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All posts by Neel Achary

DOMS Acquires 51 Percentage Stake in Super Treads to Expand Stationery Segment

Mumbai, May 20, 2025: DOMS Industries Limited , at its board meeting held on Monday, May 19, 2025 have approved the acquisition of 51.00% stake in Super Treads Private Limited (“STPL”) for a maximum consideration of ₹ 6.12 crores, subject to the completion of due diligence and receipt of requisite approvals, if any. The equity stake shall be acquired through secondary purchase from the existing shareholders of STPL.

Through this acquisition, DOMS shall broaden its presence in the paper stationery segment and will allow it to efficiently reach out to its consumer base in eastern India. STPL, with its operating history of more than two decades, currently operates primarily as an OEM supplier for the manufacturing of notebooks and other paper stationery products.

Commenting on the acquisition, Mr. Santosh Raveshia, Managing Director, DOMS Industries Limited said: “Our proposed acquisition of majority stake in STPL is a key step in enhancing our manufacturing capacities and geographically diversifying our paper stationery infrastructure to efficiently reach our consumers, thus further strengthening our competitiveness in this segment. This investment aligns with our vision of leveraging our growing brand reputation and well entrenched distribution network to deliver our unique and differentiated range of products at most competitive prices. With Rakesh Maheshwari and his team, we have got this wonderful opportunity to partner with great technocrats, like-minded entrepreneur who has a great zeal to offer something unique to the market. We are confident that this partnership would lead to significant long term growth and value creation for all of us.”

Commenting on the acquisition, Mr. Rakesh Kumar Maheshwari, Promoter Director, Super Treads Private Limited said: This partnership represents a strategic milestone for our company, combining our manufacturing expertise with DOMS national distribution capabilities and established brand. This collaboration will be instrumental in realizing our full potential and enable us to explore opportunities, thereby unlock new avenues for growth and innovation. In DOMS, we have found a perfect strategic partner to help us pursue a brand lead business journey.”

By joining forces, DOMS and STPL are poised to leverage their mutual strengths to amplify their capabilities to capitalise on the potential for growth, innovation, and long-term success. With the completion of acquisition of a 51stakeSuper Treads Private Limited (STPL) will become a part of the DOMS Group of companies, which also includes Pioneer Stationery Private Limited, Micro Wood Private Limited, Skido Industries Private Limited, Uniclan Healthcare Private Limited and our associate company, Clapjoy Innovations Private Limited – further strengthening our diversified presence across consumer products spanning stationery, art material, and hygiene categories.

Marathon Capital Advisory Private Limited, acted as the Advisor to DOMS for this proposed strategic acquisition.

Kanika Tekriwal Embodies Power and Grace in Anamika Khanna at the Cannes Film Festival

Kanika Tekriwal

20th May, 2025, New Delhi – Kanika Tekriwal, Founder & CEO of JetSetGo Aviation and a trailblazing force in India’s private aviation sector, made a striking red carpet appearance at the 78th Cannes Film Festival.

Wearing a regal creation by iconic Indian designer Anamika Khanna, Kanika stunned in a hand-embroidered gold Durga cape paired with a structured gharara. The look steeped in symbolism and finesse, was brought to life with a bold mix of jewellery by Roma Narsinghani and Studio Metallurgy.

The ensemble paid homage to tradition while exuding fearless modernity.

Kanika Tekriwal

As the visionary behind JetSetGo, often dubbed the “Uber of Indian skies,” Kanika’s debut at Cannes is a celebration of both cultural identity and entrepreneurial spirit. Her red carpet presence marks a compelling moment where design, ambition, and representation converge on a global platform.

Bold, dynamic, and unapologetically original, Kanika’s Cannes appearance reinforces her role as a new-age leader redefining luxury, mobility, and the global narrative of Indian women in business and culture.

Why Is University Selection Challenging for Students Planning to Study Abroad?

By Mr. Manohar Malhotra, Head of Admissions at Merrakii

It is the dream of many students to study abroad, but deciding on the correct university is a multifaceted and confusing Task. University selection can appear challenging at first sight but in fact, the procedure is based very deeply on an even more crucial and basic choice: selecting the correct country.

