The Indian Garage Co. (TIGC), India’s leading homegrown fast-fashion brand, is accelerating its offline expansion with the opening of its two new Exclusive Brand Outlets (EBOs) in Hyderabad and one in Kochi. As part of its ambitious mission to open 10 stores in 10 weeks, these openings mark a key milestone in the brand’s efforts to bring a cutting-edge, immersive shopping experience to fashion enthusiasts across India.

TIGCs new stores feature a curated selection of the latest collections, blending streetwear, trendsetting styles, and Korean-inspired designs for a timeless look

The brand inaugurated its first Hyderabad store in Vanasthalipuram on December 7th, 2024. The 2,300-square-foot outlet received an enthusiastic response, drawing over 1,000 customers on its opening day. Following this, The Indian Garage Co. launched its second Hyderabad store at Sarath City Mall on February 15th, 2025, further solidifying its footprint in the city.

The brand also made its debut in Kerala with the launch of its store at the iconic Lulu Mall in Kochi on December 28th, 2024. This opening marks the brand’s first venture into the state and was attended by notables such as Shibu Philips, Director of Shopping Malls, Lulu Group India, Reema Reji, General Manager, Lulu Malls India, Vishnu R. Nath, General Manager at Lulu Malls Kochi, Sanu S., Marketing Manager, Lulu Malls Kochi, and Alka Dembla, Head of Retail, The Indian Garage Co.

These new stores feature a carefully curated selection of the brand’s latest collections, seamlessly combining streetwear, old-money aesthetics, and Korean-inspired designs. The aim continues to set the tone for trendsetting styles that resonate with fashion-forward Gen-Z customers looking for something fresh and innovative.

This expansion is a part of the brands broader offline strategy, supported by a dedicated 20% budget allocation, with plans for Exclusive Brand Outlet (EBO) sales to contribute to 30% of the brand’s total revenue within the next 3-5 years and aims to reach 100 stores across India with their offline strategy. Through this approach the brand is not only expanding its retail footprint but also providing opportunities for young fashion entrepreneurs to flourish.

Commenting on the expansion, Anant Tanted, Founder & CEO of The Indian Garage Co., stated, “We are delighted to bring The Indian Garage Co.’s distinctive blend of fashion, innovation, and customer-centricity to Hyderabad and Kochi with its EBOs. These launches mark a significant milestone in our journey to make the signature fashion accessible to a wider audience. By creating immersive shopping experiences, we are excited to bring our unique blend of style and innovation to more customers. As we expand our offline presence across India, we remain committed to redefining fashion retail while setting the stage for our entry into international markets.”

Following the Hyderabad and Kochi launches, the brand plans to open new stores in key cities like Lucknow, Pune, two new stores in Bengaluru & Kochi respectively, thereby continuing its nationwide expansion strategy.

“At The Indian Garage Co, we are dedicated to crafting unparalleled shopping experiences that seamlessly blend aesthetics with accessibility,” said Alka Dembla, Head of Retail, The Indian Garage Co.. “The launch of our Exclusive Brand Outlets in Hyderabad and Kochi marks an exciting milestone in our journey to connect with fashion enthusiasts. These stores are a testament to our commitment to creating vibrant spaces where fashion enthusiasts can explore, engage, and shop in style. We are excited about this new chapter and look forward to growing our offline presence in key markets across India.”

The brand products are available online via its official website, TIGC.in, as well as on major e-commerce platforms such as Myntra, Ajio, Amazon, Flipkart, Snapdeal and UAE noon. The brand also has a presence in approximately 100 Fashion Factory stores across India.

About The Indian Garage Co
Established in 2012 by Anant Tanted, The Indian Garage Company is an asset-light, EBITDA-positive D2C firm that has grown into a 400-crore enterprise with a rapid growth trajectory. The brand targets 1500 Cr GMV in the next five years. TMRW, an ecommerce rollup venture owned by the Aditya Birla Group, invested Rs 155 crore in The Indian Garage Co last year.

