha. This event stands as a testament to the collective spirit of our community, and I am confident that the echoes of collaboration and ingenuity resonating here will shape a future where Odisha shines as a beacon of digital innovation and inclusive growth.The establishment of a Super Fab Lab in the capital city marks a significant leap, bridging education and industry, propelling us into a transformative landscape of innovation and progress.”

Delegates at the event experienced firsthand visits to R&D centers, handicraft and handloom clusters, and established Fab Labs, gaining practical insights into bespoke fabrication requirements, vital technological interventions, and a holistic grasp of design intricacies. These immersive visits significantly contributed to shaping the groundwork for the envisioned Super Fab Lab at O-Hub.

On the second day, the team embarked on a cultural and artistic odyssey, exploring Odisha’s rich artistic heritage through visits to key clusters: Silver Filigree in Cuttack City, Brass and Bell Metal in Bhatimunda, Palm Leaf Engraving in Khamangasasan, Terracotta in Nuagaon, and Stone Carving in Sisupalgarh. Continuing this exploration on the third day, visits to Applique in Pipili and Delanga, along with Pattachitra in Raghurajpur, provided a condensed yet profound exploration of the diverse artistry that defines Odisha’s cultural, artistic and entrepreneurial landscape.

Utkal Fab Fest 2023 serves as a pivotal milestone in laying the groundwork for Super Fab Labs in Odisha. The event has provided an indispensable platform for assessing the state’s vibrant fabrication ecosystem and engaging with key stakeholders. Attendees have had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the Odisha experience, contributing to a comprehensive assessment that extends beyond the festival. The insights garnered during this event are instrumental for Startup Odisha to envision and establish customized Super Fab Labs, addressing the distinctive needs of the state.

Bangalore,2nd December 2023: : Mindspace Business Parks REIT (BSE: 543217 | NSE: MINDSPACE) (‘Mindspace REIT’), owner and developer of quality Grade A office portfolio located in four key office markets of India, has received nine Sword of Honour Awards for each of its assets that have received Five Star Rating by British Safety Council’s Occupational Health and Safety Audits. The recognition spans seven assets, collectively encompassing an expansive operational area exceeding 24msf. The audit was conducted to assess the safety and health of the asset portfolio. These prestigious awards reflect Mindspace REIT’s unwavering commitment to safety and health of occupants across its diverse asset portfolio.

Mindspace REIT has been awarded Five Star Ratings and the Sword of Honour across its assets, covering Mindspace Airoli East, Mindspace Airoli West, and Paradigm Mindspace Malad in Mumbai Metropolitan Region; Commerzone Yerwada, Gera Commerzone Kharadi and The Square Signature Business Chambers (Nagar Road) in Pune – each of which received 1 award; and Mindspace Madhapur in Hyderabad – which received 3 awards.

Peter McGettrick, Chairman of British Safety Council, said: “On behalf of the board of trustees and staff of the British Safety Council I would like to congratulate Mindspace Business Parks REIT on achieving the highest standards of its health and safety management. These awards recognise the commitment, dedication and absolute professionalism undertaken. We are proud to support your organisation in its achievement and delighted we can contribute to your ongoing success.”

Mike Robinson, Chief Executive of British Safety Council, added: “I would like to congratulate Mindspace Business Parks REIT and its staff on this award, in tribute to their commitment to keeping their workplace safe and healthy. All of the Sword and Globe – and now Shield – award-winning organisations share a commitment and resolve to achieve the uppermost standards of health and safety, sustainability or now wellbeing. We thank Mindspace Business Parks REIT for contributing to achieving our vision that no-one should be injured or made ill through their work.”

Speaking on the certifications, Mr. Ramesh Nair, CEO, Mindspace Business Parks REIT, said, “We are delighted to receive nine Sword of Honour Awards, highlighting our commitment to constructing sustainable ecosystems. This accomplishment, coupled with our nine Five Star Ratings, reinforces our dedication to the health and safety of our clients and the environment. Our focused efforts to reduce carbon footprint, coupled with the creation of safe and healthy workplaces, resonates with our mission to provide sustainable, world-class spaces. The audit, aligned with global standards, validates our dedication to providing the best experiences for all our stakeholders.”

