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Shriram Life Insurance Partners with ESAF Small Finance Bank to Serve Underserved Markets

Shriram Life Insurance Company (SLIC) has partnered with ESAF Small Finance Bank to expand the reach of life insurance products to the underserved segments across India. As part of the partnership, ESAF Bank will act as a corporate agent for Shriram Life, distributing its insurance offerings through ESAF’s branch network. The partnership focuses on reaching first-time insurance buyers, low-income families, and rural households.

(On the Left) K. Paul Thomas, MD and CEO, ESAF Small Finance Bank and (on the right) Casparus J.H. Kromhout, MD and CEO, Shriram Life Insurance

ESAF Small Finance Bank received its banking licence from the Reserve Bank of India in November 2016 and started operations on March 10, 2017. As of June 30, 2025, it operates 788 branches, 713 ATMs, and 1,095 customer service centres across 24 states and two Union Territories, serving a customer base of over 5.6 million with socially responsible banking solutions.

“At Shriram Life, our mission has always been to serve the underserved by making insurance simple, affordable, and truly within reach. We believe protection should not be a privilege, but a basic financial right for every Indian household-no matter where they live or what they earn. That’s why this partnership matters. With ESAF’s strong local presence and our shared commitment, together we can help fulfill the vision of ‘Insurance for All‘,” said Casparus J.H. Kromhout, MD and CEO, Shriram Life Insurance.

“This partnership strengthens our mission of serving the underserved by providing essential insurance solutions that promote financial security and resilience. Together, we’re committed to building a more inclusive and empowered future for our communities,” said K. Paul Thomas, MD and CEO, ESAF Small Finance Bank.

This partnership supports both companies’ efforts to promote financial inclusion by offering simple, relevant, and accessible protection to those who need it most.

About Shriram Life Insurance Company
Shriram Life Insurance is committed to serving the underserved and unserved segments of India, focusing on families that truly need financial protection. With a network of 478 branches across the country, the company offers a range of affordable products including term, endowment, ULIPs, and annuities-tailored for rural and urban middle-class customers. Shriram Life maintains an average individual policy size of Rs. 25,346 and a non-single premium ticket size of Rs. 24,112, significantly below the industry average. With over 14.4 lakh in-force policyholders and Rs. 13,207 crore in Assets Under Management, the company continues to drive financial inclusion by addressing the real needs of households earning Rs. 4-15 lakh annually, despite the inherent challenges in this segment.

About ESAF
ESAF Small Finance Bank, which commenced operations in 2017, is dedicated to advancing social and financial inclusion in India. Staying true to its mission of serving the underserved and unserved, the Bank empowers women, micro-entrepreneurs, and rural communities through a community-centric approach that blends technology with deep local insights. ESAF’s banking model is guided by the principles of People, Planet, and Prosperity, reflecting its commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development. A share of the Bank’s profits is reinvested into social initiatives that create meaningful impact across its areas of operation.

Backed by a 33-year legacy rooted in its beginnings as a mission-driven NGO founded in 1992, ESAF has grown into a trusted banking partner for millions, fostering financial independence and resilience at the grassroots level.

Eton Solutions Announces Strategic Partnership with Asas Capital to Launch ‘Family Office as a Service’ in the Middle East

  • Eton Solutions will be the exclusive technology partner for Asas Capital’s newly licensed Multi-Family Office in Saudi Arabia.

  • Asas Capital will leverage Eton’s Administrative Family Office (AFO) platform, powered by AtlasFive to deliver wealth management solutions for UHNWIs and HNW families across the Middle East.

  • This partnership marks a significant milestone as Asas Capital aims to become the first player in the region to offer a comprehensive “Family Office as a Service” model.

Eton Solutions, a global leader in WealthTech solutions, today announced an exclusive partnership with Asas Capital, a prominent multi-family office with a strong presence in the UAE and newly licensed operations in Saudi Arabia. This collaboration will launch the Middle East’s first “Family Office as a Service” platform, combining Asas Capital’s regional expertise with Eton’s cutting-edge ERP technology to transform wealth management for ultra-high net worth (UHNW) and high net worth (HNW) families.

Mr. Satyen Patel, Executive Chairman, Eton Solutions & Mr. Himanshu Khandelwal, CEO, Asas Capital

Asas Capital, headquartered in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and licensed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), brings over 15 years of investment advisory expertise in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). With a strong track record in private equity, pre-IPO investments, asset management, and corporate advisory, Asas Capital is now leveraging its deep regional networks and market intelligence to pioneer a transformative “Family Office as a Service” model in the Middle East. This offering aims to meet the evolving needs of Ultra and High Net Worth families by combining institutional-grade financial solutions with bespoke advisory services. Anchored in ethics, transparency, and stakeholder-first values, Asas Capital is set to redefine the family office landscape in Saudi Arabia-one of the world’s fastest-growing private wealth markets. Their focus on late-stage, technology-enabled investments and commitment to innovation further strengthens their ability to offer integrated, high-performing wealth solutions across the region.

