Category: Business

New Delhi, Feb 27:TravClan has released the India Outbound Travel Index 2025, a comprehensive analysis of outbound travel patterns based on real booking behaviour across its nationwide travel agent network. The report analyses data from approximately 2,47,000 international passengers, representing over ₹500 crore in booking value across 170+ international destinations, and identifies five structural shifts shaping how Indians travel abroad.

A defining insight from the Index shows that non-metro cities now contribute 63% of India’s outbound travellers, positioning non-metro India as the largest source of international travel demand. This reflects a fundamental shift in market composition, with outbound growth increasingly anchored in emerging cities alongside traditional metro hubs.

Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Kochi, Amritsar, and Pune are now among India’s fastest-growing outbound markets, driven by rising incomes and expanding regional connectivity. This momentum reflects sustained demand formation, supported by rising income levels, expanding passport access, and improving regional air connectivity.

Commenting on the findings, Arun Bagaria, Founder and CEO, TravClan, said, “The center of gravity for India’s outbound travel has shifted. Travel Businesses cannot build strategies just around Delhi and Mumbai anymore as we see consistent growth from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, driven by travellers who are digitally confident and decisive. Airlines, destinations, and travel brands need to embrace the next phase of outbound growth that will be built around these emerging markets.”

Destination preferences are also evolving. Indian travellers are increasingly selecting markets that combine strong air access, competitive pricing, and diverse experiences. Vietnam has emerged as the fastest-growing destination, gaining 4.01 percentage points in market share, alongside strong hotel booking growth in Egypt, Japan, the Philippines, and Georgia.

Travel planning cycles continue to compress. Over 42% of outbound trips are booked within seven days of departure, while 21.9% are planned over a month in advance, reflecting high digital confidence and predictable, price-responsive behaviour, particularly on short-haul and high-frequency routes.

Affordable air connectivity remains central to outbound expansion. Low-cost carriers account for nearly 70% of bookings on key leisure routes such as the Maldives and Thailand. At the same time, travellers are extending average stays across several destinations, signalling deeper engagement and experience-led travel.

The India Outbound Travel Index 2025 shows that the next phase of outbound growth will be shaped by localised source markets, faster booking cycles, and differentiated travel intent. For industry stakeholders, long-term relevance will depend on how effectively strategies align with these structural shifts.

Rome, Italy | Feb 27– Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), informed her global teams and the organization’s Executive Board, that she is planning to step down from her role in three months’ time to focus on her health.

 Executive Director McCain, who suffered a mild stroke in October 2025, returned in early January to the organization’s headquarters in Rome, Italy to resume her duties. She wasted no time assuming the many responsibilities of leading the world’s frontline agency tackling a multitude of hunger crises across the globe, but found the demands of the job were outpacing her recovery.

 “With a heavy heart, I am announcing my intention to step down as the Executive Director of the World Food Programme,” said McCain. “Serving this incredible organization has been the honor of a lifetime.

 “I’ve seen firsthand WFP’s ability to save lives in the most dangerous, destitute, and remote locations of the world, where people need us the most. Time and time again, I have seen the WFP team show up where no one else can, no matter the odds. I had truly hoped I could finish out my term, but my health has not recovered to a level that allows me to fully serve the enormous demands of this job. This is one of the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make. 

 “Over the past three years, we have delivered life-saving and life-changing assistance for millions of the world’s most vulnerable people – and this unwavering commitment will be more important than ever in the years to come. To our donors, partners and our global WFP team: thank you for everything you have done and continue to do. I will remain WFP’s biggest champion and continue to be an unwavering voice for those struggling with hunger everywhere.”

 Executive Director McCain assumed the role of WFP Executive Director on April 5, 2023. During her tenure she has driven several unprecedented changes to reform and scale the organization’s abilities including overhauling its global structure, streamlining its operations and processes, scaling innovative digital technologies, and diversifying its public and private partnership efforts. 

