Category: Business

New Delhi, Apr 16 (BNP): India’s gem and jewellery exports saw a slight decline in FY26, as global trade challenges and tariff pressures weighed on demand. However, the industry showed resilience by expanding into new markets and adapting to changing conditions.

Pic Credit: Pexel 

Exports during the year stood at $27.72 billion, reflecting a modest drop compared to the previous year in dollar terms, even as rupee earnings remained broadly stable.

The slowdown was largely due to weaker demand from the United States, where higher tariffs and policy uncertainties affected export volumes. At the same time, ongoing geopolitical tensions and fluctuations in global markets added to the pressure on the sector.

Despite these challenges, Indian exporters made steady progress in diversifying their reach. Markets such as the UAE, Australia, Hong Kong, and Canada emerged as important growth drivers, helping offset declines in traditional destinations.

Trade agreements with countries like the UAE and Australia supported this shift, making it easier for exporters to access new opportunities. While some geopolitical tensions in West Asia impacted momentum toward the end of the year, overall demand from these regions remained encouraging.

The industry is also witnessing a gradual shift in product demand. While certain segments like cut and polished diamonds faced pressure, others such as silver and platinum jewellery gained traction, reflecting changing global consumer preferences.

Experts believe that this phase marks a transition for the sector, with a stronger focus on market diversification and value-added products. Looking ahead, potential trade deals with regions like the UK and the European Union could further support growth and help the industry regain momentum.

Pic Credit: Pexel

New Delhi, Apr 16 (BNP): Global steel demand is expected to remain subdued in the near term, with meaningful recovery likely only in 2027, according to a recent report by Centrum citing estimates from the World Steel Association.

The report projects global steel demand growth of just 0.3% in 2026, reflecting continued weakness in key markets. China, the world’s largest steel consumer, is expected to remain the primary drag on demand, with consumption forecast to decline by 1.5% year-on-year in calendar year 2026 and remain flat in 2027.

In contrast, India is emerging as a major growth driver. The report highlights that India’s steel demand is expected to grow by 7.4% in 2026 and accelerate further to 9.2% in 2027, positioning the country as a key contributor to the global demand rebound.

Despite muted demand conditions, steel prices have risen across major markets. Input costs have shown mixed trends, with iron ore and non-coking coal prices moving higher, while coking coal prices have softened compared to the previous month.

Among non-ferrous metals, aluminium continues to outperform, with prices remaining firm. Meanwhile, other metals such as copper, zinc, and nickel have witnessed marginal declines, reflecting uneven trends in the broader commodities market.

The report underscores that while near-term challenges persist due to weak global demand, particularly from China, India’s strong growth outlook offers a positive signal for the steel sector’s recovery in the coming years.

Kolkata, Apr 16: Embee Software Pvt. Ltd., a leading digital transformation and technology solutions provider announced the expansion of its operations in Kolkata with the launch of a new, larger office facility spanning approximately 10,000 sq. ft. This move reinforces Embee’s commitment to strengthening regional capabilities while enhancing customer experience and service delivery.

 The new office has been designed to support the company’s growing teams and evolving business needs, featuring modern collaboration zones, advanced infrastructure, and dedicated Network Operations Center (NOC) and Security Operations Center (SOC) capabilities. These enhancements will enable real-time monitoring, faster response times, and stronger delivery across cloud, cybersecurity, and managed services.

This expansion reflects Embee Software’s strategic focus on deepening its presence in key markets rather than just expanding geographically. Kolkata has long been an integral part of the company’s growth journey, and this investment underscores its continued commitment to the region.

“Growth is not always about entering new markets, it’s about strengthening the foundations where you already are,” said Sudhir Kothari, CEO and Managing Director, Embee Software. “Our expanded Kolkata office enables us to be more agile, responsive, and closely aligned with our customers’ evolving needs. It also empowers our teams with the environment and tools needed to deliver greater value.”

The new facility is not only an infrastructure upgrade but also a step toward fostering a more collaborative and innovation-driven work culture. Designed to bring teams together, the space encourages knowledge sharing, problem-solving, and continuous improvement in delivering customer outcomes.

Adding a people-centric perspective to the expansion, Abira Bhattacharjee, CHRO, Embee Software, emphasized the importance of culture and workplace experience:

“This expansion is as much about our people as it is about our capabilities. We have invested in creating a workplace that reflects our culture- collaborative, inclusive, and innovation-driven. With enhanced infrastructure, modern collaboration spaces, and advanced NOC and SOC environments, we are enabling our teams to do their best work while continuously raising the bar on customer value. Kolkata has always been a key part of our journey, and we are excited to further strengthen our presence here.”