The Middle East, home to some of the world’s most dynamic UHNW markets, presents a significant opportunity for innovation in family office services. With this partnership, Eton Solutions reinforces its commitment to global expansion, adding Saudi Arabia to its roster of international markets like the UK, Switzerland, UAE, India, Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Taiwan, Australia and New Zealand. The company’s AtlasFive platform currently manages over $1 trillion for 800 families worldwide, processing 14.2 million transactions annually.

Satyen Patel, Executive Chairman of Eton Solutions, said, “The Middle East represents a cornerstone of Eton’s global strategy, and our alliance with Asas Capital accelerates our shared vision of family office innovation. With Eton, clients gain real time insights into portfolio performance, automated compliance, and scenario modeling-all while retaining absolute data security. Together, we’re not just keeping pace with the region’s growth; we’re helping to define its future.”

Commenting on the partnership, Himanshu Khandelwal, CEO, Asas Capital said, “Eton’s partnership with Asas sets a new gold standard for family office services in the Gulf. A disciplined governance model is essential for transitioning a family’s legacy into a resilient and sustainable future. Asas, having its roots as a family office, brings deep insight into the unique needs of families looking to structure, consolidate, and manage generational wealth. By integrating Eton’s globally trusted platform, we are now able to streamline family wealth with unprecedented precision and transparency, placing intelligent technology at the core of our client relationships. Together, we’re not just managing wealth-we’re engineering a smarter, more secure future for the Gulf’s most accomplished families.”

About Eton Solutions

Eton Solutions is an ERP software and services company founded to handle the complexities of servicing family offices and private equity firms globally. The company is based in the United States, in Research Triangle Park, NC. with its international headquarters in Singapore focused on serving markets outside of the Americas. We offer two flagship products, AtlasFive and EtonAI™, that together manage $1 trillion on our integrated platform. Created by family office leaders, AtlasFive holistically aggregates and manages all liquid and alternative investment assets alongside data, reporting, and workflow processes, while EtonAI™ brings advanced AI driven insights and automation to every aspect of your operations. With a single source of truth, Eton Solutions propels family offices and PE firms into the future by maximizing efficiency, minimizing errors and risk, and have sustained a CAGR of over 100% since our inception. Visit: www.eton-solutions.com

Coming Soon: The 38th IMC Ladies’ Wing Women Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition

The wait is nearly over! The IMC Ladies’ Wing proudly announces the 38th edition of its iconic Women Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition, to be held on August 10 and 11, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai.

Committee members and dignitaries of IMC Ladies Wing

In the picture, seated left to right are Nayantara Jain (Past President), Juveca Panda Chheda (Co-Chairperson), Anita Chouhan (Vice President), Rajyalakshmi Rao (President), Kalpana Shah (Chairperson), Kalpana Singhania and Radhika Nath (Past Presidents). Standing: Zarine Sanjana (Deputy Director), Members – Aarti Sanghvi, Sheetal Bajaj, Chandni Kumar Mehra, Vasudha Jatia Mehra, Ayushi Gupta Mehra, Radhika Kaji, Rekha Jhunjhunwala, Dheeya Somaiya, Nidhi Negandhi, Rishika Shrishrimal and Sravanya Rao Pittie and Mithila Akre (Joint Director)

A trailblazer in championing women-led enterprise since 1987, this year’s edition promises to be the most vibrant yet – bringing together over 280 women entrepreneurs from 31 cities across India. From timeless crafts to modern design, this festive-season showcase will offer a finely curated mix of fashion, lifestyle, craft, cuisine, and sustainable innovation.

A glorious celebration of innovation, heritage and women-led enterprise

A marquee feature of 2025 is the debut of an international pavilion spotlighting women entrepreneurs from across the globe curated by Afra World, many showcasing in India for the first time. This infusion of global talent beautifully complements the exhibition’s strong foundation in Indian heritage.

Celebrating our roots, the exhibition will highlight the work of master artisans and traditional weavers from remote regions, alongside handcrafted offerings from NGOs based in Siliguri, Ganeshpuri (Palghar), Sujangarh, and Shekhawati – preserving time-honoured techniques with purpose and pride.