NEW YORK and NOIDA, Feb 27: HCLTech will showcase how the next era of telecom, media and technology (TMT) is being built on AI‑native architectures and industry convergence, at Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2026. HCLTech will bring together senior industry leaders, hyperscaler partners, academics and innovators to highlight how intelligence, scale and ecosystem collaboration are powering sustainable AI‑driven growth for the TMT sector.

Industry leaders from Microsoft, Nokia, Ericsson, AT&T, Verizon, PwC, Bain, Axiata, Singtel, MasOrange, Liberty Latin America and other global organizations will engage in these impactful conversations, focusing on strategic shifts that are enabling AI‑native transformation, autonomous operations, platform-driven experiences and ecosystem-led innovation.

HCLTech’s presence at MWC will spotlight:

• Executive panels and CXO conversations: High‑level discussions framing the strategic shifts driving the converged TMT ecosystem—from embedding AI across core operations to unlocking platform‑driven business models and autonomous infrastructure—alongside a flagship roundtable hosted in partnership with GSMA and moderated by Prof. Saikat Chaudhuri, Faculty Director of the Management, Entrepreneurship and Technology (M.E.T.) program at UCBerkeley.
• Live demonstrations: Hands-on showcases of intelligent networks engineered for zero-failure environments, AI-powered media and digital platforms delivering real-time insights, and automation frameworks such as Agentic fraud management, AI-powered Operations Support Systems (OSS) Solutions for Telco, HCLTech’s GenAI service transformation platform, AI Force, Agentic AI solutions, and AIOps to enhance operational efficiency, and agentic-powered Contact Center as a Service platform for smarter customer engagement.
• Startup and partner innovation: Emerging companies advancing AI, digital marketplaces and cybersecurity analytics, alongside hyperscaler partnerships and co-innovation initiatives that accelerate transformation at scale.
• Telecom industry survey on AI priorities: To be revealed following MWC, HCLTech will preview findings from a Mobile World Live survey on AI and technology priorities for telecom organizations, offering real-world insights into how executives are planning investments and strategy in the intelligence era.

“It’s an exciting moment for the industry as convergence and AI are redefining networks, platforms and business models,” said Anil Ganjoo, Chief Growth Officer and Global Head of Telecom, Media and Technology at HCLTech. “By combining AI, cloud and digital engineering expertise with ecosystem partnerships, we are helping enterprises build resilient, scalable and intelligence-driven systems for sustainable growth.”

“HCLTech’s leadership at MWC, bringing together enterprise, hyperscaler and academic voices, captures the strategic imperative of AI‑native transformation,” said Prof. Saikat Chaudhuri, Faculty Director of the Management, Entrepreneurship and Technology (M.E.T.) program at UC Berkeley. “Their approach to integrating AI across infrastructure, platforms and ecosystems is empowering sustainable AI‑driven growth for the TMT sector.”

Attendees can explore these discussions, innovations and insights at Hall 2, Stand 2E19, during MWC Barcelona 2026, March 2-5. For more information, visit: https://www.hcltech.com/events/mwc-barcelona

Mumbai, Feb 27: The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL), India’s largest branded land developer, announced Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan as the face of HoABL Nagpur Marina, its marquee waterfront plotted development in Nagpur.

Kartik Aaryan’s relationship with HoABL began as an investor, with his purchase of a 2000 sq ft plot at the Sol-de-Alibaug project. This trust-led relationship has now naturally evolved into Kartik endorsing Nagpur Marina based on his conviction in HoABL’s transparency in processes, proven track-record in quality and timelines, consumer-centricity, and long-term vision.

“I am excited to be associated with HoABL as the brand ambassador for its prestigious project – Nagpur Marina. Land is the most enduring form of legacy, and HoABL approaches it with transparency and convenience. What drew me to the brand was its clarity of vision, disciplined execution, and a seamless digital experience, especially for someone like me who is constantly on the move”, said Kartik Aaryan.

Nagpur Marina is an exclusive waterfront plotted development in South Nagpur, envisioned as an international lifestyle enclave. Spanning a 78-acre branded land development, the project is anchored by a 2.91-acre man-made sea and beach at its core, complimented by a 28,000 sq.ft. Grand Marina Clubhouse and thoughtfully curated range of lifestyle amenities.

