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  • AD Ports Group Further Consolidates its Global Logistics Platform with the Acquisition of MBS Logistics

    Abu Dhabi, UAE – 18 May 2026: AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), a leading global enabler of integrated trade, industry and logistics solutions, today announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire MBS Logistics, a Germany-based global integrated logistics services provider, for an Enterprise Value of AED 300 million (EUR 70 million). The acquisition entails 100% ownership of MBS Logistics’ core business, excluding the company’s joint ventures, and represents another significant step in the Group’s strategy to enhance operational scale, manage larger volumes, and expand its global footprint.

    MBS Logistics reported revenues of AED 870 million (EUR 205 million) in 2025 with industry margins, reflecting a diversified and asset-light business model, with core freight forwarding operations in Germany and Central Europe, and an established network across China, Vietnam and the USA.

    AD Ports Group Further Consolidates its Global Logistics Platform with the Acquisition of MBS Logistics

    The move builds on strong foundations and a global network established by Noatum Logistics, the Group’s logistics arm. Under the leadership of Jochen Thewes, the recently appointed CEO of its Logistics Cluster, the Group is pursuing an expansion strategy that combines organic growth with targeted, value accretive acquisitions.

    The addition of MBS Logistics provides an important entry point into the vital Central European market through its well‑established network across key German multimodal logistics hubs, while broadening the Group’s trade lane offering. The combination increases network density and unlocks meaningful revenue and cost synergies through cross‑selling opportunities, greater procurement scale, and improved cost efficiency by managing shipments within the combined network. 

    Jochen Thewes, CEO of the Logistics Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: “Bringing MBS Logistics into our ecosystem is the right move at the right time, especially as markets seek greater connectivity and resilience in an evolving global trade and logistics landscape. It provides us with an established operating platform with deep expertise and immediate access to key Central European and global logistics corridors. As the world’s third‑largest trading economy, Germany offers a strong domestic base and plays a central role in trade with the world’s leading economies. Linking it to our wider network will help us capture greater volumes, drive more competitive rates, and deliver the reliability our clients expect. Ultimately, the combined strengths of both organisations will allow us to raise our game and compete more effectively for major global accounts.”

    With close to forty years of industry experience, MBS Logistics adds to the Group a network of 26 offices worldwide and a global team of over 450 professionals. The addition greatly supplements Noatum Logistics’ network of over 80 own offices located across 26 countries, supported by a team of over 4,250 industry specialists. MBS Logistics’ core freight forwarding services span air, ocean, road and rail transport, complemented by contract logistics, project cargo, customs and compliance, and time-critical multimodal solutions.

    The company serves a wide range of industries including aerospace, automotive, apparel & footwear, retail & consumer goods, home furniture, e‑commerce, engineering, technology, FMCG, healthcare and several other key sectors. While aerospace represents a new segment for the Group, MBS Logistics’ exposure to the automotive sector across Central Europe enhances the Group’s logistics offering in an industry regarded as a key business driver.

    Its core freight‑forwarding operations are anchored in Germany, giving the Group immediate access to major European logistics hubs. The country’s position as a key European and global logistics gateway provides a strong platform for further expansion across continental Europe, including the Nordics, BENELUX, Switzerland and Eastern Europe.

    In addition, MBS Logistics’ presence across China and Vietnam further enhances the Group’s ability to manage greater cargo volumes on Europe-Asia and Trans-Pacific routes. It also operates offices on the USA’s eastern seaboard, furthering connectivity along Trans-Atlantic trade lanes.

    Completion of the acquisition is subject to EU regulatory approvals and is expected to close in H2 2026.

  • Rōti Modern Mediterranean Debuts in London, Expands in Atlanta with First Global Rōti Day

    ATLANTA, May 18, 2026 – Rōti Modern Mediterranean®, the fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant concept part of Edible Brands®, is turning its latest expansion into a global brand moment.

    The company announced the launch of Global Rōti Day, a new annual celebration held on May 19. The event coincides with the brand’s strategic entry into the London market through three delivery-first kitchens, alongside an expansion in the Atlanta region with a new delivery-first store opening in Smyrna. Together, this moment introduces Rōti to new guests in the United Kingdom and United States while building awareness. The London locations also establish a foundation for future international growth.

