Category: Business

Mumbai, July 9: XECH Technologies, a leading manufacturer of innovative portable home appliances and consumer electronics, has announced the launch of the SteamX Fold. The hybrid portable garment steamer is designed to make everyday clothing care faster, easier, and more convenient. Combining powerful steam performance with a compact, foldable design, SteamX Fold delivers wrinkle-free garments without the hassle of traditional ironing, making it ideal for modern homes and life on the move.

Featuring a sleek retro-inspired design with a premium beige glossy finish. The SteamX Fold is equipped with a 180-degree foldable handle that makes it compact, lightweight, and easy to store or carry. Whether at home, in the office, on business trips, vacations, or special occasions, the handheld steamer allows users to quickly refresh garments in just minutes.

Powered by a 1200W heating system that delivers 13–23g/min of continuous steam. SteamX Fold supports both vertical steaming for hanging garments and horizontal steaming for clothes laid flat, offering the versatility of a hybrid garment care solution. The integrated base plate ensures smoother steaming and better fabric contact, delivering consistent results across a wide range of clothing types.

The steamer offers six dedicated fabric presets, enabling users to safely steam cotton, linen, silk, wool, denim, plush fabrics, and other everyday materials. From shirts, trousers, sarees, dresses, suits, jackets, uniforms, and delicate garments to everyday office wear, SteamX Fold adapts effortlessly to a wide range of wardrobe needs.

Designed for uninterrupted convenience, SteamX Fold comes with a 200ml water tank that can comfortably steam 7-8 garments in a single refill. It reduces the need for frequent refilling during everyday use.

To further enhance the user experience, the device includes one-button operation, self-cleaning functionality, leak-resistant construction, and boil-dry protection. This makes it suitable for both first-time users and frequent travellers alike.

Commenting on the launch, Pranay Punjabi, Founder & CEO, XECH, said: “Today’s consumers expect products that simplify everyday routines without compromising on design or performance. SteamX Fold reflects our philosophy of creating smart lifestyle solutions that are practical, portable, and beautifully designed. As a hybrid garment steamer with thoughtful features, multiple fabric presets, and a large-capacity water tank, it delivers fast, safe, and effortless garment care wherever life takes you.”

SteamX Fold further strengthens XECH‘s expanding portfolio of innovative home and lifestyle products designed around convenience, portability, and thoughtful functionality.

The launch reinforces the company’s commitment to developing products that seamlessly integrate into modern lifestyles while offering premium experiences at accessible prices. SteamX Fold is available on the company’s official website, other leading e-commerce platforms and retail partners across India.

Gurugram, July 09: As companies increasingly rethink workplace operations through the lens of employee well-being and sustainability, managed workspace provider Spring House Workspaces has introduced bio-enzyme-based hygiene solutions across its centres through a partnership with BioPure EnzyClean, a sustainable hygiene solutions company reflecting the growing adoption of environmentally responsible facility management practices.

The move comes at a time when organisations are placing greater emphasis on workplace health, operational sustainability, and ESG commitments. While conversations around future workplaces have largely focused on flexibility and design, operators are now paying closer attention to the role of everyday operational practices, including cleaning and hygiene, in creating healthier work environments. The bio-enzyme-based cleaning solutions will be deployed across Spring House centres with the objective of reducing the environmental footprint of conventional cleaning practices while maintaining high standards of workplace hygiene.

Commenting on the initiative, Saurabh Kalra, COO, Spring House Workspaces, said, “The definition of a quality workplace is evolving. Today, members expect spaces that are not only productive and collaborative but also healthier and more environmentally responsible. Sustainable operational practices are becoming an important part of that expectation, and this initiative is one step in that direction.”

Industry experts note that hygiene is increasingly being viewed as a strategic aspect of workplace management rather than simply a facilities function. Businesses are looking for solutions that contribute to employee well-being while aligning with long-term sustainability objectives.

Harit Sharma, Founder, BioPure EnzyClean, added, “There is growing awareness that sustainability extends beyond infrastructure to everyday operations. We’re seeing more organisations explore cleaning solutions that minimise environmental impact without compromising effectiveness, and it’s encouraging to see workplace operators taking this approach.”