Country First, University Second

Before a student compares universities, they need to analyze which country will best fit their long-term interests and objectives first. This includes learning about the norms of the country’s education, cultural setting, immigration policies, employment opportunities and political landscape. For example, recent debates in the United States regarding possible policy shifts for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program has raised alarm among international students, especially those from nations such as India. If such shifts cut or nullify opportunities for students to pursue work after graduation, it might encourage them to look for alternative destinations. Once the country is selected, students can focus on finding the right university. Several key factors influence this decision:

1. Course Offerings and Curriculum 

The foremost concern needs to be about the availability of the preferred course. The students need to take care that the universities provide the appropriate subjects and specializations reflecting their interests as well as long-term career aims. The curricula framework, credit system and the professional expertise of faculties also significantly impact a student’s educational experience.

2. Scholarships and Financial Support  

For most families, budget is the key deciding factor. Tuition and living costs differ greatly from one university to another and one country to another. Thus, obtaining scholarships or financial assistance often becomes crucial. A substantial scholarship package can strongly sway the decision especially among middle class-income families.

3. Location and Career Opportunities

Education in industry-focused cities can greatly increase post-graduation prospects. Being close to potential employers means greater opportunities for internships, networking and placements, so university location becomes a key consideration in the selection process.

 4. University Reputation and Exposure

Elite universities like the Ivy League may gain students even when they do not offer financial aid given their brand value in the long run. Yet most students will have to balance between elite and affordability, particularly given options outside of elite colleges that offer good programs and significant scholarship money.

5. Faculty and Research Opportunities

For students seeking higher degrees or academic careers, it is essential to take into account the expertise of the faculty, research opportunities available, and the ability to pursue further studies under the same mentorship from master’s to PhD.

Simplifying the Application Process

To minimize the intricacies involved in applying to foreign universities, students need to take a few strategic steps:

Early Planning

Plan at least 12 months before the university course commencement. It gives sufficient time to collect documents, appear for standardized tests, and do comprehensive research on universities.

Clarity on Goals

Having clear goals for the desired course and country narrows down the list of universities effectively.

Balanced Application Strategy

Students should categorize their options into three groups: Dream (aspirational choices), Reach (within realistic possibility), and Safe (safe choices). This balanced strategy minimizes risk and maximizes acceptance opportunities.

Organized Documentation

Students must make all necessary documents—transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letter of Recommendation (LOR), CV and test scores—well ahead of time to prevent the eleventh-hour rush.

Role of Visa Assistance

It’s an equally important and sometimes intimidating part of the study abroad process to obtain a student visa. Visa requirements and application processes vary by country. Professional visa assistance services can prove to be hugely beneficial in assisting students:

 – Know evolving visa policies and qualification criteria

– File correct documents within specified timelines

– Get ready for visa interviews

– Adapt to policy changes with ease and confidence

Having recent facts and professional guidance can markedly lower stress and enhance the likelihood of a successful visa result.

Universities are not solely ranked by their academic status—it’s a complex choice based on factors such as location, course options available, cost implications and future career goals. With proper planning, awareness and advice the student can successfully navigate the process and make decisions that will establish them for academic and professional success overseas.

 

 

‘Familiar Faces’ Wins TYE Regional Finals, to Represent Hyderabad Globally

Hyderabad May 20, 2025: TiE Hyderabad  hosted the 16th Edition of the TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) Regional Finals on Saturday at the Feuji Office, Gachibowli, celebrating the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of high school students.

Six teams from a diverse range of schools across Hyderabad—including both government and international institutions—presented their startup ideas after completing three months of mentorship and one month of intensive training. The event featured elevator pitches, Q&A sessions, and valuable feedback from industry experts.  

Winners of the TYE 16th Edition – Regional Finals were Familiar Faces team comprised of Satvik Reddy Chenna, Yashica, Abhiram Nori, A. Jagadeesh InClude comprised of Dakshita, Maanya Gupta, Veluri Purvi Shreasta, Naga Druthi, Ananya were first runner up and Earthworm Cult.Fit team comprised of  Vedha Hamsini, Nihal Salla, Sri Jitendra Abhyun Bonthala, Puraj Sai Makkilineni, Nallapothula Dayamani were second runner up. 