    Rōti Modern Mediterranean Debuts in London, Expands in Atlanta with First Global Rōti Day


    Global Rōti Day was created to bring new and existing guests into the brand through a one-day-only, buy-one-get-one chef-curated bowl offer available in-store, online, via the Rōti app on the     Apple Store and Google Play and through third-party delivery platforms such as DoorDash, Uber Eats and Grubhub. The first 50 guests at Rōti’s 17 traditional storefront restaurants will receive a limited-edition Rōti tote bag and a free beverage for a year. Participating restaurants will also feature spin wheel giveaways with prizes including free hummus and pita, branded T-shirts, a jackpot prize package, free cookies or $3 off a future entrée. In addition, guests ordering from Rōti’s delivery-first kitchens in London and Atlanta will receive $5 off future orders through the app or online. Across markets, guests are also invited to share how they Rōti with #ShowUsHowURōti on social media.

    “What makes Rōti work is simple. It’s bold food, real hospitality and shows up the same way every time,” said Matthew Walls, president and chief stores officer of Edible Brands. “Atlanta is about building depth in a market we not only work in, but live in and believe in. London is about proving this brand can travel. Global Rōti Day lets us do both at once. We’re giving people a reason to try us, and once they do, that’s where it gets real. They connect with the food and the people behind it, and that’s what brings them back.”


    Rōti’s London entry and Atlanta-area expansion reflect a broader strategy grounded in adaptability. The brand is growing through a mix of traditional restaurants and delivery-first kitchens, allowing it to enter new markets efficiently, generate early demand and meet guests through the channels they already use. The model supports a capital-conscious approach to expansion while maintaining a consistent guest experience.

    For Edible Brands, Rōti represents a distinct growth opportunity within a portfolio built around food, hospitality and consumer connection. The brand benefits from shared infrastructure, including supply chain, technology and operational support, while maintaining its own identity.

    “Rōti is a big part of where we are going as a company,” said Somia Farid Silber, chief executive officer of Edible Brands. “At Edible Brands, we are building a platform that brings together different food experiences in a way that feels relevant to how people eat and connect today. Rōti gives us the opportunity to do that in a new category, with a brand that can grow across markets and formats. Global Rōti Day is an example of how we bring that to new guests while continuing to build something that can scale over time.”

  • Mukhyamantri Gram Parivahan Yojana Begins Bus Operations in Small Villages Across Uttar Pradesh

    Delhi, May 18: The Yogi Government in Uttar Pradesh is actively working towards strengthening the transport system in rural areas through the ‘Mukhyamantri Gram Parivahan Yojana’. The objective of the scheme is to expand bus connectivity to even the smallest villages across the State.

    In line with this vision, the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) has accelerated preparations under the scheme, with operations of nearly 80 buses already commencing in the initial phase.

    The Government and the Corporation are working rapidly to connect more than 59,000 gram sabhas in Uttar Pradesh with bus services. Under the scheme, rural bus services will be linked with blocks, gram panchayats, tehsil headquarters and district headquarters.

    UPSRTC Assistant Manager Umesh Arya stated that applications of 858 bus operators across 70 districts have so far been selected. Through agencies, operations of nearly 80 buses have already started in rural areas under the ‘Mukhyamantri Gram Parivahan Yojana’.

    He further informed that mini buses with a maximum seating capacity of 28 passengers and a length of up to 7 metres will be operated under the scheme. Operators whose applications have been selected have already placed orders for buses as per the prescribed standards, while operations of the remaining buses will commence shortly.

    Umesh Arya also mentioned that the routes for these buses are being finalised by district-level committees. Details regarding the operations and designated routes of all buses will be shared soon.

    The scheme is being implemented through private bus operators and is expected to generate employment opportunities for rural youth and local transporters residing near the designated routes.

    Additionally, the scheme will create demand for drivers, conductors, helpers and other support staff, thereby boosting local employment opportunities in rural areas.

  • SEBI to Open Bhubaneswar Branch Office, Announces Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey

    Bhubaneswar, May 18 (BNP): The Securities and Exchange Board of India will soon establish a branch office in Bhubaneswar, marking a significant step toward strengthening financial market regulation and investor outreach in eastern India. The announcement was made by SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey while addressing a regional investor awareness programme organized by the Association of Mutual Funds in India in the city.

