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From Impulse to Insight: Building Better Investment Habits Through Behavioral Awareness

Investing often involves more than numbers, charts, or financial statements. Behind every investment choice lies a series of human emotions and decisions. This intersection of psychology and investing is known as behavioural finance, a field that studies how biases, habits, and perceptions may influence the way investors think and act.

A look at the shift from spontaneous decisions to thoughtful investing

By becoming aware of these behavioral patterns, investors can make measured, informed choices that align with their long-term goals. In this article, we will break down how behavioural patterns shape financial habits.

Understanding behavioral finance and its relevance
Traditional financial theory assumes that investors act rationally and always seek to maximise returns. However, real-world investing often tells a different story. Market optimism, fear of loss, and even social influence may lead investors to behave differently from what logic would suggest.

Behavioral finance explains these tendencies through concepts such as loss aversion, the tendency to fear losses more than valuing equivalent gains and herd behaviour.

Recognising these patterns is the first step toward improving one’s financial decision-making process.

Common biases that shape investment behaviour
Investor behaviour is influenced by several recurring psychological biases. Some of the most common include:

  • Loss aversion: Many investors hesitate to sell underperforming assets, hoping they will recover, even when data suggests otherwise.

  • Confirmation bias: Investors may seek information that supports their existing beliefs while ignoring contradictory data.

  • Recency bias: Short-term market movements may overly influence expectations about future performance.

  • Herd mentality: The tendency to follow what others are doing, especially during bull or bear markets, may result in impulsive decisions.

Understanding how these biases manifest in daily investment decisions may help investors pause and reflect before reacting to short-term noise.

From emotion to structure: building investment discipline
Behavioral finance suggests that while emotions cannot be eliminated, their impact can be managed. One effective way to do this is through structured investing, setting rules and frameworks that promote consistency.

For instance, systematic investing through mutual funds may help investors stay committed to their goals regardless of market fluctuations. By investing a fixed amount regularly, investors reduce the temptation to time the market or react to volatility. Over time, such habits may foster discipline and help investors stay focused on long-term wealth creation.

Automation, pre-set reminders, or consultation with a financial advisor may also help create systems that reduce the role of impulse in financial decision-making.

Behavioral awareness in mutual fund investing
Mutual funds provide a structured way for investors to participate in markets, but behaviour still plays a key role in determining outcomes. Even with professional fund management, investors’ decisions, such as when to enter, exit, or switch funds, often depend on sentiment.

Awareness of behavioral finance may help investors stay invested through market cycles. For instance, during market downturns, fear may prompt premature redemptions, while during rallies, greed may drive overexposure to equity-oriented funds. Recognising these patterns may allow investors to approach market movements with greater balance and patience.

Diversification and goal-based investing also play an important role here. When investments are linked to specific goals, such as retirement or education, the focus tends to shift from short-term market performance to long-term outcomes.

Turning insights into better habits
Building better investment habits starts with small behavioural shifts. Investors may begin by:

  • Setting clear goals – Defining what each investment is meant to achieve.

  • Automating contributions – Reducing the chance of missed investments or emotional timing decisions.

  • Reviewing periodically, not reactively – Assessing portfolios at fixed intervals instead of responding to every market change.

  • Seeking professional guidance – A qualified financial advisor may provide perspective and help correct behavioural blind spots.

Such steps, though simple, may help transform investment decisions from instinct-driven reactions into well-informed actions.

Conclusion
Understanding and applying behavioral finance may not guarantee better returns, but it may help investors avoid common mistakes driven by emotion. Every investor experiences moments of hesitation, excitement, or uncertainty, but with awareness and structure, these impulses can be channelled into steady, goal-oriented investing.

By recognising one’s behavioral patterns and building systematic habits, investors may gradually shift from reaction to reflection, making their mutual fund investment journey more disciplined, balanced, and purpose driven.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

G Square Housing Appoints Vimesh P as CMO to Lead Next Phase of Growth and Strengthen Brand Leadership

G Square Housing, India’s largest plotted development specialist and a leading real estate developer, today announced the appointment of Vimesh P as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). This strategic addition to the leadership team aims to accelerate the company’s expansion, strengthen brand positioning, and enhance customer engagement across all markets.

Excited to join G Square Housing! Focusing on data-driven digital strategy, strong brand positioning, and impactful campaigns to drive growth and market leadership

In his new role, Vimesh will spearhead G Square Housing’s integrated marketing and communication strategy, with a focus on digital transformation, brand storytelling, and market intelligence to achieve ambitious business goals.

Vimesh brings over 15 years of experience in strategic planning and brand development across the Real Estate, FMCG, IT, and Automobile sectors. He is a veteran marketer and an expert in creating and positioning brands across multiple markets in diverse sectors. He has led multi-market campaigns, executed high-impact marketing strategies, and managed large-scale campaigns across Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Pune, GCC, and key NRI markets, consistently driving strong brand visibility and business results.

