Category: Business

Flixora, the new platform designed to democratise movie streaming and distribution launches on Monday 1^st June 2026.

Flixora is designed to help filmmakers, studios and content owners distribute and monetise their movies globally and instantly. Creators do not need to have millions of followers before seeing an income, as they do on other platforms. Small filmmakers can get payment and recognition for their work, instead of the industry being monopolised by big studios and those with a name already.

The platform will enable creators to upload, manage, market and sell their content directly to audiences, without relying on traditional gatekeepers or complex distribution networks.

Flixora focuses on simplifying movie distribution for independent filmmakers and emerging creators who often struggle with limited access to global streaming platforms, high distribution costs, low visibility and restricted monetisation opportunities. By providing a direct-to-audience streaming infrastructure, Flixora allows creators to retain control over their content, pricing, audience reach and revenue generation.

The platform also helps filmmakers, production companies and distributors looking for a more accessible and scalable way to reach international viewers.

At the same time, it offers audiences access to a broader and more diverse catalogue of films, including independent cinema, regional productions, and underrepresented stories that may not appear on mainstream streaming services.

How it works for the creators

For movie makers, the process is remarkably straightforward. For a nominal fee of $100* per month you can start adding your movies to Flixora. The fee covers as many films as you want to upload.

All movies are reviewed by the team and, upon approval, are uploaded for end users to stream. The review process ensures quality standards are maintained. If a filmmaker fails to get approval for their movies the $100 is refunded.

The quality of the films streaming on Flixora is paramount, meaning that creators can rest assured they are not getting drowned out by substandard content that also deters viewers. Movies must be original and can only be submitted by the creator.

There is scope for a wide variety of content, as long as the films are over 30 minutes long. Fiction can include any genre and any format, and factual films can include documentary style or practical tips-based material. Music is expected to be a significant section of content. The chief limitation is no pornographic content or anything illegal.

Producers are also offered the choice of countries where they wish viewers to have access to their movie streams, and the site will even provide projected earnings. Those earnings all go directly to the filmmaker, with no cut taken by Flixora, up to a limit of $1 million.

How it works for the viewer

Flixora offers unique design and user experience. Users can search by genre or subject and the search facility includes voice command. You can even search by release date. Just ask “show me all the movies launched on 1^st June”, for example, and a list will appear.

Because there is a minimum length of 30 minutes and all films are reviewed by Flixora to ensure they are high quality, there is not an overwhelm of choice or substandard content that you have to plough through to get to what you enjoy watching.

For viewers the price point is, once again, a winning feature. In the free model, you can pay as you watch with a single movie costing just $1 per session. Alternatively, you can select a premium user status for just $5a month, with unlimited access.

Uniquely, premium users can invite friends to watch movies with them wherever they are, and they can watch together in real time, with friends paying just $1 each. The premium user can stop and start the movie in real time and fellow watchers will stop and start with them. So, they can all go and top up their drinks and grab popcorn at the same time, or stop to discuss what they are watching.

The aim for both producers and viewers is to democratise movie making and viewing, making it accessible to anyone and everyone.

From 1^st June there will be approximately 30 movies, all of them originals, available to stream and Flixora’s projections show that those numbers will grow fast.

Martins Osuofia, Founder of Flixora said: “Flixora isn’t trying to replicate the traditional streaming model and compete on that level. We’re creating a brand new structure for global film distribution, one built around accessibility, creator ownership and direct audience reach.”

Andrew Stevens, writer and producer of ‘The incredible true story of 100 dates in Dallas’ said: “Flixora’s model reduces barriers to entry in the entertainment industry by giving creators such as myself the tools needed to distribute content professionally through a digital-first platform. I am very excited at the prospective opportunities to connect directly with global audiences and to earn directly from day one.”

With the prolonged geopolitical tensions in West Asia continuing to exert pressure on global commodity prices and currency markets, inflationary risks have once again come to the forefront. In such a scenario, the RBI is likely to adopt a cautious approach and maintain a status quo on policy rates until there is greater clarity on the inflation and growth trajectory.

For the housing sector, rising construction costs is beginning to put pressure and will lead to gradual price increases. Aggravated by cautious investor sentiment in the short term, housing sales may see some softening. However, in view of this, as developers innovate with ticket sizes to maintain affordability, a stable interest rate environment would be positive for home loan borrowers.