    SEBI to Open Bhubaneswar Branch Office, Announces Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey

    Pandey said SEBI would initially begin operations from a smaller office in Bhubaneswar, with activities currently managed through Mumbai and Kolkata gradually shifting to the new centre. He added that plans are also underway to establish a permanent office in the state capital in the future.

    Highlighting the growing relevance of alternative financing mechanisms, the SEBI Chairman encouraged Odisha to explore the use of municipal bonds to fund urban infrastructure and development projects. He noted that 22 urban local bodies across the country have issued 33 municipal bonds, mobilizing nearly Rs 4,500 crore for development activities. Municipal corporations in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh have already benefited from the model, he said.

    Pandey emphasized that Odisha, with its expanding urban landscape, should leverage municipal bonds to meet increasing financial requirements for infrastructure expansion. He also pointed out that the Central government offers grant-based incentives to encourage such bond issuances.

    Speaking on the growth of India’s mutual fund industry, Pandey said the sector has expanded significantly from nearly Rs 12 lakh crore in 2015-16 to around Rs 82 lakh crore at present. Odisha’s contribution currently stands at about Rs 71,000 crore, accounting for less than one per cent of the national market.

    Observing that Odisha contributes nearly three per cent to India’s economy, he said the state’s participation in the mutual fund ecosystem should also rise proportionately. At the same time, he noted that Odisha remains among the leading states in terms of monthly growth in Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) investments.

    He further highlighted the rapid growth of India’s capital market over the past decade, stating that the country’s total market capitalization increased from Rs 95 lakh crore in 2015-16 to Rs 463 lakh crore in 2025-26. During the same period, the number of investors rose from 3.8 crore to 14.5 crore.

    Pandey also said India recorded 366 Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in 2025-26, through which companies raised nearly Rs 1.9 lakh crore, placing the country among global leaders in IPO activity.

  • National Stock Exchange and Higher Education Department, Government of Karnataka sign MOU to Empower Students through Skilling Program

    National Stock Exchange and Higher Education Department, Government of Karnataka sign MOU to Empower Students through Skilling Program

    The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) and Higher Education Department, Government of Karnataka have collaborated to launch the ‘Student Skilling Program’ aiming to equip the youth of Karnataka with industry-relevant skills in the securities market. The Student Skilling Program enhances their financial knowledge and employability skills in the securities market. This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks a significant leap towards empowering the youth of the state of Karnataka.

     
    This MoU was signed and exchanged on May 15, 2026 by Smt. Khushboo G. Chowdhary – Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Government of Karnataka and Shri Ankit Sharma, Chief Regulatory Officer, NSE, in esteemed presence of Shri Siddaramaiah – Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka and other Hon’ble ministers from Government of Karnataka – Dr. M.C. Sudhakar, Minister for Higher Education, Shri Priyank M. Kharge, Minister for Department of Electronics, IT, Biotechnology and Science & Technology, Shri N. Chaluvarayaswamy, Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Sharanaprakash Rudrappa Patil, Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development and Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka.
     
    NSE would design, develop, and implement a comprehensive student skilling program for youth which will be supported and facilitated by Government of Karnataka. The MoU outlines a framework for cooperation between NSE and the Government of Karnataka to facilitate the creation of a robust skilled pool of students across various educational institutions in Karnataka. The program will also include interactive sessions, case studies, and simulations to make learning engaging and effective.
     
    Benefits for Students: This program offers a unique opportunity for students in Karnataka to gain life skills and industry-relevant skills
    • Learning about Investing: Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the investing for their own financial wellbeing. This knowledge will empower them to make informed decisions about their personal finances and investments.
    • Employment Opportunities: The program will enhance students‘ employability in the financial and securities market.
    • Self-Employment Opportunities: Equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge, students can also explore self-employment opportunities.
    The partnership between NSE and the Higher Education Department of Government of Karnataka helps in the state’s growth and development and creates an investor-friendly and resilient investing ecosystem. 
     
    Shri Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO, NSE said “Education, financial literacy and management and investing are key pillars in building a knowledgeable, empowered and resilient state of Karnataka. Through this collaboration with the Government of Karnataka, NSE is committed to equip students with practical knowledge of the securities market, investing, while also enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial potential. This initiative reflects our vision of creating a financially aware and future-ready youth workforce that can actively participate in India’s growth story.”