As organizations increasingly demand secure, scalable, and responsive technology solutions, Embee Software continues to evolve its operational capabilities to meet these expectations. The addition of enhanced NOC and SOC functions further strengthens its ability to deliver proactive monitoring and rapid incident response.

This expansion follows the recent launch of Embee’s new office in Chennai and is part of the company’s broader growth strategy. With 12+ offices across India, Embee is well-positioned to support customers nationwide while maintaining strong regional engagement.

 

News Delhi, Apr 16 (BNP): Indian equity markets recorded a strong rally today, driven by improved global sentiment as geopolitical tensions in West Asia showed signs of easing. Benchmark indices posted notable gains, with the Nifty rising by 500 points and the Sensex advancing 0.7%.

The positive momentum was supported by renewed investor confidence, as concerns over potential disruptions in global markets and energy supplies began to recede. Easing tensions contributed to stability in crude oil prices, further encouraging buying across sectors.

Gains were broad-based, with key sectors such as banking, information technology, and energy leading the upward movement. Market participants responded positively to the reduced uncertainty, increasing exposure to equities.

Experts suggest that while the current trend reflects optimism, investors should continue to monitor global developments and macroeconomic indicators that may influence market direction in the coming weeks.

 April 16: Havells India Ltd., a leading FMEG company, has unveiled ‘Hawa Badlegi’, a quirky summer campaign designed to break away from conventional category communication and drive strong engagement among today’s always-online, young consumers.

 Conceptualized around the theme of ‘Trolls vs Fans’ with TBWA\Lintas, Gurugram, the campaign taps into the pulse of social media culture, reflecting the dynamic nature of online conversations where opinions are constantly shaped and amplified in real time. Moving beyond the category’s traditionally functional messaging, Havells adopts a more culturally relevant and contemporary approach, leveraging the language and behavior of audiences. The campaign further amplifies its reach and cultural resonance.

The brand has onboarded three celebrities, Varun Dhawan, Anurag Kashyap, and Yuzvendra Chahal, to bring alive the ‘Fans vs Trolls’ narrative, adding scale, relatability, and entertainment value to the storytelling. Through three edgy films, the campaign captures everyday social media behaviour, bringing trolls out from behind screens and face-to-face with the celebrities they comment on, culminating in a clear, brand-led message: if you want to be a fan, be a good one—like Havells fans. At its core, ‘Hawa Badlegi’ acts as a catalyst for fostering a healthier, more positive fan culture, actively nudging audiences away from trolling towards genuine appreciation. By championing this shift in sentiment, Havells not only sparks conversation but also embodies the very ‘wind of change’ it advocates, positioning its fans as the benchmark for what it truly means to be a fan.

Commenting on the campaign, Rohit Kapoor, EVP – Brand Marcom, Havells India Ltd., said:

“With ‘Hawa Badlegi’, we wanted to break away from predictable category narratives and create something that feels fresh, relevant, and inherently shareable. By tapping into the ‘Trolls vs Fans’ dynamic, we are speaking the language of today’s consumers in a way that is both entertaining and meaningful. With the scale of IPL and the power of our mega-star cast, we believe this campaign will drive strong visibility, engagement, and cultural impact.”

The first film featuring Anurag Kashyap shows him seated across a troll, reading out a harsh comment he had posted online. It is only when the words are spoken aloud that the individual downplays it as harmless banter among close ones, quickly adding that he is, in fact, a fan. Anurag responds with a sharp takeaway- if you want to be a fan, be a good one, like Havells fans.

The second film featuring Varun Dhawan follows a similar setup, with the actor seated across a troll as he reads out a sharp comment accusing him of “acting in the gym” and merely working out in films. When confronted, the individual quickly reframes it as admiration, calling Varun artistic and creative, and even asks if it’s part of an ad. Varun counters with a clear message- be a fan like Havells, and take a cue from Havells fans on what it means to be a good one.

The final film features Yuzvendra Chahal seated across a troll as he reads out one of the user’s comments. The individual quickly claims to be a fan, even asking if it’s part of an ad, before adding a cheeky remark about who will focus on bowling for the Indian cricket team if Chahal is busy with ads. Chahal responds with a sharp retort, urging him to focus on being a fan first, and to be a good one, like Havells fans.

