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Global Podium Finish: Chitkara University Celebrates International Medals in Sports

Chitkara University celebrates a proud and historic moment as two of its students secure podium finishes on the international sports stage, bringing national recognition and glory to the institution.

Chitkara University students shine globally with proud podium finishes, bringing glory to the nation

Payas Jain, a first-year MBA student, secured the Silver Medal in Men’s Doubles at the prestigious WTT Contender Buenos Aires in Argentina. Competing against top international talent, Payas showcased exceptional skill and determination, reinforcing his position as one of India’s rising stars in table tennis.

At the same time, Devika Sihag, a third-year BBA student at Chitkara Business School, made history by winning India’s first-ever Bronze Medal in Mixed Team Badminton at the World University Games 2025 held in Germany. Her achievement marks a landmark moment for Indian university sports and highlights her consistent focus and discipline on the court.

These outstanding performances underline Chitkara University’s strong support system for students who strive for excellence beyond academics. The University offers world-class infrastructure, expert mentorship, and an environment that empowers students to pursue their dreams with confidence.

We are immensely proud of both Payas and Devika. Their achievements speak volumes about their dedication and hard work, and also reflect the University’s belief in creating opportunities for students to excel in every field,” said Dr Madhu Chitkara, Pro Chancellor, Chitkara University.

These international victories are not just medals. They are powerful reminders of what young talent can achieve with the right encouragement, discipline, and belief. Chitkara University remains committed to supporting its students in every pursuit, whether academic, athletic, or personal.

About Chitkara University

Chitkara University, a leading private university in India, is recognised for its focus on practical, industry-aligned education. Offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, the university is known for its cutting-edge research, innovation, and strong industry partnerships, aiming to produce graduates well-prepared to meet the challenges of the global marketplace.

For more information log in to university website: www.chitkara.edu.in

Bhumi and Samiksha Pednekar Launch Backbay: A New Chapter in Sustainable Hydration

Acclaimed actor and sustainability advocate Bhumi Pednekar, along with her sister, lawyer-turned-entrepreneur Samiksha Pednekar, unveil Backbay a next-generation beverage brand that reimagines hydration for the modern Indian lifestyle. Rooted in wellness and shaped by conscious consumption, Backbay’s debut offering is natural mineral water, bottled at source in the Himalayan foothills. Rich in naturally occurring minerals and electrolytes, it’s housed in sleek, planet-conscious cartons-designed as a bold, sustainable alternative to traditional PET packaging.

Bhumi & Samiksha Pednekar, Co-Founders of Backbay

Backbay is crafted for a new generation of mindful consumers who seek purpose, purity, and intentionality in their everyday choices. Originating as glacial melt, the water slowly filters through mineral-rich formations, absorbing naturally occurring magnesium, calcium, and potassium. It is drawn from a protected Himalayan reservoir and bottled in a women-led facility in Himachal Pradesh. Backbay delivers clean, naturally alkaline mineral water designed to nourish both your body and your values.

A New-Age Beverage Brand Reimagining Hydration in India

“I’ve always been conscious of what I consume and how it impacts my health and the environment,” says Bhumi Pednekar. “When I looked at the bottled water space, it felt outdated and lacking in trust. Despite being the most essential beverage, water hasn’t seen meaningful innovation. Most options come in plastic, and the alternatives are either expensive or inaccessible. This made us rethink how water should be sourced, packaged, and experienced. That’s how Backbay began. Every choice we’ve made reflects our values of integrity, sustainability, and long-term impact. Backbay is not just a product. It is a cleaner, safer choice – one that prioritises people and the planet.”

At the heart of Backbay is its sustainability-first packaging. The water comes in lightweight, FSC-certified paperboard cartons topped with plant-based caps made from sugarcane resin. Fully recyclable, travel-friendly, and built to withstand India’s heat without chemical leaching, these cartons are as functional as they are future-forward.