Mindspace REIT’s several projects were assessed in the Five Star British Safety Council audit which measured performance against key health and safety management best practice indicators. The detailed review focused on organizational leadership, commitment and planning, implementation and operation, performance monitoring & measurement, and evaluation and continual improvement.

Globally, organizations achieving a remarkable 92% or above in the British Safety Council’s Occupational Health and Safety Audit earn a distinguished Five Star rating. Subsequently, they are extended an invitation to vie for the esteemed Sword of Honour, a testament to their outstanding commitment to health and safety management excellence.

The Sword of Honour is the highest endorsement by the British Safety Council for exemplary management of Occupational Health & Safety at the workplace and celebrates and rewards those organizations that have achieved significant Occupational Health and Safety Management. The British Safety Council’s Five Star Rating is the most contemporary, quantified audit process available, which allows businesses to test their health, safety and wellbeing performance against recognized standards, industry best practice techniques and latest legislations.

New Delhi, December 1st, 2023: In the lead-up to the upcoming Telangana Assembly Elections 2023, Political Metrics, a distinguished Political Strategy Consulting firm in India, released its Exit Poll Analysis. Known for its specialized services ranging from Political Public Relations to Campaign War Room Management, Political Metrics offers a comprehensive overview of the electoral landscape, projecting likely outcomes based on meticulous research and analysis.

Exit Poll Analysis:

Political Metrics projects the Congress party to emerge as the leading contender, with an expected seat range of 65-70 and a corresponding vote share of 43%. This forecast reflects strategic campaign management, skillfully led by the Sunil Kanugolu team, addressing anti-incumbency sentiments and competing effectively with the BJP.

In the analysis, the BRS is projected to secure the second position with an expected seat range of 31- 37 and a corresponding vote share of 37%. Despite facing challenges in mitigating anti-incumbency factors, particularly dissatisfaction among unemployed individuals and government employees, the BRS has demonstrated resilience in key segments.

The BJP is expected to secure 8-12 seats, accompanied by a vote share of 13%. Noteworthy performance in certain districts showcases the party’s potential, but sustaining momentum has been hindered by internal factors, including alleged power struggles and affiliations with other parties.

Maintaining its stronghold in the Hyderabad region, the MIM is projected to secure 6 seats, while the BSP under the leadership of RS Praveen Kumar is expected to emerge victorious in the Sirpur Kagaznagar assembly segment. Additionally, CPI is anticipated to secure one seat.

The exit poll results reflect a dynamic electoral landscape in Telangana, highlighting shifts in voter sentiments and strategic campaign maneuvers. Political Metrics continues to be at the forefront of providing comprehensive insights into India’s political landscape, contributing to informed decision- making and understanding the nuances of electoral dynamics.

Kolkata, Dec 1, 2023: 98 Pujas, 3 Cities, 1 Unforgettable ExperienceEvery Year, almost as a rule, Durga Puja inspires us to essay something of the never-seen-before kind. This year’s Puja festivities propelled Mirchi to embark on a mission of the 98 kind! From celebrity interviews to food, from Puja passes to being live in the city’s ears 24/7, Mirchi aimed to touch every base this Puja.

It began under the gigantically magnificent umbrella of Mirchi-te Matripokkho with 98 as its watchword. The all-encompassing Puja experience was narrated by 98 celebrities. This was augmented by tie-ups with 98 Pujas across 3 cities: Kolkata, Asansol and Siliguri, and 98 facets of engagements with the audience. Mirchi-te Matripokkho had a something for everyone. The aficionados of history and heritage found what they wanted in Mirchi’s coverage of historical family-Pujas of Kolkata, and the Puja special series Thakurdalan that explained the fascinating history behind the Puja customs. Those with an affinity for Para Pujas got a wealth of content in our coverage of several public Pujas of the city. And for people in love with pandal hopping, Mirchi produced its unique Puja kit replete with a detailed map and 98 passes to top-draw Pujas.

The fantastic festivities received the fillip of dance and music with the MirchiKhushir Puja song and music video. Such was its charm and vibe that even the celebs came forward and exhibited their superlative dance moves. It was released on YouTube to thunderous applause. MirchiKhushir Puja Finale provided a fitting finale to this magnificent array of activities where the winners from the on-ground leg of the event came together to share their happiness on a larger scale. The happy faces emboldened Mirchi to make a promise: to come back next year with a bigger splash.

