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Alteria Capital partners with IFC as anchor investor for SME credit fund

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(L-R) Punit Shah(Managing Partner), Vinod Murali(Co-founder), Ankit Agarwal(Managing Partner), Alteria Capital

Venture debt platform Alteria Capital has revealed that the International Finance Corporation (IFC) will serve as the anchor investor for its Shorter Duration Scheme (SDS), marking IFC’s inaugural investment in the global SME credit sector.

Launched in March of the previous year as part of Fund III, SDS is designed to address the short-term capital needs of startups (with debt tenures under 18 months) across sectors such as fintech, consumer goods, and electric vehicles (EVs), among others.Alteria has already invested in companies like Ivy Homes, Swara Fincare, Moneyview, and TEN x YOU. The firm plans to execute up to 50 investments through SDS over the next 2.5 years.

“We are having ongoing conversations with some foreign and domestic investors, and it is expected to take a few more months to close. We will raise some more capital and are flexible on the sizing of the fund,” Vinod Murali, Managing Partner, Alteria Capital, said.

Although Murali did not reveal the specific target corpus for SDS, the firm aimed to raise $250-$300 million through its third fund. Of this amount, the Venture Debt Scheme was closed at approximately $186 million, with the balance coming from SDS.

“In SDS, we have a commitment period of two and a half years, and we expect to fully return capital in about 12 months after that. It is a shorter-duration product where we return capital, with robust fixed income returns, in under four years. In a venture debt product, this would take five to seven years, but the returns have a higher component of equity upside,” Murali explained.

Alteria will allocate around 60 per cent of the fund to non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and direct the remaining 40 per cent towards consumer businesses.

“For six decades, IFC has been at the forefront of impact investing in emerging markets. Innovative financial solutions are crucial for bridging funding gaps,” said Wendy Werner, Country Head for India and Maldives, IFC.

“By addressing short-term financing needs and signalling market confidence, we aim to help support India’s startup and disruptive technology ecosystem and accelerate economic growth,” she added.

Alteria Capital has invested over $800 million in debt funding to Indian startups, becoming the fastest firm in Asia to surpass $750 million. Its portfolio includes major startups like Spinny, Ola Electric, One Card, Rebel Foods, and Ather.

The firm’s onboarding of IFC as an anchor investor comes as India-focused VC firms resume fundraising after a year-long pause. Following a dip in VC fundraising in 2024, global and domestic firms, including Accel and Bessemer, are announcing large funds, driven by India’s strong startup IPO pipeline and recovering funding landscape. As more mature startups reach Series A and B, VC fund sizes and investment amounts increase.

Building Bridges of Trust, One Brand at a Time

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In today’s digital-first world, trust is not just a virtue but a vital currency that underpins every meaningful relationship — personal, professional, or commercial. As technology accelerates the flow of information and amplifies consumer voices, trust has become harder to earn and easier to lose. For brands, building and sustaining authenticity in a hyper-connected era is the cornerstone of long-term success.

The 5th edition of the Most Trusted Brands of India 2025-26, presented by Team Marksmen, arrives at a crucial time when conversations about trust and authenticity have never been more pertinent. This annual platform celebrates brands that have gone the extra mile in building meaningful relationships with their audiences, and serves as a thought leadership forum, tackling some of the key industry and societal challenges faced in today’s rapidly evolving marketplace.

At the heart of the event is a profound recognition of the fact that trust is built through consistent actions and genuine engagement. Brands that have earned this trust have demonstrated a remarkable alignment between their values and their actions. It is not just about delivering exceptional products or services but about embracing transparency, listening to stakeholders, and staying true to promises made. In doing so, these brands have created more than just loyal customers; they have built lasting relationships rooted in authenticity.

The upcoming edition will bring together a diverse cross-section of industry leaders, marketers, and brand strategists to engage in meaningful conversations about the evolving dynamics of trust. It will serve as a space for exploring strategies and insights into how brands can continue to thrive in an age where consumer expectations are higher than ever before. Attendees can expect thought-provoking discussions on topics such as authenticity in marketing and building long-term credibility and trust in a competitive landscape.