  • Chandikhol Set to Emerge as Strategic Crude Oil Storage Hub Under India-UAE Partnership

    Bhubaneswar, May 18 (BNP): Odisha is poised to play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s energy security, with Chandikhol set to emerge as a major strategic crude oil storage hub under a significant India-UAE energy partnership formalized during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the United Arab Emirates.

    Chandikhol Set to Emerge as Strategic Crude Oil Storage Hub Under India-UAE Partnership

    Representational image

    Under the proposed initiative, Chandikhol will house a massive underground strategic petroleum reserve with a storage capacity of nearly 40 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil. Estimated at around Rs 8,743 crore, the project is expected to significantly enhance India’s emergency fuel preparedness and strengthen long-term energy resilience.

    The agreement for the project was signed between the Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company during Prime Minister Modi’s visit, following discussions with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The partnership is seen as a major step toward deepening bilateral cooperation in the energy sector and reinforcing India-UAE strategic ties.

    Although the Union Cabinet had approved the project in 2018, implementation was delayed due to land acquisition-related challenges. With renewed focus and momentum, the project is now expected to move forward, positioning Odisha as an important pillar in India’s petroleum infrastructure network.

    Experts believe the underground reserve will play a vital role during emergency or war-like situations by helping maintain fuel availability in the event of disruptions to global crude oil supplies. The facility is also expected to strengthen India’s strategic fuel reserves and improve preparedness against international supply uncertainties.

    Once operational, the project is likely to boost industrial growth, infrastructure development and employment opportunities in Odisha, further reinforcing the state’s growing importance in India’s energy and industrial ecosystem.

  • Vice President Attends Sikkim Statehood Day in Gangtok

    New Delhi, May 18 : Marking a historic milestone, Sikkim united in celebrating the closing of 50 glorious years of Statehood in the esteemed presence of the Vice President, Mr C P Radhakrishnan, at Manan Kendra, on Saturday.

    Vice President of India Attends Sikkim Statehood Day Celebration in Gangtok

    The event had the presence of Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Mr Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Governor, Government of Sikkim, Mr Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, Madam Krishna Rai,

    Addressing the gathering, the Vice President of India praised Sikkim as a model of harmony, sustainability and disciplined living. He said he felt honoured to participate in the Statehood Day celebrations and described Sikkim as “organic not only in agriculture but also in character.”

    Recalling his road journey to Gangtok, the Vice President stated that he witnessed warmth, dignity, cleanliness and civic discipline among the people of the state. Calling Sikkim a shining example of harmony between nature, culture and governance, he remarked that the state had demonstrated how development and environmental conservation could progress together. He also described Sikkim as a “sentinel of the nation” considering its strategic importance.

    Praising the state’s tourism sector and eco-tourism initiatives, the Vice President described Gangtok’s MG Marg as an example for the rest of the country in terms of cleanliness and civic management. He urged tourists visiting the state to respect local culture, traditions and cleanliness standards. Referring to the Swachh Bharat Mission, he stated that behavioural change gradually evolves into a social habit through sustained public participation and awareness.

    The Vice President further appreciated the state’s improving connectivity, including railway expansion and tourism infrastructure projects, and expressed hope of visiting Sikkim again in the near future. Concluding his address, he extended his best wishes for continued peace, prosperity and progress for the people of Sikkim.

    Union Minister Mr Jyotiraditya Scindia, in his address, praised Sikkim’s development journey, organic farming success and upcoming connectivity projects, describing the state as a symbol of peace, pride and progress.

    He lauded several landmark tourism and infrastructure initiatives, including the Bhaleydunga ropeway project, which he described as unique in the world. He also praised Buddha Park at Ravangla and appreciated Sikkim’s orchid conservation efforts led by GMC commissioner, Mr Gayden Chopel Bhutia, noting that the state’s Orchidarium had earned recognition from Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi for its uniqueness.

    Highlighting connectivity initiatives, the Union Minister informed that nearly 710 kilometres of National Highway projects are currently underway in Sikkim. He further announced that alternative highway routes connecting Singtam to Melli and Melli to Sevoke would also be developed.

    Reiterating the Government of India’s commitment towards improving connectivity in the Northeast, he stated that railway connectivity to Sikkim would soon become a reality and expressed hope that railway services in the state would be inaugurated within the next year.