Designed as a limited, destination-grade address for long-horizon investors, Nagpur Marina’s scale, scarcity, and legacy value have already attracted strong HNI participation, with over 350 families from more than 10 countries investing in the project.

Samujjwal Ghosh, Chief Executive Officer, The House of Abhinandan Lodha said, “Kartik’s association with us began as an investment decision, which is the strongest vote of confidence any brand can earn. His decision to now be the face of Nagpur Marina reflects the values we focus on every day – trust, transparency, and building assets designed to endure. Waterfront-led and thoughtfully planned, Nagpur Marina is a unique address, and we are excited to have Kartik represent that story.”

Strategically located next to the Samruddhi Expressway and the New Nagpur IBFC, Nagpur Marina offers a rare opportunity to own plotted land in Nagpur, designed for discerning, long-term investors.

Mumbai, Feb 26: As Indian consumers increasingly gravitate towards premium, performance-led beauty solutions backed by credibility and consistency, Oriflame, the Swedish holistic beauty and wellbeing brand, has announced actor Karishma Tanna as the face of its NovAge+ advanced skincare range and Supreme Tribute Ezzénza fragrance. The association underscores Oriflame’s focus on strengthening its premium skincare and fragrance portfolio in India.

Developed at Oriflame’s Skin Research Institute in Sweden, NovAge+ is built on a portfolio of patented skin technologies that address multiple signs of ageing. These include Bio Aspartolift, designed to support collagen and elastin production to improve firmness; Oripeptide-3, a natural origin peptide technology that helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles; Bio Lumilock, which works on uneven skin tone and pigmentation; and Bio Re:Barrier, developed to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier. Clinical testing on the NovAge+ range shows visible improvements in skin smoothness, radiance, and firmness within two weeks of consistent use, while supporting long-term skin resilience over time.

The NovAge+ range is designed as a four-step skincare routine including cleanse, eye care, targeted boosters, and moisturisation, complemented by intensive treatment capsules and rejuvenating masks, allowing the patented technologies to work in synergy across skin concerns such as firmness, radiance, wrinkles, and barrier repair.

Alongside skincare, Supreme Tribute Ezzénza represents Oriflame’s premium fragrance offering. Crafted as a long-lasting parfum with an elegant ambery-floral profile, the fragrance is positioned as an expression of sophistication and confidence, reinforcing Oriflame’s sensorial storytelling within the premium fragrance category.

Actress Karishma Tanna, known for her work across television and digital entertainment and winner of the Bigg Boss 8 title, brings contemporary relevance and credibility to the collaboration. Her association reflects Oriflame’s intent to connect with consumers who value authenticity, consistency, and a balanced approach to beauty and self-care.

Commenting on the collaboration, Abhishek Chakraborty, Head of Brand Communication, Digital, and PR, Oriflame India, said,

 “Skincare and wellness continues to be a strategic focus for Oriflame, particularly in the premium segment where consumers are seeking solutions that are both effective and thoughtfully formulated. NovAge+ represents our strongest science-led skincare credentials, while Supreme Tribute Ezzénza reflects the sensorial side of our portfolio. Karishma’s association brings credibility and modern relevance to these ranges, aligning well with our long-term vision for the brand in India”

Sharing her perspective, Karishma Tanna said

“I have always believed that skincare is about consistency and choosing products that work with your skin over time. NovAge+ fits naturally into my routine because it is rooted in research and designed for long-term skin health. Supreme Tribute Ezzénza complements that experience, offering a sense of quiet confidence and personal expression. Oriflame’s approach to beauty resonates with how I view self-care today.”

The NovAge+ skincare range is anchored by its complete routine sets, priced at INR 13,500, designed as a comprehensive regimen delivering targeted results across key skin concerns, while Supreme Tribute Ezzénza is priced at INR 3,419. Both are available on in.oriflame.com, and through Oriflame’s network of brand partners.