One of the highlights of the event will be the much-anticipated ceremony, where some of India’s most reputable and trusted brands will be recognized for their steadfast commitment to nurturing trust and authenticity. These brands have not only walked the talk but have done so consistently, even amidst uncertainty, and will be celebrated for setting benchmarks that others aspire to follow. The event promises to be an inspiring evening that underscores the importance of trust as the bedrock of enduring success.

Rajesh Khubchandani, Co-Founder and MD of Team Marksmen Network, aptly sums up the significance of this initiative. “Trust has always been the foundation of strong brands, but in today’s rapidly evolving landscape, it has become a true differentiator. The Most Trusted Brands of India serves as a beacon, illuminating those who have not only embraced this ethos but have also woven it into their DNA. Through this platform, we aim to inspire more organisations to prioritise authenticity and transparency, creating a ripple effect that strengthens trust across industries and society at large.”

As the 5th edition of this landmark event approaches, it promises to hold aloft trust above all. This unique event stands as a testament to the enduring power of trust and the brands that have made it their guiding principle. By bringing together changemakers and industry stalwarts under one roof, the event offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn, grow, and be inspired by those who have made trust the cornerstone of their brand journey. In a world where trust is both scarce and invaluable, these brands shine as beacons of authenticity, lighting the way forward for others to follow.

To know more about this unique initiative, write to us at contact@teammarksmen.com.

About Team Marksmen

Through an array of bespoke industry-centric knowledge platforms, using a variety of formats, such as Roundtables, Summits & Conferences, Workshops, and Recognition Ceremonies, Team Marksmen helps senior industry decision makers navigate through issues of critical importance and informs their world-view for better decision-making.

Team Marksmen has successfully executed more than 50 events that have featured 1500+ brands, helping businesses across industries create opportunities to engage audiences through on-ground and virtual experiences. 

The organisation empowers industry leaders by providing them with insights, ideas, and opportunities that fits their unique industry and context. Through content shared via its flagship website, Marksmen Daily, and print magazine ‘in Focus’ focused on business, leadership, and lifestyle, they help advance the practice of management. Meanwhile, through strategic initiatives like Marksmen Media, it helps organisations achieve their objectives through a plethora of bespoke digital and content strategies.

IHG expands in India with the New Crowne Plaza Resort in Jim Corbett

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IHG Hotels & Resorts has entered into a management agreement with Girija Land Ventures Pvt Ltd to develop the Crowne Plaza Resort Jim Corbett, scheduled to open in Q1 2027. This agreement marks the Crowne Plaza brand’s debut in Jim Corbett. Crowne Plaza is strategically located in city, airport, resort, and suburban areas to meet the needs of both business and leisure travellers.

Currently, India has eight operational Crowne Plaza hotels, with another eight in the pipeline, aiming to double the brand’s portfolio in the coming years. The resort will feature 181 well-appointed rooms catering to leisure and business guests. Once operational, Crowne Plaza Resort Jim Corbett will offer four dining options: an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, a speciality restaurant, and a lobby lounge. The property will include banquet halls, meeting spaces, a club lounge, a spa, a swimming pool, a fitness centre, and retail outlets.

Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented: “We are delighted to partner with Girija Land Ventures Pvt Ltd to launch Crowne Plaza Resort Jim Corbett, strengthening IHG’s commitment to bring quality branded accommodation to key destinations. As one of India’s most sought-after wildlife getaways and a rapidly emerging venue for MICE opportunities, Jim Corbett is a natural fit for Crowne Plaza’s premium offerings. With improved connectivity and rising tourism demand, we are confident that Crowne Plaza Resort Jim Corbett will set a new benchmark for hospitality in the region, catering to guests seeking business and leisure experiences.”

Avinash Kumar Jha, Director, Girija Land Ventures Pvt Ltd, added: “We are pleased to collaborate with IHG Hotels & Resorts to bring the Crowne Plaza brand to Jim Corbett. With IHG’s global expertise and deep local insights, we are confident that this premium hotel will elevate the hospitality experience in the region. Its prime location, coupled with IHG’s renowned service standards, will make it a sought-after destination for leisure and business travellers seeking a seamless blend of comfort and nature.”