    On agriculture, he described Sikkim as a global benchmark for organic farming and stated that around 70,000 farming families are engaged in organic cultivation across the state. He also announced the development of three new cold storage facilities to strengthen the organic supply chain and agricultural infrastructure. Concluding his address, he remarked that Sikkim’s story reflected a journey of peace, a journey of pride, and a journey of progress.

    Governor, Mr Om Prakash Mathur, while addressing the gathering, called upon the people of Sikkim to work collectively towards making the state cleaner, greener, more prosperous and a model for the nation.

    Welcoming the Vice President of India and the Union Minister, the Governor extended Statehood Day greetings to all Sikkimese residing within the country and abroad. Referring to Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi’s recent visit during the golden jubilee celebrations, he said the Prime Minister had described Sikkim as the “Paradise of the North East” and praised the state for reflecting the spirit of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.” He stated that such appreciation had become a matter of pride and inspiration for the people of Sikkim.

    The Governor remarked that as Sikkim entered its 51st year of statehood, the state was stepping into a new phase of youthful energy and development. He urged every citizen to contribute towards making villages, localities and public spaces cleaner, greener and more beautiful.

    He further stated that both the Central Government and the Ministry of DoNER remained committed to supporting Sikkim’s development initiatives and assured continued assistance for infrastructure, tourism and connectivity projects.

    Highlighting the state’s strategic importance, the Governor referred to tourism projects under the battlefield tourism initiative at Chola, Doklam and Nathula and stated that these projects would strengthen tourism and economic opportunities in the region. He also praised the state’s Orchidarium and noted that Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi had highly appreciated Sikkim’s orchid conservation efforts during his recent visit.

    Expressing confidence in the future growth of tourism in the state, the Governor urged citizens and stakeholders to prepare for a significant rise in tourist arrivals and continue welcoming visitors with warmth and hospitality. He also lauded the resilience and patriotism of people residing in high-altitude border areas and stated that their courage and dedication strengthened the spirit of both Sikkim and the nation.

    Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang, in his address, paid tribute to Sikkim’s founding leaders, highlighted the state’s developmental achievements and reaffirmed Sikkim’s commitment towards national unity and the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047.”

    Paying homage to the first Chief Minister of Sikkim, late Kazi Lhendup Dorjee, who was posthumously conferred the Padma Vibhushan, the Chief Minister stated that his contributions towards strengthening democracy, social justice and public welfare in Sikkim would always be remembered with pride and honour.

    Welcoming the Vice President of India, the Chief Minister described his presence at the Statehood Day celebration as a matter of pride for the people of Sikkim. He noted that despite adverse weather conditions, the Vice President travelled to the state by road during his first visit to Sikkim, making the occasion historically significant. He also welcomed Union Minister Mr Jyotiraditya Scindia and appreciated his dedication towards nation-building.

    Reflecting on Sikkim’s journey as the 22nd state of India, the Chief Minister stated that the state had made remarkable progress over the past five decades in sectors such as education, healthcare, tourism, organic farming, environmental conservation and infrastructure, emerging as a model state for the country.

    Recalling Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi’s recent visit during the golden jubilee celebrations, he stated that the Prime Minister had described Sikkim as “Purva ka Swarg” or the “Paradise of the East” while appreciating the state’s achievements in sustainable development, cleanliness and biodiversity conservation.

    The Chief Minister further stated that Sikkim’s progress had been built upon unity, discipline, hard work and public participation. Reaffirming the state’s commitment towards the vision of “Vikshit Bharat 2047,” he said that Team Sikkim would continue working with dedication under the leadership of the Prime Minister towards building a developed India.

    Concluding his address, the Chief Minister thanked the Governor, legislators, officials, security personnel and the people of Sikkim for their continued support and participation in making the 51st Statehood Day celebrations a grand success.

    Thereafter, the Vice President of India and Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Mr Jyotiraditya M. Scindia were presented with a Silver Statue of Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava, a commemorative Silver Coin and a Thangka.

    The programme also witnessed the virtual release, launch, foundation stone laying, and inauguration of various projects, including:

    I. Foundation Stone Laying of Upgradation of the Rimbi–Yuksam Road under the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS–Roads) in Gyalshing District.

    Protective Works and Bridge along the NH-10 (Mayfair Fatak) to IBP–Adampool–Banjhakri Falls corridor.