The winning team will go on to represent Hyderabad at the Global TYE Finals later this year in Delhi.   This year the first Runner-up also gets a go at the Global Competition through a Wildcard Competition.

TiE Hyderabad extends its heartfelt appreciation to all mentors, judges, volunteers, and participating schools for their invaluable contributions in making the event a resounding success.

TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) is a global initiative that nurtures high school students (Grades 9–12) with an entrepreneurial mindset. Through hands-on workshops, mentorship by industry leaders, and business plan competitions, the program empowers students to ideate, collaborate, and pitch real ventures. TYE builds confidence, creativity, leadership, and problem-solving skills—preparing young minds to become future-ready changemakers.

The event was graced by Mr. Subu M Kota, an accomplished entrepreneur with over four decades of experience across technology, pharmaceuticals, and venture capital. A proud alumnus of IIT Kharagpur, Mr. Kota is also known for his philanthropic work, including a $1 million pledge to support blind cricket through Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled. As Chief Guest, Mr. Kota shared valuable insights from his journey and inspired the students to think big and dream bold.

TYE started at TiE Boston, where I am the Charter Member. Over the years TYE has grown from strength to strength and it is heartening for me to see these youngsters mature into successful professionals and entrepreneurs”. Mr. Subu M Kota, Chief Guest

“This is the 16th year of TYE at TiE Hyderabad and I have never missed a single edition. This is because I strongly believe that TYE Program adds immense value to the shaping of not only entrepreneurial spirit but also of vital life skills of high school students. I had the sweet surprise of meeting a young woman entrepreneur at Delhi airport once, who came and spoke to me excitedly attributing her decision of becoming an entrepreneur to a session that I took at TYE. This is the best platform for young students to get mentored from the best in the industry”. –  Mr. Murali Bukkapatnam,  TiE Global Chairman

“We plant the seed of entrepreneurship at a very young age through TYE even if the students choose a different path for their career, the skills that they learn at TYE will help them build foundations for a strong character. This will help them achieve success in any field they choose”. –  Mr. Rajesh Pagadala,TiE Hyderabad President 

“Today we saw teams going neck to neck in the pitching contest.  The winner from this Regional Finals will now compete at the Global Level in Delhi. This year the first Runner-up also gets a go at the Global Competition through a Wildcard Competition. Those who missed this Cohort can apply for the upcoming Summer Cohort by contacting TiE Hyderabad Office.”  – Mr. Subba Raju Pericherla, TYE Chair, TiE Hyderabad

Devangi Nishar Parekh Champions Indian Fashion with a Powerful Red Carpet Debut at Cannes Film Festival

20th May, 2025 – New Delhi —Managing Director of Aza Fashions, Devangi Nishar Parekh, made a historic debut at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, spotlighting the strength and sophistication of Indian fashion entrepreneurship on a global stage.

Devangi Nishar Parekh

 

More than a moment of personal achievement, Devangi’s red carpet appearance at Cannes was a bold affirmation of India’s evolving Design — and the critical role women are playing in driving it forward. As a second-generation entrepreneur and one of the most influential voices in India’s luxury fashion industry, Devangi brought with her not just style, but purpose. Under her leadership, the platform has become a launchpad for emerging designers and a powerful
advocate for homegrown talent.

Wearing a custom handcrafted metallic cord concept saree by acclaimed designer Rimzim Dadu, Devangi’s look blended sculptural innovation with timeless elegance — a fitting metaphor for her journey with Aza Fashions, India’s premier multi-designer platform that champions homegrown labels and emerging talent. Complementing her outfit, Devangi adorned sustainable, lab-grown diamond jewellery from Araiya by Aza, reflecting her commitment to responsible luxury and modern craftsmanship.