For Spring House, the initiative aligns with its broader focus on building workspaces that integrate wellness, operational efficiency, and sustainability as businesses continue to redefine what employees expect from modern offices. The task-specific range includes separate solutions for desks, glass and mirrors, washrooms, and pantry areas. This simplifies operations for facility managers, requiring minimal staff training while reducing errors and improving daily maintenance efficiency.

FL Technics Indonesia, the FAA Part-145 certified MRO provider, has opened a new aircraft painting facility at its Denpasar, Bali facility. The painting booth marks a significant expansion of the company’s full-service maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in Southeast Asia. 

On 30 June 2026, just days after the painting facility launched, FL Technics Indonesia welcomed its first customer, Skyway Airlines, a Philippine air cargo carrier operating Boeing 737-400F freighter aircraft. The project involved repainting the airline’s third aircraft, which was later ferried to Clark International Airport in the Philippines for its inaugural ceremony on 3 July 2026. 

“The addition of a dedicated painting booth in Bali is part of our commitment to building a truly full-service MRO capability in the region,” said Martynas Grigas, Chairman of FL Technics Indonesia. “We are pleased to welcome our valued customers, Skyway Airlines, as the first to utilize this facility. Several more painting projects have been secured over the next couple of months, and we also received significant further demand as more operators across Southeast Asia are looking for this capability.” 

The new painting facility adds to FL Technics Indonesia’s existing MRO capabilities across its dual-station network. Currently, the company’s two facilities at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta and I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali hold more than 20 approvals from the civil aviation authority, supported by a team of more than 700 aviation experts. Built to the highest industry standards, the Bali painting booth is equipped to handle complex livery projects with precision, efficiency, and full regulatory compliance. The Bali facility’s location is particularly well-suited to serve carriers operating across Indonesia and the wider Southeast Asian region, reducing the need for extended ferry flights or overseas maintenance programs. 

The launch of the painting booth comes at a time of growing demand for MRO services across Southeast Asia. Extended aircraft delivery backlogs have increased the strategic importance of lifecycle extension and fleet maintenance services, including livery repaints to support rebranding, wet-lease transitions, and return-to-service programs. For cargo operators, maintaining aircraft closer to base reduces operational downtime and associated ferry flight costs. 

Mumbai,July 8: India’s insurance distribution landscape is witnessing a generational shift, with younger advisors emerging as high-velocity customer acquisition engines, while experienced professionals continue to drive deeper protection conversations. According to a new study by Probus – one of India’s leading insurtech platforms – younger Point of Sales Persons under the age of 30 who joined the platform for the first time excelled at market penetration, selling nearly 68% more policies per individual than their older peers. Accounting for 41% of the new advisor intake, this younger cohort highlights the growing role of tech-native youth in expanding rapid insurance access across the country.

The report also highlights a complementary trend emerging across India’s insurance ecosystem. While younger advisors are accelerating customer onboarding and policy volumes through their digital-first approach, experienced advisors are securing higher financial volume per policy, driving high-value protection solutions and helping customers make informed long-term financial decisions. Together, the two cohorts are creating a balanced distribution model that is strengthening insurance penetration across diverse customer segments.

During FY26, newly onboarded PoSPs under 30 issued an impressive 1.95 lakh policies out of the approximately 23 lakh policies issued by the company in FY26, primarily focused on high-velocity retail products. Motor insurance accounted for 78% of their portfolio, followed by life insurance (15%) and SME insurance (4%). In comparison, newly onboarded advisors aged 30 and above maintained a more diversified portfolio, with motor insurance contributing 53%, life insurance 31%, and SME commercial insurance 10%. This older group accounted for nearly 64% of the total premium mix, reflecting stronger participation in complex, protection-led products.

The findings suggest that while technology continues to reshape insurance distribution, trusted human advisors remain central to expanding financial inclusion. Younger advisors sold 18.3% more total policies than their older counterparts, driving rapid customer acquisition and market reach. Meanwhile, experienced advisors recorded 270% higher overall sales in life insurance premiums, reinforcing their role in long-term financial planning and comprehensive risk protection.

