BlinkX, the high-performance digital stockbroking platform by JM Financial, has launched its Silver Subscription Plan – Free for 2 Months, aimed at giving traders an affordable gateway into its powerful, feature-rich trading ecosystem. The Silver Plan, priced at ₹249, is now available at zero cost for a limited period. This offer allows traders to execute up to 50 lots per day without any brokerage fees, offering significant savings and empowering them with a premium trading experience. This strategic offering reaffirms BlinkX’s trader-first approach and commitment to reducing the cost of trading for India’s growing community of DIY traders.

BlinkX Launches Free Silver Subscription Plan to Empower Options Traders

This launch is a part of BlinkX’s broader mission to democratize access to sophisticated trading tools and promote an environment of empowered, data-driven trading. The free plan allows users to explore advanced features and trade with zero brokerage, opening doors to more cost-efficient strategies for options traders.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Gagan Singla, Managing Director at BlinkX, said, “We are excited to offer the Silver Plan for free to empower more traders to experience our platform. Trading is a serious craft, and our goal is to remove friction while delivering performance, intelligence, and flexibility. This free plan will help traders of all levels to explore our tools and unlock new levels of efficiency.”

BlinkX is currently offering the Silver Plan worth ₹249, free for 2 months. This allows new users to place up to 50 free lots every trading day, bringing significant savings. For example, an active options trader placing 10 orders a day typically incurs around ₹200 (assuming Rs.20 per order) in daily brokerage. Over 2 months (assuming 20 trading days per month), this amounts to nearly ₹8,000 – savings now accessible at zero cost through this plan.

The Silver Free Plan not only removes the brokerage barrier but also offers access to BlinkX’s advanced suite of features such as F&O Research Calls for strategic decision-making, advanced Option Chains for comprehensive data analysis and order Slicing for executing large trades seamlessly.

With a design tailored specifically for professional traders, BlinkX’s robust mobile and desktop platforms offer reliability and speed even during peak market hours. Traders can access these features at zero cost during the trial and experience the platforms true value.

BlinkX has recently introduced a new pricing innovation – subscription-based trading – with three tailored plans to meet varying trader needs:

• Silver Plan: Trade up to 50 lots/day; available at ₹249 for 2 months – now free for a limited time

• Gold Plan: Trade up to 500 lots/day

• Platinum Plan: Trade up to 1000 lots/day

All plans are available in durations of 2, 6, and 12 months, making them flexible for different trader profiles.

To know more and explore subscription plans, visit: blinkx.in/charges

About BlinkX
BlinkX by JM Financial is a zero-brokerage trading platform designed to offer a seamless trading experience for advanced traders. With zero brokerage across Equity, NSE F&O, IPOs, and Currency segments, BlinkX is redefining affordability through its innovative subscription-based pricing models. With its focus on high-volume options trading, BlinkX uses a trader-first mindset, offering premium features and fast execution. The App was launched in April 2023, and has now crossed 1M downloads in December 2024 with an App Store rating of 4.7. With an aim to deliver speed and precision, BlinkX is reimagining the future of trading in India.

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Vingroup is redefining how businesses integrate sustainability into their core operations, positioning it as a key differentiator in today’s competitive market, especially among aging conglomerates in Southeast Asia. As part of its green mobility strategy, the group is now setting its sights on India, a land full of potential, with VinFast at the forefront, introducing premium electric vehicles to the market.

Vingroup is now setting its sights on India with VinFast at the forefront, introducing premium electric vehicles to the market

In recent years, the world has witnessed a growing trend: Consumers are willing to spend more on sustainably produced or sourced goods, even as cost-of-living and inflationary concerns weigh on purchasing decisions, according to studies.

As technology advances, enabling consumers to connect with and learn more about companies, their expectations have shifted. Sustainability in business operations has emerged as a key factor in purchasing decisions, with consumers demanding more transparency and responsibility from the brands they support.

Amid that context, Vingroup has built its name in Vietnam by putting sustainability into action, not just words. Across housing, tourism, and transport, the group takes a hands-on approach to green development. Vinhomes installs energy-saving systems in modern buildings. Vinpearl runs eco-resorts designed to blend into the landscape. VinFast fills a crucial gap in the local EV market, offering accessible, locally made options at a time when charging infrastructure was still limited.