“Water is the most essential product we consume every day, yet ironically, it’s also the most overlooked,” adds Samiksha Pednekar. “The category is flooded with vague claims, plastic pollution, and a lack of transparency. With Backbay, we saw a clear gap, to build a hydration brand rooted in integrity, design, and conscious sourcing. This wasn’t just a business opportunity; it was a chance to simplify choices in a cluttered space and bring clarity to something as fundamental as the water we drink.”

Backbay introduces two versatile carton sizes tailored to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. The 500 ml pack is perfect for on-the-go hydration – whether youre heading to the gym, commuting, traveling, or powering through a busy workday. For more sustained refreshment at home, in the office, in wellness spaces, across HoReCa establishments, the 750 ml option offers optimal convenience and eco-conscious style.

Backbay Aqua will enter the market at the end of August, launching across select cities through a well-planned mix of high-impact retail and quick-commerce channels. The brand’s omnichannel rollout includes leading platforms such as Swiggy Instamart and Zepto, supported by its own D2C website and Amazon to ensure seamless accessibility. To further strengthen its presence, Backbay Aqua will also be available at top-tier grocery destinations like Nature’s Basket and Foodstories, as well as through select hospitality partners. Anchored in a wellness-driven product philosophy, a transparent and sustainable supply chain.

Water in a box Yes, because what’s good for you should also be good for the planet.

Agoda’s 2025 Return Visitor Rank Unveils Cities Across India that Keep Drawing Travelers Back

Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled its latest Repeat Visitor Ranking, spotlighting the top city destinations in India and Asia that travelers just can’t resist revisiting. Based on booking data from the first half of the year, the ranking reveals that the top destinations with the highest number of repeat visitors in India are New Delhi and NCR, Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore and a surprise entry, Kochi, rounding out the top five.

Agodas 2025 Return Visitor Rank Unveils Cities Across India That Keep Drawing Travelers Back

These destinations prove that sometimes, a single trip just isn’t enough. Travelers often find themselves drawn back to their favorite destinations, whether it’s to explore more of what they missed the first time, revisit beloved spots, or simply soak in the familiar atmosphere. Agoda’s data shows that many travelers even return to the same destination multiple times within the first six months of the year, underscoring the enduring appeal of these urban hubs.

New Delhi and NCR, Chennai, Mumbai, and Bangalore stand out as strategic travel hubs, offering seamless connectivity to a range of nearby destinations. These cities naturally draw a high volume of work-related travel, which often extends into leisure, with travelers exploring nearby cultural, coastal, or hill destinations. From Delhi’s proximity to Agra or the Himalayan foothills to Bangalore’s reach to Coorg and Chikmagalur, each city serves as a gateway to a wider travel ecosystem that blends professional mobility with regional tourism.

Kochi’s growing popularity among repeat travelers reflects a broader shift in travel preferences toward culturally immersive and slower-paced experiences. Once seen primarily as a gateway to Kerala’s backwaters, Kochi has evolved into a destination in its own right, offering a unique blend of colonial-era architecture, contemporary art, and a multicultural legacy shaped by centuries of trade. Events like the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, walkable historic districts, and an emerging boutique hospitality scene create an enticing atmosphere that keeps travelers coming back.

Gaurav Malik, Country Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda said, “Travelers are increasingly seeking deeper, more meaningful engagements with destinations, often returning to places that offer both familiarity and continued discovery. The rising interest in cities like Kochi and Chennai reflects a clear shift toward destinations that combine strong local character with enhanced connectivity and infrastructure. As travel patterns evolve, repeat visits highlight the lasting appeal of cities that balance cultural richness, accessibility, and a high quality of experience.”

Topping Agoda’s Repeat Visitor Ranking in Asia are Bangkok (Thailand), Tokyo (Japan), Seoul (South Korea), Bali (Indonesia), and Osaka (Japan), each offering distinct experiences that keep travelers enthralled. The ranking also highlights other popular return destinations across Asia, including Taipei (Taiwan), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Da Nang (Vietnam), Johor Bahru (Malaysia), and Hong Kong filling out the top ten. Each offers its own unique mix of attractions, from culinary delights to cultural experiences, ensuring there’s always something new to explore.

