MUFG launches $250 Mn India startup fund to back fintech and growth-stage ventures

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June 2, 2026

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), Japan’s largest financial group, is establishing a $250 million India-focused venture capital fund to support early-stage and growth-stage startups, according to people familiar with the development. The fund size could eventually increase to $400 million as MUFG expands its investment strategy in one of the world’s fastest-growing startup ecosystems.

The new fund will primarily focus on early-stage fintech startups while also exploring opportunities across high-growth sectors within India’s digital economy. Mayank Shiromani, deputy chief investment officer at MUFG Innovation Partners, will lead the fund.

The move comes as a new generation of global venture capital firms and institutional investors intensify their focus on Indian startups. These investors are increasingly filling the gap left by major players such as SoftBank Group and Tiger Global Management, which dominated startup deal-making between 2020 and 2023 but have significantly reduced their activity in recent years.

Since 2025, investment firms including Susquehanna International Group, Enrission India Capital, SMBC Group, and Mirae Asset Financial Group have maintained or increased their investments in India despite a sharp slowdown in capital deployment from previous market leaders.

These investors have actively backed startups across fintech, consumer internet, software services, and digital platforms. Their portfolio companies include Jupiter, DMI Finance, Dhan, Olyv, Skydo, AppsForBharat, Safe Security, Atlys, Snabbit, Pronto, and Battery Smart.

At the same time, global angel investor Lachy Groom has increased his focus on India. After making one investment in 2025, he completed two investments in 2026. His recent portfolio additions include Pronto, Even Healthcare, and Alt Carbon.

Last month, reports indicated that Groom was evaluating investment opportunities in drone technology startup Airbound and aerospace manufacturing company Alteon.

According to Venture Intelligence data, Mirae Asset and MUFG have each participated in four startup funding rounds since the beginning of 2025. Meanwhile, Susquehanna has joined 10 venture deals, while Enrission India Capital has participated in 15 transactions.

In contrast, Tiger Global’s investment activity in India has declined significantly. The firm completed 55 investments in Indian startups in 2021 and 47 in 2022. However, that number dropped to six investments in 2025, while the firm has not completed any investments in India so far in 2026. Similarly, SoftBank made 17 startup investments in 2021 and four in 2022 but has not executed any new investments in the sector since then.

Until now, MUFG primarily used its Ganesha Fund, established in 2022, to invest in Indian fintech startups. The $300 million fund focused mainly on growth-stage companies. However, the new India-focused vehicle will allow MUFG to participate more actively in early-stage startup funding opportunities.

The strategic shift highlights changing investor perceptions of India’s startup ecosystem. Many investors now believe startup valuations have become more realistic, competition for deals has declined, and India’s digital economy has matured significantly over the past decade.

Companies such as Zomato, Swiggy, PhonePe, Groww, Meesho, and Zepto have helped establish digital consumption habits among millions of Indian consumers. As a result, many investors believe the next generation of startups can achieve scale with comparatively lower capital requirements.

This perspective differs sharply from the cautious approach currently adopted by Tiger Global and SoftBank.

“For a US fund today, the opportunity cost is whether they spend time in India or deploy billions of dollars into the top 5 AI (artificial intelligence) companies. For deep India investors like us, this is a great opportunity,” Puneet Kumar, CEO of Mirae Asset Venture Investments, said.

Kumar also highlighted how the current funding environment has improved opportunities for committed investors.

The funding slowdown has improved deal quality for investors still focused on India, he said, adding, “Right now, because others are not active, we are getting much better deals. That is why we feel this is the right time to double down.”

Over the past three years, large financial institutions with strong balance sheets have increasingly shown a willingness to invest in Indian startups capable of addressing opportunities not only in India but also across Southeast Asia.

MUFG’s investment platforms have already deployed close to $100 million into Indian fintech startups. Through the new fund, the financial giant plans to back innovative businesses developing products and services for India’s rapidly expanding population of tech-savvy and internet-native consumers.

Additionally, regulatory reforms have created new opportunities in highly regulated industries such as fintech. Emerging business models, including co-lending partnerships between financial institutions and technology companies, have further enhanced the attractiveness of the sector for investors.

With a strong emphasis on fintech, digital services, and consumer technology, MUFG’s new fund could play a significant role in shaping India’s startup landscape and accelerating innovation-driven growth in the coming years.