GreenFortune raises $4.5M to expand and upgrade tech

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(L-R) Dilip Kumar and Pratyusha Kosaraju, Co-founders, GreenFortune

GreenFortune raises $4.5M in funding, led by Foundamental, with participation from Titan Capital Winners Fund, Incubate Fund Asia, and other existing investors. The budget, approximately INR 39 crore, will fuel the company’s national expansion, a sixfold growth in volume, and the enhancement of its proprietary PartnerGate platform into a full-stack solution to improve customer service.

Founded in May 2022 by Dilip Kumar and Pratyusha Kosaraju, GreenFortune aims to transform India’s doors and windows market by offering high-quality, affordable products designed for Indian climates. The company is now in over 100 locations across India and has supplied materials for more than two million square feet of windows and doors.

“GreenFortune’s latest round of funding reflects the unwavering trust our investors place in our vision to empower the middle-income section of the nation with quality solutions tailored to their needs in a pocket-friendly manner,” said Dilip Kumar, co-founder and CEO. “With this round of funding, the company aims to scale operations, strengthen its network of fabricators, and achieve INR 250 crore ARR within the next two years.”

India’s real estate and construction sector aims to reach $1 trillion by 2030, with facades and joineries representing a $15 billion market. Despite this growth, the industry faces quality control issues, service inefficiencies, and high costs. GreenFortune aims to tackle these problems through innovation, transparency, and a customer-first approach.

The company’s focus on in-house R&D has set it apart. GreenFortune has built trust across the retail, commercial, and institutional sectors by creating products tailored to India’s diverse climate conditions. This strategy has positioned the company as a leading player in a market ripe for disruption.

Rajeev Ranka, India partner at Incubate Fund Asia, expressed confidence in GreenFortune’s future: “We are thrilled to continue our partnership as repeat investors. From the early days of B2B, we now see it evolve into a B2C business with strong demand driven by quality, experience, and affordability.”

Shubhankar Bhattacharya, co-founder and general partner at Foundamental, echoed similar sentiments: “GreenFortune has been executing brilliantly on the pivotal aspects of a new-age building materials brand—upscaling manufacturing, improving service quality, and strengthening customer access. We are proud to lead this Pre-Series A round and excited to partner with Dilip and Pratyusha on their journey to build India’s premier fenestration brand.”

Titan Capital Winners Fund, another key investor, emphasized the company’s strategic growth.

“As an early investor in GreenFortune, we have seen this team laser-focused on building a robust supply chain to ensure great quality at reasonable prices. Now, they are ready to scale to the next level and build a much-loved brand in this space,” said Shiv Kapoor, vice president at Titan Capital Winners Fund.

This latest funding round is a major milestone for GreenFortune, following its previous raise of $1 million in July 2023, led by Incubate Fund Asia.

Transforming Customer Experiences: Insights from Team Marksmen’s CX Transformation Conclave

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Industry leaders converge to explore technology-driven strategies for enhancing customer experiences

In a world where customer experience (CX) is increasingly defining business success, the Bengaluru edition of Team Marksmen Network’s CX Transformation Conclave 2025 scheduled for 21st March, 2025 at Taj Vivanta, Bengaluru, proved to be a beacon of insight and innovation. Bringing together an array of industry stalwarts and forward-thinking leaders, the event delved into the transformative power of technology in shaping exceptional customer journeys, offering actionable strategies to future-proof businesses.

As India continues to climb the global CX maturity ranks — standing third worldwide and leading the Asia-Pacific region, according to an industry report — the conclave highlighted the immense potential that lies in crafting thoughtful, technology-enabled customer experiences. 

However, despite 79% of Indian firms acknowledging CX as a revenue driver, only 17% have achieved the elusive goal of providing “exceptional” customer service. The event set out to bridge this gap, serving as a platform for industry experts to exchange ideas and chart a path toward customer-centric innovation.

The day featured a series of engaging keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive sessions that covered diverse facets of CX transformation. Attendees gained insights into the power of omnichannel strategies, where the seamless integration of digital and physical touchpoints ensures continuity and consistency in every customer interaction. The role of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics was also explored, with experts showcasing how these innovations can unlock personalised, real-time experiences that resonate deeply with consumers.

One of the key takeaways was the importance of balancing innovation with empathy. While technology offers endless possibilities for personalisation and efficiency, the human element remains crucial. Speakers emphasised that businesses must strive to forge genuine connections with customers, understanding their needs, emotions, and expectations to deliver experiences that are not just satisfying but truly memorable.