Prior to joining G Square Housing, he served as Senior Vice President at Casagrand, where he played a key role in achieving 40% year-on-year revenue growth through data-driven campaigns and a successful brand repositioning initiative. He has also held strategic marketing and revenue roles at Asus India, and Radiance Realty, leading product portfolios, crafting integrated ATL and BTL campaigns, and enhancing regional brand visibility across key markets.

Mr. Bala Ramajeyam, Founder & Managing Director of G Square Housing, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Vimesh to the G Square Housing leadership team. His proven track record in strategic marketing and his ability to leverage data and digital platforms aligns perfectly with our vision for aggressive, transparent, and customer-centric growth. We are confident that his leadership will be pivotal in cementing G Square Housing’s brand narrative as we enter the next phase of market expansion.”

Vimesh P, Chief Marketing Officer of G Square Housing, added, “I am incredibly excited to join G Square Housing, a powerhouse brand ready to dominate new segments and achieve excellence in the real estate space. My immediate focus will be implementing a data-driven digital strategy and refining our brand positioning to ensure maximum market penetration. We aim to execute the most impactful and comprehensive marketing campaigns in the industry to secure definitive brand leadership and drive substantial business growth.

About G Square Housing
G Square Housing is India’s largest plotted development specialist, known for its transparency, clear documentation, and commitment to delivering residential and commercial plots in prime, high-growth locations. The company operates across major cities including Chennai, Hyderabad, Mysuru, Coimbatore, and Trichy.

Mythik Appoints Global Media and Commerce veteran Gunjan Bhow, to its Global Advisory Board

Mythik, a tech-first global entertainment company with a vision to create the ‘Disney from the East‘, has appointed Gunjan Bhow, veteran of technology, premium content, and commerce industry globally with experience leading Disney+, Amazon Fire TV, and Amazon Prime Video, to its Global Advisory Board.

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Gunjan Bhow joins Mythik’s Global Advisory Board to guide the company in blending technology, storytelling, and global expansion of Eastern myths and folktales

The Board brings together pioneering leaders from SoftBank, Disney, Marvel, Amazon, and Crunchyroll, who have shaped some of the world’s most iconic media, entertainment, and technology companies. Their collective expertise spans strategy, subscription scaling, technology, production, IP development, marketing, and global expansion.

At The Walt Disney Company, Gunjan served as Senior Vice President and General Manager, where he led the global digital and direct-to-consumer businesses for The Walt Disney Studios, including Disney+, Disney Movies Anywhere, and Disney Movie Club. Prior to this, at Amazon, he spearheaded the development and scaling of category-defining products including Prime Video, Fire TV, Fire TV Stick where he especially helped reshape subscription economics.

Gunjan currently serves on the Board of Directors of the BBC, where he helps provide governance on issues relating to generative AI, direct-to-consumer, and new business models. Gunjan is also on the board of Wide Open West, a broadband infrastructure company. Until recently, Bhow was a strategic advisor to the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, in addition to advising several other leading organisations. He has also held global C-suite role at Walgreens Boots Alliance and senior leadership at Microsoft, where he drove global digital transformation initiatives and innovations in areas including video-on-demand, IPTV, advanced advertising, and machine learning. A named inventor on more than 20 patents, he brings unique expertise in AI, machine learning, omnichannel platforms, and customer experience.

Commenting on his appointment, Jason Kothari, Founder and CEO of Mythik, said, “Gunjan’s leadership in helping create and scaling iconic direct-to-consumer businesses highlights his rare ability to combine custom-centricity, technological innovation and content-based story-telling to transform global entertainment. His expertise makes him a particularly valuable addition to Mythik’s Global Advisory Board.

Adding to this, Gunjan Bhow said, “Throughout my career, I’ve operated at the convergence of new technology, content-based story-telling and audience behavior. Mythik not only operates at the same intersection, but also stands to bring timeless stories and heritage from the East into the global arena.I am honored to collaborate with the team to help Mythik realise this ambitious vision.”

Gunjan Bhow joins members Alok Sama (former President, SoftBank Group), Kun Gao (Co-Founder & former CEO, Crunchyroll), Nick Van Dyk (former SVP, Disney), Bill Jemas (former COO, Marvel), John Lynch (former Global Head of Production & Operations, Amazon Studios), and Gui Karyo (former CIO, Marvel & Dapper Labs) on Mythik’s Global Advisory Board. This Board provides strong expertise to guide the company’s mission of reimagining Eastern mythology, history, and folktales for global audiences.

About Mythik
Mythik is a tech-first global entertainment company with a vision to bring Eastern mythology, history and folktales to a worldwide audience for the first time and create the ‘Disney from the East’. With a total built-in audience of 3.5 billion people globally, these ancient stories will be brought to life in a modern, immersive way using cutting-edge technology. Founded by entrepreneur Jason Kothari, Mythik’s founding team also includes former senior leaders from Disney, Netflix, Amazon Studios, Jio, Tencent, among others.

For more information, please visit to www.mythik.com.