But this wasn’t just about the outfit or jewellery. Devangi’s presence on one of the world’s most prestigious cultural platforms marked a significant moment for Indian retail, fashion entrepreneurship, and the representation of South Asian women in global luxury spaces. Devangi joined a cohort of global changemakers and creative leaders, spotlighting South Asia’s rising influence at one of the world’s most prestigious cultural events. In doing so, she carried forward a vision rooted in innovation, inclusion, and heritage — bringing Indian craftsmanship and entrepreneurial ambition to a world stage that is finally ready to listen.

Devangi Nishar Parekh

 

“For me, Cannes wasn’t just a red carpet — it was a platform,” Devangi shared. “A platform to represent Indian creativity, craftsmanship, and the quiet strength of women entrepreneurs who are transforming industries from within. Walking that carpet, I carried not just a designer look and sustainable jewellery, but also the stories of hundreds of Indian designers and artisans who are ready for the world stage.”

Over the past decade, Devangi has been instrumental in shaping how luxury retail in India looks and feels — building Aza into a space that balances commercial success with community impact. Her support of innovative design, women-led labels, and ethical luxury has positioned her as a leader who understands both business and culture.

Poised, driven, and visionary, Devangi Nishar Parekh’s Cannes debut was not just a celebration of fashion, but of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. As Indian design continues to gain global recognition, voices like hers will continue to lead the way — not just with what they wear, but with what they build.

Palomar Health Foundation Receives Nearly $50 Million in Award to Support the Development of the 120-Bed Palomar Health Behavioral Health Institute

Funding Through Proposition 1 Will Help Expand Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facilities   

SAN DIEGO, CA — May 20, 2025 — The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) announced that 124 sponsors have been awarded a total of $3.3 billion in competitive funding awards for projects that support behavioral health infrastructure through DHCS’s Proposition 1 Bond Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP) Round 1: Launch Ready. The Palomar Health Foundation is proud to announce it has been awarded a conditional bond of nearly $50 million through BHCIP that will help fund the development of Palomar Health’s new state-of-the-art facility, the Palomar Health Behavioral Health Institute.
Transformational Funding to Expand Behavioral Healthcare Access Across North San Diego County 
The Bond BHCIP Round 1 awards offer significant resources for behavioral health infrastructure and an unprecedented opportunity to address historic gaps that effect meaningful, sustainable change to better serve Californians across the behavioral health continuum of care. As part of the state’s goal to reduce mental health crises, increase the availability of services and support community-based solutions, these investments are vital in ensuring the long-term sustainability and accessibility of behavioral health services.
Slated to open in 2027, the 84,700-square-foot Palomar Health Behavioral Health Institute will feature a 120-bed acute psychiatric hospital with hospital-based outpatient treatment and 38 dedicated slots for detoxification and withdrawal management. Once open, the outpatient program is projected to serve nearly 20,000 individuals annually, providing high-quality, life-changing care for the state of California.
“This is the largest grant ever received by Palomar Health — and the single largest Bond BHCIP Round 1 awarded in the entire San Diego region,” said Kristin Gaspar, President & CEO of the Palomar Health Foundation. “It marks a transformational milestone for our community, one that will create lasting change for thousands of individuals and families. We are honored to play a leading role in advancing solutions that address our region’s most pressing behavioral health needs.”
The Palomar Health Behavioral Health Institute, located just south of Palomar Health Medical Center Escondido, will provide much-needed care and set a new standard in behavioral healthcare for adolescents, adults and geriatric patients. Through this conditional bond awarded by the Department of Healthcare Services, Palomar Health is ensuring that individuals have access to life-changing behavioral healthcare for long-term sustainability and accessibility.
BHCIP and Proposition 1 Signal a New Era in Behavioral Healthcare 
California is modernizing the behavioral health delivery system to improve accountability, increase transparency and expand the capacity of behavioral healthcare facilities for Californians. BHCIP supports the creation, renovation and expansion of facilities that serve individuals with mental health and behavioral health needs.
The Bond BHCIP Round 1 awards will help create a comprehensive behavioral health system, ensuring that individuals can access the right care at the right time, whether it be for crisis stabilization, inpatient care or long-term treatment. As part of the state’s goal to reduce mental health crises, increase the availability of services and support community-based solutions, these investments are vital in ensuring the long-term sustainability and accessibility of behavioral health services.
BHCIP is part of California’s ongoing commitment to expand behavioral health services for all Californians. With the passage of Proposition 1, even more behavioral health treatment facilities  will be funded and built in 2026. Through BHCIP, DHCS awards eligible entities funding to construct, acquire and expand properties and invest in mobile crisis infrastructure to further expand the range of community-based behavioral health treatment options for people with co-occurring mental health treatment needs and substance use disorders. Bond BHCIP funding is estimated to create 6,800 residential treatment beds and 26,700 outpatient treatment slots for behavioral health and will also build on other major behavioral health initiatives in California.
“As California’s largest public healthcare district, we are incredibly honored to receive this generous award from the Department of Health Care Services,” said Diane Hansen, president and CEO of Palomar Health. “It’s a powerful vote of confidence in Palomar Health’s ability to lead this vital work — and a significant step forward in our mission to reimagine healthcare for the communities we serve in Northern San Diego and beyond.”