Pune, June 01: Vinod Intelligent Cookware successfully hosted “Hue Are You In The Kitchen?”- an experiential showcase for its premium Ceravit ceramic cookware range on May 28th at Trooh, Pune. Held in collaboration with Chef Nehal, the event brought together 70+ Pune-based content creators, food enthusiasts, and lifestyle influencers for an immersive evening celebrating cooking, colour, and self-expression. Following the successful market launch of Ceravit in March 2026, the Pune showcase marked the brand’s next phase of engagement, transforming product awareness into a tangible, community-driven experience.

Official Event Aftermovie links: 

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/DkhazHw8Fl0
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DY_5Hxsu0_J/

Conceptualised as an interactive personality-led activation, the event invited attendees to discover which Ceravit cookware colour best reflected their kitchen personality: Ceragreen, Washed Stone, or Desert Rose. The experience featured Chef Nehal-led live cooking sessions, hands-on product trials, curated creator engagement moments, and a sensory brand environment designed around colour, food, and modern kitchen aesthetics. Throughout the event, Vinod Intelligent Cookware highlighted Ceravit’s key features, including its ceramic non-stick coating free from PTFE and PFOA, superior heat distribution, durability, versatility across cooking surfaces, and a premium, design-led appeal tailored for today’s health-conscious consumers.

Creators’ content links: 

Chef Nehal: https://www.instagram.com/p/DY_y3zyAtpc/
Priya Haridas: https://www.instagram.com/p/DY6N2vMiISF/
Solanki Bhowmik: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DY6ItPYNIJF/
Muskan Jha: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DY9PdthyBUV/
Organic Brownie: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DZABFE3iN9y/

Speaking about the event, Sunil Agarwal, Managing Director, Vinod Cookware India Pvt Ltd, said, “The response to Ceravit since its launch has been incredibly encouraging, especially among consumers seeking cookware that combines health, performance, and aesthetics. With ‘Hue Are You In The Kitchen?’, we wanted to create a more meaningful and emotional interaction with the brand, one that goes beyond functionality and allows consumers to experience Ceravit as an extension of their personality and lifestyle. Pune, with its vibrant creator and premium consumer community, was the ideal city for this experience.”

Sharing his thoughts on the collaboration, Chef Nehal, Digital Ambassador for Vinod Cookware, said, “What made this event truly special was how naturally it connected cooking with personality and self-expression. Unlike conventional product showcases, this experience encouraged people to connect with the cookware they use every day, emotionally. From live cooking to hands-on interactions, the energy throughout the evening was warm, engaging, and deeply authentic.”

The Pune showcase builds on the strong momentum generated by Ceravit’s launch earlier this year. Further, it strengthens Vinod Intelligent Cookware’s experiential engagement approach following the success of “Cook With SAS Pro” hosted by Chef Nehal in Mumbai in February this year. Continuing its focus on immersive, community-led brand experiences, Vinod aims to deepen Ceravit’s positioning within the premium cookware segment through a phygital strategy that blends on-ground activations with strong creator-led digital amplification across key Indian cities in the coming months.

June 1 : Reported total vehicle sales of 14,923 units in May 2026, including domestic and export markets, compared to 15,484 units in May 2025. While overall sales declined by 4% year-on-year, the company continued to witness strong growth in its Light Commercial Vehicle  segment.

In the domestic market, total vehicle sales stood at 14,148 units during May 2026, compared to 14,534 units in the corresponding month last year. Cumulative domestic sales for the first two months of FY2026-27 reached 28,390 units, registering a 5% growth over 27,043 units recorded during the same period last year.

The company’s LCV segment remained a key growth driver. Domestic LCV sales grew 13% year-on-year to 5,828 units in May 2026, while cumulative domestic LCV sales increased 18% to 12,093 units. Including exports, LCV sales rose 15% to 5,957 units during the month, with cumulative sales growing 15% to 12,301 units.

The Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicle  segment witnessed mixed performance. Domestic M&HCV truck sales stood at 7,065 units in May 2026, while cumulative sales grew 4% to 13,879 units. However, M&HCV bus sales declined during the month, resulting in total domestic M&HCV sales of 8,320 units, down 11% year-on-year.

On a domestic-plus-export basis, M&HCV truck sales reached 7,331 units during May 2026, while cumulative truck sales increased 4% to 14,338 units. Total M&HCV sales, including buses, stood at 8,966 units during the month.