For travelers looking to revisit their favorite destinations or discover new ones, Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in a single booking. Visit the website at www.Agoda.com or download the mobile app for the best deals.

Notes to Editors

About Agoda
Agoda, a digital travel platform, helps anyone see the world for less with its great value deals on a global network of over 6 million hotels and holiday properties worldwide, plus flights, activities, and more. Agoda.com and the Agoda mobile app are available in 39 languages and supported by 24/7 customer support.

Headquartered in Singapore, Agoda is part of Booking Holdings (Nasdaq: BKNG) and employs more than 7,000 staff in 27 markets, dedicated to leveraging best-in-class technology to make travel even easier.

Oakridge Grade 10 Students Achieve outstanding MYP Results

Oakridge International Schools Grade 10 students have once again achieved exceptional IB MYP scores, outperforming the global averages for the 8th consecutive year. In this outstanding performance, Tanvi Srinivasan and Myra Kulkarni topped the results with outstanding scores of 55 out of 56. Six students followed with equally impressive scores of 54 out of 56, while a total of eighteen students scored 50 & above.

MYP Toppers with Principal and Head of Secondary

55 – Tanvi, Myra

54 – Aryan, Rishita, Priyanka, Akshat, Nia, Aarya

53 – Raina, Panache, Samyuktha

52 – Kenneth, Sresht, Vedant S

51 – Iniya, Mythri

50 – Tejasvi, Avnish

Key Highlights

  • World average: 37.71 | Oakridge average: 45.4

  • 22.2% students scored 50+ points

  • 46% students scored 40-49 points

  • 28% achieved Grade 7 in Personal Project
    ​

“We are immensely proud of our MYP 5 students and their dedication to learning,” said Kavitha Sukhani, Principal of Oakridge International School, Bengaluru. “These results reflect not only their academic capabilities but also their growth as inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring global citizens. The MYP has provided them with a strong foundation as they prepare to embark on the IB Diploma Programme.”

“Beyond academic content, our students have developed crucial Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills including communication, social, self-management, research, and thinking skills which enabled them to effectively apply their knowledge and excel in the eAssessments,” added Nishtha Srivastava, Head of Secondary.

Career Counselling begins as early as grade 8 in school to shape the aspirations of learners and guide them to top QS ranked universities and Ivy league colleges of their choice.

As a Nord Anglia Education school, collaborations with renowned institutions like MIT and UNICEF further enrich students’ learning experiences, providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the ever-changing world. Cutting-edge labs and facilities along with various STEAM clubs such as Coding and Robotics also support the IB learner journey in MYP.

Preparing for the Future
“My Personal Project – creating a virtual reality 360-degree video displaying the development and stages of Alzheimers disease – challenged me to research independently and manage my time effectively. I feel confident and excited about starting the Diploma Programme because the MYP has given me the skills to tackle complex problems and express my ideas clearly,” said Tanvi.

Vedant, who created an AI model displayed on a web-based interface to assist MUN and debate participants with verified, accurate sources, echoed the same sentiment.

As an IB continuum school offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP), Oakridge provides students with a seamless educational journey. The MYP 5 graduates have transitioned into the rigorous IB Diploma Programme, equipped with the skills, knowledge, and international mindedness that characterise IB learners.

IB Middle Years Programme

The IB Middle Years Programme is designed for students aged 11-16 and provides a framework of academic challenge that encourages students to embrace and understand the connections between traditional subjects and the real world. The programme empowers students to inquire into a wide range of issues and ideas of significance locally, nationally, and globally.

About Nord Anglia Education
As a leading international schools organisation, were shaping a generation of creative and resilient global citizens who graduate from our schools with everything they need for success, whatever they choose to be or do in life.

Our strong academic foundations combine world-class teaching and curricula with cutting-edge technology and facilities, creating learning experiences like no other. Inside and outside of the classroom, we inspire our students to achieve more than they ever thought possible.