    Construction of Bridge over Rongrong Khola at Assam Lingzey–Pakyong Road.

    Construction of Steel Bridge over Rangpo Khola under NESIDS (Roads) at Yangang, Namchi District.

    II. Inaugurations:

    The projects inaugurated include:

    Remodelling and Upgradation of Burtuk Heliport, Gangtok.

    Tourism Infrastructure as Support Facility for Passenger Ropeway Project at Upper Dhappar, Namchi.

    Science Block at Kamrang Government Degree College, Namchi.

    Industrial Training Institute (ITI) at Aritar, Pakyong.

    III. Launches:

    Sikkim Excise Management System (SEMS)

    Empowering Organic Growth: A proposal for ICS strengthening Market Outreach and Trade Facilitation under NESIDS-OTRI.

    IV. Release:

    Release of Book “Revitalisation of Gangtok’s Historic Core: Concept Plan” by Urban Development Department.

    Sikkim Rise- Realising Ideas, Shaping Entrepreneurship by Commerce & Industries Department.

    The programme also featured a series of cultural presentations, including:

     Broadway Show by the artists of Culture Department

    Screening of documentary film on Sikkim by IPR Department

    Singing of Song (Jaha Bagcha Teesta Rangit) by the artists of Culture Department.

    Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by Chief Secretary, Mr R Telang, who also read the letter sent by Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, congratulating Sikkim on it’s Statehood Day.

    Also present were Speaker, SLA, Deputy Speaker, SLA, Council of Ministers, MLAs, Advisors, Mayor, GMC, Deputy Mayor, GMC, Adakshyas, Upa-Adakshyas, Chairpersons, OSDs, Councillors, Cabinet Secretary cum Chief Administrator, Chief Secretary, DGP, Additional Chief Secretary’s, HODs, Senior Government Officers and other dignitaries.

  • Vallum Capital Highlights Market Reversals and Resilience in April 2026

    According to Vallum Capital’s Monthly Macro Grid Chartbook report, across asset classes, April’s defining story was a broad reversal. Equity attracted ₹73,639 Cr, up ₹25,931 Cr versus March, while Money Market and Fixed Income both snapped out of heavy outflows, painting a picture of normalisation after March’s quarter-end disruption.
     
    Equity: Flows Up, but Selectivity Rising
     
    Within equity, Dynamic Strategies delivered the month’s most dramatic shift, recording a ₹34,997 Cr swing from ₹15,242 Cr outflows to ₹19,755 Cr inflows. This made it the largest monthly reversal across all equity sub-categories. The engine behind it was Arbitrage Funds, which alone accounted for ₹33,173 Cr of that swing as institutional positioning unwound.
     
    Large-Cap fund inflows moderated to ₹17,756 Cr, down ₹10,911 Cr from the previous period. However, it remains the dominant destination despite posting -8.0% YTD, the weakest performance across segments. Investors are systematically SIPing into underperformance rather than rotating away, a hallmark of India’s maturing SIP culture.
     
    In the Factor space, Growth stood out as the only factor delivering on both fronts, with +2.2% in April and +2.9% YTD, alongside rising inflows of ₹1,022 Cr. Focused Funds, meanwhile, saw the steepest flow decline at -₹1,008 Cr, reflecting fading confidence in concentrated bets amid a volatile market.
     
    Thematic: Sharp Divergences
     
    PSU executed the single biggest thematic turnaround, moving from ₹4,497 Cr outflows to ₹489 Cr inflows, a ₹4,986 Cr swing.
     
    BFSI reinforced this divergence. Broad BFSI underperformed across themes yet attracted massive net flows, both within the BFSI pack and the wider thematic universe. Within BFSI, Capital Markets led performance with 18.1% YTD and 7.4% in one month, supported by growing investor interest.
     
    On commodities, Metals led with 19.3% YTD and +6.0% in April. Healthcare held strong across sub-categories, although Pharma’s 8.8% April return was offset by ₹62 Cr net outflows.
     
    Technology remains the chartbook’s deepest wound. The IT Index is down -26.3% YTD and -11.9% in April, with only Digital India attracting any dip-buying at ₹42 Cr.
     
    Global & Forex
     
    Country allocation leadership is concentrated in South Korea, Taiwan and broader ex-China exposure, while India remains a short-term laggard despite improving global breadth.
     