One97 Communications Limited (OCL) that owns the brand Paytm, India’s leading payments and financial services company and the pioneer of QR code, soundbox and mobile payments, has deployed nearly 10,000 payment devices such as Soundbox, QR codes and Card Machines for the Gram Panchayats of several states in India. This significant undertaking will revolutionise Gram Panchayats by enabling mobile payments.

The company has already received a mandate to implement QR/Card Machines and Soundbox for 7000+ Gram Panchayats in Andhra Pradesh, in collaboration with major banks such as HDFC Bank, SBI, IDFC First Bank, and many regional banks. A direct mandate has also been received from Uttar Pradesh and Goa’s state department for the deployment of Card Machines and Soundbox.

Additionally, Paytm has already digitalized more than 1200 Gram Panchayats through its QR code and Soundbox solutions in Gujarat, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Maharashtra, and Assam. The company has widened its reach in many states with the help of multiple partnerships with State Government Department or Gram Panchayats or with banks and has been able to place its offline solutions like Card Machine, QR or a Soundbox.

Abhay Sharma, Chief Business Officer, Payments, Paytm said, “We are committed to drive access to mobile payments to every part of India. With the deployment of our iconic payment devices like Soundbox, Card Machine and QR, we are redefining the digital landscape of Gram Panchayats and rural India. This will simplify fee collection processes for services like property tax, water bills, and electricity bills and more.”

1st December 2023: Gurgaon- The Derma Co, the active ingredients backed skincare brand, from the house of Honasa Consumer Limited, releases their campaign film for their purpose Young Scientist Programme in collaboration with Bhumi NGO where they provide top-quality, practical science education to the underprivileged children in India.

The science-based brand has built its purpose around providing science education to underprivileged children through the Young Scientist Programme, The Derma Co seeks to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that children from underserved backgrounds not only dare to dream big but also have the tools and opportunities to turn those dreams into reality. The brand’s dedication to this cause is further exemplified by their unique approach—each order placed on The Derma Co website contributes towards supporting this initiative, reinforcing their commitment to empowering young minds through the power of science. The program has impacted 10,000+ students under a span of two years.

The recently released film captures the profound impact created by this life-altering initiative. It authentically portrays the lives of the students benefiting from the programme, shedding light on the transformations it has brought about. These students, once limited by their circumstances, have now been given the wings to dream big and the knowledge to aspire to become scientists in their own right. Their journeys serve as an inspiration for all who aspire to achieve greatness in the world of science.

The film captures The Derma Co’s unwavering commitment to promoting science education and fostering dreams. It showcases the brand’s vision to transform young minds into budding scientists who can make a real difference in the world. The film showcases how the Young Scientist Programme goes beyond just providing infrastructure. The initiative delivers personalized science lab kits and dedicated science teachers to these students, ensuring that they receive a comprehensive education that is on par with the best. The absence of traditional classrooms and laboratory facilities doesn’t hinder their progress. The Derma Co is determined to provide these children with an education that transcends physical boundaries and empowers them to achieve their dreams.

Anuja Mishra, EVP & Chief Marketing Officer, Honasa Consumer Limited comments, “The Derma Co’s purpose film is a testament to our commitment to empower young minds and bridge the gap between dreams and reality. We believe that science has the power to transform lives, and through the Young Scientist Programme, we are nurturing the scientists of tomorrow. This film showcases the heart and soul of our mission, and we’re excited to be a part of their incredible journeys.”

India,1st December 2023: Travelers never stand still for long. This is an industry of dynamic change, one always evolving and adapting to the latest innovation, fashion, or cultural shift. While it is impossible to know exactly what tomorrow will bring, Amadeus’ position at the heart of the travel ecosystem gives unparalleled insight into the future. Using the latest propriety data, industry-leading insight, and expert analysis from across the organization, Amadeus here explores what might be in store next year in its annual Travel Trends research. Identified are five developments that aim to create more meaningful travel experiences for the planet, economy, and the traveler.