Operating under the House of Brands format, the company boasts three brands under its umbrella: TIGC (menswear), FreeHand (womenswear) & HardSoda (plus-size menswear). As a company focused on Gen Z consumers, The Indian Garage Co. has evolved into a tech-enabled, digital-first firm, promising its customers access to global fashion trends at an unprecedented pace.

Due to the growing acceptance and popularity of TIGC products, the company intends to diversify its offerings and introduce additional categories under its umbrella.

Get ready, India! The world’s most enchanting chocolate festival is making its debut in India, in January 2026. Imagine a world where chocolate isn’t just a treat-it’s an experience, a story and an art form.

Salon Du Chocolat et de la Patisserie India is set to enchant India for the very first time, in January 2026 at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. Bringing together the finest chocolatiers, patissiers and cocoa artisans from around the globe, this premier festival promises a sensory journey like no other, redefining how India indulges in chocolate.

Salon Du Chocolat, Paris – The worlds biggest chocolate exhibition will launch its India edition in Jan 2026 at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai

A Global Phenomenon, Now in India
Since its inception in Paris over 30 years ago, Salon Du Chocolat has captured the hearts of millions across renowned cities such as New York, Dubai, Lima, Montreal, Riyadh and more. India, with its burgeoning love for artisanal and premium chocolates, now joins this illustrious roster as the destination for the sweetest adventure yet.

Temptations To Expect:

Choco-Couture Runway: Experience the magic as designers and chocolatiers collaborate to create edible haute couture masterpieces.

Live Demonstrations & Tastings: Witness chocolate-making in action as world-renowned chefs and chocolatiers showcase their artistry and creativity.

Workshops & Masterclasses: From tempering chocolate to crafting exquisite truffles, attendees can gain hands-on experience under the guidance of industry experts.

Global Tasting Tour: From the silky milk chocolates of Switzerland to the bold dark flavours of Ghana, embark on a global tasting tour that will tantalise your taste buds.

Exhibitor Showcase: Explore a treasure trove of cocoa-based creations, desserts and gourmet products from hundreds of brands and artisans.

Why India
The Indian chocolate market is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by an increasing appetite for premium and artisanal chocolates. With the market projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% from 2024 to 2032, the country presents an untapped opportunity for global chocolate and pastry brands.

“India’s dynamic culinary landscape and growing passion for artisanal chocolates make it the perfect new home for Salon Du Chocolat,” says Siraj Bolar, CEO of FourPlus Media. “This event will bring together the finest chocolate craftsmanship and innovation while spotlighting India’s own talented chocolatiers on a global platform.”

A New Era for India’s Chocolate Industry
Salon Du Chocolat et de la Patisserie India will be an exciting opportunity for both exhibitors and visitors. Exhibitors will connect with a passionate audience of chocolate lovers and industry professionals, while visitors will indulge in unforgettable tasting experiences, learn the secrets of chocolate making and stay updated on the latest trends in the chocolate and pastry world.

Mark Your Calendar:
Dates: January 16-17, 2026
Venue: Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, India

Join the Chocolate Celebration!
Whether you’re a chocolate connoisseur, industry professional or dessert enthusiast, Salon Du Chocolat et de la Patisserie India promises an unforgettable experience.

About Salon Du Chocolat
Salon Du Chocolat is the world’s largest and most prestigious event dedicated to chocolate and pastry. Since its launch in Paris over 30 years ago, it has become a global celebration, captivating chocolate enthusiasts across 11 countries with dazzling fashion shows, interactive workshops and live demonstrations.

For more details visit www.salonduchocolatindia.com.

Market fluctuations can be unsettling, but a flexible approach and a long-term view towards investing can help you navigate this uncertainty.

Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund with Megatrends

This is what the Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund seeks to do. This equity fund offers adaptability by investing across large cap, mid cap, and small cap stocks. Moreover, it is dynamically managed, so it can freely adjust its portfolio to capture opportunities and mitigate risk in different market conditions.

However, its defining feature is its megatrends approach, which involves identifying and investing in companies aligned with long-term and wide-ranging global trends and movements. Read on to learn more about the Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund and why it may be a suitable option in uncertain times.