No two children learn the same way, which is why our schools around the world personalise learning to what works best for every student. Inspired by our high-quality teachers, our students achieve outstanding academic results and go on to study at the worlds top universities.

Our Nord Anglia global family includes 80+ day and boarding schools in 33 countries, teaching over 90,000 students from ages 3 to 18.

To learn more or apply for a place for your child at one of our schools, visit www.oakridge.in/bengaluru.

For enquiries, write to mac.blr@oakridge.in.

UFlex Limited Recognised as a Top Employer 2025 in India

UFlex Limited, India’s largest multinational flexible packaging and solutions company, has been recognised as a Top Employer in India by the Top Employers Institute, a leading global authority on HR excellence, certifying and guiding organizations to adopt world-class people practices.

Mr. Chandan Chattaraj, President – Human Resources (India and Global)

This global certification is a benchmark of excellence for people practices and stands as a testament to UFlex’s commitment to being an employer of choice by creating a workplace where both people and purpose thrive. Achieving this recognition involved a thorough assessment of its HR practices across key areas, including people strategy, talent acquisition, learning, diversity & inclusion, and well-being. The recognition reflects the strength of UFlex’s progressive people-first culture and highlights the progress it has made in making UFlex a preferred workplace.

UFlex Limited is named a Top Employer 2025 in India

Over the years, UFlex has built a strong people-centric ecosystem backed by employee-first policies and an open, agile culture. The organisation has introduced various initiatives aimed at supporting holistic development and employee well-being. The company offers curated learning paths, leadership development modules, and access to on-demand training through its internal learning platform, supporting continuous professional growth.

Sharing his thoughts on the achievement, Mr. Anantshree Chaturvedi, Vice Chairman and CEO, Flex Films International, said, “This recognition is an important milestone in UFlex’s journey. At UFlex, our people are at the centre of everything we strive to be as an organization. Being named a Top Employer India 2025 goes beyond just this recognition. It reflects the inclusive, progressive, and future-ready work culture we have strived to build. It motivates us to continue investing in our people, nurturing talent, and driving positive change in the packaging industry. This has always been our path to success.”

Commenting on the recognition, Mr. Chandan Chattaraj, President – Human Resources (India and Global), said, “At UFlex, HR transformation has been a continuous and all-encompassing journey focused on strengthening our people practices in alignment with evolving business goals. We nurture talent through future-focused learning, fostering agility and collaboration across our global ‘centers of excellence’, and promoting diversity and inclusion by ensuring equal growth opportunities. Over the years, we have received recognition from esteemed institutions, which has served as an important validation of our progress. Being certified by the Top Employers Institute is a proud moment that highlights our efforts in delivering best-in-class employee experience, making UFlex a preferred workplace.”

“Consistency in a not-so-consistent world Amidst constant change-through technological advances, economic shifts, and evolving social landscapes-it is inspiring to see people and organisations rise to the challenge. This year, the Top Employers Certification Programme highlights the dedication of our Top Employers as they continue to set the standard, consistently delivering world-class HR strategies and practices. These Top Employers strive to foster growth and well-being, all while enriching the world of work. We are proud to celebrate these people-first leaders and teams as the Top Employers for 2025!”, said, Mr.David Plink, Chief Executive Officer, Top Employers Institute.

The Top Employers Institute program certifies organisations that demonstrate excellence in delivering a superior employee experience. The programme has certified and recognised over 2,400 Top Employers in 125 countries/regions across five continents.

For more details, please visit: www.uflexltd.com

NFO ending soon: How Bajaj Finserv Equity Savings Fund can adapt to different market cycles

Markets don’t move in a straight line. Some days they rally. On others, they slide. And sometimes, they move sideways – neither rising nor falling sharply.

The New Fund Offer period ends on August 11, 2025

A strategy that can adapt to and leverage different market conditions can be a suitable addition to a portfolio.