“Our exhibition reflects the unstoppable momentum of women-led businesses in India,” says Rajyalakshmi Rao, President, IMC Ladies’ Wing. “It is a vibrant tapestry of talent, vision, and determination – and we are proud to provide a platform that amplifies these voices and fuels their journey.”

“Sustainability is a central theme this year, with a strong presence of vegan and eco-conscious brands, eco-printed textiles, and event dcor that prioritizes recycling and responsible waste management,” shares Juveca Panda Chheda, Co-Chairperson of the Exhibition Committee.

The culinary section adds another layer of richness – featuring regional and seasonal delicacies, including specialties from Himachal Pradesh and beyond, offering a taste of India’s diverse food heritage.

This year’s aesthetic inspiration is drawn from the legendary artist Raja Ravi Varma, whose evocative portrayals of Indian womanhood resonate deeply with the spirit of today’s entrepreneurs – expressive, empowered, and visionary.

Organised by the IMC Ladies’ Wing, a pioneer in supporting women in business since 1966, the Women Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition has grown into one of India’s most respected platforms for women-led ventures.

“This isn’t just a shopping destination – it’s a celebration of dreams, resilience, and impact,” says Kalpana Shah, Chairperson of the Exhibition Committee. “As we mark 38 years, we honour the collective strength, creativity, and sisterhood that continue to define this journey.”

Save the date: August 10 & 11, 2025. The 38th IMC Women Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition is not just an event – it’s a movement. Join us.

Venkateswara Nursing College Clinches Zonal Championship at 31st Tamil Nadu SNAI Biennial Conference, Secures Spot in State-Level Competition

The Student Nurses Association of Indias 31st State Biennial Conference was held at Venkateswara Nursing College, Thalambur, Chennai, on Friday, 18th July 2025. The event was organized by the Trained Nurses Association of India (TNAI), Tamil Nadu State Branch, under the theme “Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow: The Journey of a Nursing Student.” It brought together 444 student nurses from 21 nursing colleges across Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and Thiruvallur districts, who competed in a vibrant lineup of fifteen events.

Venkateswara Nursing College Clinches Zonal Championship at 31st Tamil Nadu SNAI Biennial Conference, Secures Spot in State-Level Competition

The day began with registration at 8:00 a.m., followed by the inaugural ceremony at 9:00 a.m., which included the traditional lighting of the lamp by the Facilitator, Principal, Vice-Principal of Venkateswara Nursing College, Thalambur, SNA Advisor, and the Student SNA Representative. Dr. (Mrs.) Ciby Jose, Principal of Venkateswara Nursing College, welcomed the gathering and encouraged students to participate with enthusiasm and sportsmanship. This was followed by a motivating address by Dr. Anitha Rajendra Babu, Chairperson of the Membership Committee, TNAI-TN Branch, who highlighted TNAI’s initiatives to nurture leadership, teamwork, and holistic development among student nurses. Event guidelines were explained by Mrs. Priscilla Premkumari, the SNA Advisor.

The competitions which included face painting, vegetable carving, hair styling, mehendi, comedy performance, mono acting, extempore speech, essay writing, pencil sketching, poster making, floor decoration (rangoli), on-the-spot painting, group dance, solo singing, and the Best SNA Unit contest were conducted simultaneously across various venues from 10:00 a.m. onwards. Each event was evaluated by two external experts from the respective fields, ensuring fair and unbiased judgment.

Winners of individual and group events were honored by the Facilitator, Principal, and Vice-Principal of Venkateswara Nursing College. Venkateswara Nursing College emerged as the overall champion, securing the highest accolades in the The valedictory session. Venkateswara Nursing College Thalambur will now represent Zone-2 at the State-Level Competitions scheduled to be held from 13th to 15th August 2025. Bon Secours College of Nursing, Kancheepuram, secured second place, while GRT College of Nursing, Tiruttani, took third place.

Two student volunteers from different colleges shared their feedback, appreciating the expert judgment that ensured fair recognition of talent, the timely and efficient execution of the events, and the warm hospitality extended by Venkateswara Nursing College, Thalambur.

Masala King Dr.Dhananjay Datar Gifts Oxygen Kits to Patients of Pulmonary Diseases in Mumbai

The fatal COVID pandemic taught unforgettable lessons to the human race. Nowadays, it has become imperative to monitor a person’s body temperature, blood pressure, blood sugar, heartbeat and more importantly the O2 (Oxygen) level to check their health regularly. Timely supply of oxygen to patients suffering from pulmonary diseases is becoming vital. Thus, the world is realising the value of one breath.