Palomar Health is thankful to the State of California, the Department of Health Care Services and Governor Gavin Newsom for their bold leadership and continued investment in behavioral health — a commitment that is making a lasting difference for thousands of individuals and families across the region.

Ice Make FY25 Revenue Hits INR 480 Cr with 64% Q4 Surge

Mumbai/Ahmedabad, May 19, 2025: Ice Make Refrigeration Limited , a leading manufacturer of 50 plus commercial and industrial refrigeration equipment, has reported strong financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended March 31, 2025.

Financial Highlights

For the quarter ended March 31, 2025 (Q4 FY25), the company reported consolidated revenue from operations of ₹180.82 crore, marking a robust 26.76% year-on-year increase from ₹140.14 crore in Q4 FY24. This is a 29.02% quarter on-quarter sequential growth.  EBITDA for the quarter stood at ₹21.85 crore, compared to ₹20.93 crore in the same period last year.

However, EBITDA margin softened to 12.08% from 14.93% on account of higher input costs. Profit after tax (PAT) for the quarter was ₹11.66 crore, down from ₹14.27 crore in Q4 FY24, while earnings per share (EPS) stood at ₹7.42 versus ₹9.06 in the previous year’s corresponding quarter.

For the full financial year ended March 31, 2025 (FY25), Ice Make achieved consolidated revenue from operations of ₹480.42 crore, an increase of 26.76% year-on-year compared to ₹379.00 crore in FY24. The company reported EBITDA of ₹43.44 crore in FY25, up from ₹41.39 crore in FY24, although the EBITDA margin slightly declined to 09.04% from 10.92%. The full-year PAT stood at ₹22.90 crore as against ₹26.14 crore in FY24, with a corresponding EPS of ₹14.65 compared to ₹16.64 a year earlier.

The Board of Directors has recommended a final dividend of ₹2.25 per equity share (22.5% of face value ₹10), subject to shareholder approval at the upcoming AGM.

Management Commentary

“We are pleased to report a strong close to the year, with a 64% sequential revenue growth in Q4 FY25, demonstrating the strength of our underlying business and recovery in order execution. While we delivered robust revenue growth during FY2025, reaching nearly ₹480 crore, we narrowly missed our internal milestone of ₹500 crore due to delayed execution of certain product order in the 1st 9 months of FY25. These delays, along with the timing mismatch of input costs already accounted for, impacted full-year profitability. Despite these headwinds, our operations remained resilient, supported by our strategic investments in innovation, capacity expansion, and a customer-centric approach. We also saw continued momentum in our commercial and industrial refrigeration verticals, including ammonia refrigeration and cold chain solutions. The Board’s recommendation of a final dividend reflects our unwavering commitment to long-term shareholder value and sustainable growth.”Mr. Chandrakant Patel, Chairman & Managing Director