Kyro Capital Launches ₹100 Crore Growth-Stage Pre-IPO Private Equity Fund

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June 2, 2026

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Kyro Capital Launches ₹100 Crore Growth-Stage Pre-IPO Private Equity Fund — Mr. Aman Maheshwari, Founder & Managing Director of Kyro Capital and Kyro Asset Management

• Kyro India Opportunities Fund—I mark a defining milestone: institutionalising private equity in the heartland of India.

• The fund will invest in profitable, growth-stage Indian companies with strong IPO potential within 24–36 months, targeting a 35% IRR through a disciplined pre-IPO investment strategy.

New Delhi, June 1, 2026: Integrated financial services group, operating across asset management and strategic corporate advisory, Kyro Capital Private Limited today introduced the Kyro India Opportunities Fund – I, a SEBI Registered Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) with a target corpus of ₹100 crore. The Fund is sponsored by Kyro Capital, Kyro Group’s corporate advisory entity, and managed by Kyro Asset Management Private Limited, its dedicated investment management arm.

The fund targets high-conviction investments in profitable, growth-stage Indian companies with a clear IPO pathway within 24–36 months, targeting an IRR of 35% and delivering a premium liquidity event to its investors through a disciplined pre-IPO primary strategy.

Kyro was not built in Mumbai or Delhi. It was built in Indore. Mr. Aman Maheshwari, Founder & Managing Director of Kyro Capital and Kyro Asset Management, is an alumnus of the world’s most prestigious financial institutions—Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, and Nomura—where he worked across investment banking, capital markets, and structured finance. When the time came to build something of his own, he did not choose to stay in a financial metropolis. He chose to come home.

Mr. Aman Maheshwari, Founder & Managing Director, Kyro Capital & Kyro Asset Management, said, “I have sat across the table in the boardrooms of global banks. I have seen how capital is deployed at the highest levels. My belief—then and now—is that the most compelling opportunity in the world today is right here in India, and specifically in the companies that are growing quietly and profitably in sectors that are building the future of this nation. I wanted to bring the institutional rigour of a Goldman Sachs to the growth companies of India, and I wanted to do it from Indore.”

Kyro India Opportunities Fund—I: The Flagship

The fund is the first in a planned series under the India Opportunities platform—purpose-built to systematically identify, back, and exit from high-quality Indian companies on the cusp of public markets. The fund’s focus sectors are:

▪ Energy & Power: Transmission, Renewables, Insulators, Solar, Energy Storage

▪ Advanced Manufacturing: Aerospace & Defence Supply Chain

▪ Consumer & FMCG: Category leaders with demonstrated brand moat

These are not sectors chosen at random. They are the sectors that are building India’s next decade—energy sovereignty, manufacturing scale, and consumption growth. These companies are profitable today. They are scaling for tomorrow. And they are largely invisible to global capital, sitting outside the noise of the large-cap market.

Kyro’s journey into asset management is a natural, hard-earned evolution. The firm began as Kyro Capital Private Limited, an investment banking and transaction advisory firm that has, over its tenure, advised and helped raise capital for multiple growth-stage companies across sectors. Mandate by mandate, deal by deal, Kyro earned the trust of promoters and investors alike.

In the course of that work, a strategic conviction took shape: the best deals in India are not in the secondary markets. They are in the boardrooms of profitable, under-the-radar companies that are 24-36 months away from a public listing. Kyro decided it would not merely advise these companies—it would invest in them alongside its investors. Kyro Asset Management Private Limited was born from that decision.

A Vision That Goes Beyond India

Kyro’s ambitions do not end with India. The firm has announced plans to extend the India Opportunities series into a multi-fund platform and, in parallel, to enter emerging markets across Asia—with a specific lens on South Korea and Taiwan—and also in Germany, as geographies of strategic interest for cross-border investment themes tied to semiconductors, precision manufacturing, and the energy transition.

Kyro aims to be among the first firms from Central India to benchmark itself as a global, institutional private equity platform—bringing international-grade governance, discipline, and access to capital while remaining rooted in the values and relationships that define the Indore business community.

Why This Matters: The Employment & Impact Thesis

Kyro was not built purely to generate returns. Its thesis is rooted in a deeper purpose: that capital, when deployed with conviction into the right growth businesses, becomes a force multiplier for employment generation, industrial expansion, and national progress. The companies in its portfolio will not just create wealth for investors—they will create jobs, build capability, and strengthen the supply chains that India is counting on as it takes its place among the world’s great economies.