Throughout the event, the importance of measuring and optimising CX investments was underscored. Experts shared frameworks for tracking the impact of CX initiatives on key metrics such as customer lifetime value, retention rates, and revenue growth, ensuring that businesses can continually refine their approaches for maximum impact.

This industry-centric platform was brought to life by its industry partners, namely Presenting Partner NICE, AI Transformation Partner Exotel, and Associate Partner UbonaTechnologies.

The CX Transformation Conclave also saw a select cross-section of eminent organisations lauded for their trailblazing CX efforts. This included:

• Ather Energy Limited

• Brick and Bolt – home and commercial construction 

• Cashfree Payments

• Electrolux India Private Limited 

• Firstsource

• Flipkart

• Force Point 

• Infosys Finacle 

• ITC Infotech 

• ITC Limited 

• Kapiva Ayurveda 

• LTIMindtree

• Prestige Group 

• Xiaomi Technology India Private Limited

Reflecting on the event’s impact, Rajesh Khubchandani, Co-Founder and MD, Team Marksmen Network, said, “The insights shared at the CX Transformation Conclave reaffirmed that customer experience is more than just a business strategy — it’s the heart of every successful organisation. Technology is an incredible enabler, but true transformation lies in embracing a customer-first mindset at every level. Our goal with this event was to bring together brilliant minds to explore the future of CX and empower businesses to harness innovation in creating meaningful, lasting connections with their customers.”

As the curtains closed on yet another successful edition of the CX Transformation Conclave, one thing was clear: the future of customer experience lies in a harmonious blend of technology, empathy, and continuous evolution. The insights shared and connections forged at the event are sure to inspire a new wave of customer-centric innovation, positioning businesses to thrive in the ever-evolving experience economy.

To know more about this unique initiative, write to us at contact@teammarksmen.com

About Team Marksmen

Through an array of bespoke industry-centric knowledge platforms, using a variety of formats, such as Roundtables, Summits & Conferences, Workshops, and Recognition Ceremonies, Team Marksmen helps senior industry decision makers navigate through issues of critical importance and informs their world-view for better decision-making.

Team Marksmen has successfully executed more than 50 events that have featured 1500+ brands, helping businesses across industries create opportunities to engage audiences through on-ground and virtual experiences. 

The organisation empowers industry leaders by providing them with insights, ideas, and opportunities that fits their unique industry and context. Through content shared via its flagship website, Marksmen Daily, and print magazine ‘in Focus’ focused on business, leadership, and lifestyle, they help advance the practice of management. Meanwhile, through strategic initiatives like Marksmen Media, it helps organisations achieve their objectives through a plethora of bespoke digital and content strategies.

DLF Limited acquires DLF Urban for Rs 496.73-Cr in strategic investment

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Devinder Singh, Managing Director, DLF

DLF Limited acquires DLF Urban for Rs 496.73-crore in strategic investment through its wholly-owned subsidiary, DLF Home Developers Limited (DHDL). The company announced that the acquisition follows the purchase of a 49.997 per cent stake from Reco Greens Pte Limited.

Following this, the holding of DHDL in the share capital of DUPL has increased from 50.003 per cent to 100 per cent. “Consequently, DUPL has become a wholly-owned subsidiary of DHDL and, therefore, of the company,” the company said.

“…we wish to inform you that as a strategic investment decision, DLF Home Developers Limited (DHDL/Buyer), a material wholly-owned subsidiary of DLF Limited (Company), has acquired 49.997 per cent of the total paid-up equity share capital and compulsorily convertible debentures held by Reco Greens Pte. Limited (‘Reco’/ ‘Seller’) in DLF Urban Private Limited (DUPL), a subsidiary of DHDL…,” the company said in a regulatory filing on March 25.

Following the above acquisition, the holding of DHDL in the share capital of DUPL has increased from 50.003 per cent to 100 per cent. “Consequently, DUPL has become a wholly-owned subsidiary of DHDL and, therefore, of the company,” the company said.