These moves are not isolated. They reflect Vingroup’s larger strategy of working with local governments and partners to build complete ecosystems rather than offering standalone products or services. After years of refining this model in Vietnam, the group is now taking it overseas.

VinFast, the most global part of the business, is leading the way. In India, the company has made a bold entry with a $2 billion investment in an EV plant in Tamil Nadu, which is set to open later this year. With an annual capacity of 150,000 vehicles, the facility is expected to employ thousands and serve as a regional production and export hub.

The young car company has already introduced two premium all-electric SUV models, the VF 6 and VF 7, tailored as right-hand drive vehicles for India. These models are scheduled to reach customers ahead of the 2025 festival season, reflecting VinFast’s intention to meet local preferences with modern, smart EVs.

However, Vingroup, via VinFast, is not entering India to sell cars. It’s working to build an entire electric vehicle ecosystem from the ground up, the same way it did in Vietnam. That means the introduction of EVs and the $2 billion EV plant in Tamil Nadu mark only the beginning. Behind the product launch is a broader plan: grow a network of sales and service centers, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where EV adoption is picking up speed.

Vingroup is also exploring ways to support this growth with reliable infrastructure. A potential partnership with charging solutions provider V-GREEN, which is owned by Vingroup Chairman Pham Nhat Vuong, could support a nationwide charging network tailored to India’s needs.

The company is thinking long-term. Vingroup wants to be part of India’s shift toward cleaner transportation by offering not just vehicles, but a full support system around them. That’s the model that worked in Vietnam. Now, the company is applying it in one of the world’s fastest-growing EV markets.

Operation Sindoor has come to symbolize more than just a successful military campaign-it represents India’s emerging confidence in its own defence ecosystem, powered by years of innovation, foresight, and collaborative development. At the centre of this transformative moment stands the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), whose ability to translate research into deployable combat systems has become a cornerstone of India’s modern military capability.

Precision Strike with Missile Systems:

The operation demonstrated India’s readiness across multiple domains. Akash missile systems and Supersonic cruise missiles like BrahMos played a decisive role, delivering precision strikes with speed and accuracy. These missiles not only offered a tactical edge but also showcased how indigenous missile programs have matured into globally benchmarked platforms. This progress is a direct outcome of the visionary leadership of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who laid the foundation and build the institutional structure through the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), and the continued dedication of successive generations of leaders, scientists and engineers who transformed that vision into reality.

Electronic Warfare and Radars

Electronic warfare systems developed by DRDO further ensured that Indian forces could dominate the electromagnetic spectrum. These systems enabled the disruption of enemy communications and surveillance infrastructure, a critical factor in neutralizing early threats and maintaining battlefield advantage. DRDO’s integration of spectrum analysis tools with advanced signal processors created a robust shield that was both adaptive and field-proven.

Complementing these were high-performance surveillance systems and multi-mode radars that gave Indian forces complete situational awareness, even in complex operational theatres. From long-range battlefield surveillance units to electro-optical payloads, these systems ensured that the flow of real-time intelligence remained uninterrupted, enabling rapid and coordinated decision-making across command structures.

Counter-Dronesystems:

The growing threat of unmanned aerial systems was countered with equal foresight. DRDO developed a comprehensive countermeasure-the D4 system. This advanced, vehicle-mounted counter-drone solution is designed to neutralize the growing risk from rogue UAVs through an integrated multi-layered architecture. The D4 system synergizes key subsystems, including RF-based drone detection, radar tracking, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) identification, and a combination of soft-kill and hard-kill capabilities. It effectively employs RF jammers to disrupt hostile communication links, while electro-optical tracking ensures visual confirmation and precision targeting. For kinetic neutralization, the system incorporates hard-kill mechanisms capable of engaging and destroying the aerial threat, ensuring a robust and adaptive response across diverse operational scenarios.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) marked a significant achievement in 2020 by swiftly developing and deploying an indigenous anti-drone system during the challenging peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. This system was operationally deployed near Delhis Red Fort on August 15, 2020, to safeguard the 74th Independence Day celebrations, including Prime Minister Narendra Modis address .