Through this collaboration, Oriflame continues to strengthen its premium skincare and fragrance narrative in India, balancing science-led innovation with sensorial appeal while responding to evolving consumer expectations around trust, efficacy, and elevated beauty experiences

Mumbai, Feb 26: As Mumbai’s real estate landscape continues to evolve, 2026 is shaping up as a pivotal year for property investors, with infrastructure-led growth, enhanced connectivity, and lifestyle-oriented developments driving demand across key micro-markets. From emerging plotted destinations to established luxury corridors, several locations are emerging as strong investment bets for the year ahead.

Key Micro-Markets to Watch in 2026:

• Chembur: The Next Commercial and Luxury Hub
  Chembur is rapidly transforming into a premium commercial and mixed-use corridor. Experts note that its strategic connectivity via the Eastern Express Highway, Eastern Freeway, Navi Mumbai, and MTHL is attracting corporate and residential interest. Luxury developments, particularly golf-course-facing residences, are gaining traction, offering unobstructed green views and strong long-term value.

• Mulund: Accessibility and Infrastructure Driving Growth
  Mulund’s appeal is being redefined by improved east–west accessibility, with projects like GMLR One and upcoming metro connectivity enhancing connectivity to Thane, Navi Mumbai, and the Eastern Express Highway. The micro-market is emerging as a high-potential growth corridor for both end-users and investors.

• Panvel: Infrastructure-Led Investment Opportunities
  Panvel has evolved into a self-sustained urban destination. Large-scale projects including MTHL, Navi Mumbai International Airport, and Metro Line 8 are driving growth, while integrated townships with expansive green spaces, scenic hill views, and lifestyle amenities are attracting long-term investors.

• Karjat: Nature-Centric Plotted Developments
  Karjat is gaining prominence as a lifestyle-led investment destination, with increasing demand for plotted developments offering low-density living and ownership flexibility. Improved road and rail connectivity, combined with lush green surroundings, is positioning Karjat as a high-value investment option on Mumbai’s periphery.

• Malad: Luxury Living with Seamless Connectivity
  Malad continues to be a preferred luxury residential destination, balancing premium living with easy access to the Western Express Highway, metro network, and both domestic and international airports. Strong demand from end-users and investors is driving growth in this micro-market.

• Goregaon: Mature Luxury Residential Hub
  Goregaon has consolidated its position as a premium residential market, supported by metro connectivity, proximity to key highways, and upcoming infrastructure such as the coastal road. Limited land availability and rising demand for high-quality developments make it an attractive option for capital appreciation and rental yield.

Outlook for 2026
With infrastructure as the primary growth catalyst and buyers increasingly valuing quality, connectivity, and lifestyle features, these micro-markets are poised to deliver strong returns. For investors aiming to capitalize on Mumbai’s next phase of real estate growth, Chembur, Mulund, Panvel, Karjat, Malad, and Goregaon present compelling opportunities combining stability, lifestyle appeal, and long-term value creation.

Venezuela Advance Practical Trade and Investment CooperationThe African Energy Chamber’s delegation to Caracas advanced cooperation with Venezuelan authorities on expanding trade beyond energy, addressing regulatory bottlenecks and promoting reciprocal investment across the Global South

CARACAS, Venezuela, Feb 26:A high-level working visit to Caracas by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) this February marked a significant step in strengthening Africa–Venezuela cooperation, moving engagement beyond hydrocarbons toward broader South–South trade and investment opportunities. The discussions focused on removing longstanding transactional bottlenecks and boosting bilateral trade in goods, services and industrial collaboration.

Leading discussions with Coromoto Godoy Calderón, Minister of Foreign Trade of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, the AEC delegation explored strategies to expand African markets for Venezuelan goods while facilitating reciprocal African investment in Venezuela. The visit emphasized creating a comprehensive framework for trade that extends beyond oil and gas, promoting manufactured goods, services and skills exchange.

“Together with the Minister, we discussed opening up African markets on a Global South–South strategy,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “A priority is working on Venezuelan goods in Africa – not just energy. We are committed to removing bottlenecks, improving regulations and building a framework that accelerates trade and development between our regions.”