Despite market challenges in select segments, the company’s robust LCV performance and steady truck demand supported overall sales momentum during the period. The company remains focused on strengthening its product portfolio, enhancing customer value, and capitalizing on opportunities across domestic and international markets.

Sales Performance Summary (Units)

Cumulative FY2026-27 (April–May)

• Domestic vehicle sales: 28,390 units (+5%)
• Domestic LCV sales: 12,093 units (+18%)
• Total vehicle sales (including exports): 29,569 units (+2%)
• Total LCV sales (including exports): 12,301 units (+15%)

New Delhi, June 1: Servotech Renewable Power System Ltd. India’s  manufacturer of advanced solar and clean-energy solutions, has launched its new Solar TVC ad campaign, ‘Raho Roshan, Bina Tension’, featuring actor Sonu Sood. 

Executed by Shakti Sagar Productions, the campaign is being rolled out with a digital-first approach, spearheaded by a premier launch on JioHotstar. Following the initial phase, Servotech will aggressively scale the campaign’s reach across other leading OTT platforms, prominent national news channels, Linear TV, and Connected TV (CTV) networks, alongside high-engagement social media platforms and nationwide digital touchpoints.

Set in a nostalgic 90s retro backdrop, the TVC follows a comic and relatable storyline centered around rising household expenses and the growing adoption of solar energy solutions. The campaign is anchored on a witty back-and-forth conversation between two brothers, both played by Sonu Sood in a double role, bringing back the classic Indian family humour dynamic.

The ad film opens in a traditional Indian household after the recent loss of its family patriarch. The two sons, both portrayed by Sonu Sood in a dual role, come together to divide the responsibilities of running the household. What starts as a sincere discussion about sharing duties soon takes an unexpected turn. Throughout the film, the elder brother cunningly shifts all major financial responsibilities onto the younger brother, who willingly agrees out of respect for his elder sibling. However, when the elder brother volunteers to take responsibility for paying the electricity bill, the younger brother surprisingly insists on paying it himself. The argument eventually reveals that the house is powered by a Servotech rooftop hybrid solar system, making the electricity bill extremely affordable, the very reason why the elder brother wanted to take over that responsibility.

The TVC effectively highlights how solar energy is transforming electricity bills from a major household burden into a manageable expense. The campaign concludes with the unveiling of Servotech’s solar rooftop tagline, “Raho Roshan, Bina Tension.”

Speaking on the launch of the TVC Ad campaign, Rishabh Bhatia, Head of Digital Marketing at Servotech Renewable, said,

 ‘Raho Roshan Bina Tension’ is a campaign built on nostalgia, humour, and relatability, emotions that connect deeply with Indian families. Working with Sonu Sood was an incredible experience as he brought both authenticity and charm to the narrative. Through this TVC, we wanted to simplify the conversation around solar adoption and show how renewable energy can genuinely ease everyday financial stress. This campaign is an important step in strengthening Servotech’s positioning as a household solar brand for modern India.”

Speaking of Servotech’s future plans, Prabhutva Tiwari, PR & Marcom Head at Servotech Renewable, added,

“With ‘Raho Roshan, Bina Tension’, our objective was to create a storyline that feels entertaining yet meaningful for everyday consumers. Known for his strong connection with Indian audiences and his impactful public image, Sonu Sood brings authenticity, relatability, and mass appeal to the campaign. This is just the beginning, and we are already working on more engaging TVC campaigns of our other product lines that will be launched very soon.”

Hyderabad, June 01: As temperatures soar across the country, Dabur India Limited, the country’s leading science-based Ayurveda company, is positioning Réal Activ Coconut Water as the ultimate natural solution for refreshing hydration with no added sugar this summer. Packed with natural electrolytes and harvested from the finest coconuts, Réal Activ Coconut Water offers a fat-free, low-calorie alternative to sugary carbonated beverages for refreshing hydration. 

“Réal Activ Coconut Water is the perfect summer companion, offering a natural electrolyte boost to combat tiredness and support hydration. It provides a guiltfree hydration experience with no added sugar, while its inherent cooling properties support summer wellness by aiding digestion and promoting skin hydration & health. Now redefined for maximum convenience, our various pack sizes ensure that this refreshing, healthy ritual is accessible anytime and anywhere for consumers on the go.” Mr. Mayank Kumar, Vice President- Marketing, Dabur India Ltd said. 