Wizz Financial’s Unimoni, Launches India’s First Ai-Powered Multi-Currency Card – “Wizz Voyager”

Wizz Financial, a first truly global Indian fintech group, proudly announces the launch of the AI-enabled “Wizz Voyager” multi-currency card, in direct partnership with Visa, a global leader in digital payments marking a groundbreaking milestone in Indias travel and fintech landscape.

Designed for todays global citizens, the Wizz Voyager card allows seamless spending in 25 currencies, including 7 exclusive currencies – Chinese Yuan, Vietnamese Dong, Malaysian Ringgit, Philippine Peso, Indonesian Rupiah, Azerbaijani Manat, Georgian Lari – introduced for the first time in India, making it the most comprehensive multi-currency card in the country.

The launch of Wizz Voyager, in direct partnership with Visa, marks a breakthrough in how Indian travellers spend abroad. As Indias first AI-powered multi-currency solution, it shows our commitment to practical, customer-first innovation with global impact and were proud to debut it here in India“, said Amir Nagammy, Founder & Group CEO Wizz Financial.

With advanced AI features, the Wizz Voyager card delivers personalized user experiences, optimizes currency conversion, and enhances travel convenience across destinations worldwide. The Wizz Voyager card delivers unprecedented travel convenience with free ATM withdrawals worldwide, complimentary travel insurance, global SIM connectivity, premium airport lounge access, and AI-driven currency optimization that automatically secures the best exchange rates while rewarding loyal users with smart savings that grow over time.

With the Wizz Voyager card, Wizz Financial reinforces its position as a leading regional fintech, offering an integrated portfolio of cards & FX, cross-border payments, digital wallets, and secured lending solutions. The Group is focused on building an India-centric, seamless cross border ecosystem for todays globally connected traveller with a specific focus on high growth markets including the GCC and Southeast Asia.

About Wizz Financial Group

Wizz Financial is India centric global fintech leader with 50+ licenses and operations across top corridors to India and South Asia, directly reaching 4.3 billion people – over 77% of global remittance volumes. Headquartered in India and UAE, Wizz Financial powers AI driven payments, lending, with a mission to reduce cost of remanences to high-growth markets. By delivering scale, coverage, and innovation, Wizz Financial connects millions to the world’s most important economic corridors.

As part of the group, Unimoni serves as Wizz Financial’s India-based brand, offering innovative foreign exchange, cross-border payments, travel, gold loan and digital financial services including a robust PPI with UPI wallet through a wide national network. Together, they deliver scale, innovation, and secure financial access across key global economic corridors empowering customers with instant gold-backed credit and seamless digital payments alongside their comprehensive suite of financial solutions.

For more information, email: contact@wizz.financial or visit www.wizzfinancial.com.

Maserati Expands into South India: VST Maserati’s Flagship Showroom Opens in Bengaluru, Unveils MCPura Supercar

Maserati has strengthened its presence in India with the opening of VST Maserati’s first flagship showroom in central Bengaluru, operated by the VST Group as Maserati’s official partner in South India. The grand opening, held on October 11, was marked by the regional debut of the brand’s newest super sports car, the MCPura, further underscoring Maserati’s commitment to the growing luxury performance car market in the region.

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V.K. Surendra, Past Chairman, VST Group; Giandomenico Milano, Consul General of Italy; Maher Abdalla, GM, Maserati MEA, India & Turkey, and Arun Surendra, Chairman & MD, VST Group

The celebratory launch was attended by Mr Giandomenico Milano, Consul General of Italy in Bengaluru, alongside prominent clients, media, and automotive enthusiasts. The occasion signified Maserati’s expansion of its retail network in India, bringing the Trident’s heritage and innovation closer to customers in South India. Timed with the festive season, a key period for India’s luxury automotive market, the opening underscores Maserati’s confidence in the region’s strong demand for Italian design, performance, and craftsmanship.

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Mr Arun Surendra, Chairman and Managing Director of VST Group, and key event chief guests, inaugurating the new VST Maserati showroom on St.Marks Road in Central Bengaluru

The new VST Maserati showroom has been conceived as a customer-first, premium retail destination, reflecting Maserati’s global brand identity while providing clients with a highly personalized experience. The space features a refined lounge and concierge-style delivery area, as well as interactive model walk-throughs and bespoke Fuoriserie personalization options. The facility offers direct access to Maserati’s celebrated line-up, including the Grecale SUV, the new-generation GranTurismo grand tourer, and now the MCPura, Maserati’s next-generation super sports car that represents the brand’s purest vision of design and performance.

Guests at the launch witnessed a dramatic unveiling of the MCPura, which set the tone for a celebration of Maserati’s Italian design heritage and engineering innovation. The MCPura, evolved from the acclaimed MC20, combines a lightweight carbon-fibre monocoque chassis with the now-iconic 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 Nettuno engine, the result of a true technological revolution covered by international patents and 100 per cent made at Maserati. Delivering 630 PS at 7500 rpm and 720 Nm of torque from 3000 rpm, the MCPura accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds. The secret of its performance lies in the innovative pre-chamber combustion system with twin spark plugs, a technology derived from Formula 1 and, thanks to Maserati as the patent holder, now available in an engine designed for the road.