Commenting on the findings, Rakesh Goyal, Director, Probus, said, 

“India’s insurance landscape is evolving rapidly, but one thing remains constant – insurance is built on trust. While our younger advisors are bringing digital-first thinking, speed, and entrepreneurial energy to the profession, experienced advisors continue to build confidence through deeper financial conversations and long-term customer relationships. Together, they represent a complementary workforce that is making insurance more accessible, relevant, and inclusive across the country.”

He further added,

“It is encouraging to see insurance emerging as a preferred career opportunity for the younger generation. As technology continues to transform distribution, the future of the industry will lie in empowering advisors with the right digital tools while strengthening the human connections that remain at the heart of every insurance decision.”

MUMBAI,July 8: India’s insurance distribution landscape is witnessing a generational shift, with younger advisors emerging as high-velocity customer acquisition engines, while experienced professionals continue to drive deeper protection conversations. According to a new study by Probus – one of India’s leading insurtech platforms – younger Point of Sales Persons under the age of 30 who joined the platform for the first time excelled at market penetration, selling nearly 68% more policies per individual than their older peers. Accounting for 41% of the new advisor intake, this younger cohort highlights the growing role of tech-native youth in expanding rapid insurance access across the country.

The report also highlights a complementary trend emerging across India’s insurance ecosystem. While younger advisors are accelerating customer onboarding and policy volumes through their digital-first approach, experienced advisors are securing higher financial volume per policy, driving high-value protection solutions and helping customers make informed long-term financial decisions. Together, the two cohorts are creating a balanced distribution model that is strengthening insurance penetration across diverse customer segments.

During FY26, newly onboarded PoSPs under 30 issued an impressive 1.95 lakh policies out of the approximately 23 lakh policies issued by the company in FY26, primarily focused on high-velocity retail products. Motor insurance accounted for 78% of their portfolio, followed by life insurance (15%) and SME insurance (4%). In comparison, newly onboarded advisors aged 30 and above maintained a more diversified portfolio, with motor insurance contributing 53%, life insurance 31%, and SME commercial insurance 10%. This older group accounted for nearly 64% of the total premium mix, reflecting stronger participation in complex, protection-led products.

The findings suggest that while technology continues to reshape insurance distribution, trusted human advisors remain central to expanding financial inclusion. Younger advisors sold 18.3% more total policies than their older counterparts, driving rapid customer acquisition and market reach. Meanwhile, experienced advisors recorded 270% higher overall sales in life insurance premiums, reinforcing their role in long-term financial planning and comprehensive risk protection.

Commenting on the findings, Rakesh Goyal, Director, Probus, said, 

“India’s insurance landscape is evolving rapidly, but one thing remains constant – insurance is built on trust. While our younger advisors are bringing digital-first thinking, speed, and entrepreneurial energy to the profession, experienced advisors continue to build confidence through deeper financial conversations and long-term customer relationships. Together, they represent a complementary workforce that is making insurance more accessible, relevant, and inclusive across the country.”

He further added,

 “It is encouraging to see insurance emerging as a preferred career opportunity for the younger generation. As technology continues to transform distribution, the future of the industry will lie in empowering advisors with the right digital tools while strengthening the human connections that remain at the heart of every insurance decision.”

New Delhi, July 8: The Adani Energy project has marked a significant step forward in strengthening economic cooperation between Kenya and India, paving the way for a new phase of collaboration in the energy sector.

The project is expected to enhance infrastructure development, support Kenya’s energy requirements, and deepen bilateral ties between the two countries. The initiative reflects the growing partnership between India and Kenya in areas including investment, technology, and sustainable development.

The development comes as both nations continue to explore opportunities for greater cooperation in key sectors. Energy infrastructure remains a major area of focus, with investments aimed at improving reliability, expanding capacity, and supporting economic growth.

The project is also seen as a reflection of the increasing role of Indian companies in Africa’s infrastructure and development landscape. Through such partnerships, India and Kenya are working towards strengthening trade and investment relations while creating new opportunities for mutual growth.

