Why should women’s skincare have all the options? With this thought, dermatologist-prescribed skincare brand Fixderma has launched the Men’s Skincare Janta Party (MSJP), a first-of-its-kind satirical campaign featuring content creator Vansh Gandhi. The campaign shines a spotlight on an often-overlooked conversation, the need for dedicated skincare for men. Through humour and cultural relevance, Gen Z women stage a playful protest demanding better skincare habits for men, challenging outdated grooming stereotypes while encouraging healthier skincare routines.

Women’s Wing of the Men’s Skincare Janta Party rallied in support, reinforcing the message that every man deserves a simple, effective skincare routine

With the campaign #SkincareKarLeBhai, the initiative encourages men to move beyond basic grooming and adopt science-backed skincare routines, while highlighting the growing need for products specifically designed for men’s skin.

Building on this conversation, Fixderma has unveiled FOR MEN, a dermatologist-developed skincare range created to address common skin and scalp concerns such as dullness, tanning, pigmentation, uneven skin tone, excess oil production and dandruff. The launch marks the brand’s strategic entry into India’s rapidly evolving men’s skincare segment, where consumers are increasingly seeking effective, ingredient-led solutions over generic grooming products.

Fixderma’s MSJP took its satirical campaign to the streets, sparking conversations around men’s skincare and encouraging men to move beyond soap to a dedicated skincare routine

The FOR MEN portfolio includes a Brightening Face Wash, Brightening Face Moisturizer, Brightening Face Serum, Brightening Face Mask, Brightening Sunscreen SPF 50+ and an Anti-Dandruff Shampoo. Formulated with clinically backed ingredients such as White Tomato Extract, Alpha Arbutin, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid and Tea Tree Oil, the range is designed to deliver targeted care through simple, everyday routines.

Commenting on the launch, Shaily Mehrotra, CEO and Co-Founder, Fixderma & FCL, said, ” The conversation around men’s personal care has evolved significantly over the years, but skincare continues to be one of the most underserved categories. Today’s consumers are looking for solutions that are simple, effective and backed by dermatological science rather than generic grooming products. With FOR MEN, we are bringing Fixderma’s clinical expertise to a dedicated range that addresses the unique needs of men’s skin and scalp. Through the MSJP campaign, we also want to normalise skincare for men and encourage them to view healthy skin as an essential part of everyday self-care, not an occasional indulgence.”

Anurag Mehrotra, Chairman and Co-Founder, Fixderma, said, “Men’s skincare is no longer a niche category, it is emerging as one of the most significant growth opportunities in the beauty and personal care industry. As consumer awareness continues to evolve, we see a clear shift towards dermatologist-backed, efficacy-driven solutions over conventional grooming products. With FOR MEN, we are expanding our portfolio to serve this evolving demand while staying true to our commitment of making science-led skincare more accessible. The Men’s Skincare Janta Party campaign reflects our belief that meaningful consumer conversations can be sparked through relevant cultural moments, helping normalise skincare as an essential part of every man’s daily routine.”

With this launch, Fixderma aims to strengthen its presence in the men’s skincare segment while continuing its mission of making dermatologist-developed, science-backed skincare more accessible to a new generation of consumers.

The FOR MEN range will be available on Fixderma’s website, leading e-commerce platforms and retail outlets across India.

Campaign Links: 

• www.instagram.com/p/DaLdAlFTQrQ

• www.instagram.com/reels/DaK337iy1E

About Fixderma & FCL
Established in 2010, Fixderma is a leading dermatologist-prescribed skincare company known for its innovative approach to skin health. Founded with a clear vision of “Fixing Your Derm,” the brand bridges the gap between prescription-based treatments and over-the-counter cosmetics. Today, Fixderma is trusted by over 15,000 dermatologists and exports to more than 40 countries, offering solutions for concerns such as acne, aging, dryness, and hyperpigmentation.

FCL (Fixderma Cosmetic Laboratories) is a premium dermatologist-prescribed skincare brand by Fixderma, offering science-backed skincare solutions for various skin concerns. Known for its innovative formulations, clinical efficacy and advanced ingredients, FCL combines dermatological expertise with modern skincare technology to deliver effective, safe and result-oriented products for healthy skin.

Recognising its continued contribution towards strengthening public healthcare and improving access to quality health services, the Health Department, Gurugram, honoured M3M Foundation with an Appreciation Letter on the occasion of National Doctors’ Day at a special programme organised at the Sub Health Centre, Kadarpur.