Enter the Bajaj Finserv Equity Savings Fund, a hybrid fund that combines equity, debt, and arbitrage strategies in a way that aims to respond to each phase of the market.

The scheme’s New Fund Offer period began on July 28, 2025, and ends on August 11, 2025. Read on to find out more about how the Bajaj Finserv Equity Savings Fund seeks to navigate fluctuations in the market and how you can invest.

Sideways markets: Arbitrage opportunities

A sideways market is when stock prices move within a narrow range without a clear upward or downward trend. It usually reflects market uncertainty, where investors are waiting for stronger signals before making significant moves.

In this phase, returns from equities may not be high. This is where arbitrage and debt benefit a portfolio. In a sideways market:

  • Arbitrage strategies can capture small and brief pricing gaps between two markets (eg: the cash and future markets). Multiple small spreads can potentially add up to reasonable returns when managed strategically.

  • Debt instruments can offer relatively stable returns through interest income and act as a buffer against volatility.

The Bajaj Finserv Equity Savings Fund may increase allocation to these components when the market lacks clear direction (within regulatory limits and as per allocation pattern mentioned in the Scheme Information Document).

Bull market: Potential for upside

When markets rise, the value of stocks can increase on the back of earnings expansion, economic momentum, and investor optimism. In such conditions, the equity component of the portfolio can potentially capture upside opportunities.

The fund’s equity allocation, selected using a GARP (Growth at Reasonable Price) approach, can help the portfolio participate in this upward trend. While the equity exposure is modest, it can allow investors to tap into growth potential during rallies while aiming to reduce downside risk compared to traditional equity funds. This equity component will range between 10% to 40% of the portfolio in normal circumstances.

Bear market: A defensive approach.

Downturns can test an investor’s resolve, but they also highlight the importance of balance.

In falling markets, when equities may decline in value, the fund’s moderate net equity exposure can result in lesser drawdowns. Meanwhile, the debt portion can act as a cushion against volatility, while the arbitrage component has the potential to capitalise on brief price differences.

Favourable tax treatment

Apart from managing market fluctuations, the portfolio is also planned to be tax efficient. By combining equity, debt, and arbitrage, it offers a blend that may potentially lead to better post-tax outcomes, particularly for investors in higher tax brackets.

The fund seeks to do that by maintaining above 65% allocation to equities (including arbitrage), so that it can qualify as an equity-oriented fund for tax purposes. The tax structure is as follows:

  1. Short-term capital gains (levied on units held for less than a year): 20%

  2. Long-term capital gains tax (on units held for more than a year): Gains of up to Rs. 1.25 lakh are tax-exempt; thereon, the rate is 12.5%.

Alternative assets: An added layer of diversification

This hybrid fund aims to offer an additional layer of diversification through its strategic allocation to REITs and InvITs. These are alternative instruments are backed by real assets like commercial properties or infrastructure and offer the potential for capital appreciation and relatively stable asset-backed income.

Who is the fund suitable for

Bajaj Finserv Equity Savings Fund may be considered by:

  • Investors looking for lower volatility options with liquidity

  • Those who want reduced risk but with some exposure to upside

  • Those seeking an option to park funds to deploy later

  • People exploring alternatives to traditional savings plans or fixed deposits*.

*Returns on fixed deposits are fixed, however, returns on mutual funds are subject to market risks.

How to invest in the Bajaj Finserv Equity Savings Fund

You can invest in the Bajaj Finserv Equity Savings Fund either directly with Bajaj Finserv AMC under the direct plan or through a registered mutual fund distributor under the regular plan.

You can invest online or offline, through the following modes:

  • By visiting www.bajajamc.com or the nearest Bajaj Finserv AMC official point of acceptance (OPAT).

  • Through KFintech, a registrar and transfer agent

  • Through a demat account

  • Through aggregator platforms

  • Through MF Utility.