What makes a flexi cap fund different
Unlike other equity mutual funds, flexi cap funds are not restricted to a specific market capitalisation. They dynamically adjust allocations across large, mid, and small cap stocks, allowing fund managers to make the most of changing market trends.

Here are the features of large, mid and small cap stocks:

• Large cap stocks: Established companies with a strong track record and relatively lower volatility.

• Mid cap stocks: Companies in a growth phase, offering better potential returns in the long term but with higher risk.

• Small cap stocks: Younger companies with high growth potential but significantly higher volatility.

The dynamic management style allows fund managers to modify the portfolio allocation based on market conditions, potentially optimising returns while mitigating risks. For instance, during falling markets, they can increase exposure to large caps to reduce downside risk. During rising markets, they can capture growth potential in the mid and small cap segments. This can help such funds achieve a more optimal risk-reward balance than funds focusing on a single market cap or following a static allocation approach.

What sets Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund apart

Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund follows a megatrends-based investment strategy – a forward-looking approach that identifies large-scale economic, technological, and social shifts that have the potential to shape the future.

Megatrends are transformative forces that redefine industries and economies and the fund seeks to invest in companies that align with these trends. Identifying megatrends early can help the fund capitalise on their potential before they gain widespread market traction.

The fund focuses on the following:

• Technological megatrends

• Regulatory megatrends

• Economic megatrends

• Nature (environmental) megatrends

• Demographic megatrends

• Social megatrends

Navigating short-term volatility with megatrends
A megatrends approach helps navigate short-term market volatility by focusing on long-term structural shifts rather than short-term market fluctuations. Here’s how:

1. Focus on long-term growth drivers
Megatrends-such as digital transformation, renewable energy, or demographic shifts-are driven by deep-rooted economic, technological, and societal changes. These trends have the potential to persist despite short-term market swings, helping investors stay focused on sustained long-term growth potential rather than reacting to daily market noise.

2. Reduces emotional decision-making
Short-term volatility often triggers panic-driven decisions. A megatrends strategy, backed by research on long-term shifts, encourages a disciplined investment approach, reducing impulsive reactions to market turbulence.

3. Alignment with innovation and policy shifts
Some megatrends are not just business opportunities – they are backed by regulatory and policy attention as well. Examples include green energy and innovation.

4. Potential for long-term returns
While short-term fluctuations are inevitable, megatrends are backed by long-lasting changes. Investors focusing on these themes may benefit from compounding growth over time, potentially mitigating the impact of short-term volatility.

Why consider investing in Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund
If youre looking for a fund that can potentially withstand market ups and downs while tapping into long-term opportunities, Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund can be a suitable fit:

• Future-focused investment: It identifies long-term trends and stays away from short-term noise.

• Diversified portfolio: The fund invests across sectors and market capitalisations to manage risk and capture opportunities.

• Dynamic asset allocation: The fund manager adjusts holdings based on prevailing market conditions, increasing exposure to growth stocks when the opportunity arises and shifting to relatively stable options during volatility.

• Risk-return balance: Unlike pure large cap funds, the mix of mid and small cap stocks can enhance growth potential. And unlike pure mid or small cap funds, the presence of large cap funds can mitigate the impact of volatility on the portfolio.

• Risk management: The fund’s flexibility allows it to reduce exposure to more volatile stocks when needed.

How to invest
You can invest in Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund through SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) or lumpsum, depending on your investment goals. You can invest directly through Bajaj Finserv AMC or through a registered mutual fund distributor or an aggregator.

The minimum investment amount for lumpsum is Rs. 500 and for SIP starting from Rs. 500 up to Rs. 1,000 with minimum 60 instalments and above Rs. 1,000 with minimum 6 instalments. You can take the help of tools such as a compounding calculator for planning and refining your investment approach.

To know more about the fund, visit www.bajajamc.com

Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund

An open ended equity scheme investing across large cap, mid cap, small cap stocks.

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

EDF India and NTPC Limited, a Maharatna company of India have signed a non-binding Term Sheet and collaborated to develop pumped storage project(s), potentially integrated with Renewable Energy projects.