Anti drone system

These systems neutralized some of the hostile drone incursions, protecting both frontline troops and strategic assets. Developed as part of a Development cum production partnership initiative under the leadership of DRDO’s DG, Electronics Cluster, the D4 project has emerged as a powerful case study in co-development and battlefield relevance.

Visionary leadership:

Long before drone warfare captured international focus, the Electronics Cluster at DRDO had initiated the development of modular, scalable counter-drone systems. The D4 system was the result of this proactive strategy-designed for multi-sensor integration and rapid deployment across various conflict zones. The path adopted by visionaries is to have the PSUs and Indian private companies as key development partners in the program.

DRDO – industry ecosystem:

Unistring Tech Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (UTS) a Subsidiary of Zen Technologies is one of the key private sector partners involved in the D4 program. The company was entrusted with the supply of Key RF and digital sub systems. This collaboration was marked not just by technical delivery, but by deep engagement with DRDO throughout the lifecycle of the system-from early design reviews to live field trials.

Dr Nagendra Babu Samineni, & K Srinivasa Raju

The experience of being involved in co-development efforts, backed by strong institutional mentorship, allowed UTS to not only deliver state-of-the-art systems but to shape and adapt them based on frontline realities and evolving threat scenarios. As drone threats continue to evolve, so must the system-reflecting the dynamic nature of electronic warfare, which demands constant innovation and adaptability.

A word of appreciation:

Operation Sindoor is more than just an operational milestone-it stands as compelling evidence that India’s defence capabilities are increasingly being shaped and realized within its own borders. The journey from lab to battlefield has become shorter, more collaborative, and significantly more impactful. Under the leadership of DRDO, we have seen what becomes possible when a strong national vision is matched by the innovation and commitment of India’s Public and private sector.

Nearly every Indian private enterprise engaged in defence today has, in some form, drawn foundational learnings through its association with DRDO. For many, DRDO served as the first door into the world of defence technology-providing guidance, opportunities, and critical early-stage support. The invaluable and often quiet contributions of DRDO’s scientific community have now yielded tangible results, delivering strategic advantages precisely when the nation needed them most.

A Message to the youth of INDIA:

To the bright young minds of India, In a world driven by technology and marked by evolving challenges, there lies an extraordinary calling-one that goes beyond personal achievement, beyond headlines and awards. It is the call to contribute to the defence of our nation, not just with courage on the frontlines, but with innovation, intellect, and integrity.

Defence technology is not just about machines, missiles, or metal. It is about protecting lives. It is about giving our soldiers the edge to come home safely. It is about ensuring that India’s borders are guarded by systems designed, developed, and delivered by Indians who believe in something greater than themselves.

Imagine working on technologies that can track enemy drones in real-time, develop radar systems that scan the skies for threats, or build secure communication networks that operate even in the harshest conditions. Imagine the excitement of turning theoretical physics into battlefield-ready electronics, or algorithms into life-saving decisions. Every day brings a new challenge. Every breakthrough can shift the balance of national security.

And then imagine the satisfaction-the unmatched pride-of knowing that your work helps protect a billion dreams. That because of your code, your circuit, your design, a threat was neutralized, a life was saved, a mission was accomplished.

India needs not just soldiers in uniform, but scientists, engineers, developers, and thinkers who stand behind them. This is your chance to serve, to build, and to defend-not with a gun, but with a pen, a tool, a keyboard, and a vision.

Join the mission. Be a part of the next generation of defence innovators. Because when you choose to work on technologies that secure our borders, you choose a life of purpose, excitement, and deep national pride

Way ahead:

Every conflict presents an opportunity to both learn and unlearn-to reassess existing practices, identify what proved effective, and recognize what fell short. This is the time to review, reflect, and address deficiencies with clarity and purpose. While certain systems and features performed as intended, others highlighted critical gaps. These insights are not setbacks but essential learnings that will strengthen future capabilities and drive more resilient, adaptive solutions. The lessons from Sindoor serve as both a validation and a roadmap. India is not just defending itself-it is building the future of defence, indigenously and intelligently. As former DRDO scientists, it gives us immense pride to have contributed to this meaningful and transformative journey.

HuntVastuHomes.com, India’s pioneering platform for Vastu-compliant property search, proudly announces its entry into Mumbai, one of the most dynamic and aspirational real estate markets in the country. With this launch, users can now explore the Vastu compliance ratings of flats and apartments in Mumbai – empowering them to make well-informed decisions based on time-tested architectural principles.