The visit also addressed potential alignment with the African Continental Free Trade Area, signaling new pathways for Venezuelan products to access African markets under continental trade frameworks. This reflects a growing interest in integrated commercial engagement that leverages shared resources and strengthens economic ties between African nations and Venezuela.

Institutional cooperation was another key focus. The AEC and Venezuelan authorities agreed on the importance of sharing best practices to position Venezuela as an attractive partner for African investors. Programs are being developed to promote Venezuelan products in African markets while encouraging investment in Venezuela’s broader non-oil economy.

Financial collaboration is central to this strategy. The delegation met with the Venezuelan Export–Import Bank to explore partnerships with African regional development banks and export finance institutions. These initiatives aim to facilitate trade finance, streamline payments and reduce transaction risks, providing a clearer, bankable framework for industrial and commercial projects.

Both sides pledged to showcase Venezuela in key African trade platforms, including the Intra-African Trade Fair organized by Afreximbank, and African Energy Week 2026, where Venezuelan products and expertise can be highlighted. Capacity-building workshops are planned to strengthen skills and technical exchange, reinforcing long-term trade and industrial collaboration.

The working visit marks a shift from energy-centered engagement to a broader, market-oriented partnership. By addressing regulatory challenges, expanding institutional cooperation and promoting trade-enabling frameworks, Africa and Venezuela are laying the foundations for reciprocal investment, industrial growth and deeper integration across the Global South.

“Our focus is on enabling trade that drives development. By working together to break down bottlenecks and expand commercial exchange, we are helping to shape a future in which African and Venezuelan economies grow stronger through partnership – not just in energy, but across the full spectrum of goods, services and investment,” Ayuk added.

Vapi, Feb 26: Arete Group has announced the launch of Riverscape, a luxury villa development in Tukwada, Vapi, Gujarat. The launch marks its strategic expansion in South Gujarat’s emerging premium residential market.

Set along the serene banks of the Kolak River, Riverscape redefines community living and presents 196 exclusive 4 and 5-BHK bespoke villas featuring 12-foot ceilings, double-height courtyards, abundant natural light, seamless indoor-outdoor flow, and smart, breathable layouts that deliver spacious, modern homes immersed in nature. Strategically located just 1 minute from NH-48, 10 minutes from Vapi Railway Station and Daman, and close to Surat Airport. With top hospitals, schools, beaches, and heritage sites nearby

Spread across 17.6 acres, Arete Riverscape is a gated community where privacy meets connection. Thoughtfully designed river-facing zones, greens, and social hubs foster shared experiences, while over 40 curated amenities yoga and meditation areas, sports courts, pools, children’s play zones, and serene reflection spaces, cater to every lifestyle and age. With homes and common areas crafted for comfort and lasting relationships, Riverscape offers a vibrant, resilient community built for belonging, engagement and memorable living.

Virender Kumar, VP – Marketing, Arete Group said,

“With Riverscape, we are redefining luxury living with a riverfront villa community that aligns with the aspirations of business families and professionals seeking greater space and privacy to create lasting experiences for every generation. Our focus remains on creating integrated developments in high-growth corridors backed by strong connectivity fundamentals.”

At Riverscape, community is the foundation, thoughtfully designed as a low-density, people-first neighborhood where open green spaces, landscaped courtyards, and shared social zones encourage natural interaction while preserving privacy. Envisioned as a multi-generational environment, it brings together children’s play areas, sports courts, meditation corners, and social lawns to create meaningful connections across age groups. Here, everyday moments turn into shared memories, families grow together, and a vibrant, future-ready community thrives in a true sense of belonging.

The launch aligns with South Gujarat’s rising demand for organized, large format villa communities, fueled by higher incomes, industrial expansion, and improved connectivity. With 38% of the Delhi–Mumbai Industrial Corridor in Gujarat, upcoming investment regions and landmark projects like the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train, Vadodara–Mumbai Expressway, and Surat Airport expansion, the region is fast-tracking its 2047 global economic ambition.