NTPC and EDF India Announce Strategic Partnership to Develop Pump Storage Projects in India

Subsequent to the signing of the term sheet on 23rd February 2025, during Elecrama 2025, NTPC and EDF India propose to form a JVC with 50:50 Partnership after requisite approval from the Government of India.

This JVC will undertake such Project(s) on its own and / or may create JV and Subsidiaries (“Project SPV”) for undertaking such Project(s) within India. Considering their domain expertise and resources, both NTPC & EDF India are poised to contribute significantly to Indias renewable energy landscape, driving innovation and fostering environmental stewardship and will leverage its expertise for tailor made offers, drive the decarbonization and global performance of electrical systems.

About NTPC

NTPC is India’s largest integrated power company, dedicated to lighting every corner of the country and building a sustainable future for all. As a leader in the power sector NTPC is committed to generating efficient and affordable power, aiming to achieve 130 GW by 2032. Embrace a diverse fuel mix, integrating fossil fuels, gas, hydro, nuclear, and renewable sources to minimize carbon footprint.

About EDF

The EDF Group is a key player in the energy transition, as an integrated energy operator engaged in all aspects of the energy business: power generation, distribution, trading, energy sales and energy services. The Group is a world leader in low-carbon energy, with a low carbon output of 490TWh (1), and a diverse generation mix based mainly on nuclear and renewable energy (including hydropower). It is also investing in new technologies to support the energy transition. EDF’s raison d’etre is to build a net zero energy future with electricity and innovative solutions and services, to help save the planet and drive well-being and economic development. The Group supplies energy and services to approximately 41.5 million customers (2) and generated consolidated sales of €118.7 bn in 2024.

(1) See EDF’s 2023 URD sections 1.2.3, 1.3.2 and 3.1

(2) The customer portfolio consists of electricity, gas and recurring services contracts.

EDF India, in partnership with the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI), hosted a series of high-impact sessions and discussions at ‘Shaping the Future of Energy: EDF’s Strategic Vision for Power & Renewables’, held at the India Expo Mart, Greater Noida. The event focused on key industry themes, including innovations in pumped storage plants (PSP), smart grid policies, and supply chain resilience in renewable energy.

EDF Hosts Strategic Workshops and Launches Whitepaper on India’s PSP Market at ELECRAMA 2025

The Introductory Session on India’s Path to Sustainable Energy was graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Luc Remont, Chairman & CEO, EDF, and Mr. Mohammad Afzal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Power, Government of India, alongside senior industry leaders and policymakers. The session brought together key stakeholders to discuss collaborative opportunities for advancing India’s clean energy ambitions. Notable attendees included Mr. Debasish Nanda, Director – Business Development, CIL; Mr. TSC Bosh, CEO, REC PDCL; Dr. Manoj Kr. Jhawar, CMD (Addl Charge) & Director Commercial & Operations, PTC; Mr. Goutam Deb, RED Hydro & ED Projects, NTPC; and Mr. Mikel Klasson, Partner & Vice Chairman, Actis, along with senior government officials and CEOs from across the energy sector.

A major highlight of the event was the launch of EDF’s Whitepaper – Unlocking India’s PSP Market: Global Perspectives and Pathways, offering in-depth insights into the opportunities and challenges in India’s PSP sector. The whitepaper outlines global best practices and key policy recommendations to accelerate sustainable growth in the industry.

Reinforcing its commitment to India’s energy transition, EDF announced strategic partnerships with NTPC Limited, Coal India Limited, and Actis. These collaborations aim to advance smart metering solutions, hydropower projects, and renewable energy developments, aligning with EDF’s long-term vision for sustainable innovation in India’s power sector.

About EDF
The EDF Group is a key player in the energy transition, as an integrated energy operator engaged in all aspects of the energy business: power generation, distribution, trading, energy sales and energy services. The Group is a world leader in low-carbon energy, with a low carbon output of 490TWh (1), and a diverse generation mix based mainly on nuclear and renewable energy (including hydropower). It is also investing in new technologies to support the energy transition. EDF’s raison d’tre is to build a net zero energy future with electricity and innovative solutions and services, to help save the planet and drive well-being and economic development. The Group supplies energy and services to approximately 41.5 million customers (2) and generated consolidated sales of €118.7 bn in 2024.