Co-founders of Hunt Vastu Homes – Raj Kumar Narang (CEO) and Dr. Smita Narang (Vastu Expert)

Mumbai has consistently been the most searched city on HuntVastuHomes.com, indicating a strong demand for Vastu-aware home buying. In a city where land is scarce and property prices continue to skyrocket, buying a home is more than a transaction – it’s a lifetime investment. Given the stakes, today’s buyers are not only looking for modern amenities but also for homes that promise Peace, Progress, and Prosperity – the core goals of Vastu-compliant living.

Raj Kumar Narang, Co-founder & CEO of HuntVastuHomes.com, shared, “Mumbai was always on our radar, but the consistent volume of searches and interest from this city made the decision inevitable. When people are investing crores into a home, they naturally want every aspect to be right – including the Vastu. We’re excited to help Mumbai homebuyers evaluate their options with our platform and will continue to expand the listings here in the weeks ahead.”

Dr. Smita Narang, Co-founder and Vastu Expert, added, “Mumbai is a city where people come with big dreams – hoping for success, stability, and a better future. But the energy of the space you live in plays a significant role in supporting those aspirations. A property with good Vastu can become a foundation for that journey. Every home listed on HuntVastuHomes.com is evaluated using our proprietary Vastu algorithm, ensuring users receive a clear and insightful rating. Our guiding mantra is ‘Jitni Acchi Rating, Utna Accha Vastu’ – ‘The Higher the Rating, The Better the Vastu.’ It’s not just a score, it’s a step toward fulfilling your dreams.”

About HuntVastuHomes.com

HuntVastuHomes.com is India’s first tech-enabled real estate platform that combines ancient Vastu principles with modern technology to deliver Vastu compliance ratings for residential properties. Designed by Dr. Smita Narang, a globally recognized Vastu expert, the system allows users to upload or browse property floor plans and receive a detailed Vastu analysis – helping them confidently navigate their home-buying journey.

When you think of comfort-tech in India, The Sleep Company is leading the revolution – blending science, innovation, and deep consumer understanding to transform sleep into an elevated experience. The brand has now marked a major milestone with the opening of its 150th store, located in Mumbai, with Indian actor Raashii Khanna gracing the launch as the guest of honour. As it deepens its presence in over 45 cities, The Sleep Company continues to build one of India’s most immersive and accessible comfort-tech networks.

The Sleep Company’s 150th store opens in Mumbai – Raashii Khanna joins Co-Founders Priyanka Salot & Harshil Salot in celebrating the growing comfort-tech revolution!

From a digital-first startup in 2019 to a household name in just five years, The Sleep Company has reimagined the sleep category with its patented SmartGRID technology, fast-growing omnichannel presence, and a loyal base of over 10 Lakh+ customers. With an ARR of Rs. 600 crore and a strong foothold across metro and emerging cities alike, the brand has firmly established itself as one of India’s fastest growing mattress and comfort-tech players.

Driven by real consumer insights, The Sleep Company’s expansion is rooted in one clear trend – today’s consumers want more than convenience; they want experiential buying. In a high-involvement category like sleep, where comfort is subjective and nuanced, people increasingly seek the ability to touch, feel, and try before they trust. This need has shaped the brand’s premium Experience Centre format, where every store is designed not just to sell, but to demonstrate the science behind great sleep.

The newly launched store brings to life the brand’s signature Sleep Labs, featuring interactive demos like Pressure and Heat Mapping Tests that compare SmartGRID with traditional memory foam. These aren’t just product trials – they’re transformative experiences that educate consumers on the future of comfort.

Priyanka Salot & Harshil Salot, Co-founders, The Sleep Company said, “The 150th store marks a meaningful milestone in our journey – not just in terms of numbers, but in the growing shift we’re seeing in how India approaches sleep and comfort. When we started The Sleep Company, our goal was to make cutting-edge comfort technology available to every household – not just online, but in a way people could truly experience. With each store, we’re bringing that vision closer to reality.”