Mani Ganeshan, Global Head of Engineering, Travel Distribution and Centre Head at Amadeus Labs, said “Travelers anticipate a seamless journey characterized by comfort, security, and personalized experiences. Underpinning travel providers’ ability to meet these expectations, an ever-growing sophisticated level of technology is required. The Amadeus Travel Trends for 2024 will be instrumental in shaping how travel works better in the future. Generative AI is poised to exert a growing influence in travel over the coming years. Whether it’s the pursuit of watching our favorite music acts live or adopting innovative tools to follow in the footsteps of digital influencers, travel providers will have to shape their offerings to cater to these changing tastes. As technology continues to evolve, the travel ecosystem enters a fascinating and progressive phase, promising a swift and positive transformation of the future of travel.”

“There is much to look forward to, and Amadeus will be working alongside our partners from across the travel ecosystem to drive change for the traveler, wherever we can.”

Music tourism

After the social isolation of the pandemic, when bands and musical artists were grounded for months, a boom in concerts and festivals has this year tapped into a desire for connection. The trend is expected to accelerate as we look toward 2024. Taylor Swift recently announced Asia Pacific tour dates for next year, drawing fans from around the world. Amadeus research suggests Taylor Swift concert dates in Australia, Singapore, and Japan for 2024 had a significant impact on travel searches and booking volumes to the countries.

During the week of the concert announcement, flight searches to Melbourne and Sydney saw a significant week-over-week growth of 44%, while bookings for these cities surged impressively by 446%. The concert announcement also had a striking impact on searches from New Zealand to both cities, resulting in a 240% week-over-week increase during the same period. Flight searches to Singapore likewise showed an 18% week-over-week growth shortly after both Taylor Swift and Coldplay concert announcements were made. There was a notable 32% week-over-week surge in international searches from neighboring countries to Tokyo. Inbound travelers from Asia Pacific countries such as Australia, Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand demonstrated a strong preference for both short and long trips in a desire to enjoy the concert experience while also making room for leisurely exploration during their visit.

Agents of influence

Social media has become a powerful force during the inspiration phase of a trip, but a new shift is happening. Instead of influencers solely being the source of vacation inspiration for their communities, they are now facilitators of direct bookings through their varying channels. Influencers, such as Ana Hernández Sárria, travel photographer Rafael Fernandez Caballero, travel blogger the Blonde Abroad, yoga and movement coach Sjana Elise, and full-time traveler and content creator, Alyssa Ramos, are designing and hosting their own group trips. The rise of so-called “Agents of Influence” is being facilitated by e-commerce marketplaces such as Thatch, Luxury Travel Hackers and TrovaTrip, which Inc ranked number 236 out of 5,000 of the fast-growing companies in the US in 2023. This technology allows influencers using Instagram, YouTube and TikTok, for example, to share a booking link directly on their profile page and process payments.

Electric skyways

As cities are more congested and air pollution is more prevalent, a potential solution to fossil-fuel-powered transportation will be the emergence of skyways that allow flying taxis, electric vertical take-off, and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and other kinds of electric aircraft to provide lower emission air travel options, both within urban areas, to satellite airports, cross-country and between islands. It may seem very futuristic but German aircraft manufacturer Volocopter is planning to provide a fleet of electric VoloCity eVTOL for the Paris Olympics in 2024, making it one of the first electric air taxi networks. At the same time, Volocopter is expanding its reach to Asia, with plans to launch electric air taxis in Singapore by 2024, beginning with services in Marina Bay and Sentosa.

The potential expansion of these services includes cross-border air taxi trips to destinations in Malaysia and Indonesia, potentially connecting terminals in areas like Seletar and Changi to cities such as Melaka, Batam, and Bintan. Toff Mobility, the first electric air company in Asia, is working toward debuting electric aircraft in 2024 in South Korea, while Surcar Airlines has selected Zeroavia to provide hydrogen-electric engines for its seaplanes in the Canary Islands.

Intelligent concierge

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) is adding tremendous value to the online travel planning experience for consumers, as search and advice become hyper personalized and more intuitive. Instead of selecting filters to fine-tune a search on a metasearch site or online travel agency (OTA), travelers can simply provide a brief to a chatbot in the same way you would a human advisor. For example, a new ChatGPT plug-in from Expedia acts like a virtual travel assistant, listening to customer needs and delivering instant hotel and itinerary recommendations, with links to book.

The next generation of GAI-powered customer service will be delivered with greater patience and empathy, reducing the workload of employees to deal with the bulk of after-sales servicing and customer review management, giving them the bandwidth to provide the human touch on more specialist issues.