“During the peak of summer, most people turn to sugar laden carbonated beverages without realizing each glass has 5 cubes of added sugar. Real Activ Coconut water helps provide refreshing hydration with no added sugar. Réal Activ Coconut Water provides 100% coconut water goodness and has naturally present electrolytes. We are committed to providing consumers with a convenient, hygienic, and 100% natural hydration experience that fits seamlessly into their active lifestyles, whether they are at the gym, in the office, or traveling.” Ms. Monisha Prasher, G.M. Marketing – Foods, Dabur India Ltd said. 

Beyond simple thirst-quenching, Réal Coconut Water offers a suite of holistic health benefits that support overall summer wellness. Its inherent cooling properties are instrumental in maintaining digestive health and soothing the system against heat-induced discomfort. Furthermore, the beverage acts as an internal hydrator that helps maintain skin health, promoting a natural glow even in harsh weather conditions. Being naturally fat-free and containing no added sugars or artificial flavors, it provides a zero-guilt ritual for those looking to stay fit without compromising on taste or purity. 

Réal Activ Coconut Water is available in 200 ml and 1-liter Tetra Paks and PET bottles. 

Mumbai, June 01: Renewal premiums contributed 55.09% of the total premium underwritten by India’s life insurance industry in FY2024-25, reflecting sustained policyholder commitment and the long-term nature of customer relationships, according to an analysis of the IRDAI Annual Report 2024-25 by the Insurance Awareness Committee – Life Insurance (IAC-LI).

The industry reported total premium income of ₹8.86 lakh crore during FY2024-25, registering a growth of 6.73%. The strong contribution from renewal premiums highlights how long-term life insurance products continue to support financial protection, disciplined savings and retirement planning across economic cycles.

Along with renewals, the report has also noted other encouraging aspects about the life insurance industry. The industry paid total benefits of ₹6.30 lakh crore during the year, equivalent to nearly 72% of net premium collected, underlining the sector’s role in providing financial support to policyholders and beneficiaries. Individual death claim settlement ratio stood at 97.82% during FY2024-25, while group claims settlement ratio stood at 99.68%, reflecting continued focus on policyholder servicing and claims support. 

Commenting on the trends, Mr. Kamlesh Rao, Chairperson, Insurance Awareness Committee – Life Insurance (IAC-Life), said,

 “Life insurance products are designed to address long-term financial needs that evolve across different life stages. The strong share of renewal premiums demonstrates sustained customer commitment towards financial protection, disciplined savings and retirement preparedness. It also reflects growing awareness about the importance of maintaining long-term financial protection and continuity.”

ULIP funds under management increased from ₹7.61 lakh crore in FY2023-24 to ₹8.29 lakh crore in FY2024-25, accounting for 12.23% of total investments managed by life insurers.

“ULIPs continue to attract long-term investors seeking a combination of insurance protection and market-linked wealth creation opportunities. Their long-term structure supports disciplined investing aligned with evolving financial goals,” Mr. Rao added.

Despite the positive figures, the Committee admits that the slight dip in life insurance penetration to 2.7% of the GDP remains a mountain to be scaled. It presents an opportunity to bring more households under organised financial protection. 

According to the IAC-LI, recent regulatory reforms introduced by IRDAI have further strengthened transparency, disclosures, product suitability and policyholder protection frameworks across the sector.

“These measures are improving consumer confidence and strengthening long-term engagement with life insurance products. As financial needs become more complex, long-term insurance solutions will continue to play an important role in helping households balance protection, savings, retirement planning and wealth creation,” Mr. Rao continued.

Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy and Bahrain Polytechnic Sign MoU to Enhance Academic and Applied Collaboration in Maritime Transport and Emerging Technologies

 Abu Dhabi, UAE – 1^st June 2026: Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy (ADMA), the region’s leading academic institution for maritime training, and an integral part of AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bahrain Polytechnic to strengthen cooperation in the areas of education, training, and applied research, and at building high-impact partnerships that contribute to the development of national and regional talent in the maritime, engineering, and technology sectors.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Yasser Al Wahedi, President of Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy; and Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin, CEO of Bahrain Polytechnic, in the presence of senior officials from both entities.

 The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration to explore joint opportunities across several areas, including the development and delivery of training programmes and courses of mutual interest, train-the-trainer initiatives, and the organisation of lectures, workshops, events, and conferences. It also includes providing internship and work-placement opportunities (Cadetship) for Bahrain Polytechnic students and graduates.