Q1 2025 Real Estate Sentiment Index Shows Cautious Outlook: Knight Frank-NAREDCO

Mumbai, May 19, 2025: The 44th edition of the Knight Frank – NAREDCO Real Estate Sentiment Index Q1 2025 (January–March 2025) report reflects a cautiously optimistic mood among real estate stakeholders. The Current Sentiment Score in Q1 2025 dipped slightly to 54 from 59 in Q4 2024, down from 59 in Q4 2024, while the Future Sentiment Score eased to 56, compared to 59 in the previous quarter. Though both scores, remain in the optimistic zone, signal growing stakeholder caution amid global trade tensions, economic recalibration, and regional volatility. Despite this, positive momentum in commercial real estate and sustained activity in high-value residential segments continue to support sentiment resilience. According to the survey findings, residential outlook leans toward stability amid cautious launch plans. In Q1 2025, 93% of stakeholders expect residential prices to remain stable or improve, while 67% anticipate stability or growth in new launches. Residential sales sentiment, however, has moderated with only 50% expecting it to either improve or stay the same compared to 88% in Q1 2024.

The office segment remains a bright spot, supported by robust leasing activity and stable rental growth. In Q1 2025, 82% of stakeholders anticipate office leasing volumes to either hold steady or increase, while 91% expect office rents to remain stable or rise—signalling sustained occupier confidence and healthy demand.

The quarterly Knight Frank-NAREDCO Real Estate Sentiment Index report captures the current and future sentiments towards the real estate sector, as well as economic conditions and funding availability as perceived by the supply-side stakeholders and financial institutions. A score of 50 represents a neutral view or status quo; a score above 50 demonstrates a positive sentiment; and a score below 50 indicates a negative sentiment.

Sentiments of Developers and Non-Developers

The Developer Future Sentiment Score dropped to 53 in Q1 2025 from 58 in Q4 2024, as developers recalibrate supply strategies amid slowing low to mid ticket size segment demand in the residential sector and rising costs.

The Non-Developer Future Sentiment Score (including banks, financial institutions, and PE funds) moderated to 57 from 60, reflecting a wait-and-watch approach on capital deployment, while remaining optimistic on office and high-ticket size residential segments.

Shishir Baijal, Chairman and Managing Director, Knight Frank India, said, “Q1 2025 marks a phase of strategic recalibration for the real estate sector, shaped by evolving global trade dynamics, softening consumption, and heightened geopolitical sensitivity. Despite these shifts, India’s office market remains resilient, and the continued strength of the premium residential segment affirms the sector’s underlying robustness. As macroeconomic indicators adjust, real estate is displaying its capacity to adapt with stability and long-term potential.”

“Residential market outlook

The residential sentiment in Q1 2025 reflected a clear shift toward stability and cautious optimism. While overall enthusiasm has moderated compared to the highs of 2023 and early 2024, the market continues to show resilience, particularly in higher ticket size segments. Only 22% of stakeholders expect residential sales to increase, marking a notable decline from 73% in the same period in last year. This softening is driven by moderation in demand within the mid and lower ticket-size segments, where affordability concerns and truncated supply led to demand deceleration.

Launch activity has also moderated, with 28% of stakeholders anticipating an increase and 39% expecting stability. Price sentiment remains largely positive, with 93% of stakeholders expect prices to either rise or stay stable. The share of those anticipating a price increase stands at 50%, compared to 82% in Q1 2024, suggesting a shift away from aggressive price growth toward a more measured and sustainable pricing environment.

Hari Babu, President-NAREDCO, said, “While the Knight Frank Q1 2025 Sentiment Index shows a marginal decline in both current and future sentiment scores compared to Q4, this slight dip amidst global uncertainties reflects the strength and adaptability of India’s real estate sector. The industry continues to move forward with optimism and long-term conviction.

The Indian real estate sector is showcasing robust performance in the commercial segment, driven by the demand from Global Capability Centres (GCCs) and tech-enabled enterprises — reaffirming India’s growing stature as a global business hub. On the residential front, developers are adopting a more mature, demand-led approach by focusing on high-ticket projects while rebalancing supply in the mid and affordable segments.