This remarkable performance is matched by design details that reflect Maserati’s racing DNA, most notably the signature Butterfly doors that improve cabin access while revealing the carbon-fibre structure, and in the Cielo convertible version, a pioneering electro-chromic glass roof that can shift from opaque to transparent in a single second, transforming the cabin from an intimate space into an open-sky experience.

Hand-built at Maserati’s historic plant on Viale Ciro Menotti in Modena, alongside the Nettuno engine and the GT2 Stradale, the MCPura represents the highest expression of Maserati’s engineering innovation and artisanal Italian craftsmanship. Available immediately for built-to-order in both Coup and Cielo (convertible) versions, it combines race-derived technology with elegance and refinement, setting a new benchmark for luxury performance in India.

Speaking at the event, Arun Surendra, Chairman and Group Managing Director of VST Group, said, “The debut of the Maserati MCPura alongside the opening of our first Bengaluru showroom marks a milestone for VST Group as Maserati’s official partner in South India. With a legacy of over one hundred years, we have built trusted partnerships across industries and now bring that commitment to the luxury automotive market. Our vision is to deliver a Maserati ownership experience in this region that reflects Italian craftsmanship, global standards, and VST’s tradition of excellence.”

Philippe Claverol, Head of Maserati Overseas Region, commented, “We are delighted to inaugurate this new flagship showroom in Bengaluru, which reflects Maserati’s latest retail identity and our commitment to providing an exceptional customer experience in South India. Showcasing the MCPura here, alongside the opening of this landmark facility, underscores the importance of this market and brings the Trident’s performance legacy and design excellence closer to our clients in the region.”

Maserati’s arrival in Bengaluru represents a significant step in expanding the brand’s network and delivering a seamless ownership experience across India. The new VST Maserati showroom blends heritage, innovation, and personalization, reinforcing Maserati’s commitment to providing South India’s luxury car buyers with direct access to its design, performance, and service standards.

Price
MCPura Coupe: INR 4.12 crore* (ex-showroom India)
MCPura Cielo: INR 5.12 crore* (ex-showroom India)

Malabar Gold & Diamonds Launches 1st Showroom in New Zealand, Strengthens Presence in 14 Countries

Malabar Gold & Diamonds, the responsible jeweller, proudly announces the expansion of its operations to New Zealand. The companys 1st showroom in New Zealand was launched at the Botany Town Centre in Auckland. This launch marks a milestone in the brand’s international expansion plan, ensuring its strong presence in 14 countries while delivering exceptional craftsmanship and service.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds Launches 1st Showroom in New Zealand

The new showroom was inaugurated by Mark Mitchell, New Zealand Minister of Emergency Management, Police, Sport and Recreation. Malabar Group Vice Chairman, K.P. Abdul Salam; Malabar Gold & Diamonds International Operations MD, Shamlal Ahamed; Senior Director, C. Maayankutty; Malabar Group Executive Directors, Nishad A.K., K.P. Veerankutty; Manufacturing Head, Faisal A.K.; Finance & Admin Director, Ameer C.M.C.; Malabar Group Chief Digital Officer, Shaji Kakkodi; other senior management members, valued customers, and well-wishers attended the event. The inauguration ceremony commenced with a traditional Māori Karakia prayer, honoring the local customs of New Zealand.

With a global footprint of over 400 plus showrooms across 14 countries-including India, the Middle East, the USA, the UK, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia and Australia-Malabar Gold & Diamonds is renowned for its wide-ranging collections, exceptional quality, and customer-centric approach. Backed by a dedicated team of 25,000 multilingual employees across 26 countries, the brand has served over 15 million satisfied customers worldwide.

In a statement marking the momentous occasion, M.P. Ahammad, Chairman of Malabar Group, said, “This is a historic leap in the brand’s global expansion plan as it expands its operations to its 14th country. With our commitment to trust, tradition, responsibility and craftsmanship, we aim to bring positive changes to the jewellery market in New Zealand. This is not just an achievement for Malabar Gold & Diamonds; it is also a testament to the global recognition of the centuries-old art of Indian jewellery.”

The showroom is designed to provide a flawless shopping experience to the customers, with elegant displays and a highly trained team to guide customers in selecting their perfect jewellery. It offers over 30,000 unique designs in gold, diamonds, and precious stones, including a vast collection of jewellery from over 25 exclusive sub-brands. In addition, the store offers an exclusive bridal collection for wedding needs and the ability to customize jewellery according to the customers needs.

Commenting on the launch, K.P. Abdul Salam, Vice Chairman of Malabar Group, said, “Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ entry into New Zealand is a proud achievement in its global growth plan. There was a large local participation to witness the inauguration ceremony. It is heartening to see people from different cultures celebrate the diversity, artistry and tradition of Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ jewellery.”

Shamlal Ahmed, Managing Director of International Operations, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, commented, “Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ exclusive jewellery collection and excellent service have reached a new segment of jewellery lovers with the expansion of its operations to New Zealand. New showrooms will be opened in Wellington, Hamilton and Christchurch in New Zealand. The brand also has plans to open more showrooms in Australia and expand its presence to Fiji.”