In addition, the MoU promotes collaboration in applied research projects that contribute to the development of technologies that support the maritime sector, marine engineering, maritime security, and logistics. In addition, the partnership will facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise in technical and engineering fields, and the development of advanced training programmes in emerging technologies and applied research, thereby fostering innovation and strengthening the alignment between academic outcomes and the needs of the industrial and maritime sectors. 

Dr. Yasser Al Wahedi, President of Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, said: “This partnership reflects Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy’s commitment to advancing applied education and fostering innovation through regional collaboration. By aligning academic excellence with industry needs, we are enabling the next generation of maritime and technology pioneers.” 

Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin, CEO of Bahrain Polytechnic, stated that this partnership represents a strategic step aligned with Bahrain Polytechnic’s Strategic Plan 2026–2029, which focuses on enhancing applied education, expanding regional and international partnerships, and improving student readiness for the labour market through the integration of academic learning with practical experience. He added that the MoU supports the Polytechnic’s direction towards innovation, future skills development, and strengthening its position as a leading applied higher education institution in the region.

The MoU reflects the shared commitment of Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy and Bahrain Polytechnic to expanding regional and international partnerships, enhancing the quality of applied education, and providing students with innovative learning and training opportunities that strengthen their professional readiness and align with the evolving needs of future industries.

HAIFA BAY AUTHORITIES APPOINT FRANK MELLOUL AS AMBASSADOR 

1^st of June, 2026 – In the context of the strengthening of the Abraham Accords and the profound economic and geopolitical transformations reshaping the region, the Haifa Bay Authorities have entrusted Frank Melloul with a strategic mission dedicated to public diplomacy and international outreach.

The Haifa Bay Authorities announce the appointment of Mr. Frank Melloul as Ambassador of the Cluster, with the mission of defining and leading its international public diplomacy strategy.

As part of this mission, Frank Melloul will bring his international expertise, strategic vision and recognized experience to support the positioning of the Haifa Bay Authorities. Through his commitment, he will contribute to strengthening the region’s international standing, promoting its dynamism, and supporting the advancement of the territory’s strategic objectives.

This appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the region, as the Abraham Accords and the IMEC economic corridor (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor) are opening new opportunities for regional, economic and geopolitical cooperation. The geographical position of Haifa Bay and northern Israel gives the region significant potential to serve as a central hub within this corridor.

Frank Melloul, Ambassador of the Haifa Bay Authorities:
“It is with a deep sense of honor that I accept this mission. Becoming the Ambassador of the Haifa Bay Authorities, at this particular moment in the region’s history, represents a unique responsibility. We are living through a historic turning point. The Abraham Accords have opened an unprecedented space for cooperation between the Port of Haifa and the wider world, while the IMEC corridor, linking India, the Middle East, and Europe, represents its most ambitious and promising economic expression. In this new geography, the Haifa Bay region is not one player among many: it is meant to become one of the strategic hubs of this corridor. Moreover, it brings together 52 Arab and Jewish local authorities, demonstrating every day that cooperation is not a promise, but a concrete reality. It is this dual message, economic opportunity and coexistence, that I am committed to carrying onto the international stage.”

Aharon Azulay, CEO of the Haifa Bay Authorities:
“We are delighted to welcome Frank Melloul and to count on his expertise for this major mission. Thanks to his experience and strategic vision, we are convinced that his mission will significantly contribute to the international outreach of the Haifa Bay region and to advancing its strategic ambitions at both the regional and global levels. Positioning the Haifa Bay Authorities at the heart of the region’s emerging geoeconomic dynamics is a key priority in our roadmap. Our diverse and multicultural territory provides a strong foundation for developing innovative partnership models on a global scale.”

Created in 2019, the Haifa Bay Authorities bring together 18 local authorities representing nearly 840,000 residents. The Cluster acts as a platform for regional coordination and action in key areas such as infrastructure, transportation, economic development, energy, sustainability and social services.

The Haifa Bay Authorities work to strengthen partnerships between local authorities, public institutions, the private sector and civil society in order to promote a shared vision for regional development.

Among its initiatives, the Haifa Bay Authorities established a Forum through which, in cooperation with the Galilee and Valleys Cluster and the Kinneret and Valleys Cluster, they bring together a regional network of 52 Arab and Jewish local authorities, embodying a unique model of regional cooperation and coexistence.

Under its leadership, the IMEC Information and Research Center was also created, dedicated to collecting data, research and analyses, while consolidating information from governmental, international and academic sources. The Authorities also launched the international “Next Bay” conference.