Shri Tejpal Tanwar, MLA, Gurugram, Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee and President, M3M Foundation, Shri Narayan Bhadana, Councillor, Health Dept, and village Sarpanch

The recognition was presented during a programme organised by the Health Department in the presence of Shri Tejpal Tanwar, MLA, Gurugram, as the Chief Guest. The event was Englishattended by Shri Lokveer Singh, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Gurugram, Shri Narayan Bhadana, Councillor, Gurugram, doctors, healthcare professionals, frontline health workers, community members and representatives of M3M Foundation.

The Health Department acknowledged the Foundation’s continued support in strengthening public healthcare infrastructure and complementing government efforts to improve healthcare delivery at the grassroots. As part of its recent interventions, M3M Foundation renovated the Sub Health Centre, helping create a better-equipped and patient-friendly healthcare facility. The Foundation also distributed nutritional dry ration kits to 90 tuberculosis (TB) patients, supporting their treatment journey and contributing to the collective effort towards a TB-free India.

Further strengthening healthcare services, the Foundation provided essential infrastructure and medical equipment to the health centre, including a freezer, washing machine, almirah, water cooler, haemoglobin analyser, blood pressure monitoring machine, glucometer, height-weight machine and other diagnostic equipment, enabling healthcare professionals to deliver improved patient care.

These interventions have been undertaken through M3M Foundation’s flagship Kartavya Programme, which focuses on preventive healthcare, community well-being and occupational health. As part of the initiative, the Foundation has reached over 2 lakh individuals through healthcare interventions and, during 2025-26 alone, organised 102 health camps, benefiting more than 14,280 people through medical consultations, health screening, medicines and preventive healthcare awareness.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Tejpal Tanwar, MLA, Gurugram, said, “Strong healthcare systems are built through collective responsibility. M3M Foundation’s contribution towards strengthening health infrastructure and supporting community healthcare reflects the positive impact of partnerships between the government and responsible institutions. On National Doctors’ Day, I extend my sincere appreciation to every doctor and healthcare professional for their dedicated service.”

Shri Lokveer Singh, Chief Medical Officer, Gurugram, appreciated the Foundation’s continued collaboration with the Health Department, said, “Quality healthcare becomes more effective when institutions work together. M3M Foundation has consistently supported the Health Department through infrastructure development, preventive healthcare and community outreach. Such collaborations help us strengthen healthcare services and reach more people.”

The Appreciation Letter was received by Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee and President, M3M Foundation, on behalf of Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation. 

Commenting on the recognition, Dr. Payal Kanodia said, “This recognition is a reminder that meaningful healthcare begins with strong partnerships and reaches its true purpose when quality services become accessible to every community. Through Kartavya, we remain committed to strengthening primary healthcare, promoting preventive care and supporting the public health system. As we move towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, healthier communities will be the foundation of a stronger and more resilient nation.”

On National Doctors’ Day, M3M Foundation also paid tribute to doctors, nurses, frontline health workers and medical professionals whose unwavering commitment continues to strengthen India’s healthcare system and improve countless lives.

The recognition further reinforces M3M Foundation’s commitment to working alongside the Health Department to strengthen primary healthcare infrastructure, expand community health initiatives and improve access to affordable, quality healthcare, contributing to the shared vision of a healthier and Viksit Bharat.
 

About M3M Foundation

M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) has announced that the Orientation Programme for students admitted to the undergraduate and postgraduate programmes for the academic session 2026–27 will be held from 16 to 18 July 2026. The programme will be conducted in different phases for students of various academic domains, marking the beginning of their academic journey at the university.
 

Manipal University Jaipur Announces Orientation Programme for New Students from July 16 to 18
 

The three-day orientation has been designed to help newly admitted students become familiar with the university’s academic environment, campus facilities, student support services, academic regulations, research and innovation ecosystem, and the wide range of opportunities available for their holistic growth and development.
 

Students will receive their individual orientation schedules via email from the Directorate of Admissions, Manipal University Jaipur. The detailed programme schedule for different faculties and disciplines will also be available on the university’s official website.
 

This year, Manipal University Jaipur is expecting a footfall of more than 15,000 people including students, parents and guardians from across all States and Union Territories of India, along with several international students. The diverse student community reflects the university’s growing national and global reputation as a multidisciplinary institution of higher learning.
 