(1) See EDF’s 2023 URD sections 1.2.3, 1.3.2 and 3.1
(2) The customer portfolio consists of electricity, gas and recurring services contracts.

EDF India and Coal India Limited, a Maharatna company of India, have signed a Term Sheet to establish a Joint Venture Company (JVC). This partnership aims to develop pumped storage project(s), potentially integrated with Renewable Energy projects.

Coal India Limited and EDF India Announce Partnership to Develop Pumped Storage Project in India

Following the signing of the Term Sheet, both companies will work towards the formation of a 50:50 Joint Venture Company. The proposed JV may undertake projects independently or through the establishment of joint ventures and subsidiaries (“Project SPVs”) for project execution within India and internationally.

Aligned with India’s ambitious clean energy goals, this collaboration represents a significant step toward advancing the country’s renewable energy sector, fostering innovation, and promoting environmental stewardship.

About CIL

Coal India Limited (CIL), classified as a Maharatna enterprise under the Ministry of Coal, Government of India, has its headquarters situated in Kolkata, West Bengal. It holds the title of the largest coal producer globally. Across eight Indian states, CIL operates in 84 mining areas, managing a total of 313 active mines, consisting of 131 underground, 168 opencast, and 14 mixed mines.

About EDF

The EDF Group is a key player in the energy transition, as an integrated energy operator engaged in all aspects of the energy business: power generation, distribution, trading, energy sales and energy services. The Group is a world leader in low-carbon energy, with a low carbon output of 490TWh (1), and a diverse generation mix based mainly on nuclear and renewable energy (including hydropower). It is also investing in new technologies to support the energy transition. EDF’s raison d’tre is to build a net zero energy future with electricity and innovative solutions and services, to help save the planet and drive well-being and economic development. The Group supplies energy and services to approximately 41.5 million customers (2) and generated consolidated sales of €118.7 bn in 2024.

(1) See EDF’s 2023 URD sections 1.2.3, 1.3.2 and 3.1

(2) The customer portfolio consists of electricity, gas and recurring services contracts

EDF India today announced a strategic joint venture (JV) with Actis, a leading global investor in sustainable infrastructure. This collaboration aims to operate a dedicated platform company for Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Provider (AMISP) concessions, reinforcing EDF India’s and Actis’s commitment to investing in the Indian power sector. Under this joint venture, EDF India and Actis will bring together their global expertise in energy solutions and infrastructure investments.

EDF India and Actis announce strategic partnership to develop advanced metering infrastructure in India

The Indian government is actively driving the National Smart Metering Project under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). These advanced metering solutions are designed to enhance operational efficiencies, reduce aggregate technical and commercial losses, and bolster the financial sustainability of India’s power distribution companies (DISCOMs).

Commenting on the joint venture, Federico D’Amico, CEO of EDF India, stated, “We are excited to join hands with Actis to accelerate the deployment of smart metering infrastructure in India. This partnership underscores our commitment to supporting India’s energy transition by leveraging our global expertise and innovation in digital grid technologies.”

Asanka Rodrigo, Partner at Actis, added, “This collaboration marks a significant step in our continued commitment to India’s power sector. Smart metering is a critical component in ensuring efficient energy consumption, reducing losses, and improving billing accuracy for consumers. We look forward to working with EDF, a leader in the sector globally, to scale our joint venture in India.”

The joint venture between EDF India and Actis aligns with India’s broader vision of achieving a more resilient and efficient power distribution network. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, data analytics, and global best practices, the initiative aims to drive a transformative impact on the country’s power sector, benefiting both utilities and consumers alike.

About Actis

Actis is a leading global investor in sustainable infrastructure, seeking to deliver measurable positive impact for the countries, cities and communities in which it operates. Actis invests in structural themes that aim to support long-term, equitable growth in defensive, critical infrastructure across energy transition, digitalisation transition, and supply chain transformation.Actis believes that the firm’s decades of global experience, operational know-how and strong culture allow it to create global sustainability leaders at scale. Actis is a signatory to the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), an investor initiative supported by the United Nations.