They further added, “Consumers today are more informed, more curious, and more willing to invest in products that improve their everyday lives – and we see that reflected in the way they engage with our SmartGRID innovation. This expansion is a response to that demand. It allows us to meet people where they are – in cities big and small – and give them the confidence to choose better sleep, through spaces designed around experience, education, and trust. We’re excited about what lies ahead as we continue to build the future of comfort-tech in India.”

Raashii Khanna, Indian Actor, also shared her experience, “Good sleep isn’t a luxury – it’s essential to how we show up in life every day. That’s why I’m so excited to be part of this milestone with The Sleep Company. Their focus on science-backed comfort, is something I genuinely admire. It’s a brand that blends elegance with purpose – just like how I approach my craft – and I’m proud to be associated with a mission that’s helping people across the country rest better, live better, and dream bigger.”

With a bold vision to expand over 1 lakh sq. ft. of premium retail space by FY25, and a growing presence in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, The Sleep Company is solidifying its position as India’s most trusted comfort-tech brand. As the lines between wellness and lifestyle continue to blur, the brand aims to meet the evolving needs of a new generation – one that prioritizes both innovation and well-being.

About The Sleep Company

The Sleep Company is Asia’s first and only provider of SmartGRID technology, revolutionizing sleep and sitting solutions. As one of India’s fastest-growing brands, it is reshaping both the direct-to-consumer (D2C) and omnichannel landscapes while driving innovation in the mattress industry. Founded by the visionary couple Priyanka and Harshil Salot, The Sleep Company began as a pursuit of scientifically supported mattresses and has evolved into a brand dedicated to enhancing consumers’ sleeping and sitting experiences.

The company offers premium products in diverse comfort categories resulting from meticulous research that stands light years ahead of competitors, with technology rooted in cutting-edge developments in material science and sleep science. Initially adopting a purely D2C model, The Sleep Company has since transitioned into an omnichannel powerhouse. In June 2022, the company marked its foray into offline retail with the launch of its first store in Bangalore, and currently has over 150+ stores.

By enhancing discoverability and streamlining supply chains, The Sleep Company consistently delivers a distinctive value proposition with accessible premium products. After securing INR 13.4 crore in pre-Series A, and INR 177 crore in a Series B round led by Premji Invest and Fireside Ventures, the Company has now secured INR 184 crore in Series C funding.

HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurers and Digamber Capfin Ltd. have come together with the aim of covering micro loans, thereby enhancing financial inclusion. This partnership would enable expanding access to life insurance across underserved regions of India.

HDFC Life and Digamber Capfin Ltd. Collaborate to Cover Micro Loans and Make Life Insurance Accessible for All

This association will leverage Digamber Capfin’s extensive network across 120 districts in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, thus enabling deeper penetration of life insurance into semi-urban and rural markets.

This will give further impetus to the common objective of both organisations – to bridge the financial inclusion gap by reaching diverse and previously untapped communities. The initiative aligns with HDFC Life’s commitment to making life insurance accessible to every Indian, thus contributing to the larger goal of financial security and empowerment for all.

Speaking on this, Vineet Arora – Executive Director & Chief Business Officer, HDFC Life said, “We are pleased to collaborate with Digamber Capfin Ltd. The life insurance industry has set out to achieve the goal of ‘Insurance for all by 2047’. At HDFC Life, we are endeavouring to achieve this collective goal by enhancing our footprint across geographies. We believe this association will play an important role in insuring individuals, especially those belonging to the economically weaker section of the society, thus securing the future for them and their families.”

Speaking on the partnership, Rajiv Jain – Chairman and Managing Director, Digamber Capfin Ltd. said, “We are extremely delighted to partner with HDFC Life to ensure that every loan extended to underprivileged entrepreneurs gives them social security. This collaboration will provide financial protection to their families in the unfortunate event of the borrower’s demise. HDFC Life’s strong focus on customer centricity and its simplified, end-to-end processes will enable Digamber Capfin Ltd. to effectively extend insurance coverage to low-income individuals at the bottom of the pyramid.“

Krombacher, Germany’s largest privately owned brewery, launched its premium Cola Variant in Dec 2024, SPEZI, in India in partnership with Heimat Beverages (Nirmaan Group). The Distribution is gaining lot of traction and currently is getting distributed Across Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Goa and Gujarat. While talking to the Founder of Heimat Beverages, Padmanabh Shah, he said “The Demand from General Trade, Modern Trade, Amazon and HoReCa is highly encouraging and the repeat orders are a testament to the same. We are also getting lot of corporate orders for Gifting purpose.“

Mr. Padmanabh Shah

Mr Shah added, “SPEZI is a sparkling, fresh mixed drink made from cola and orange soda. The fizzy cola mix is non-alcoholic. Flavor plays an important role in soft drink selection, and expanding flavor variety is what is creating the add-on demand. SPEZI is a Fun Drink and India is Loving it.”