Manipal University Jaipur offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes through its four academic faculties—Science, Technology & Architecture; Management, Commerce & Arts; Law; and Health Sciences. From engineering, architecture and management to law, journalism, design, humanities, psychology, commerce and basic sciences, the university offers a broad spectrum of programmes aligned with industry needs while fostering innovation, critical thinking and experiential learning.
 

Announcing the Orientation Programme, Dr. Niti Nipun Sharma, President, Manipal University Jaipur, said, “The Orientation Programme is the first step in every student’s transformative journey at Manipal University Jaipur. It is designed to make our students feel welcomed, informed and inspired as they begin this exciting new chapter of their lives. We eagerly look forward to welcoming them to our vibrant campus, where they will learn, innovate, discover their potential and build lifelong friendships. I extend my best wishes to every student and their family as they become a part of the MUJ community.”
 

The Orientation Programme will include interactions with university leadership, faculty members and student support teams, along with sessions on academics, campus life, innovation, career development, student clubs and other opportunities that define the holistic learning experience at Manipal University Jaipur.
 

With preparations in full swing across the campus, the university looks forward to welcoming its newest students and helping them embark on a rewarding journey of academic excellence, personal growth and professional success.
 

To know more about Manipal University Jaipur please visit jaipur.manipal.edu.

Intex Technologies, one of India’s most trusted homegrown consumer electronics brands, has strengthened its consumer durables portfolio with the launch of a new lineup of fully automatic top load washing machines. Available in metal and plastic body options, the new range comes equipped with intelligent features that simplify everyday laundry while ensuring superior cleaning performance, enhanced fabric care, and dependable performance.

New Range of Fully Automatic Top Load Washing Machines

With this launch, Intex further expands its washing machine portfolio, complementing its existing and extensive lineup of semi-automatic washing machines available across multiple capacities. The addition of fully automatic models enables the company to cater to varied consumer preferences and household requirements.

The new range includes metal body models FA80MGGL (8 kg, Grey) and FA10MBGL (10 kg, Black), along with the plastic body models FA80PBGL (8 kg, Black) and FA90PGGL (9 kg, Grey).

Built around the philosophy of making household chores smarter and more convenient, the new Intex washing machines feature 10 intelligent wash programs, including Quick Wash, Strong Wash, Soak Wash, Air Dry, Spin Only and Clean Bucket, enabling users to choose settings best suited to their fabric types and washing requirements.

Commenting on the launch, Keshav Bansal, Director, Intex Technologies, said, “Laundry is a daily ritual in Indian households, demanding significant time, water, and effort. Washing needs can vary greatly, from large weekly loads and delicate fabrics to fluctuating water conditions and long operating hours. We have designed our new range of fully automatic washing machines around these realities. Every feature, whether it’s the intelligent wash programs, Fuzzy Logic technology or Thermal Overload Protection, has been thoughtfully incorporated to deliver greater convenience and peace of mind. Today’s consumers prioritise value and longevity over just price, and this new range delivers on that expectation.”

The new washing machine range incorporates One Touch operation for effortless use and Fuzzy Logic technology that automatically optimises water levels and wash parameters based on the load. Equipped with a 700 RPM spin speed and Air Dry technology, the machines help reduce moisture retention and speed up drying. Other notable features include a stainless steel inner drum for fabric protection, Magic Filter for capturing lint and residue, LED display, child lock, delay wash function, and auto imbalance detection and correction. The metal body variants additionally come with an anti-corrosive rust-free body, while all models feature a hydraulic toughened glass lid for enhanced durability and ease of use.

Both metal and plastic body variants are equipped with T.O.P. (Thermal Overload Protection) Technology, which automatically shuts off operation if the motor temperature exceeds 135°C, helping enhance safety and extend motor life. The new range is backed by an 11-year warranty on the wash motor, offering consumers enhanced reliability and long-term peace of mind.

Engineered to operate efficiently even with low water consumption, the new range combines intelligent technology, durability and everyday convenience to address the evolving needs of urban and semi-urban households.

Hong Kong

Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking (Natixis CIB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Luc Bernard as Chief Executive Officer, Natixis Services in India.

Luc reports to Cecile de Sousa, Chief Operating Officer, Asia Pacific & Middle East, Natixis CIB and Etienne Huret, Head of Portugal and India Hubs, Natixis.
 