Officials said the initiative represents a broader commitment to expanding India-Kenya cooperation and building stronger economic links between the two nations.

Ramraj Cotton, India’s premier ethnic wear brand and a leader in the traditional textile segment, has announced the appointment of Mr. M. Gangadhara Prabhu as Vice President – Trade Sales, effective July 6, 2026. Bringing over three decades of extensive experience in FMCG sales and distribution, he joins the leadership team to drive business growth, strengthen channel partnerships, enhance distribution excellence, and lead strategic trade sales initiatives to further expand the company’s garments business.

Mr. Gangadhara Prabhu brings more than 30 years of proven expertise in sales leadership, distribution management, market expansion, and go-to-market strategy execution. Throughout his career, he has successfully built high-performing sales organisations, strengthened channel networks, and delivered consistent business growth across diverse consumer markets.

Prior to joining Ramraj Cotton, he served as Head of Sales at EID Parry Limited. Earlier, he held key leadership positions at WayCool Foods, CavinKare Pvt. Ltd., Bambino Foods, and Parle Agro, where he played an instrumental role in driving sales performance, expanding distribution networks, developing strategic customer relationships, and leading large sales teams across multiple markets.

As Vice President – Trade Sales, Mr. Gangadhara Prabhu will lead the company’s Garments Trade Sales function, overseeing business development, channel expansion, distribution strategy, and sales execution. He will focus on strengthening trade partnerships, accelerating market penetration, and driving sustainable growth for the garments business across existing and new markets.

This strategic leadership appointment reflects Ramraj Cotton‘s continued commitment to strengthening its leadership team and enhancing its trade sales capabilities as it expands its garments portfolio and market presence while continuing to uphold its legacy of quality, trust, and customer excellence.

India, July 8: Earlier this month, venue regulations during tournament matches led to the Levi’s name at Levi’s Stadium being temporarily covered unintentionally proving something powerful: even without its name, the Levi’s® brand remained instantly recognisable.

Now, Levi’s® is turning that moment into a limited-edition product.

Levi’s® introduces the limited-edition Nobody’s Gonna Know Logo Tee, featuring the covered Batwing logo and inspired by the recent update to the brand’s iconic visual signature. In India, the tee will be available [on Levi.com and at Levi’s® stores] from 3 July 2026.

Introduced in 1967 and inspired by the arcuate stitching on the back pocket of Levi’s® jeans, the Batwing has become an enduring symbol of the Levi’s® brand and its denim heritage proof that sometimes less really can say more.

Even without the name, you still know it’s Levi’s.

New Delhi, July 8: Punjab & Sind Bank is pleased to announce that it has received the licence from the International Financial Services Centres Authority on 07 July 2026 to establish an IFSC Banking Unit  at GIFT City, Gandhinagar.

This milestone marks a significant step in the Bank‘s journey towards expanding its international banking presence and offering world-class offshore banking services. The IBU will cater to the financing needs of corporate, financial institutions, importers and global investors through a range of foreign currency banking, trade finance, and other international financial services.

The Bank remains committed to supporting the Government of India’s vision of developing GIFT IFSC into a leading global financial centre while strengthening its international business capabilities.

New Delhi, July 8: Biometric authentication-based Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions recorded significant growth in June, crossing 600 million transactions with a total value of Rs 25,416 crore.

The rise in biometric-enabled UPI payments reflects the growing acceptance of secure and convenient digital payment methods among users across the country. Fingerprint-based authentication has helped make digital transactions easier and more accessible, particularly for people in rural and remote areas.

The increase in transaction numbers highlights the expanding reach of India’s digital payment ecosystem and the growing trust among users in technology-driven financial services. Biometric authentication has emerged as an important tool in promoting financial inclusion by enabling smoother access to banking and payment facilities.

Officials said the continued growth of biometric UPI transactions is a sign of increasing adoption of cashless payment solutions. The system is expected to further strengthen secure and user-friendly digital transactions as more people embrace digital financial services.

The latest milestone reflects the rapid evolution of India’s digital economy and the efforts to create a more inclusive and accessible payment ecosystem for citizens.