To amplify awareness, Heimat has rolled out an all-India campaign inside PVR INOX cinema lobbies, matching Spezi’s bright visual identity with high-footfall movie nights. Parallelly, a digital-push is given to consumers in immersive ways to share the cola-orange experience online. The dual approach-for reach and performance marketing for precision-reinforces Heimat’s data-led philosophy while building Spezi’s as a playful drink.

Adding another prestigious accolade to its growing list of achievements, SRM University-AP, Amaravati, secured the top position in “The New-Age Emerging University” segment by the Indian Institutional Ranking Framework (IIRF) 2025 under the Private University category.

The IIRF evaluated leading educational institutions across the country based on comprehensive metrics, including Teaching-Learning Resources and Pedagogy, Research, Industry Income and Integration, Placement Strategies and Support, Future Orientation, External Perception and International Outlook. These parameters offer a balanced and holistic assessment, providing students, parents, and educators with an objective framework to evaluate institutional quality and performance.

SRM University-AP, Amaravati

SRM University-AP achieved top scores across these critical benchmarks, and claimed the top spot, reaffirming its position as a university committed to academic excellence, impactful faculty research, and transformative student outcomes.

Dr P Sathyanarayana, Pro Chancellor, SRM University-AP, added, “The journey of SRM-AP has always been about pushing boundaries, whether in pedagogy, research, or student empowerment. Securing this top rank further validates our vision of creating a future-ready, student-centric learning ecosystem. We will continue to embrace innovation and strive for even greater heights.”

Prof. Manoj K Arora, Vice Chancellor of SRM University-AP, expressed his delight, stating, “This recognition by IIRF is a testament to the dedication and innovation of our faculty, students, and staff. At SRM-AP, we are not just building a University, we are nurturing future leaders who are ready to thrive in a dynamic world. Our focus on cutting-edge research, industry collaboration, and a global outlook continues to set us apart as a new-age university.”

The universitys holistic approach, marked by multi-disciplinary learning, international partnerships, and robust industry linkages, is paving the way for its students to become global achievers.

Sports marketing pioneer and entrepreneur Ravi Krishnan announced today the launch of Abler Sports & Entertainment (ASE, pronounced ‘ACE‘) -an IP and data-driven enterprise focused on sports, media, entertainment, music, fashion, food and lifestyle. The company will support ambitious rightsholders, brands and celebrities that are not fully served by incumbents.

Ravi Krishnan, Founder & CEO, ASE

Krishnan, the former Managing Director of IMG India/South Asia and former Vice Chairman of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals, spoke about the focus of his latest venture, “We are launching ASE to capitalise on several ‘rising tides‘ including the recognition of IP in creating enterprise value, the growing relevance of India and emerging markets for rightsholders, brands and celebrities with global ambitions, the significance of womens sport and the rise of sportainment, and or as we refer to it, the ‘festivalisation’ of sport through its convergence with other forms of popular culture including music, fashion, and food.”

Peter Hutton, media veteran, former CEO of Eurosport and Fox Sports Asia, who worked with Krishnan at IMG, also added his endorsement, “I’m very happy to see the scale of their ambition and their original take on doing business in an evolving ecosystem. I believe ASE is building something very unique in helping bring the world to India and taking India to the world.”

ASE is backed by a distinguished investor group and advisory board and with over 300 years of combined experience across media, tech, sports, and private equity including the likes of Mike Dolan (Former Chairman IMG and former CEO, Bacardi), Jim Glover (former deputy Chairman, CSM and CEO, EMEA, ARENA Group), Prapti Anand (former APAC Leader, Fondation Chanel), and Ashutosh Srivastava (Former CEO APAC, GroupM).