Luc Bernard – Natixis

He brings to the role nearly two decades of experience in Global Capability Center management and offshoring strategies, entrepreneurship, delivery, software engineering, financial markets, architecture, data, digital transformation and innovation.
 

Luc was instrumental in establishing Natixis Services in India, Natixis CIB’s technology and innovation hub in Bangalore. He previously held the position of Executive Director and Head of CIB Operations and IT and served on the Board of Directors at Natixis Services in India from 2021 until 2025. He then transitioned to Natixis Investment Managers in Paris, where he has been serving as Head of IT Production until his current appointment. Prior to joining the IT team at Natixis CIB in 2014, Luc gained experience as a Software Developer at Société Générale and Partners Advisers SA. He holds a Master’s degree in Electronic Engineering from Ecole Nationale d’Ingénieurs de Brest and an Executive MBA from HEC Paris.
 

In his new role as Chief Executive Officer, Luc will support the growth of Natixis Services in India and strengthen its integration within Natixis’s global processes.
 

Cecile de Sousa said, “It is with great pleasure that we welcome Luc back to Bangalore to lead our India center of expertise as it celebrates its five-year anniversary. He has been pivotal in setting up this crucial operation, and spearheading technology-driven transformation and process optimization. Luc’s extensive knowledge of our internal processes, coupled with his proven track record in India, positions him perfectly to assume the leadership responsibilities of Natixis Services in India.”
 

Etienne Huret said, “Luc’s appointment is a key milestone in our commitment to further developing Bangalore as a critical hub for the Groupe BPCE and Natixis businesses. I look forward to working with him closely as we continue to grow synergies between our Portugal and India hubs and collaborate closely with the Group on strategic initiatives.”

Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking
Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking is a leading global financial institution that provides advisory, investment banking, financing, corporate banking and capital markets services to corporations, financial institutions, financial sponsors and sovereign and supranational organizations worldwide.
 

Our teams of experts in close to 30 countries advise clients on their strategic development, helping them to grow and transform their businesses, and maximize their positive impact. Natixis CIB is committed to aligning its financing portfolio with a carbon neutrality path by 2050 while helping its clients reduce the environmental impact of their business.
 

As part of Groupe BPCE, the second largest banking group in France through the Banque Populaire and Caisse d’Epargne retail networks, Natixis CIB benefits from the Group’s financial strength and solid financial ratings (Standard & Poor’s: A+, Moody’s: A2, Fitch Ratings: A+, R&I: A+).

About Natixis Services in India
Natixis Services in India is a Center of Expertise for Groupe BPCE, a banking group of French origin, and its subsidiary, Natixis. Natixis Services in India delivers operational excellence and agile solutions by leveraging advanced technologies to address challenges in the banking industry. Natixis Services in India’s focus is on enhancing the client experience, mitigating risks, and strengthening competitive positioning. The team is committed to enriching career development opportunities within an inclusive and dynamic work environment.

If you’ve been following football coverage lately, you’ve probably noticed an unexpected star emerging off the pitch: ranch dressing. As thousands of international fans travel across the United States for this summer’s tournament, social media has become flooded with videos of visitors trying the classic American condiment for the very first time.

Some fans have become such devoted ranch lovers that reports of travelers packing bottles into their suitcases even prompted TSA reminders about airport liquid restrictions. 

Creamy, tangy and packed with flavor, ranch is an American staple we apparently have been taking for granted. But if you’re looking for a fresh, healthier take on the classic, we’ve got one that’s every bit as craveable. Meet Walnut Ranch.

Made with nutrient packed California walnuts, Walnut Ranch offers a flavorful twist on America’s favorite dressing. Walnuts add a rich, nutty taste, and an egg-free, dairy-free creaminess that complements the familiar herbs and seasonings ranch fans know and love. The result is a dressing that’s smooth, flavorful and perfect for your summer salads, as a dip for veggies or fries, in sandwiches, wraps, snack boards and beyond. As international visitors are realizing too, the possibilities are endless.

So, while the rest of the world is discovering America’s love affair with ranch, now is the time to try a feel-good version. 

Ready to show off your delicious, healthy take on the world’s newest favorite condiment at your next gathering?