Business luxe-lite

With ever-more travelers wanting to fly at the front of the plane, there is an opportunity to offer more affordable and accessible “unbundled” business class fares.

In 2019, Emirates was one of the first airlines to launch “special” business class tickets, with no lounge access, restricted seat selection and no upgrade abilities. Qatar Airways followed, unveiling a Business Class Lite fare, with passengers asked to pay extra for lounge access and date or route changes, while they also earn fewer Avios/Qmiles.

With the trend gathering momentum, Zipair of Japan and Finnair began offering basic business tickets in 2021, while Air France and KLM added Business Class Light fares in 2023. At the other end of the scale, airlines in Asia Pacific are enhancing the exclusivity of their business class offerings. This evolving trend caters to the preferences of travelers who seek a premium level of comfort and luxury during their air travel. Notable examples include Japan Airlines’ A350 business class, Air India’s business class, and Cathay Pacific ‘Aria’ business class. The upgrade from various airlines features a 1-2-1 seating layout, sliding privacy doors, wireless charging apparatus, large 4K screens, and advanced Bluetooth audio streaming options.

Evidence of this trend continuing through 2024 includes news from Air New Zealand, which will be adding either four or eight rows along with sliding privacy doors, a storage cabinet, vanity mirror, and a spacious side shelf as a debut Business Premier Luxe product. Also, passengers can look forward to the integration of advanced entertainment features as part of this premium experience.

Research Methodology

These data points are based on research by Amadeus data science teams. Data is drawn from a custom search dataset, Amadeus Master Pricer and Amadeus Agency Insights. Amadeus Air Search Travel Data is the most complete suite of air data in the travel industry and includes shopping transactions performed by +2,500 customers including the world’s top travel agencies. It consists of consolidated data generated by daily transactions.

Mumbai, 1st December 2023: Mission1 Investments LLC, the US-based investment firm that invested in Shriram Asset Management Company Limited (Shriram AMC) in 2022 has now completed its 23% stake acquisition by converting its securities into equity shares. Mission1 Investments LLC now holds 29,94,349 equity shares in Shriram AMC.

The Securities Issue Committee of the Board of Directors of Shriram AMC allotted 49,11,021 number of equity shares of face value of Rs.10/- each, in lieu of the conversion of securities of Mission1 Investments LLC and Shriram Credit Company Limited. The equity shares were allotted in lieu of conversion of remaining Warrants, Compulsorily Convertible Debentures and Compulsorily Convertible Preference Shares and are subject to lock-in/transferability restriction as prescribed under SEBI Regulations.

In February 2022, Mission1 Investments LLC agreed to infuse Rs 37 crore in Shriram AMC with an intent to re-ignite the mutual fund business. Mission1’s investors include fintech entrepreneurs Gaurav Patankar, Amit Rajpal and Toronto-based Twin River Capital’s Managing Partner Eric Wetlaufer. Shriram AMC was started in 1994 and is one of the first listed AMCs in the country.

Kartik L Jain, MD & CEO, Shriram Asset Management Company said, “We remain committed towards building a long-term asset management business with sustainable profitability, while meeting customer needs with inclusive and differentiated investment solutions. Shriram Group’s trust, brand equity and pan India presence along with Mission1’s deep knowledge of investment management and of building entrepreneurial ventures, will hold us in good stead in this journey. The full conversion of Mission1’s investment underlines this commitment to Shriram AMC’s growth journey.”

Gaurav Patankar, Managing Partner, Mission1 Investments LLC said, “Our partnership with Shriram is driven by a shared appreciation of democratizing wealth creation at the bottom of the pyramid. With the company’s focus on building a data-centric quantamental investment platform, we are excited about the simplicity, improved economics, and ease of access this can bring to the end consumer. Rather than just being another product manufacturer, this platform creates an avenue to foster conscientious and inclusive wealth creation.”

In August 2023, Shriram AMC launched the Shriram Multi Asset Allocation Fund which sought to offer long term inflation-adjusted wealth creation through exposure to multiple assets such as equity, debt, and gold/silver ETFs. Shriram AMC relies on a proprietary Enhanced Quantamental Investment (EQI) model to employ a combination of quant and fundamental analysis to create a risk adjusted equity portfolio that aims to deliver consistent alpha over the benchmark.