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Masala King Dr. Dhananjay Datar donated oxygen kits to the Pratibha Prabhakar Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center, Goregaon, on July 19, 2025, in the presence of its founders

Pratibha Prabhakar Pulmonary Rehabilitation Centre recently arranged an event in Goregaon to highlight the importance of healthy lifestyle and pure air for the patients of pulmonary diseases. Masala King Dhananjay Datar, a philanthropist and an ardent supporter of social welfare projects, attended the program and donated oxygen kits to 6 such patients who regularly need oxygen but can’t afford the expenses. Each kit included an oxygen concentrator of 5 to 10 kg capacity to supply oxygen at home, a portable oxygen machine to supply oxygen for a few hours in travel or outside home and a Pulse Oximeter to check the oxygen saturation level in blood. Dhananjay Datar had given 8 such kits last year also.

Dr. Dhananjay Datar said, “My mother, in her last days, suffered from a pulmonary ailment and couldn’t draw breath properly. I couldn’t bear her pain and struggle. Even today, I feel restless when I see such patients who are in dire need of oxygen, but can’t afford an oxygen supply instrument. During the COVID pandemic, many patients died without timely oxygen provision and some could not even reach the hospital in time due to unavailability of ambulance. We, therefore, financially supported a unique drive called ‘Rickshaw Ambulance’ where an auto-rickshaw can be equipped with an oxygen cylinder and can be utilised as an ambulance. Last year’s donation was a small token of our help and this year, we continued it. We will endeavour to help many more such patients in future.”

The program was co-ordinated by Dr. Poorvi Devani, who has a prolonged experience in treatment and rehabilitation of patients of pulmonary diseases. She said that the patients of pulmonary diseases could live a normal and healthy life with positive thinking, correct treatment, discipline and regular exercise, along with counselling and rehabilitation.

Dr. Prahlad Prabhudesai and his wife Mrs. Vaishali Prabhudesai, the founders of Pratibha Prabhakar Pulmonary Rehabilitation Centre, acquainted the audience with the activities and social work of the centre. Dr. Prabhudesai said, “It is important to live a healthy life and for that everyone should understand the necessity of maintaining health, adopting right lifestyle and realising the value of a breath.”

Thuldrun.Sunya Blends Ancient Indian Mythology with Modern Science, Debuts at #1 Bestseller in the Urban Fantasy Category

Thuldrun.Sunya debuted at #1 in Hot New Releases and Bestsellers in Urban Fantasy. Co-authored by qualitative researcher Sheetal Choksi and technologist Samiran Ghosh (two-thirds of the award-winning 3 Techies Banter podcast), this groundbreaking novel redefines young adult fiction.

Whats in a title

It started with Thorium-element 90. A silvery metal with nuclear potential along Indias southern coast. Safer, cleaner, often forgotten. Then came the wild idea: what if an ancient Indian civilisation had already cracked nuclear power generation What if they encoded it in Sanskrit as “Tula-Drona”-the balance of Dronacharyas advanced knowledge from the Mahabharata

3,000-year-old ancient Indian tech meets modern conspiracy against the backdrop of Mumbai in this bestselling urban fantasy thriller

And the zero While most techies would have slapped a 1.0 at the end and been satisfied, they got philosophical. India did not just give the world zero; it gave śūnyā. Not merely a numerical placeholder, but a cosmic void encompassing emptiness and infinite potential. Zero is just a number, whereas śūnyā encompasses emptiness and a state of non-being, often linked to spiritual concepts such as emptiness and the potential for all things to be.

The Story

Set in Mumbai, the novel follows teenager Ansh Chatterjee (Teen. Conspiracy nerd. Maggi addict) who accidentally uncovers a secret challenging historical narratives and pitting him against a 3,000-year-old destructive force.

Picture Thuldrun: cities humming with thorium cores, equations dancing in Sanskrit across holographic walls. A civilisation powered by science, not sorcery – peaceful, powerful, possibly interstellar. A rebellion against limiting ancient humans to just hunters and gatherers.

So, the next time youre in Dadar – pause – look down. Those pavement cracks Perhaps not civic negligence but fractures in spacetime, remnants of something the universe tried to erase.

The Creators Speak

“The past doesnt need resurrection – it needed translation. We explore the intersection where India’s pracheen wisdom meets modern technological possibility,” says Samiran Ghosh.

Sheetal Choksi adds, “Podcasts are just books waiting to happen. We turned our mythology-versus-science debates into literary jazz.”

Reader Praise

“The city isnt just a setting-its a living, breathing character.”

” You can picture the streets, the people, the energy of the city. It’s a fresh take with a gripping plot that doesn’t feel overdone or clichd.”

“Thrilling mix of tech/sci-fi and mythology set in the heart of Mumbai, and so much more (including a chapter from a dog’s perspective)”

Is this the first of many See that infinity symbol Thats your clue.