California Walnut Ranch – Chef Robert Danhi

California Walnut Ranch

Ingredients: 

1 heaping cup (110g) California walnuts

3/4 cup water, room temperature

¼ cup white distilled vinegar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 

1 tablespoon nutritional yeast flakes

2 teaspoon sugar,

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

¾ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ cup neutral flavored oil

2 teaspoon minced chives or green onions

2 teaspoon chopped curly-leaf parsley

2 teaspoon chopped dill

Preparation:

1. Combine the walnuts, water, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, nutritional yeast, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a blender.

2. Start the blender on low, then quickly increase the speed to the highest setting.

3. Blend for 5-7 minutes until very smooth, scraping the sides as necessary.

4. Once very-very smooth (mixture will heat up due to friction in blender), while blending, slowly pour in the oil to emulsify the dressing. Blend for at least 60 seconds.

5. Cool the dressing immediately over an ice bath.

6. Whisk in the fresh herbs.

7. Transfer the cooled dressing to a sealed container and refrigerate.

8. After chilling, taste and adjust the final seasoning as desired with more vinegar, sugar, or salt.

9. Store refrigerated for 3–5 days.

ProTip: For a thicker, more dip-style consistency, reduce the water by ¼ cup.

Following the strong response to its property showcase in Gurugram, Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate (SPRE), one of India’s most trusted real estate developers, is bringing its largest-ever multi-city property showcase to Mumbai on Sunday, July 5, 2026.

The one-day event will offer a unique opportunity for homebuyers and investors to explore 15 premium residential projects across Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Gurugram, and Howrah under one roof. The showcase will feature a diverse portfolio of premium apartments, luxury villas, and strategically located plotted developments, catering to a wide spectrum of homeownership and investment aspirations.

With prices starting from Rs. 60 lakhs*, visitors will have access to exclusive event-only benefits, attractive offers, personalised consultations, and expert guidance from SPRE’s sales and advisory teams, enabling them to compare multiple options and make informed purchase decisions.

Speaking about the initiative, Ms. Rima Kirtikar, Chief Marketing Officer, Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate, said, “The way homebuyers evaluate real estate today has evolved significantly. They are looking beyond a single city and actively exploring opportunities across multiple markets based on lifestyle preferences, investment potential, and long-term value creation. Through this showcase, we are bringing together some of our finest projects from across India, allowing buyers to experience the breadth of our portfolio in one place. Following the encouraging response in Gurugram, we are excited to bring this platform to Mumbai and help customers discover homes and investment opportunities that best align with their aspirations.”

The showcase will enable attendees to gain firsthand insights into some of India’s most dynamic real estate markets while interacting directly with SPRE’s teams. From urban residences in established micro-markets to emerging investment destinations and lifestyle-led developments, visitors will be able to evaluate multiple opportunities across different asset classes and price segments.

The event further underscores SPRE’s pan-India presence and diversified residential portfolio, while reaffirming its commitment to simplifying the home-buying journey through greater transparency, expert guidance, and customer-centric engagement.

By bringing together scale, diversity, and expert guidance, the SPRE Property Expo reinforces the company’s position as a pan-India developer with a robust and well-diversified portfolio catering to a wide spectrum of buyer segments.

About Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate (SPRE)

Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate is a well-regarded, reputed player in the Indian real estate sector owing to its cutting-edge design innovation, construction quality, and architectural excellence. It constitutes a significant segment of the Shapoorji Pallonji Group, an enormous multi-business conglomerate. The group has more than 160 years of legacy that bridges the earliest celebrated structures of India and the modern marvels. SPRE has made inroads into most Indian cities – Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Pune, Bengaluru, Gurugram, Howrah and Kolkata – with a variety of developments, from luxury apartments and opulent residences to aspirational homes for mid-income homebuyers, as well as one of the largest mass housing projects in India.

Nikhil Kamath opens his conversation with Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic of Cyprus, with a question most heads of state are rarely asked directly: how does it feel to be in power? What follows moves from personal discipline to the structure of great-power conflict, carried by a guest whose training shapes everything he says next. Christodoulides is a historian who became president, and he reads the present the way he was trained to read the past — for pattern, not headline.
 

Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides Joins Nikhil Kamath on WTF Podcast
 

Christodoulides argues that Cyprus’s defining fact is geography — a country sitting at the intersection of Europe, the Middle East, the Gulf and Africa, which he says shaped his decision to study in the United States and his read of India as a natural partner. Asked what it would take to run his country the way a chief executive runs a company, he points to two commitments he treats as non-negotiable regardless of a citizen’s income or location — equal access to education and equal access to healthcare — and says that, not election wins, is how he measures whether he is actually succeeding.
 