The company announced the acquisition through a securities purchase agreement (SPA) on March 25, 2025. It involved the purchase of 46.39 lakh equity shares and 3.2 crore Series D compulsorily convertible debentures (CCDs). Price Waterhouse & Co LLP, Jain Jindal & Co, and Samarth Valuation Advisory LLP valued the transaction.

DUPL is primarily involved in constructing, developing, and selling integrated townships, residential homes, and apartments. Operating in the real estate sector, DUPL has developed the luxury residential project, One Midtown, located in the Kirti Nagar area of West Delhi.

This strategic acquisition strengthens DLF’s foothold in the real estate market, particularly in luxury residential development, positioning the company for further growth and expansion in the sector.

Navina raises $55 Mn in Series C funding

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(L-R) Ronen Lavi and Shay Perera, Co-founders, Navina

Navina raises $55-M in a Series C funding, bringing its total investment to $100 million. Led by Growth Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, with participation from existing investors Vertex Ventures Israel, Grove Ventures, and ALIVE, the funding will support the company’s expansion into the U.S. healthcare market.

The funding arrives at a crucial time for the healthcare industry, which is facing complex data challenges, administrative inefficiencies, and a shift toward value-based care. Navina’s AI-powered copilot aims to tackle these issues by providing real-time, data-driven insights that enable clinicians to offer patients more proactive, efficient, and personalized care.

Founded in 2018 by CEO Ronen Lavi and CTO Shay Perera, who were part of the team behind the IDF’s Intelligence Corps AI lab, Navina addresses critical challenges in healthcare.

Fragmented patient data and time-consuming administrative tasks often hinder clinicians from delivering optimal care. Navina’s platform integrates effortlessly into existing clinical workflows, transforming complex health records into clear, actionable insights. Navina has become a key player in the changing healthcare landscape, with more than 10,000 healthcare professionals across 1,300 clinics using the platform.

“AI is rapidly transforming modern healthcare, and Navina stands at the forefront of that transformation—delivering real, measurable value to thousands of clinicians,” said Irit Kahan, Managing Director in Growth Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives. “Their deep integration into clinical workflows, unparalleled provider trust, and demonstrated ROI make them uniquely positioned to drive meaningful impact across the healthcare ecosystem.”

Navina’s approach has earned the confidence of leading healthcare organizations such as Agilon Health, InnovaCare Health, Millennium Physician Group, and Privia Health.

“This investment is a powerful validation of Navina’s vision to improve patient outcomes and healthcare economics by breaking down data barriers with AI,” said Ronen Lavi, Navina’s co-founder and CEO. “We’re thrilled to partner with a firm like Goldman Sachs as we enter this pivotal growth phase and expand our market reach.”

With the new funding, Navina plans to advance its proprietary AI technology, further automate clinical workflows, and broaden its scope from population health management to point-of-care interventions. The company aims to become the leading source of unified patient data, facilitating more efficient decision-making across the healthcare ecosystem, from payers to providers.

Nexthop AI raises $110 Mn in funding to transform the AI industry

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Anshul Sadana, CEO, Nexthop AI

Nexthop AI raises $110 million in funding as the AI infrastructure company emerges from stealth mode, with Lightspeed Venture Partners leading the round. Based in Santa Clara, the company also has operations in Bengaluru. Kleiner Perkins, WestBridge Capital, Battery Ventures, and Emergent Ventures also participated in the funding round. This investment will accelerate the development of Nexthop AI’s advanced networking solutions for cloud and hyperscale AI clusters.

“The world’s largest cloud providers need a new generation of networking capabilities to keep pace with the demands of AI workloads,” said Guru Chahal, partner at Lightspeed Venture Partners. “Nexthop AI is filling a critical gap in this $35 billion market with its deep domain expertise, pioneering technology and customized solutions, positioning the company as the go-to partner for leading cloud providers seeking to seize the AI revolution.”

Nexthop AI focuses on creating tailored networking solutions for hyperscalers, seamlessly integrating them into their optimized cloud stacks. This involves designing networking hardware according to each customer’s specifications, providing a network operating system of their choice that Nexthop AI fortifies, and offering pre-tested optical and electrical interconnects sourced from the customer’s diverse supply chain.