Commenting on the campaign, Vasudha Misra, President – Creative, TBWA\Lintas, North said,

“Fans, they are a complicated lot these days. They can go from singing your praises to calling for your head in a matter of minutes, or tweets. We thought perhaps all of us, as fans, could learn a thing or two from Havells fans. Hawa badalni chahiye. So, we made an ad about it. Or was it an ad about an ad, about an ad? Whatever it was, it is already one of our all-time faves. Here’s to the TBWA Lintas team, our most incredibly supportive clients, and to our fabulous director and actors; I would never, ever troll any of you guys.”

Through the campaign, Havells positions itself as a brand that not only participates in conversations but shapes them promoting a more positive fan culture. The rollout begins with teasers and scales up to a high-impact IPL launch, amplified through premium integrations. Backed by a robust 360-degree media strategy across television, digital, and on-ground activations, Hawa Badlegi’ is designed to drive attention, spark conversations, and deliver high virality.

 

SYDNEY, Apr 16 – Epson has been awarded a AAA rating, the highest rating in the MSCI ESG Ratings, for the third consecutive year in 2026. MSCI ESG Ratings is a global ESG investment index provided by MSCI. MSCI researches and analyses a company’s response to ESG-related risks and opportunities and assigns one of seven ratings ranging from AAA at the top to CCC at the bottom.

Epson facility at Yennora, NSW

Epson has implemented initiatives to enhance transparency in raw material procurement, as well as measures to strengthen human rights and human capital.

The company believe these initiatives were instrumental in helping to maintain the AAA rating for the third consecutive year.

Epson has been selected as a constituent of the MSCI Japan ESG Select Leaders Index and the MSCI Japan Empowering Women Index (WIN), as well as all other ESG indices covering Japanese equities adopted by the Government Pension Investment Fund (GPIF). 

The Epson Group purpose statement is “Our philosophy of efficient, compact and precise innovation enriches lives and helps create a better world.” To fulfill Epson’s purpose in society, the company will continue to evolve our sustainability management initiatives that both resolve societal issues and drive corporate growth.

The FTSE JPX Blossom Japan Index, FTSE JPX Blossom Japan Sector Relative Index, MSCI Japan ESG Select Leaders Index, S&P/JPX Carbon Efficient Index, MSCI Japan Empowering Women Index (WIN), Morningstar Japan Ex-REIT Gender Diversity Tilt Index (GenDi) (current as of April 2, 2026).

Businesses operating in Malaysia and across ASEAN will get a timely roadmap for 2026 at an upcoming strategy session hosted in collaboration with Monash University Malaysia. The event will bring together industry leaders to unpack policy shifts, talent strategies, and growth opportunities in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.

Scheduled for April 23, 2026, at EQ Kuala Lumpur, the session is designed for both Australian SMEs operating in Malaysia and local enterprises preparing to scale. Organisers say the programme will focus on delivering practical insights, regulatory clarity, and actionable strategies that businesses can immediately implement.

Industry Leaders to Share Insights

The session will feature a strong lineup of speakers offering perspectives across policy, finance, talent, and technology:

• Ong Kian Ming will discuss how businesses can remain competitive amid shifting dynamics in the ASEAN region.
• Surin Segar will address evolving SST regulations and the financial strategies SMEs need to prioritise.
• Ibrahim Sani will explore ways to unlock Malaysia’s talent pool and build future-ready teams.
• Low Choy Huat will highlight the role of resilient organisational culture and AI-driven talent strategies.
• Karen Khaw will focus on bridging the skills gap through industry–academia collaboration.

Additional academic perspective will be provided by Meera Sivasoathy, Professor of Practice in Digital Media and Communication.

Focus on Practical Outcomes

The session aims to go beyond theory, equipping attendees with clear, actionable guidance on navigating regulatory changes, leveraging talent, and embedding technology into business strategy. With ASEAN markets undergoing structural shifts, the event positions itself as a critical touchpoint for companies seeking to stay competitive.

Event Details:

• Date: April 23, 2026
• Time: 6:00 PM
• Venue: EQ Kuala Lumpur

Seats are limited, and organisers are encouraging early registration. Participation is subject to acceptance of the event’s data privacy policy.

With a strong emphasis on strategy, talent, and policy alignment, the session is expected to offer valuable direction for businesses preparing for the challenges and opportunities of 2026.