Every rupee raised by Kyro India Opportunities Fund—I is ultimately a vote of confidence in the Indian growth story and in the entrepreneurs who are living it.

About Kyro Capital & Kyro Asset Management

Kyro Capital Private Limited is an investment banking and transaction advisory firm headquartered in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The firm advises growth-stage companies on capital raising, M&A, and strategic transactions. Kyro Asset Management Private Limited is its dedicated asset management affiliate and the investment manager of the Kyro India Opportunities Fund – I (SEBI registered Category II AIF). Both entities are founded and led by Aman Maheshwari, who brings institutional experience from Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, and Nomura.

Berkshire Hathaway to acquire Taylor Morrison in $6.8 Bn all-cash deal

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June 2, 2026

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Berkshire Hathaway to acquire Taylor Morrison in $6.8 Bn all-cash deal — Greg Abel, CEO, Berkshire Hathaway

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. has agreed to acquire Taylor Morrison Home Corp. in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $6.8 billion, marking the first major acquisition under Chief Executive Officer Greg Abel and signaling strong confidence in the long-term prospects of the US housing market.

Under the agreement, Berkshire Hathaway will pay $72.50 per common share, representing a 24% premium over Taylor Morrison’s closing stock price on Friday. The acquisition stands as Berkshire’s largest deal since it purchased the petrochemical business of Occidental Petroleum Corporation in January.

“We are excited to welcome Taylor Morrison into Berkshire’s portfolio,” Abel said in a statement. “Over time, we expect to unify our site-built homebuilding operations into a combined platform enabling us to deliver the dream of homeownership to more Americans.”

The transaction represents the first multibillion-dollar acquisition completed under Abel’s leadership after legendary investor Warren Buffett retired last year. Berkshire moved forward with the deal during a period when homebuilder stocks have underperformed and mortgage rates have climbed to their highest levels since August.

Meanwhile, the Omaha-based conglomerate entered the acquisition from a position of significant financial strength. Berkshire Hathaway held a record cash reserve of $397 billion at the end of the first quarter, giving the company substantial flexibility to pursue strategic investments and acquisitions.

Industry experts view Abel’s vision for integrating Berkshire’s homebuilding operations as a notable shift in the company’s traditional acquisition strategy.

Abel’s comments about unifying Berkshire’s homebuilding operations over time are “a notable departure” from Berkshire’s trademark strategy of letting acquisitions run independently, said Christopher Davis, a partner at Hudson Value Partners. “Investors will welcome that evolution in approach.”

The acquisition also arrives as investors continue to assess Abel’s leadership of Berkshire Hathaway’s vast business empire. While shareholders have generally supported the transition, many have hoped a major acquisition would help boost Berkshire’s stock performance. Berkshire Hathaway shares have declined 5.6% this year, while the broader S&P 500 has gained 10.7% during the same period.

Taylor Morrison ranks among the largest homebuilders and community developers in the United States. In addition to residential construction, the company provides financial services, including home loans, title services, escrow solutions, and insurance products. The Scottsdale, Arizona-based builder currently operates more than 350 communities across 12 states.

Following the acquisition, the existing Taylor Morrison leadership team will remain in place. Chief Executive Officer Sheryl Palmer and her management team will continue overseeing the company’s operations and strategic direction.

The transaction further expands Berkshire Hathaway’s presence in the residential construction industry. The conglomerate already owns Clayton Homes and maintains an investment in Lennar Corporation.

However, Berkshire announced the acquisition at a time when the US housing market faces several challenges. Government data released earlier this month showed that new residential construction declined 2.8% in April. Additionally, single-family housing starts fell 9%, marking the steepest decline since August.

Despite these near-term headwinds, Berkshire appears confident in the sector’s long-term growth potential and housing demand fundamentals.

“Over the last 13 years as a public company, we built a track record of strategic growth—expanding our geographic footprint, integrating acquisitions with discipline, and deepening our competitive strengths,” Taylor Morrison’s Palmer said in a statement. “Berkshire Hathaway’s long-term orientation is uniquely well-suited to the multi-year investment cycle of homebuilding.”

Advisers supporting the transaction include Goldman Sachs and Moelis & Company as financial advisers. Meanwhile, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is serving as legal adviser, while Mayer Brown LLP is acting as counsel to Taylor Morrison.