The 150,000 sqm facility will establish operations for storage and distribution of heavy machinery and industrial equipment in KEZAD – Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Feb 26: Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group, one of the largest operators of integrated and purpose-built economic zones in the region and Galadari Brothers’ Heavy Equipment Division have signed a 50-year land lease agreement for the establishment of a state-of-the-art facility in KEZAD A (KEZAD Al Ma’mourah).

Galadari is investing AED 75 million in the proposed 150,000 sqm facility that will establish operations for storage and distribution of heavy machinery and industrial equipment in the region. The group’s Heavy Equipment Division is a leading dealer and distributor of commercial vehicles and specialised construction machinery from international brands in the UAE. Headquartered in Dubai, Galadari Brothers is a diversified conglomerate with a legacy spanning more than 60 years and a presence across multiple sectors and international markets.

Since its inception more than four decades ago, the Heavy Equipment Division of Galadari has grown from being a single-product distributor to steadily build an expansive product portfolio constituting a wide range of construction equipment. The move to KEZAD comes as part of Galadari’s strategic plans to expand its business in the region, and its commitment to delivering excellence in services by joining a thriving economic zone with dedicated industrial clusters and practices.

Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed, CEO, Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group said: “We welcome Galadari Brothers to KEZAD, and look forward to a fruitful partnership, as we support them in expanding their foothold in the region with our tailored services. By being in KEZAD, Galadari organically becomes an integral part of a cohesive industrial structure, designed for innovation, collaboration and delivery of outstanding services.

“As we continue on our growth path, we are hopeful that this association will be mutually beneficial for business – contributing to the growth of Galadari as well as the economic development of Abu Dhabi.”

Mohammed Galadari, Co-Chairman and Group CEO of Galadari Brothers said: “The establishment of this facility marks a significant step in advancing Galadari Brothers’ Heavy Equipment capabilities and scaling our operational infrastructure in the UAE. Located within KEZAD’s integrated industrial ecosystem, the facility enhances our ability to support large-scale projects while strengthening the logistics and supply chain networks that underpin regional growth. This investment reflects our long-term confidence in the UAE’s vision for economic diversification and industrial advancement while reinforcing our commitment to delivering the capacity, reliability, and expertise required to serve a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.”

All 558 townhouse plots snapped up in six months, underscoring strong demand for luxury residential land in Dubai

Dubai, UAE, Feb 26: The first phase of Keturah Ardh, Dubai’s first heritage-wellness integrated luxury community, has sold out, with all 558 luxury townhouse plots acquired in just six months for AED1 billion. 

fäm Properties, the exclusive master agency for master developer MAG Group, today confirmed the milestone, which reflects solid demand for premium residential land in Dubai, particularly freehold townhouse plots, one of the most limited and sought-after asset classes in the city’s luxury market. 

“The sellout speaks for itself,” said Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties. “Residential plots with approvals for luxury townhouses are among the scarcest product types in Dubai, and buyers and investors responded accordingly.” 

“True heritage-wellness communities are rare, and over the past four years, this segment has consistently led the market in both performance and investor interest.” 

Located in the Al Rowaiyah First District, Keturah Ardh brings together traditional Arabic architectural principles with a fully integrated modern wellness approach. The 558 luxury townhouse plots are spread across 93 meticulously planned clusters, and phase one was brought to market with attractive payment plans. 

The broader master plan blends Arabic heritage with advanced wellness concepts to create a self-contained lifestyle community. The name ‘Ardh,’ meaning ‘earth’ or ‘land’ in Arabic, reflects its ties to culture and nature. 

The project reflects MAG Group’s 45-year dedication to quality and innovation, with amenities including spa and sauna facilities, yoga and pilates areas, running and cycling tracks, and extensive green spaces. Mature landscaping includes trees sourced from Italy, Spain, Thailand, and Africa. 

Infrastructure is being delivered in Q1 2026, with construction starting in Q4 2026, and full completion expected by 2030. 

Keturah Ardh is the fourth major project in the Keturah luxury portfolio, following Keturah Reserve, Keturah Resort: The Ritz-Carlton Residences at Al Jaddaf, and Keturah Bahar.