Get Your Copy

Available in hardcover and Kindle on Amazon.in and internationally via Amazon the US, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, and the UK. Grab whatever legal stimulant keeps your neurons firing and get comfortable. A reality-bending ride awaits.

Follow the book on Instagram @bookofthuldrun.

KredX’s DTX Platform and Canara Bank Partner to Supercharge Digital Trade Finance for Indian Businesses

KredX, India’s leading integrated cash flow and supply chain finance platform, today announced a strategic partnership with Canara Bank, one of Indias prominent public sector banks. This collaboration aims to significantly broaden the reach of digital trade receivable discounting through KredX’s RBI-licensed TReDS platform, Domestic Trade Exchange (DTX), with a specific focus on driving deeper financial inclusion for businesses across the country. The partnership reinforces KredX’s long-standing commitment to enhancing financial inclusivity across the supply chain ecosystem. Over the past decade, KredX has played a pivotal role in integrating both MSMEs and large enterprises into formal financial networks. The DTX platform helps address systemic challenges such as delayed payments, high borrowing costs, and collateral-heavy financing, particularly for service providers, by enabling faster, more affordable, and collateral-free access to working capital.

Canara Banks participation on the KredX DTX platform marks a pivotal step towards building a more robust, accessible, and inclusive supply chain finance ecosystem. As one of the oldest and largest public sector banks in India, Canara Bank brings a strong public sector presence and legacy to the partnership, with a robust network of branches across the country. By combining Canara Bank’s extensive reach and deep understanding of diverse business needs with KredX’s cutting-edge, technology-first infrastructure, this partnership will substantially enhance working capital access for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across all sectors and scales. This aligns seamlessly with the governments vision of increasing financial inclusion for businesses, empowering a wider array of enterprises to thrive.

Manish Kumar, Founder and CEO, KredX, stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Canara Bank as a financing partner on KredX’s technology-first TReDS platform, DTX. Canara Bank’s extensive presence, deep-rooted customer focus, commitment to financial inclusion, and increasingly, its embrace of digital innovation and diversification of services, make it an invaluable addition to our expanding ecosystem. This partnership is a significant step towards digitisation and democratising trade finance, enabling enterprise buyers and MSME partners to access crucial working capital, with Canara Banks increased funding capacity driving nationwide financial inclusion.”

KredX’s DTX platform, approved under the RBI’s TReDS framework, offers a digital-first solution for end-to-end trade finance. Connected to 50+ financiers and designed to enable bidding on trade receivables, DTX provides businesses with access to the lowest cost of finance, an intuitive user experience, and seamless execution. DTX also enables suppliers to access working capital instantly, while allowing buyers to optimise cash flows and build more resilient supply chains. By integrating intelligent automation, real-time processing, and intuitive workflows, DTX ensures a frictionless experience for buyers, sellers, and financiers alike. The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s mandate for companies with a turnover exceeding Rs. 250 crore to onboard TReDS and integrate with the GSTN, promoting digital financing and regulatory compliance. This also supports KredX’s goal of achieving Rs. 15,000 crore in disbursals and empowering 15000 MSMEs by the end of this fiscal year.

As India’s leading integrated supply chain finance provider, KredX offers a comprehensive suite of solutions including early payments, accounts payable and receivable financing, and cash flow automation. These capabilities empower businesses to unlock working capital, drive operational efficiency, and maintain compliance across processes. KredX continues to expand its partner network of banks, NBFCs, and financial institutions to strengthen India’s digital supply chain infrastructure and improve access to capital across the ecosystem. In a significant move to further this mission, KredX is also engaging with State Governments to support MSMEs by raising awareness around TReDS and providing TReDS onboarding assistance. This strategic engagement will revolutionize MSME onboarding, reduce friction, improve data accuracy, and enable KredX to provide more tailored solutions to a wider base of MSMEs nationwide.

About KredX

KredX is India’s leading integrated supply chain finance platform, and among the very few entities licensed by both the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). With this dual regulatory backing, KredX offers end-to-end working capital solutions across both domestic (TReDS) and cross-border (global factoring) transactions, serving MSME suppliers as well as large corporate anchors. Being a pioneer in supply chain financing for a decade, KredX has been enabling businesses to unlock working capital and optimise cash flows through a full stack of digital finance solutions for modern supply chains. With platforms like DTX (Domestic Trade Exchange), GTX (Global Trade Exchange), and CMS (AI-powered Cash Management Solutions). Backed by marquee investors including Tiger Global, Sequoia Capital India, and Prime Venture Partners, KredX is at the forefront of building future-ready, tech-led financial infrastructure for B2B supply chain ecosystems.