The companies expect to complete the acquisition during the second half of this year, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

By adding one of the country’s largest homebuilders to its portfolio, Berkshire strengthens its real estate and homebuilding presence while positioning itself to benefit from long-term housing demand. The deal also signals a potential evolution in Berkshire’s acquisition strategy, as Abel pursues greater operational integration across the company’s housing businesses.

Alphabet targets $80 Bn capital raise amid surging AI demand

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June 2, 2026

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Alphabet announced that it plans to raise $80 billion through equity offerings, including a significant investment from Berkshire Hathaway, as the Google parent accelerates its ambitious expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure.

The transaction brings Warren Buffett’s diversified holding company on board as a major new investor. Consequently, the investment provides a strong endorsement of Alphabet’s long-term artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital innovation strategy.

Earlier this year, Alphabet increased its annual capital expenditure forecast by $5 billion, raising the projected spending range to between $180 billion and $190 billion. Through this move, the technology giant aims to meet rapidly growing AI-driven computing demand while expanding its portfolio of business AI tools and custom-designed chips.

As part of the agreement, Alphabet will sell $10 billion worth of shares to Berkshire Hathaway through a private placement. The offering includes $5 billion in Class A common stock priced at $351.81 per share and $5 billion in Class C capital stock priced at $348.20 per share. Both offerings come at prices below Monday’s closing levels.

Following the announcement, Alphabet’s shares declined 2% in after-hours trading.

“All companies are thrilled when Berkshire takes positions, because it is the kind of shareholder that companies like to have,” said Steven Check, president and chief investment officer of Check Capital Management, which has investments in Berkshire stock.

Meanwhile, Berkshire Hathaway continues to strengthen its position in Alphabet. The investment adds to the stake Berkshire has built since the third quarter of last year. Last month, Berkshire revealed that it had more than tripled its holding in the Google parent. At approximately $16.6 billion, Alphabet now ranks among Berkshire Hathaway’s largest common stock investments.

“This additional purchase underscores that Greg Abel(Berkshire CEO) believes that Alphabet will earn a reasonable return on its AI capex spending with the firm issuing additional shares,” said Bill Stone, chief investment officer at Glenview Trust Company.

In addition to Berkshire’s participation, Alphabet intends to raise another $30 billion through concurrent public offerings supported by major investment banks. The company plans to divide the offering equally between depositary shares linked to mandatory convertible preferred stock and Class A and Class C shares.

Furthermore, Alphabet expects to launch a $40 billion at-the-market offering program during the third quarter. This initiative will provide flexibility to gradually sell Class A and Class C shares over time while efficiently managing capital requirements.

“The company is experiencing strong demand for its AI solutions and services from enterprises and consumers, at levels that are exceeding the company’s available supply,” Alphabet said.

The statement highlights the unprecedented growth in demand for artificial intelligence solutions across both enterprise and consumer markets. As organizations increasingly adopt generative AI, cloud computing, machine learning, and advanced digital services, Alphabet continues to expand its infrastructure to meet market requirements.

Over the past year, Alphabet has also strengthened its balance sheet through debt financing. The company raised more than $85 billion in debt across six currencies and multiple global markets, increasing its total debt balance to more than $100 billion.

Alphabet’s planned $80 billion equity fundraising marks one of the largest capital-raising efforts in the technology sector and underscores the company’s commitment to dominating the rapidly expanding artificial intelligence market. With Berkshire Hathaway deepening its investment, Alphabet gains not only substantial financial backing but also a powerful vote of confidence in its AI infrastructure, cloud computing, and long-term growth strategy. As demand for AI services continues to outpace supply, Alphabet’s aggressive investments position the company to capitalize on the next wave of technological transformation and digital innovation.

Atmantan Wellness Centre to launch 100-room luxury wellness retreat in Hyderabad by 2028-29

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June 1, 2026

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Atmantan Wellness Centre, part of The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), has announced plans to establish a world-class luxury wellness destination in Hyderabad through a strategic partnership with Swela Realty LLP. The project aims to redefine integrated wellness experiences in India while catering to the growing demand for preventive healthcare, longevity, and holistic wellness among domestic and international travellers.

Swela Realty LLP, led by Swaran Charlakola and Spoorthi Reddy, will develop the project. The initiative draws inspiration from the vision of their mother, the late Dr. Sweta Reddy, who envisioned creating a globally recognized wellness centre in Hyderabad.