This showroom launch underscores Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ vision of becoming the world’s most preferred jeweller, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to create timeless pieces while prioritizing sustainability and societal well-being.

About Malabar Gold & Diamonds

Malabar Gold & Diamonds was established in 1993 and is the flagship company of Malabar Group, a leading diversified Indian business conglomerate. With an annual turnover of USD $7.36 billion, the company is currently the 5th largest jewellery retailer globally and the 19th ranked brand in Deloitte’s Luxury Goods World Ranking. They have a strong retail network of over 400 showrooms spread across 14 countries, in addition to multiple offices, design centers, wholesale units, and factories spread across India, the Middle East, the Far East, the USA, the UK, Canada & Australia. Malabar Gold & Diamonds also features an online showroom, www.malabargoldandiamonds.com, providing customers with the opportunity to purchase their favourite jewellery at any time and on any day from the comfort of their homes.

ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) and CSR have been the primary commitments of the group since its inception. The key focus areas of the Malabar Group are Health, Housing, Hunger Free World, Education, Environment, and Women Empowerment, integrating the principles of responsibility and sustainability into its core business.

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with Regalia by The Claridges New Delhi

Diwali symbolizes Light in its myriad manifestations. The light around us, the light within us, the light of the prayers and the hopes of the world, the light of the earthen diyas on doorways, the light of family rituals, the light of festive feasting, the light that the promise of a new tomorrow brings etc. In the luminous spirit of Diwali, and this Light, The Claridges New Delhi presents a collection of hampers that weave together flavour, heritage, and artistry. All promising to bring to someone, a bright smile and light.

Regalia by The Claridges New Delhi presents handcrafted Diwali hampers

Each curation is thoughtfully composed from handcrafted sweets and gourmet delicacies to festive keepsakes to capture the essence of the season. Every element is chosen for its ability to delight the senses and honour tradition, turning each hamper into more than a gift: it is a gesture of warmth, a celebration of beauty, a keepsake of joy that lingers long after the festivities fade and finally a celebration of light.

The Collection

  • The Imperial Hamper: Rs. 12,995 plus taxes
    A statement of grandeur, featuring a diverse spread of millet pops, Chips that range from Beetroot & Jackfruit to Quinoa and Sweet potato, Sweets that traverse from Dubai Chocolate to Baklava to Indian Motichoor Laddoo. The hamper also includes coconut date chocolates, peanut butter, mixed berries, Flooda almonds, caramel popcorn, fruit cocktail, Davidoff coffee, English breakfast tea. Enhancing the ensemble are a Lord Ganesha idol, a candle, playing cards, and a healthy bar.

  • The Heritage Hamper: Rs. 7,995 plus taxes
    A nod to timeless traditions paired with contemporary flavours. This curation includes quinoa chips, millet pops, jack+fruit crisps, sweet potato chips, chocolate pecan nuts, bonbons, Dubai chocolates, salted almond spread, baklava, motichoor laddoos, fruit cocktail, and a healthy bar, complemented by Davidoff coffee, avocado oil, a festive candle, playing cards, and a Lord Ganesha idol.

  • The Radiance Hamper: Rs. 2,995 plus taxes
    A compact expression of thoughtfulness, featuring Flooda almonds, chocolate hazelnut spread, fruit cocktail, chocolate bonbons, Dubai chocolates, and a healthy bar.

With three distinct curations, Regalia by The Claridges New Delhi offers a hamper for every occasion – whether for grand gestures, treasured gatherings, or intimate tokens of affection.

This Diwali, celebrate the joy of gifting with hampers that embody artistry, flavour, and heritage – exclusively at The Claridges New Delhi.

To place your order, call +91 9971718208 / +919971326033 or visit The Claridges New Delhi.

About The Claridges New Delhi
The Claridges, New Delhi has been a landmark in Lutyens Delhi since 1955. Located in lush and tranquil surroundings in the heart of the city, the hotel is within proximity of the business district, ministries, diplomatic missions, shopping and cultural centres, and historical landmarks. The flagship property of The Claridges Hotels and Resorts, The Claridges, New Delhi has over the years played host to several important social, political, and business gatherings. With its classic ambience and contemporary facilities, the hotel recreates the magic of old-world charm coupled with gracious Indian hospitality. The architecture of the hotel, the guest rooms and suites with their classic, understated decor, the expansive garden with swinging palm trees, and personalized service transports one to a haven of tranquility right in the middle of the bustling city.

From Stay-Inspired Journeys to Beauty-Focused Getaways, Skyscanner’s Travel Trends Report Reveals How Travel is Getting More Personal in 2026

  • The report unveils seven trends: from travel shaped by beauty, hiking, and literature to family, connections, unique stays, and grocery aisles

  • Jorhat, India and Jaffna, Sri Lanka lead the charts among buzzing destinations while Tirupati, India and Langkawi, Malaysia rank first for best value travel

  • Travel demand remains strong with 59% of Indian travellers planning to travel more in 2026

Leading global travel app Skyscanner today released its ‘Travel Trends 2026 Report‘ at a specially curated event at Latango, Nehru Place, New Delhi. Graced by Suryakumar Yadav, Skyscanner’s first-ever brand ambassador in India and captain of the Indian Men’s T20I cricket team, the launch unveiled seven key travel trends alongside the top trending and best-value destinations for the year. From literary escapes to grocery aisle discovery and skincare-inspired itineraries, Skyscanners report reveals that 2026 is going to be the year of personal travel, with Indian travellers increasingly choosing to design trips that align more closely with their passions and identities.