To know more, visit KredX’s Domestic Trade Exchange (DTX) site: www.dtxindia.in

About Canara Bank

Widely known for customer-centricity, Canara Bank was founded by Shri Ammembal Subba Rao Pai, a great visionary and philanthropist, in July 1906, at Mangalore, then a small port town in Karnataka. The Bank has gone through the various phases of its growth trajectory over a hundred years of existence. Growth of Canara Bank was phenomenal, especially after nationalisation in the year 1969, attaining the status of a national-level player in terms of geographical reach and clientele segments. The Bank diversified its business operations throughout the 1980s. A significant achievement came in June 2006, when it celebrated 100 years of service within the Indian banking industry. Several memorable milestones have characterised the eventful journey of the Bank. Currently, Canara Bank is a leading institution among Indian banks. Over the years, the Bank has been scaling up its market position to emerge as a major Financial Conglomerate with as many as thirteen subsidiaries/sponsored institutions in India and abroad. As of September 2023, Canara Bank services over 11.19 crore customers through a network of 9,518 branches and 12,118 ATMs/Recyclers spread across all Indian states and Union Territories.

Looking forward, not behind: How Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund seeks out tomorrow’s potential winners

When people think about investing, they often turn to companies that are already large and well-known. But long-term potential doesn’t come only from past leaders. As broad structural changes-known as megatrends-reshape economies and industries, new kinds of opportunities are beginning to emerge.

Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund follows a megatrends investing approach

The Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund takes a future-focused approach by identifying businesses aligned with these evolving themes. These could include established companies that continue to adapt, or newer ones building their growth on emerging shifts. The aim is to stay aligned with tomorrow’s direction, not just yesterday’s winners.

Future focused

Stock indices usually reflect companies that have already done well in the past. These businesses have grown enough to be included in benchmarks, but a big part of their early growth is already behind them.

On the other hand, companies that are still building their base, especially in areas driven by long-term changes, may offer more room to grow. The tricky part is identifying them early-when they’re still outside the spotlight but showing signs of future strength.

The role of megatrends

So, how do you find these kinds of companies One way is to track what are called megatrends-big, slow-moving changes that are shaping the world. These aren’t short-term fads. They are deep, structural shifts that affect how people live, what they consume, and how businesses operate.

The Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund focuses on six such megatrends that have the potential to shape India’s growth trajectory:

  • Technology: Digital transformation, automation, and AI are changing how we work and live.

  • Policy and regulation: Initiatives aimed at building local manufacturing or boosting clean energy are opening new business opportunities.

  • Economic changes: Growth in financial services, formalisation of the economy, and rising infrastructure investment are creating ripple effects across sectors.

  • Environment: The move towards sustainability is increasing demand for renewable energy, eco-friendly packaging, and green products.

  • Demographics: India’s young and growing population is driving demand in healthcare, housing, and consumer goods.

  • Social preferences: Health, wellness, convenience, and digital connectivity are shaping how people spend and what they value.

These megatrends are not tied to just one sector. They cut across industries and can create space for new kinds of businesses to emerge and grow.

What Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund seeks to do

The Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund keeps these long-term shifts in mind while building its portfolio. Instead of focusing only on established companies, the fund also looks for businesses that could lead the charge tomorrow.

Because it’s a flexi cap fund, it can invest across large cap, mid cap, and small cap stocks. This gives it the flexibility to explore opportunities wherever they may lie-whether in a well-known company or a lesser-known business.

The fund also considers important factors like how well a company manages its finances, how scalable its business is, and whether its valuation seems reasonable for the risk involved.

Looking ahead, not just at what’s worked before

Markets change, and so do companies. What worked well in the last decade may not lead the next one. That’s why having an investment approach that stays open to change-rather than just following what’s already trending-can make a over the long term.

Of course, there’s no guaranteed outcome, and all investing comes with risk. But by looking at where the world is heading-and not just where it’s been-it may be possible to spot new opportunities earlier.

Funds like Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund are designed to bring some of that future-facing thinking into investing. Those who are comfortable with the risks of equity markets and want to explore long-term themes can consider this kind of approach as part of a diversified portfolio.

To find out more about the Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund or to invest, visit www.bajajamc.com. On the website, you will also find free online calculators such as a lumpsum, SIP and CAGR calculator.

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.

Greenstorm Unveils Winning Images Celebrating Beautiful Wetlands

The winners of the 16th Greenstorm Global Photography Festival were announced today at a virtual ceremony that brought together leading environmental voices, visual storytellers and an international audience.