Units will be available at an offer price of Rs. 10 per unit during the NFO period (ending August 11, 2025). The fund will reopen for subscription within five business days of allotment date and units will then be available at the applicable Net Asset Value. Investments start at Rs. 500 for lumpsum and Systematic Investment Plan (minimum 6 instalments).

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

SMFG India Credit Assigned International Rating of A/Stable by CareEdge Global; Rating Stands Two Notches Above India’s Sovereign Rating

SMFG India Credit (SMICC), a leading non-banking financial company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG), has been assigned a Long-Term Foreign Currency Issuer Rating of ‘CareEdge A/Stable’ by CareEdge Global. This rating stands two notches above India’s sovereign rating, underscoring SMICC’s strong creditworthiness and the high level of confidence reposed in the company’s financial and operational framework. The rating is driven by strong credit profile of the parent company SMFG and its 100% ownership in SMICC.

While SMICC’s operations are exclusively focused on the Indian market, the international rating by CareEdge Global reflects the company’s growing scale, diversified product portfolio across geographies, and robust risk management practices. The rating also takes into account SMICC’s adequate capitalization, supported by timely and regular capital infusions from its parent, SMFG, as well as its diversified funding base, experienced leadership team, and healthy liquidity position.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Pankaj Malik, Chief Financial Officer, SMFG India Credit, said, “We are pleased to receive the ‘CareEdge A/Stable’ rating from CareEdge Global, which validates our strong fundamentals and reinforces the trust placed in us by our stakeholders. This recognition reflects our consistent efforts to build a scalable, inclusive, and a resilient financial services platform aligned with SMFG’s global vision. We remain committed to responsible growth, prudent risk management, and delivering long-term value.”

This international rating further strengthens SMICC’s position in India’s fast-evolving retail credit landscape and marks a significant milestone in its journey as a key pillar of SMFG’s Asia Multi-Franchise Strategy.

About SMFG India Credit

SMFG India Credit Co. Ltd., a leading NBFC – Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC) registered with the Reserve Bank of India and a wholly owned subsidiary of SMFG, has been operating in India since 2007. Together with its subsidiary, SMFG India Home Finance Co. Ltd. also known as SMFG Grihashakti, the company has established a pan-India presence, across 670+ towns and 70,000+ villages through 1000 branches and 25,000+ employees offering lending products to underserved & unserved retail and small business borrowers. By doing so, it has introduced people to formal credit. SMFG India Credit along with SMFG Grihashakti offers a comprehensive range of lending solutions, including SME financing, commercial vehicle and two-wheeler loans, home loans, home improvement loans, loans against property and shares, personal loans, and rural livelihood advancement loans etc.

About Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG)

SMFG is one of the largest global banking and financial service groups, offering a diverse range of financial services including commercial banking, leasing, securities and consumer finance and is headquartered in Japan. SMFG is listed on the Tokyo and New York (via ADR) Stock Exchanges and has a market capitalization of approximately US$97.5 billion (as of 30th June 2025). SMFG is one of the global systemically important banks (G-SIBs) and has high credit ratings of A1 by Moodys Investors Service and A- by Standard & Poors.

HKTB Boosts Summer Campaign with 260+ Discounts Across Hong Kong

Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has rolled out a series of summer offers and spending discounts for locals and visitors through the “Hong Kong Summer Vivapromotion launched in the second half of June jointly with the local trade. The campaign has received overwhelming support from businesses across the city with more than 260 offers and discounts available on the HKTB’s “Hong Kong Summer Viva” website – up from an initial 150. Most of the offers and discounts are available for collection or redemption until 31 August. HKTB encourages locals and visitors to enjoy the amazing deals, enjoying value-added fun on top of their summertime experience.