“Hyperscalers need the ecosystem to innovate with them to accelerate their infrastructure deployments,” said Anshul Sadana, CEO of Nexthop AI. “Nexthop AI is a force-multiplier, as it partners with and works as an extension of the cloud companies’ engineering teams. This disruptive model enables cloud companies to build the most cost and power-efficient AI solutions.”

Nexthop AI’s successful funding round marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey to revolutionize networking solutions for hyperscale AI clusters. With $110 million in backing from prominent investors, the company is poised to accelerate the development of its cutting-edge technologies, further solidifying its position as a leader in AI infrastructure. As it expands its operations across key global markets, Nexthop AI is set to drive innovation in cloud computing and AI networking.

BlackRock launches first bitcoin exchange-traded product in Europe

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BlackRock has launched its first bitcoin exchange-traded product in Europe, aiming to capitalize on the increasing demand for cryptocurrency exposure in new markets. This move follows the success of similar products in the U.S., where the firm has attracted more than $50 billion.

The “iShares Bitcoin ETP” is domiciled in Switzerland and listed in Paris, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt. As reported by Reuters, BlackRock had previously hinted at the launch but declined to comment officially.

As one of the first institutional investors to offer exchange-traded products tracking bitcoin’s spot price in the U.S., BlackRock has partnered with Coinbase as the custodian and Bank of New York Mellon as the administrator for this new product. The move solidifies BlackRock’s commitment to expanding its cryptocurrency offerings and responding to growing investor interest.

In conclusion, BlackRock’s entry into the European bitcoin ETP market demonstrates its ongoing strategy to lead the evolving cryptocurrency investment space, further enhancing its global reach.

Pizza Wings raises $2.8M from Nikhil Kamath and other investors

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Pizza Wings raises $2.8M in a new funding round, with backing from notable investors such as Gruhas (the investment arm of Nikhil Kamath and Abhijeet Pai), Udaan co-founder Sujeet Kumar, and other strategic investors. This follows their earlier $4 million seed round in 2024.

According to the company’s press release, the new capital will support Pizza Wings’ expansion into Northern and North-Eastern India and help establish a foundation for long-term growth.

Founded in 2014 by Aditya Dhanda, Rajpal Sangwan, and Vikas Nain, Pizza Wings is a homegrown QSR brand that blends international quality standards with Indian flavour preferences. The company ensures strict quality control through cold fermentation, FSSAI-compliant procedures, and certified ingredients. Its menu offers customizable options tailored to regional tastes, developed by a skilled team of chefs.

“Pizza Wings has demonstrated robust growth since its inception. It is the ideal balance of global quality and Indian flavours while leveraging a technology-driven delivery infrastructure to enhance the customer experience. We are committed to using fresh ingredients, including daily-prepared dough and zero preservatives, which have resonated with our customers,” said Aditya Dhanda, CEO of Pizza Wings. “This funding will accelerate our vision of becoming India’s premier food-tech brand while staying true to our core values of quality and customization.”

Investor confidence in Pizza Wings continues to grow due to its strong unit economics and operational efficiency in the competitive QSR sector. “Pizza Wings has built an impressive business model with a technology-first approach, evidenced by 80% of its deliveries being managed through its proprietary platform,” said Sujeet Kumar, Co-founder of Udaan. “This approach positions them as more than just a food brand—it establishes them as a fast-emerging food-tech leader.”

Abhijeet Pai, Partner at Gruhas, added, “We’re embarking on an elevating chapter for Pizza Wings with this follow-up funding round, which marks a significant milestone in our journey. The brand’s rapid growth and commitment to quality have set the stage for ambitious expansion across India. With plans to scale to 100 outlets by the end of 2025 and create new opportunities by expanding its team, Pizza Wings is not just growing—it’s building a strong foundation for long-term success. We believe in their vision and are committed to supporting them as they expand their footprint and bring great-quality fast food to more consumers nationwide.”

Pizza Wings aims to open 50 new stores, bringing its total to 100 outlets by the end of 2025, strengthening its presence in emerging urban markets. The brand is also making strategic hires in finance, logistics, and marketing to support this growth.

Additionally, Pizza Wings is enhancing its operations with proprietary rider and store management apps, improving efficiency and reducing dependence on third-party aggregators. By building direct customer relationships, the brand has amassed over 500,000 app downloads and is leading sales in several cities.