The Grand Prize-winning photograph by Mr. Steven Triet from Vietnam revealing the golden rice terraces of Lao Chai, Mu Cang Chai

Themed ‘Beautiful Wetlands‘, the festival, which is now in its 16th year, attracted 11,835 entries from 155 countries. The Grand Prize of USD $10,000 was awarded to Steven Triet from Vietnam. Hanifi Ko (Turkey), Aref Tahmasebi (UAE) and Pepe Manzanilla (Costa Rica) received Special Jury Mentions, each carrying a prize of USD $1,000.

Dr Muralee Thummarukudy, Director of the (G20 GLI) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) announced the Festival’s winners.

G20 Global Land Initiative sponsored the festival for the second year running. It is using photography to both shine a light on the loss of terrestrial ecosystems and inspire actions all over the world to keep wetlands healthy in a bid to reach its ambition of reducing degraded land by 50 percent by 2040.

Dr Musonda Mumba, Secretary General of the Convention on Wetlands, and Chief Guest at the event, said, “Wetlands are our planet’s natural infrastructure. They store carbon, clean water, protect us from floods and droughts, and sustain life in all its forms. But they are being degraded and destroyed faster than any other ecosystem.“

“The Global Wetland Outlook 2025 shows the consequences of this loss and the solutions already working around the world. COP15 in Victoria Falls next week is our moment to change course-through global commitment, national action and local innovation,” Dr Musonda Mumba added while speaking at the ceremony.

According to the 2025 Global Wetland Outlook, released last week, wetlands are disappearing at a faster rate than any other ecosystem. About one-fifth of the world’s remaining wetlands are expected to vanish by 2050 without urgent action. The loss is valued at USD 39 trillion in benefits that support people, economies, and nature.

Some of the winning photos will be on display from 23-30 July 2025 at the 15th meeting of the Contracting Parties of the Convention on Wetlands taking place at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

Nature conservation through an artistic lens

The winning pictures, from the lush paddy fields in Vietnam to flamingoes in a lagoon in Tunisia, offer a breathtaking glimpse into the beauty and ecological diversity of the world’s wetlands.

From serene water bodies reflecting vibrant skies to the quiet resilience of marshland life, each photograph tells a story of balance, survival and the urgent need for conservation.

The winners were selected through a two-tier jury process. The first-level jury included Alex Wides (Italy), Anilkumar (India), Dilek Yurdakul (Turkey), Jaclyn Bringuez (USA), Sahar Al-Zarei (UAE) and Thomas Onyango (Uganda).

The Global Jury curated the finalists and selected the winners. Renowned photographers Charlie Waite (UK), Latika Nath (India), and Nick Hall (USA) made up the Jury.

They observed that this year’s entries covered a remarkable spread of subjects and pushed the boundaries, offering a clever, unusual and deeply human way of seeing wetlands.

They stressed that in a world increasingly shaped by artificial images, photographs grounded in nature give us hope and reconnect us. What’s more, they remind us that even while we’re caught up in our routines, nature is still out there, shapeshifting under sun, wind and tide.

“For 16 years, the Greenstorm Festival has harnessed the power of visual storytelling to ignite a passion for nature conservation among young people worldwide. These evocative images not only showcase nature’s beauty but drive meaningful behaviour change, inspiring the next generation to protect and restore our planet’s vital ecosystems,” said Mr Dileep Narayanan, Founder and Managing Trustee of Greenstorm Foundation.

Narayanan started the festival 16 years ago to raise awareness about the earth’s fragile ecosystems. Greenstorm Foundation runs the annual global photography festival, and is based in Kochi, India.

About Greenstorm Foundation

Greenstorm Foundation is a global creative conservancy committed to inspiring an attitudinal shift among youth toward environmental conservation through the power of creativity. Its flagship initiative, the Greenstorm Photo Festival, has engaged over 12 million young minds across more than 150 countries.

Founded in 2009 in Kerala, India, as a CSR initiative of Organic BPS, a purpose-driven brand consultancy, the Greenstorm has grown into one of the world’s largest youth-led environmental photography movements.

In 2023, Greenstorm joined hands with the G20 Global Land Initiative of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), further amplifying its global impact. A registered not-for-profit public trust in India, the Foundation is led by trustees Anil K Menon, Dileep Narayanan, and George Korah. Over the years, Greenstorm has earned numerous national and international accolades, including the prestigious IAA Olive Crown Award for excellence in green communication.

About UNCCD-G20 Global Land Initiative

The Initiative was set up by G20 Countries in 2020, during the Saudi Arabia Presidency. It supports member and non-member countries and organizations to avoid, reduce and reverse land degradation globally, in all ecosystems. The G20’s ambition is to reduce degraded land globally by 50 per cent by 2040. This includes supporting the international community to achieve its global commitments of restoring, by 2030, one billion hectares of degraded land, an area about the size of the United States.