Hong Kong Summer Viva brings more chances for visitors from India to enjoy a host of summer seasonal offers

“Hong Kong Summer Viva” provides a host of offers for people of all ages, including unmissable deals in dining, retail, hotel accommodation, tourist attractions, public transport, sightseeing, and much more. New offers include buy-one-get-one-free deals on selected set dinners or a-la-carte dishes from famous Cantonese restaurants, early-bird booking discounts for family-friendly facilities, buy-two-get one-free deals with cash coupons from tourist attractions, buy-one-get-one-free deals for popular items from a fast food chain, and many more. More than 100 hotels will continue to provide buy-one-get-one free deals for buffet lunches or dinners, and discounts on accommodation – making the offers perfect for families, couples, or friends to enjoy together.

Details on the latest summer spending offers for locals are available at:

www.discoverhongkong.com/hk-eng/what-s-new/events/summer-viva/offers.html

Available from noon tomorrow: Second batch of Complimentary Early Park Entry Pass for Hong Kong Disneyland Resort

A second batch of Complimentary Early Park Entry Passes for the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort will be available for collection from 23 July. Fifty passes are available for each eligible day of entry. Visitors who successfully collect the passes can enjoy one-time entry to the Park up to one hour prior to the Park’s official opening time on the same date as the Pass. The pass does not include an admission ticket to the Park and visitors must use the pass with a valid admission ticket.

Details on summer offers for visitors are available at:

www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/what-s-new/events/summer-viva/offers.html

Visitors are encouraged to check the terms and conditions of offers before collecting or redeeming for offers.

“Hong Kong Summer Viva” offers and discounts can be collected on the dedicated campaign page. Redemption methods may differ for each offer. Most of the offers and discounts are available for collection or redemption until 31 August. Locals and visitors are advised to refer to the terms and conditions of each offer before collecting or redeeming for offers. Certain offers are available to registered users of the Discover Hong Kong one-stop travel information platform and are only available to locals or visitors with accounts on the platform.

Visitors can discover more spending offers and discounts on the HKTB one-stop platform.

The “Hong Kong Summer Viva” page (www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/what-s new/events/summer-viva.html) on HKTB’s Discover Hong Kong one-stop travel information platform also promotes and introduces a rich array of special offers and activities launched by the Government and different sectors of the community for the celebrations of the 28th Anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Hong Kong Shopping Festival organised by the Hong Kong Retail Management Association, allowing locals and visitors to make the most of the city’s summer dining, shopping, and tourism experiences.

Members of the media can download the press release from the following link:

www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/hktb/newsroom/press-releases.html

About Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is a government-subvented body tasked to market and promote Hong Kong as a travel destination worldwide and enhance visitors’ experience once they arrive. These include making recommendations to the Government and other relevant bodies on the range and quality of visitor facilities.

The HKTB’s missions are to maximise the social and economic contribution made by tourism to the community of Hong Kong and to consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a unique, world-class, and most desired destination.

Mantra Best Friends Fes7val – Turning Friendships into Lifelong Neighbourhoods

Mantra is delighted to announce the launch of Mantra Best Friends Fes7val, a unique referral program designed to turn your closest friends into next-door neighbours. Whether it’s the joy of shared morning walks, evening tea conversaFons, or your kids growing up together, Mantra Best Friends Fes7val brings the warmth of friendship to the comfort of home.

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/32811_BFF_Logo.jpg

Mantra Best Friends Festival – Refer friends, earn rewards, and turn friendships into next-door bonds

Launched to celebrate the spirit of community living, Mantra Best Friends Fes7val empowers Mantra residents to refer their friends to any Mantra project across Pune, and equally allows new buyers to reach out to a Mantra homeowner for a referral, unlocking special benefits. It’s a two-way invitaFon to build a close-knit neighbourhood where friends become family and every home holds shared memories. On every successful booking, the referrer (Mantra Resident) earns referral reward, while the new buyer receives exclusive benefits on their purchase.

Owning a Mantra home means more than just real estate. It’s about quality living, well designed spaces, future-ready ameniFes and a thriving community. Now, imagine sharing that lifestyle with your closest friends. With Mantra Best Friends Fes7val, you don’t just invest in property, you invest in people.

Whether you’re a proud Mantra resident or a friend being welcomed into the fold, there’s something special waiFng for you. Because the best neighbours are the ones you already call friends.