Suryakumar Yadav, Brand Ambassador, Skyscanner India and Neel Ghose, Skyscanner Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, at Travel Trends 2026 Report Launch

This commitment to travel is reflected in their plans: 3 in 5 Indians are aiming to travel more in 2026, with many willing to spend the same or more on flights (58%), accommodation (49%), and car hire (35%) compared to 2025. At the same time, Indian travellers remain cost-conscious, with the top factors shaping their itineraries being food (63%), flight costs (60%), accommodation (56%), and visa requirements (48%). This combination of prioritising travel while making informed choices shows that Indian travellers are dedicated to enriching experiences without compromising on smart spending.

Speaking on the report, Neel Ghose, Skyscanner Travel Trends and Destinations Expert, shared, “Marked by a shift towards deeper meaning and hyper-personalised choices, we’re witnessing a change in how Indians are approaching travel. One in three travellers are steering clear of touristy spots in favour of quieter, authentic alternatives. In planning their journeys, travellers are increasingly turning to digital tools, while social media motivates them to seek experiences that genuinely reflect their individual tastes.

As travel in India continues to grow rapidly, technology remains at the heart of this evolution. With 86% expressing confidence in using AI to plan and book their trips in 2026, our report shows that Indians lead the world in embracing AI for travel. At Skyscanner, tools like the app-exclusive Savvy Search, powered by OpenAI’s ChatGPT, help bring this to life by offering curated destination ideas complete with flight options. This rise in personalisation underpins our 2026 theme: travel is no longer just about escaping life – it’s about discovering deeper ways to connect with it.”

Celebrated on the cricket field as ‘Mr. 360’ for his all-round play, Suryakumar ‘SKY’ Yadav shared his take on the importance of smart travel planning, establishing himself as the Mr. 360 of travel as well. “Travel has always been close to my heart – it’s my way of switching off, exploring new cultures, and finding hidden gems along the way. Just like cricket, it keeps me curious and excited. With Skyscanner, I hope more people see how easy it can be to plan trips that are fun, affordable, and full of memories waiting to be made.”

Using a comprehensive analysis of Skyscanner’s proprietary global search data, partner contributions, and a consumer survey of 2,000 Indian travellers, Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2026 Report reveals an evolution in travel, one where travellers are elevating the best of the here and now.

Seven Travel Trends for 2026

Destination Check-In

With a growing appetite for cultural immersion and design-led escapes, travellers are curating journeys where the hotel isn’t just a stopover, but the star. In fact, 82% of Indians admit to choosing a destination not for its landmarks, but for the promise of a stay so compelling, it becomes the very reason to travel.

For those planning their own Destination Check-In, Skyscanner’s hotel result filters help find the ideal stay – from boutique hotels to penthouses or beachfront villas. By quickly sorting via star ratings, accommodation type, or neighbourhood vibe, they can make their search part of the adventure.

Shelf Discovery

Grocery aisles are no longer just about grabbing essentials, they’ve become portals to culture, a way to experience the most authentic flavours of a country. Nearly 8 in 10 Indian travellers say they most often visit local supermarkets when travelling abroad, while 73% make a stop at convenience stores to discover quick bites and local staples. And for the aficionados (60%), it’s more than just shopping, it’s the ultimate cultural deep dive, a sensory adventure where every shelf tells a story and every flavour becomes a memory.

Glowmads

Travel is becoming the new beauty ritual, with 57% of Indian travellers stocking up on skincare and beauty products abroad, and nearly half choosing destinations for their wellness appeal. Trips are now a chance to turn virtual routines into real-world experiences, indulging both wanderlust and wellness. From hunting duty-free luxury fragrances (53%) and exploring cult beauty stores (48%) to enjoying local treatments (45%), wellness is increasingly shaping the way Indians travel.

Expanding upon this growing trend, Mini Sood Banerjee, Marketing Director, Laneige India, adds, “Skincare has seeped so deeply into our routines that it’s become more of a daily ritual rather than a one-off for a big moment. In this evolution, Korean beauty has emerged as a global wave, setting new standards for innovation, minimalism, and that luminous, healthy glow. At Laneige, our beauty philosophy is grounded in care and consistency, and that doesn’t stop when you leave home. With travel becoming a way of life and a form of self-expression, skincare is no longer an afterthought; it’s a ritual that moves with you.”