Krishnan added, “We are humbled that some of the industry’s most “experienced, successful and reputable” have joined us as investors and advisors to help us “positively disrupt” an industry at multiple inflection points. We are building an enterprise that operates at the intersection of content, community and commerce.“

Krishnan’s Stepathlon, a fan engagement and data platform, now powering its ASE Engage Division, leverages the natural synergies between wellness and sports. Trusted by global brands like Manchester City, Gujarat Titans and the upcoming 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, it has redefined fan engagement by focusing on awareness to action, data-backed engagement and converting ‘profitless volume’ into meaningful, measurable, actively engaged communities.

ASE marks a natural progression in Krishnan’s three-decade-long journey – one that has seen him build enduring IPs and businesses that have left a lasting impact. He says “There is no truly global organisation that can create, compete and collaborate across both developed and emerging markets, be a bridge between the analogue and digital and deliver value to all stakeholders in an industry that is undergoing seismic shifts in consumption, commerce and creativity, increasingly impacted by data and AI.”

With UK, India, US and Australia as key global nodes, ASE works across six verticals – ASE Engage powered by Stepathlon (Fan Engagement and Data Platform), ASE Alive (Events & Experiential), ASE Advisory (Market Entry, Brand, Revenue and Raise) , ASE Partnerships (for Brands, Rights Holders, Celebrities) ASE Media (Non -Live Content & Platform-Native Storytelling), and ASE Consumer (Licensing & Merchandising).

Even before its official launch, ASE closed five deals with international partners across three divisions, and has a strong and growing blue-chip pipeline of clients.

One of ASE’s first clients is Destination Sport Group (DSG), a world leader in sports travel working with 100+ sports organisations including elite teams, federations, governing bodies and major events is establishing its India business. James Robinson, Global Business Development Director at DSG explains why they chose Krishnan and his team, “Partnering with ASE has been the right decision. As a truly global organisation with an extensive and impressive network of contacts, ASE brings a unique depth and breadth of expertise to the table. Their professionalism, diligence, and attention to detail have been exceptional and they have proven to be a trusted and invaluable ally.”

Speaking on the launch, investor Josh Liberman, Co-founder and Chairman of CVS Lane Capital Partners and Founding Partner, Lumir Ventures said, “ASE’s emphasis on data-driven strategies and IP development is both distinctive and forward-looking. Ravi stands out as a compassionate and visionary leader who I have had the privilege of knowing personally and professionally. ASE’s understanding of India and the wider region is a key differentiator which marries well with their global ambition and capabilities.”

Veeru Murugappan, from one of South India’s most respected families, the Murugappa Family (Murugappa Group), and Founder of Coromandel Productions, expressed his support for the new venture, “I have known Ravi for close to two decades now and have been an admirer of his work. He understands storytelling and crafting narratives as well as anyone in this industry.”

About ASE
Abler Sports & Entertainment (ASE) is an IP and data-driven, full-service enterprise operating across sport, media, entertainment, music, fashion, food and lifestyle – with a global outlook and a focus on India and emerging markets.

Founded by sports industry pioneer Ravi Krishnan, ASE helps ambitious rightsholders, brands and talent create long-term value – through the ownership of IP, the power of engagement, and the convergence of culture and commerce.

ASE brings together global experience, local insight and thinking to build scalable, relevant and culturally resonant solutions.

Backed by a preeminent Investor Group and Advisory Board with over 300 years of combined experience, ASE combines strategic vision, operational depth and an unparalleled network of relationships with global business leaders.

List of Board and Advisory Board Members:

Key Findings:

• Protection Quotient score at 35-over 20 points below the digital urban average (56)

• Knowledge Index score at 61 vs. 74 for DSUI; term insurance ownership at 66% vs. 82%

• Financial security drops from 60 (IPQ 6.0) to 57 (IPQ 7.0)

• Growing concerns around breadwinner loss, medical costs, and budgeting strain

• Shift observed away from proactive saving and financial planning

Axis Max Life InsuranceLtd. (“Axis Max Life”/ “Company”), formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd, in partnership with KANTAR, the world’s leading marketing data and analytics company, has released key insights from the seventh edition of its India Protection Quotient (IPQ) study, with a dedicated focus on the LGBTQIA+ community. As part of the Company’s ‘Bharosa Talks’ platform, this year’s study uncovers widening protection gaps that continue to affect identity-diverse segments.