    Global thematic leadership is decisively growth-oriented, with semiconductors, software, robotics, quantum computing and electrification outperforming, while global defence momentum has recently cooled.
     
    INR weakness across most major and Asian currencies reinforces a global risk-on, Asia-led positioning backdrop, but also raises imported inflation and external vulnerability risks.
     
    April corrected March’s distortions but revealed where real conviction sits: SIP-driven Large-Cap allocations, PSU/BFSI value-hunting, and a structural retreat from Technology. Until broader equity turns YTD-positive, Indian capital remains disciplined, not bold.
     

  • WTC Bhubaneswar, World Skill Centre and RBL Bank Organized Interactive Session on Skill Development and MSME Banking

    WTC Bhubaneswar, World Skill Centre and RBL Bank Organize Interactive Session on Skill Development and MSME Banking

    Bhubaneswar, May 18: The World Trade Centre (WTC) Bhubaneswar, in collaboration with the World Skill Centre (WSC) and RBL Bank, organized an interactive session on skill development and MSME banking, which was widely appreciated for its insightful discussions and engaging exchanges. The session was followed by a networking Hi-Tea interaction.

    WTC Bhubaneswar, World Skill Centre and RBL Bank Organize Interactive Session on Skill Development and MSME Banking

    The programme brought together participants from handicrafts, skill development institutions, manufacturing units, students, and entrepreneurs, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue on skill enhancement and financial enablement for MSMEs.

    The interactive session, held from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, focused on strengthening industry-academia collaboration and improving access to financial and skill development opportunities for emerging enterprises.

    During the session, RBL Bank presented a comprehensive overview of its banking services and financial solutions for MSMEs, with a particular emphasis on trade finance, forex services, and business banking facilities designed to support enterprise growth and international trade activities. The bank reiterated its commitment to the MSME sector and strengthening financial inclusion through customized solutions.

    WTC Bhubaneswar, World Skill Centre and RBL Bank Organize Interactive Session on Skill Development and MSME Banking

    The session was also addressed by Shri Rashmi Ranjan Mohapatra, CEO, World Skill Centre, who highlighted the importance of industry-aligned skill development initiatives in enhancing employability and supporting entrepreneurship. He also graciously extended an invitation to members of WTC Bhubaneswar for a courtesy visit scheduled on 5 June 2026, aimed at further strengthening institutional collaboration.

    WTC Bhubaneswar, World Skill Centre and RBL Bank Organize Interactive Session on Skill Development and MSME Banking

    The event witnessed the presence of Shri Sudhir Paul, Vice President, RBL Bank; Shri Dinesh Bhanja, Vice President, RBL Bank; and Dr. Rina Routray, Advisor, WTC Bhubaneswar and Chairperson, Mahila Atma Nirbhar Bharat, Odisha, along with active participation from WTC members representing diverse sectors.

    Participants engaged actively during the Q&A session, discussing opportunities in skill development, financial planning, and MSME growth prospects. The session concluded with a Hi-Tea interaction, offering further opportunities for networking and collaboration among stakeholders.

     

  • LAPP India Unveils Advanced Cable and Connectivity Solutions at ELASIA 2026 Exhibition

    Bangalore, May 18 : LAPP India proudly participates in ELASIA 2026, Asia’s premier exhibition for the electrical and power sector. With a strong commitment to innovation and reliability, LAPP showcases its cutting-edge cable and connector solutions that empower the evolving energy landscape.

    LAPP India Unveils Advanced Cable and Connectivity Solutions at ELASIA 2026 Exhibition

    At ELASIA 2026, LAPP India showcases a comprehensive portfolio of products designed for safe, efficient, and sustainable energy transmission. From advanced industrial cables to robust connectivity solutions, LAPP is enabling industries to build resilient infrastructure for the future — from Smart Grids and Smart Factories to Data Centres and E-Mobility.

    Speaking at the event, Sumit Mitra, Managing Director, LAPP India, says:

     “At LAPP, we believe that the energy transition requires not just vision but also robust infrastructure. Our cable, connector, and industrial communication solutions empower industries to embrace sustainability, efficiency, and reliability. ELASIA 2026 gives us the opportunity to demonstrate how LAPP shapes the future of energy by connecting innovation with trust.