His own path into politics ran through diplomacy rather than a party machine — government spokesperson, then Foreign Minister, before becoming President in 2023. He credits that career with a specific discipline: understand what the other side needs before raising what you need.
 

That same instinct for structure over slogan carries into the episode’s central argument: that the international system built after the Second World War no longer reflects the world in 2026. The UN Security Council, he argues, still reflects the great powers of that war rather than today’s — India is now the world’s largest democracy and fourth-largest economy, Brazil plays an increasingly central regional role, and neither holds a permanent seat. The institutions currently governing global affairs, as he puts it, were built for a set of realities that no longer exist.

The same critique extends beyond geopolitics. Christodoulides tells Kamath that if artificial intelligence displaces a large share of today’s workforce, governments may eventually have to nationalise the companies that dominate the technology, or introduce some form of universal basic income — otherwise, he says, people may simply end up “walking into these companies with bricks.” Systems built for one world don’t automatically adjust for the next, and waiting for them to catch up carries a cost.
 

Kamath doesn’t let the argument rest at the level of institutional critique. He raises a recent exchange between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, in which Trump invoked the ancient Greek idea now known as the Thucydides Trap — that wars are rarely caused by bad leaders, but by structure, pride, and the moment a rising power is taken seriously as a challenger to an incumbent one. Christodoulides doesn’t dispute the premise. What he pushes back on is the conclusion: the framework within which states compete, he argues, is what decides whether that competition ends in war or simply in rivalry.
 

His answer centres on India — not primarily for its economic weight, but because he sees it as a rare example of a major power committed to multilateralism without acting unilaterally. Pressed by Kamath on whether reforming institutions can actually change outcomes, Christodoulides proposes starting regionally rather than globally: a new architecture modelled on the 1975 Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, linking India, the Gulf, the Middle East and Europe on what he repeatedly calls a positive agenda, built to attract participation rather than isolate any one country. He points to the EU-India Free Trade Agreement, concluded this January and the largest either side has ever signed, as evidence the model already works when the incentives align.
 

Introducing the episode, Kamath said the conversation left him “with more questions than answers,” describing Christodoulides as someone who “made me redefine my idea of what a politician can be”: “Nikos isn’t a politician who knows history. He’s a historian who became the President of the Republic of Cyprus.” On what holding power actually requires, Christodoulides put it simply: “You need to decide without thinking the next elections, but thinking the next generations.”
 

The episode is available now on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSB58m7Xwhg
 

About People by WTF
People by WTF is a global podcast platform hosted by Nikhil Kamath, featuring in-depth conversations with leaders across business, policy, technology, culture and academia. The show explores long-term institutional, technological and economic questions shaping global society through candid, high-signal dialogue. Past guests include Elon Musk, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bill Gates, Rishi Sunak, Akshata Murty, Martin Escobari, and Ranbir Kapoor.

Kerakoll, a global leader in sustainable building solutions, continues to advance innovation in tile adhesives with the strengthening of its flagship H40 family. As construction demands evolve and installation systems become increasingly sophisticated, Kerakoll is redefining performance benchmarks with a future-ready adhesive portfolio built on technology, reliability, and precision.

H40 Gel Legacy

At the core of this evolution lies H40 Gel, a category-defining innovation that has set new standards in tile fixing. Recognised for its superior workability, durability, and multi-purpose application, H40 Gel has established itself as a trusted solution among professionals across diverse project requirements. Its unique gel-technology delivers optimal consistency, total wettability, and enhanced adhesion, making it a benchmark product in modern adhesive systems.

Building on the proven performance of H40 Gel, Kerakoll is now expanding the H40 family with the introduction of H40 Extreme and H40 Tech to the Indian market. These products are engineered to address the increasing complexity of contemporary construction—from large-format installations to high-performance, heavy-duty applications. Designed with advanced formulations, they deliver enhanced strength, precision, and reliability across demanding environments.

As part of its go-to-market approach, H40 Extreme and H40 Tech will be available through select channel partners, ensuring focused expertise and optimal product experience for specialised applications.