About EDF

The EDF Group is a key player in the energy transition, as an integrated energy operator engaged in all aspects of the energy business: power generation, distribution, trading, energy sales and energy services. The Group is a world leader in low-carbon energy, with a low carbon output of 490TWh (1), and a diverse generation mix based mainly on nuclear and renewable energy (including hydropower). It is also investing in new technologies to support the energy transition. EDF’s raison d’tre is to build a net zero energy future with electricity and innovative solutions and services, to help save the planet and drive well-being and economic development. The Group supplies energy and services to approximately 41.5 million customers (2) and generated consolidated sales of €118.7 bn in 2024.

(1) See EDF’s 2023 URD sections 1.2.3, 1.3.2 and 3.1
(2) The customer portfolio consists of electricity, gas and recurring services contracts.

Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited (KNPL), one of Indias leading paint companies, has an ongoing initiative at the Maha Kumbh Mela, blending tradition with innovation to empower local vendors. Understanding the challenges faced by small business owners and street vendors, Kansai Nerolac is giving out storefronts inspired by the vibrant hues of Nerolac colours. These storefronts not only help the vendors stand out amidst the bustling crowds and transform their space but also protects them and their merchandise.

Kansai Nerolac Empowers Local Vendors at Maha Kumbh Mela with a Vibrant Identity

As the world’s largest religious gathering, Maha Kumbh attracts millions of visitors and pilgrims. Given its grandeur, small vendors find it difficult to make their presence known. Kansai Nerolac’s initiative provides vendors with shade card-inspired storefronts, that allow them to personalise their shops with colours that best reflect their services. Adaptable to various business needs, they transform into overhead canopies and are being used for multiple small businesses. These storefronts offer shelving, menu boards, signage, and product displays, ensuring each vendor enjoys a distinct and unmistakable presence. Each shopfront also features the selected Nerolac shade name and number, while seamlessly integrating business utility with aesthetic enhancement.

Kansai Nerolac Empowers Local Vendors at Maha Kumbh Mela with a Vibrant Identity

Made with DIY corrugated sheets and transparent acrylic boards, the structures are easy to set up and tailored as per individual vendor needs, ensuring both convenience and durability. For example, display racks for tea vendors or fold-out menu cards for food stalls.

Commenting on the initiative, a company spokesperson said, “At Kansai Nerolac, we believe that colours are more than just aesthetics. They tell stories, create identity, and enhance experiences. By bringing this concept to Maha Kumbh, we aim to uplift vendors who form the heart of this cultural gathering, while demonstrating the impact of colour in real-world applications.“

“This innovative initiative reflects our commitment to providing community-driven solutions. By empowering vendors with customised storefronts, we want to contribute to the livelihoods of small business owners and vendors, ensuring they have a better space to sell their wares and thrive in a competitive environment,” he added.

On the initiative, Gour Gupta, MD and Chairman of Tribes Communication said, “OOH innovations create the greatest impact when they move beyond advertising to solve real-world challenges. ‘Dukaan It Yourself’ is a powerful testament to this, empowering small vendors to thrive amidst the overwhelming scale of Maha Kumbh. By seamlessly blending creativity with utility, this initiative amplifies Nerolac’s presence in a meaningful way. It’s a win-win-uplifting communities, elevating brands, and proving that OOH, combined with retail, can be a true force for change.”

Watch how Kansai Nerolac is transforming vendor spaces at Maha Kumbh here: Dukan It Yourself | Kansai Nerolac at Mahakumbh.

With this initiative, Kansai Nerolac once again sets a benchmark by making a meaningful impact, offering vendors a vibrant and functional option.

About Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited

Kansai Nerolac Paints now in its 104th year has been at the forefront of paint manufacturing pioneering a wide spectrum of quality paints. Kansai Nerolac is one of the leading paint companies in India and is the leader in Industrial paints. The company has eight strategically located manufacturing units all over India and a strong dealer network across the country. The company manufactures a diversified range of products ranging from decorative paints coatings for homes, offices, hospitals, and hotels to sophisticated industrial coatings for most of the industries. Please visit www.nerolac.com.