Robinhood Markets, Inc. has announced an ambitious commitment to expand financial literacy, aiming to reach one million individuals through classroom-based education programmes by 2030. The pledge was highlighted during a policy panel on Capitol Hill, where Senior Director of International Government and External Affairs Chloe Barz outlined the company’s evolving strategy.

The initiative will extend across a wide spectrum of learners, including school and college students, educators, athletes, community leaders, and nonprofit partners. The company said its approach is designed to support individuals at key financial transition points, equipping them with practical knowledge to manage change and plan effectively.

A cornerstone of the effort is Robinhood’s flagship Money Drills™ programme, which now partners with 18 universities across the United States. New additions to the network in 2026 include the University of Arizona, Boise State University, and University of Wisconsin–Madison. These courses are designed to deliver essential financial skills in an accessible format while offering academic credits that contribute toward graduation.

Building on this foundation, the company plans to launch a new phase of the programme—Money Drills: Readiness—later this year. The initiative will specifically target active-duty military personnel, helping them navigate financial decisions as they transition to civilian life.

“Accessible financial education has always been central to our mission, and we are now significantly scaling our reach,” said Chloe Barz. “This commitment allows us to expand existing programmes while introducing new, tailored learning opportunities that meet people where they are.”

The push aligns with findings from the World Economic Forum, which highlight experiential learning—or “learning by doing”—as the most effective way for individuals to build investment knowledge. The research also indicates a strong preference for financial institutions as trusted sources of education, ahead of traditional media, social platforms, and formal schooling.

The announcement coincides with Robinhood’s second annual Financial Education Summit in Washington, D.C., bringing together policymakers, educators, athletes, and nonprofit leaders. The event features workshops, panel discussions, and specialised sessions aimed at strengthening collaboration and expanding access to financial literacy resources, particularly for underserved communities.

With this expanded push, Robinhood is positioning itself at the forefront of classroom-based financial education, combining in-person learning with its existing digital tools to help build long-term financial confidence among the next generation.

Mumbai, April 14: Plum BodyLovin’, the six-year-old body care extension of new-age beauty brand Plum, has unveiled a refreshed independent identity with elevated, design-led packaging across its portfolio, marking a new growth phase for one of India’s fastest-growing body care brands.

The relaunch introduces 16 new products across four summer-themed collections, alongside the brand’s entry into the lip care category with playful, design-forward lip balms. The expansion reflects BodyLovin’s continued focus on expressive, sensorial beauty experiences.

At the core of the launch are four new fragrance-led collections, each built around contrasting scent profiles:

• Petals on the Rocks – floral notes blended with zesty citrus
• Boardroom in Bora Bora – dragon fruit fused with jasmine
• Matcha, But Disco – matcha with warm vanilla undertones
• Tropic Of Discussion – tropical breeze paired with creamy coconut

Each collection includes a shower gel, body lotion, and body mist designed for layering and mix-and-match use based on mood and preference.

The brand has also introduced Glassic Lip Balms, featuring high-shine finishes and collectible charm packaging. The range includes variants such as Gossippin’ Ginger Ale, Popcorn N’ Pilates, Kaapi Tiramisu, and Banoffee For Brekkie, offering tinted and gloss-based formulations.

With this relaunch, BodyLovin’ strengthens its positioning in body care while expanding its footprint across adjacent categories. Existing bestsellers—including Vanilla Caramello Body Lotion, Vanilla Vibes Body Mist, and Hawaiian Rumba Shower Gel along with 50+ SKUs, will transition into the refreshed design language, creating a more unified and elevated portfolio.

The brand now scales to over 60 SKUs, priced between ₹350 and ₹700, maintaining accessibility while strengthening its premium sensorial positioning. The packaging overhaul introduces brighter, bolder visuals aimed at enhancing shelf presence and reinforcing brand recall.

Speaking on the relaunch, Shankar Prasad, Founder & CEO, Plum, said:

“BodyLovin’ has built strong consumer love across categories, and this next phase is about scaling that with a sharper, more distinctive identity. We’re doubling down on what makes the brand special, while building a stronger, more future-ready portfolio.”

Stuti Sethi, Brand Lead, Plum BodyLovin’, added:

“This rebrand is about letting BodyLovin’ be more expressive, defined, and intentional across fragrance, design, and experience. We are also leaning into summer with fresher, more playful fragrance worlds, while the move into lip care is a natural extension of our sensorial approach.”

With its latest relaunch, Plum BodyLovin’ aims to further strengthen its position as a category-defining body care brand in India’s evolving beauty and personal care market.