Together, the expanded H40 portfolio—comprising H40 Gel, H40 Extreme, and H40 Tech—represents a complete and integrated adhesive system. This comprehensive range is designed to cater to a wide spectrum of substrates, surfaces, and use cases, empowering architects, contractors, and applicators with solutions that deliver consistent performance across varying project needs.

Commenting on the development, Ahzam Javed, Regional Director – Asia Pacific, Kerakoll, said “H40 Gel has been a gamechanger in the adhesive category, redefining expectations around performance and ease of application. With the introduction of H40 Tech and H40 Extreme, we are building on this legacy to bring next-generation solutions to India. Together, the H40 family represents our commitment to innovation, enabling the industry to achieve higher standards of precision, durability, and efficiency.”

With the expanded H40 family, Kerakoll strengthens its leadership in advanced adhesive technology by delivering solutions engineered for evolving construction challenges, precision-led applications, and long-term performance. The company remains focused on shaping the future of construction through reliable, high-quality, and sustainable technologies that address real-world industry needs.
 

Senior Product Manager Kerakoll India, Abisanka Sinha said, “With H40 Tech and H40 Extreme, we are strengthening the H40 portfolio with solutions that respond to the evolving needs of professionals working on increasingly demanding tile and stone applications. At Kerakoll, we believe innovation is meaningful only when it helps people work better, with more confidence, consistency and care. These new additions reflect our commitment to bringing advanced technology, reliable performance and practical site-ready solutions to the Indian market.”

About Kerakoll Group

Kerakoll  Group, established in 1968 in Italy, is a global leader in sustainable building materials, offering innovative solutions that merge high performance with environmental responsibility. With a commitment to green building, Kerakoll provides a comprehensive range of eco-friendly products, including adhesives, grouts, coatings & waterproofing systems. Designed for architects, designers, and builders, Kerakoll’s solutions enhance durability, aesthetics, and energy efficiency across residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. The brand’s dedication to research, technological innovation, and sustainability has positioned it at the forefront of the construction industry, creating a future where design meets eco-conscious engineering. Head quartered out of Mumbai, Kerakoll India has two main production units based out of Vadodara and Jaipur in addition to multiple manufacturing partners across the country.

YouTube link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9Bqx2yF33o&t=33s

Finkurve Financial Services Limited, one of India’s leading tech-first gold loan NBFCs, raises  Rs. 50 crore through a Non-Convertible Debenture (NCD) issuance from Franklin Templeton to support its next phase of growth and business expansion. The funding is being executed in two tranches, with the first tranche of Rs. 24 crore successfully completed, while the second tranche will be completed in due course.

Aakash Jain, CFO, Finkurve Financial Services Limited (Arvog)

The capital raised will be utilised to accelerate the Company’s growth strategy by expanding its lending business, strengthening its operational footprint, enhancing its technology-driven platform, and deepening its presence across existing and new markets. The investment will also support business expansion, strengthen the Company’s capital base, and enable it to serve a larger customer base through innovative and accessible financial solutions.

This investment marks another significant milestone in Finkurve’s growth journey and builds on the Company’s previous successful fundraises. It reflects continued investor confidence in Finkurve’s strong business fundamentals, prudent risk management practices, and long-term growth strategy as the Company continues to scale its operations across India.

Commenting on the development, Aakash Jain, CFO, Finkurve Financial Services Limited (Arvog) stated, “Welcoming an institution of this stature is a strong endorsement of the trust we have built through consistent execution, prudent financial management, and a disciplined approach to lending. It reflects the strength of our platform, underpinned by robust governance, sound risk management, and a long-term value creation mindset.”

Further to its previously announced strategic partnership with Godrej Finance Limited (GFL), a subsidiary of Godrej Capital, Finkurve Financial Services Limited has operationalized the co-lending arrangement, enabling both entities to jointly offer gold loan products under the Reserve Bank of India’s co-lending framework. 

About Finkurve Financial Services Limited (Arvog)
Finkurve started its gold loan journey in FY21, Finkurve has since served over 50,000 customers through a network of 115+ branches across four states in Southern India. It’s slowly positioning itself as a leading gold loan NBFC. The Company also offers personal loans and SME loans, expanding its financial solutions through partnerships with fintech companies.

With a growing presence across India, Finkurve remains committed to providing accessible, technology-driven financial services to a broad customer base.
 
For more details, please visit www.arvog.com