Altitude Shift

Indians are swapping beaches for mountains and choosing off-peak seasons to answer the call of the wild. A striking 92% now dream of year-round alpine escapes, with skiing and winter adventures just one chapter in the story. For Gen Z (51%) and millennials (47%) especially, the thrill lies in achievement, and with trek collectives like The Land of Wanderlust gaining momentum, highlands are fast becoming the ultimate badge of travel honour.

And in this season of ticking off personal quests, other trends that are inspiring journeys in 2026 include:

  • Family Miles: The spirit of Indian culture via intergenerational travel continues to grow stronger: nearly half of Indian travellers (47%) have journeyed with their parents as adults, 44% have travelled with children under 18, and 38% have experienced three-generation trips with both parents and children

  • Catching Flights & Feelings: Travel isn’t just about broadening horizons but opening them to new people and connections along the way. From chance encounters that blossom into friendships, to whirlwind romances abroad face-to-face, 87% of Indians are saying that travel has sparked new connections

  • Book-bound: From tracing the footsteps of beloved characters to seeking out dreamy libraries and hidden bookshops, nearly 8 in 10 Indians have either booked or are considering a book-inspired getaway. Today, embracing literature is not just a pastime but an experience, and this growing fascination with titles is translating into travel

India’s Top Trending* and Best Value** Destinations

In 2026, Indian travellers will be broadening their travel map with destinations that combine authenticity and discovery. Making it to the list of top trending destinations are unique getaways, spanning cultural hubs, scenic retreats, and rising global spots. As for the best value destinations, the list shows Indian travellers are willing to splurge where it matters, while saving smartly elsewhere, offering the finest experiences without the premium price tag. These include:

Trending Destinations

% Increase In Searches

Best Value Destination for 2026

% Price Drop

Jorhat, India

+ 493%

Tirupati, India

-18%

Jaffna, Sri Lanka

+ 325%

Langkawi, Malaysia

-17%

Muscat, Oman

+ 211%

Berlin, Germany

-16%

Queenstown, New Zealand

+ 151%

Dehradun, India

-14%

Chiang Rai, Thailand

+ 133%

Phuket, Thailand

-13%

Neel Ghose adds, “What were seeing is that Indian travellers are gravitating towards deeper cultural connections and experiences. Social media, particularly authentic video guides, are inspiring this wanderlust and shaping how people choose their next destination. The surge in searches for places like Jorhat and Jaffna reflect a desire to explore relatively lesser-known gems, rich in heritage and local flavour. On the other hand, the best value destinations have benefited from improved connectivity, new routes, and expanded flight options, making traditionally premium locations like Berlin more accessible to a larger number of Indians. Together, this shows how travellers are becoming more intentional and strategic in their choices for 2026.”

View the full ‘Travel Trends 2026’ report here.

Notes to the Editor

*Destinations seeing increase in flight searches between 1st January 2025 and 30th June 2025 for travel throughout 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, then selected for travel suitability.

**Based on % price drop for economy class return flight booked between 1st January 2025 and 30th June 2025 for travel throughout 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, then selected for travel suitability.

About Skyscanner

Skyscanner is a global leader in travel that helps travellers plan and book their trip with ease and confidence. Every month, Skyscanner connects millions of travellers, in 180 countries and 37 languages, to more than 1200 trusted travel partners so they can find flight, hotel or car hire options.

Founded in 2003, Skyscanner has offices worldwide, in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America where traveller-first innovations are developed and powered by data and insights. Making use of the latest technology, Skyscanner simplifies the complexity of travel and provides honest and transparent solutions, searching around 100 billion prices every day so travellers can be sure theyve seen the best possible options, all in one place.

Akbar Travels Launches ‘Diwali Dhamaka Deals 2025’ with Big Savings up to Rs. 25,000

Festivals in India are not just about lights, sweets and celebrations – they’re also the ideal excuse to pack your bags and head out on a trip. With Diwali around the corner, travel plans are on everyone’s mind. Understanding this festive spirit, Akbar Travels has launched its much-awaited ‘Diwali Dhamaka Deals 2025‘, and the deals are seriously tempting.

Biggest Diwali Travel Discounts – Up to Rs. 25,000 OFF

Speaking about the Diwali Travel Sale, Nikhil Krishnan, CEO of Akbar Travels, said, “Festivals are a time when people want to travel, whether to go on a holiday, meet family or celebrate in a special way. Our Diwali Dhamaka Deals are designed to meet this growing demand, offering affordable and value-packed deals for every traveller.”

Here’s what the Diwali Dhamaka Deals bring you:

  • Up to 50% OFF on Flights

  • Up to 16% OFF on Hotel Bookings

  • Up to 15% OFF on Visa Processing Fees

  • Up to ₹25,000 OFF on Tour Packages

Promo Code: DIWALIDEAL

Along with attractive deals, Akbar Travels also provides customers flexible payment options, making travel planning easier and more rewarding.

A Smarter, Tech-Driven Platform

Recently, Akbar Travels gave its website a complete makeover. The refreshed design is faster, simpler to navigate, and more intuitive – aiming to be a tech-driven travel companion rather than just a booking site. The company has also broadened its offerings with Charter Flights, Cargo, and MICE travel solutions. Upgrades to Hotels, Bus, and Cabs are expected soon.