Indian LGBTQIA+ Community’s Financial Protection Lags Despite High Intent – Axis Max Life India Protection Quotient 7.0

With a Protection Quotient score of 35, the LGBTQIA+ cohort lags significantly behind the digital urban average of 56. The community also reports a Knowledge Index score of 61 compared to 74 for Digitally Savvy Urban Indians (DSUI), indicating a noticeable gap in awareness. While 66% of respondents report owning a term insurance plan (vs. 82% among DSUI), the community has also seen a 3-point decline in perceived financial security-dropping from 60 in IPQ 6.0 to 57 in IPQ 7.0.

This decline is accompanied by increasing concerns about medical expenses, loss of a breadwinner, and daily budgeting struggles. The data signals a shift away from proactive financial planning, calling attention to the urgent need for identity-sensitive financial literacy and inclusive insurance offerings.

Prashant Tripathy, CEO & Managing Director, Axis Max Life, said, “As India progresses on its journey toward financial security, it is vital that we recognise the varied realities shaping people’s protection needs. The IPQ 7.0 findings reveal that segments like the LGBTQIA+ community continue to face structural and emotional barriers to financial preparedness. This calls for not only greater awareness, but also collective effort across the industry to make protection more inclusive, accessible, and aligned to the evolving fabric of Indian society.”

Implications & Path Forward

The findings highlight the need for inclusive financial education, flexible product design, and advisory ecosystems that serve identity-diverse segments. For the insurance industry, this data is a call to action to bridge structural gaps and bring equitable protection to every Indian, irrespective of their identity.

About India Protection Quotient

Instituted in 2019, India Protection Quotient is an annual Survey by Axis Max Life Insurance in association with Kantar aimed to understand the pulse of the Indian consumers in the financial protection space. Launched with the underlying objective to increase penetration of Term insurance as the most fundamental and economical form of life insurance, the survey aims to reveal the state of Urban Indians with regards to current financial security levels, changing savings & investment patterns, key anxieties & triggers of financial protection in a contemporary world. India Protection Quotient is a proprietary tool developed by Axis Max Life in partnership with Kantar to gauges the degree to which Indians feel protected from future uncertainties on a scale of 0 to 100. It is based on the attitudes, mental preparedness around future uncertainties, awareness, and ownership of life insurance product categories (Term, endowment and ULIP).

Read more at – https://www.axismaxlife.com/maxlife-ipq

Disclaimer:

The study is conducted in top 25 Urban metro, Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities; hence, its findings are representative of metro, Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities of Urban India only.

• Metro – Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai

• Tier 1 – Ludhiana, Jaipur, Lucknow, Patna, Bhubaneshwar, Vizag, Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Pune

• Tier 2 – Dehradun, Moradabad, Guwahati, Bokaro, Kolhapur, Jamnagar, Raipur, Ujjain, Hubli-Dharwad, Tiruchirappalli

• IPQ 7.0 vs IPQ 6.0 data comparison is amongst 25 markets only [6 metros, 9 Tier 1 and 10 Tier]

• The minimum sample to conclude any findings of the study is 270 with an error margin of +-5.964

The information collected through this survey and the results published are intended for general guidance and informational purposes only. Axis Max Life disclaims any liability for any loss, damage, or decisions arising from the use of this survey or the results provided.

About Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (https://www.axismaxlife.com)

Axis Max Life Insurance Limited, formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd., is a Joint Venture between Max Financial Services Limited (“MFSL”) and Axis Bank Limited. Axis Max Life Insurance offers comprehensive protection and long-term savings life insurance solutions through its multi-channel distribution, including agency and third-party distribution partners. It has built its operations over two decades through a need-based sales process, a customer-centric approach to engagement and service delivery and trained human capital. As per annual audited financials for FY2024-25, Axis Max Life has achieved a gross written premium of INR 33,223 Cr.

About Kantar

Kantar is the world’s leading marketing data and analytics business and an indispensable brand partner to the world’s top companies. We combine the most meaningful attitudinal and behavioural data with deep expertise and advanced analytics to uncover how people think and act. We help clients understand what has happened and why and how to shape the marketing strategies that shape their future.