BookMyForex Targets Study Abroad Market with Biggest-Ever Cashback on Student Forex Services

  • Double Crazy Sale – Student Edition Offers Rs.20,000+ Cashback on Forex Cards & Tuition Fee Transfers

  • Exclusive Referral Rewards and Lowest Rate Guarantee to Make Study-Abroad Expenses More Affordable

  • BookMyForex Aims to Double Its Student User Base with Student-Centric Forex Cards & Same-Day Money Transfers

With thousands of Indian students preparing to begin their academic journey abroad, BookMyForex (a MakeMyTrip Group entity)-India’s largest online foreign exchange marketplace-has launched the “Double Crazy Sale – Student Edition” to make study-abroad expenses more affordable. The limited-time offer provides Rs. 20,000+ cashback on student forex cards and tuition fee transfers, along with referral rewards. Backed by zero hidden fees, a lowest rate guarantee, and cost-saving features like free ATM withdrawals and no cross-currency charges, the campaign helps students and parents save significantly on essential university-related expenses.

Gagan Malhotra, Chief Operating Officer, BookMyForex, said, “Every rupee counts when a student is starting their journey abroad. With the Double Crazy Sale – Student Edition, we’re making overseas education payments simpler, more transparent, and far more affordable. Recently, BookMyForex has introduced some of the most cost-effective and reliable forex solutions for students going abroad. And with this exclusive cashback campaign, we’re taking it a step further-helping students save even more while ensuring a hassle-free start to their global journey.”

How Students Save Big with the Double Crazy Sale

Rs. 7,500 Cashback on Student Forex Cards
The newly launched Global Forex Card, designed exclusively for students, eliminates common overseas charges with zero markup fees, no cross-currency conversion costs, and free ATM withdrawals. Payments at university POS terminals are completely free, helping students avoid the hefty fees often charged abroad. With an added Rs. 7,500 cashback, the card becomes an even smarter and more cost-effective choice for managing expenses overseas.

Rs. 15,000 Cashback on University Fee Transfers
BookMyForex’s fully online tuition fee transfer service simplifies payments by eliminating the need for branch visits. Transfers are processed same day through trusted partner banks, with zero transfer fees and the lowest exchange rates guaranteed. With an additional Rs. 15,000 cashback, students and parents can make university payments faster, safer, and more affordable.

Lowest Rate Guarantee – Or Get Double the Difference Back!
BookMyForex’s Lowest Rate Guarantee ensures students always get the best deal on forex. If a better rate is found elsewhere, the platform will refund double the difference, giving students complete confidence and maximum savings every time.

Earn & Help Friends Save – Referral Program
Students can refer friends through a unique link and earn up to Rs. 500 for every successful referral, while their friends enjoy a discount on their first transaction. The reward is available as cashback or a coupon code, redeemable on BookMyForex.com for the next order-making it a win-win for both.

Gagan Malhotra, Chief Operating Officer, BookMyForex, added, “We’ve been witnessing strong double-digit growth in student-focused forex cards and money transfers, reflecting the rising demand for reliable and affordable solutions in the study-abroad segment. With our new products and the Student Edition sale, our goal is to double the student user base in the coming months and further strengthen BookMyForex’s position as the preferred forex partner for students and parents alike.”

The offer is valid until September 15th, 2025, on the BookMyForex App and website. To avail the benefits, students can use promo code CRAZYSALE for forex card orders and REMITSPL for money transfers. Same-day delivery is available for card orders placed before 1 PM on business days. Full offer details can be found at www.bookmyforex.com.

About BookMyForex.com

BookMyForex (a MakeMyTrip Group Entity) is India’s very first tech initiative in the foreign exchange domain and the market leader in the online retail forex space. Customers can place orders on https://www.bookmyforex.com or through the BookMyForex Android/ iOS app to buy forex cards, send international money transfers and buy or sell foreign cash currencies. Customers can also purchase international SIM cards or international travel insurance.

BookMyForex operates on a hybrid model where the majority of forex card transactions are executed by BookMyForex directly, while orders for foreign currency notes and international money transfers are fulfilled through its network of partner banks, reputed RBI-licensed money changers, and its own branches. BookMyForex has also established a growing network of its own branches to strengthen last-mile delivery and service.

BookMyForex is the most visible and trusted online retail forex brand with over USD 1.5 billion exchanged on its platform. Faering Capital has been invested in BookMyForex since 2016 and MakeMyTrip has acquired a majority stake in BookMyForex.

Visit us at www.bookmyforex.com