This is a sign of steady evolution. We see this as a phase of mindful progress, where Indian real estate is not just expanding, but doing so with greater purpose and prudence. Government-led infrastructure development and the expansion of real estate in Tier 2 and 3 cities will continue to support the sector. Additionally, the recent repo rate cut by the RBI has boosted liquidity and improved buyer sentiment, giving further momentum to the industry. We remain confident in the sector’s potential and its pivotal role in India’s economic journey.”

Office market outlook

The office sector continued to display strength in Q1 2025, backed by robust occupier demand and rental resilience. 82% of stakeholders expect leasing activity to either increase or remain stable, driven by sustained expansion from Global Capability Centres, third party IT services firms, and flex space operators. While only 24% foresee an increase in new office supply, 41% anticipate stability, reflecting developers’ calibrated approach amid high office space absorption. Rents remain on a firm footing, with 91% of respondents expecting them to stay stable or rise.

In Q1 2025, 55% of stakeholders expect economic momentum to either improve or remain stable, down from 91% in the same period in last year. The moderation reflects concerns over global trade volatility, and recent cross-border developments. However, the Reserve Bank of India’s consecutive repo rate cuts in February and April are expected to support consumption and investment, providing a foundation for economic recovery in the months ahead.

Funding sentiment remains steady, with 79% of stakeholders expecting availability to either improve or remain unchanged. While 35% foresee improved access, slightly lower than the previous quarter, the recent rate cuts have enhanced liquidity and reduced borrowing costs.

Custom vs. Generic Gifts: Why Personalization Matters More Than Ever

By – Mr. Karan Sehdev, Founder of Merch Matters

In today’s business landscape, where every interaction is a chance to build stronger relationships, gifting has become more than a formality—it’s a strategy. But not all gifts are created equal.

The choice between custom and generic gifting can make or break how your brand is remembered. While generic gifts may check the box, custom gifts create lasting impressions, emotional value, and real ROI.

Here’s why personalization matters now more than ever.

The Generic Gift: Easy but Forgettable

Generic gifts are often mass-produced, one-size-fits-all items like:

1. Branded pens
2. Standard mugs
3. Generic gift cards
4. Uninspired promotional items
They’re convenient, quick to source, and usually affordable—but that’s where the advantages end.

The problem?

These gifts don’t feel thoughtful. They don’t build connection. And most importantly, they’re forgettable.

The Power of Custom Gifting

Custom gifting, on the other hand, transforms a simple transaction into a personal experience. Whether it’s adding the recipient’s name, tailoring the gift to their preferences, or aligning it with company values, personalized gifts say: “We see you. We value you.”

That message resonates with employees, clients, and partners alike—and leads to stronger engagement.

Why Personalization Matters More Than Ever

1. Stronger Emotional Impact
People are far more likely to remember a gift that reflects their personality, interests, or needs. Personalization builds emotional loyalty—the kind that drives long-term relationships.

2. Better Brand Alignment
Custom gifts reflect your company’s culture and values. Whether you emphasize sustainability, innovation, or creativity, your gifts can reinforce your brand message in a tangible, memorable way.

3. Increased Engagement
Recipients are more likely to use, share, or talk about a gift that feels unique to them. This extends your brand’s reach through word-of-mouth and social sharing.

4. Data-Driven Relevance
With access to more customer and employee data than ever before, companies can easily tailor gifts to individual preferences, making each experience feel curated and relevant.

5. Competitive Differentiation
Everyone gives gifts, but not everyone makes them meaningful. Personalized gifting sets your brand apart, especially in crowded industries where thoughtful details go a long way.

Real-World Applications

● Client Gifting: Instead of a standard holiday basket, send a curated box featuring local products from the client’s city, or branded items in their company colors.

● Employee Recognition: Celebrate milestones with custom trophies, monogrammed apparel, or personalized desk items.

● Event Giveaways: Swap basic swag for customized kits with attendees’ names, roles, or social handles printed inside.

Generic gifts fulfill a requirement. Custom gifts build a relationship.

In an era where personalization drives everything—from marketing to customer service- your gifting strategy should be no different. The more thoughtful, relevant, and tailored your gifts are, the more they will be remembered, appreciated, and talked about.

So next time you’re planning a gifting campaign, skip the “standard.” Go custom—and make it personal.