When do Akbar Travels’ Diwali Dhamaka Deals 2025 end

The Diwali Dhamaka Deals 2025 are available for a limited time only, so customers are encouraged to book early to get the best deals on their festive season trips.

IDH Concludes SUTRA 2025, Strengthening India’s Position as a Global Leader in Sustainable Trade

As global markets move toward responsible and transparent sourcing, India is positioning itself at the forefront by embedding sustainability and inclusion into its growth story. Reflecting this commitment, IDH, with Palladium and NISCOPS as Strategic Partners and Sattva Consulting as Knowledge Partner, hosted the third edition of its flagship event, SUTRA 2025 – Sustainable Trade Summit, at Le Mridien, New Delhi. Themed “Sourcing with Purpose: India’s Commitment to Inclusive and Sustainable Growth,” the summit concluded after two days of vibrant discussions, solution-driven dialogues, and global collaboration.

Mr. Jagjeet Singh Kandal, Country Director, IDH India (left) with Mr. Rohit Kansal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, GoI (right) at SUTRA 2025

Speaking on the significance of the platform, Mr. Rohit Kansal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, shared that, “SUTRA 2025 reflects India’s growing leadership in building a sourcing revolution that is inclusive, sustainable, and globally influential. By bringing together farmers, FPOs, financiers, innovators, and industry, this platform truly embodies its name, SUTRA, the thread that connects us all. Collaboration is the cornerstone of transformation, and through initiatives like this, India is demonstrating how sustainability can move from compliance to competitiveness, from intent to impact. The Ministry of Textiles remains deeply committed to advancing circularity, strengthening farm-to-factory linkages, and positioning Indian textiles as a global model of responsibility and resilience. With the right partnerships, investments, and innovations, we can weave a future that is not only equitable and climate-resilient but also defines India’s leadership in sustainable growth.”

The event convened over 500 delegates and 60 speakers representing government, industry, development institutions, academia, and farmer organizations. Together, they explored how purpose-led sourcing can accelerate India’s transition to climate-resilient and socially equitable trade systems. The summit underscored India’s growing leadership in embedding sustainability and inclusion into the fabric of its trade and agricultural systems. Conversations across 13 sessions focused on themes such as responsible sourcing, climate finance, gender empowerment, living incomes, and technology-enabled transparency. Delegates shared practical models of regenerative agriculture, landscape approaches, and traceable value chains that demonstrate how economic progress, and environmental stewardship can advance together.

This year’s edition also featured a Sustainability Experience Centre, where organizations showcased innovations in traceability, regenerative farming, and circular production. Interactive demonstrations and solution pitches enabled participants to explore how emerging technologies and data-driven systems can enhance transparency and accountability across supply chains.

Reflecting on the summit, Mr. Jagjeet Singh Kandal, Country Director, IDH India, said Mr. Jagjeet Singh Kandal, Country Director, IDH India, said, “SUTRA 2025 reflects IDH’s core belief that sustainable growth can only be achieved through collaboration and shared accountability. Our work has always been about creating spaces where governments, businesses, financiers, and farmer institutions come together to design solutions that are practical, scalable, and inclusive. Through partnerships, we aim to translate sustainability commitments into tangible action, strengthening value chains, improving livelihoods, and driving measurable impact on the ground. The conversations at SUTRA 2025 reaffirm that collaboration is not just a principle of our work, but the pathway to building resilient markets and a more equitable future.”

Industry leaders including Mr. Sougata Niyogi (Godrej Agrovet); Mr. Sudhakar Desai (Emami Agrotech & IVPA); Ms. Sagarika Bose, Regional Head – CSR, India and APAC, SAP; Mr. Prabhakar Lingareddy, Executive Vice President & Head – Social Investments, ITC Limited; Mr. Mandeep Singh Tuli, Head – Foods Procurement, Hindustan Unilever Limited; and Dr. Arpita Mukherjee (ICRIER) shared perspectives on aligning business competitiveness with climate action and social responsibility. Ms. Marije Boomsma (IDH Global) further underscored IDH’s commitment to building partnerships that translate sustainability ambitions into scalable global impact.

Over the past three editions, SUTRA has evolved into one of India’s foremost platforms for advancing sustainable trade and responsible sourcing. The 2025 edition built on this legacy by deepening cross-sector partnerships and setting a forward-looking agenda for inclusive growth. As the summit concluded, participants reaffirmed their shared vision to align trade, technology, and sustainability, driving collective action towards a fairer and greener global economy.

About IDH

IDH seeks to transform markets through collaborative innovation, convening and investment in inclusive and sustainable solutions that enable businesses to create value for people and planet. To achieve this, IDH brings together coalitions of committed stakeholders from across global value chains towards joint visions and program agendas for sustainable trade in key agricultural, manufacturing, apparel and commodity value chains. In 15 years of operation, IDH has mobilised private sector investment and support to test and innovate new business models designed to create better jobs, better incomes, a better environment, and gender equity for all.

  

For more info, visit: idh.org/contact/india