A home is more than four walls. It’s the people around you who make it special. With Mantra BFF, we’re helping people create not just homes, but shared stories with friends who become family,” Rohit Gupta, CEO, Mantra.

Live together. Laugh louder. Grow closer. With Mantra Best Friends

For more details on the Mantra BFF program, visit www.mantraproperFes.in/bff/referral program.php.

Dhruva Advisors Unveils Second Edition of ‘Investing in India 2025’: A Comprehensive Guide for Global Investors

Dhruva Advisors, one of India’s leading homegrown tax and regulatory consulting firms, has released the next edition of its flagship publication – “Investing in India 2025“. Building on the foundation laid by the first edition launched in January 2025, this edition seeks deeper insights into India’s evolving regulatory and tax ecosystem, making it a critical reference point for global businesses, family offices, and investment funds evaluating opportunities in India.

Unlock Indias Potential: Dhruva Advisors’ Investing in India 2025 Delivers Essential Insights for Global Investors on Regulatory Evolution and Strategic Opportunities

The publication provides a 360-degree view of India’s current investment climate, covering policy reforms, international tax considerations, business structuring options and state-level incentives. Key chapters focus on FDI strategies, transfer pricing, foreign trade policy, income tax developments, GST nuances, and repatriation mechanisms, equipping stakeholders with practical guidance to navigate India’s complex legal terrain.

The report addresses crucial themes including:

  • Inbound structuring and entity selection

  • Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) regulatory frameworks and sectoral limits

  • Cross-border tax challenges such as Permanent Establishment (PE) and profit attribution

  • Digital economy taxation and the phasing out of unilateral levies like the Equalisation Levy

  • Transfer pricing complexities, particularly around GCCs and intra-group services

  • Exit mechanisms, including indirect transfers and fund repatriation

  • Policy updates such as India’s PLI schemes, SEZ policies and the Income-tax Bill, 2025

This edition also offers in-depth commentary on reverse flipping trends, the impact of BEPS, and the growing role of GIFT City as a strategic hub for fund setups and cross-border financing.

Commenting on the latest edition, Mr. Dinesh Kanabar, CEO, Dhruva Advisors, said, “India’s growth trajectory has captured the attention of the global investment community. Through “Investing in India 2025” report, we aim to discuss the information asymmetry and offer clarity on the country’s regulatory roadmap. With India repositioning itself as a strategic hub for capital, talent, and innovation, the need for accurate and actionable insights is more critical than ever.”

The report delves into litigation trends in faceless assessments, key judicial developments, and evolving anti-abuse frameworks affecting treaty benefits, transfer pricing, and indirect share transfers. It underscores Dhruva Advisors’ focus on simplifying complex tax structures and helping investors align strategy with regulatory expectations. The second edition also spotlights the growing significance of GIFT City, the digital transformation of compliance systems and the rise of sustainability-linked regulations shaping India’s next economic chapter.

This report is targeted at multinational companies, private equity and venture capital funds, sovereign wealth funds, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) and NRIs/OCIs seeking to channel investments into India.

The publication can be downloaded from here.

About Dhruva Advisors
Dhruva Advisors offers an extensive range of services in the tax and regulatory space to clients in India and globally. With a highly regarded team of seasoned professionals, Dhruva delivers well-thought-out strategies and solutions for complex tax and regulatory issues. The firm has advised on some of the most significant transactions and managed several of India’s largest and most critical tax controversies.

Dhruva is also recognized for pioneering solutions across various aspects of domestic and international tax, backed by a proven track record. The team brings deep industry expertise across diverse sectors, including Aerospace & Defence, Automotive & Ancillary, Agro & Chemicals, Conglomerates, Energy & Resources, Education, Financial Services, IT & ITes, Manufacturing & Real Estate, Global Capacity Centres, Pharma, Life Sciences & Healthcare, Private Equity, Transport, Telecom and Media.

For more information, please visit: www.dhruvaadvisors.com