Located approximately one hour from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, the upcoming luxury wellness retreat will feature 100 rooms spread across a 50-acre site. The developers expect to open the property during 2028-29. Furthermore, the project will encompass more than 180,000 square feet of built-up space, including over 80,000 square feet dedicated exclusively to advanced wellness infrastructure.

The company selected Hyderabad as the destination due to its rapidly expanding wellness ecosystem, excellent connectivity with major Indian metropolitan cities, and strong access to international markets. Consequently, the retreat will target Indian and global high-net-worth individuals, corporate leaders, wellness-conscious travellers, and guests seeking preventive healthcare solutions and longevity-focused programmes.

Commenting on the announcement, Sharmilee Kapur and Nikhil Kapur, Founders, Atmantan, said, “We were immediately drawn to the natural beauty and energy of this land. Equally meaningful was meeting Mr. Swaran Charlakola and his family, whose deep-rooted belief in wellness and healing is shaped on the strong foundation of natural medicine. Their vision is closely aligned with our conviction that wellness must be integrated, evidence-based, and designed to create lasting outcomes. Together, we look forward to creating a destination in Hyderabad that will help people reclaim their health, reconnect with nature, and experience the very best of integrated wellness.”

Highlighting the brand’s expansion strategy, they further added, “Atmantan specialises in large-format Wellness Centres, and this destination, like all our future projects, will also be in the range of 100 rooms (giving us capacity for around 130-150 guests per day). Our model of Integrated Wellness is something people in India and overseas are seeking actively.”

The upcoming wellness retreat will focus on delivering comprehensive health and wellness solutions through evidence-based therapies and personalized treatment plans. The centre will offer preventive healthcare programmes, advanced diagnostics, therapeutic interventions, stress management solutions, holistic healing practices, and wellness experiences that promote long-term physical and mental well-being.

Sharing his views on the collaboration, Swaran Charlakola, Director of Swela Realty LLP, said, “This partnership with Atmantan marks an important step in bringing a world-class integrated wellness destination to Hyderabad. The world is talking more openly about longevity. As strong believers in the power of natural and holistic health, we recognise that the global conversation around longevity is not a passing trend but a fundamental shift in how people aspire to live. We are looking forward to building a sanctuary with the Atmantan Team that will give life to this shared ambition, long-term value, and a commitment to redefining wellness in the region.”

In addition to its wellness offerings, the property will incorporate a strong sustainability framework. The development will emphasize ecological conservation, biophilic architecture, local cultural integration, and environmentally responsible design principles. Moreover, the project aims to achieve Gold LEED certification, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable hospitality and green building standards.

The project reflects the growing convergence of luxury hospitality, preventive healthcare, wellness tourism, and sustainable development in India. As consumer interest in integrated wellness, longevity science, holistic healing, and health-focused travel continues to grow, investors and hospitality developers are increasingly choosing Hyderabad as a strategic destination for premium wellness projects and long-term wellness investments.

The launch of Atmantan Wellness Centre in Hyderabad marks a significant milestone in India’s evolving wellness tourism landscape. IHCL and Swela Realty LLP will leverage their combined expertise in hospitality and development to create a benchmark for luxury wellness retreats in India. By prioritizing integrated healthcare, sustainability, preventive medicine, and personalized wellness experiences, they aim to attract discerning travellers from India and international markets while strengthening Hyderabad’s position as a leading global wellness destination.

Scripbox acquires Bluechip Capital to strengthen wealth management business and expand digital investment services

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June 1, 2026

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Scripbox acquires Bluechip Capital to strengthen wealth management business and expand digital investment services — Atul Shinghal, chief executive officer of Scripbox

Bengaluru-based wealth management startup Scripbox has acquired New Delhi-based wealth management firm Bluechip Capital, further strengthening its position in India’s rapidly evolving digital wealth management sector. Through the acquisition, Scripbox aims to expand its client base while offering Bluechip Capital’s customers access to a comprehensive digital investment and wealth management platform.

Although the companies have not disclosed the financial details of the transaction, Scripbox confirmed that Bluechip Capital’s employees and clients will become part of the broader Scripbox ecosystem following the completion of the acquisition.

Speaking about the strategic rationale behind the deal, Atul Shinghal, chief executive officer of Scripbox, said, “Bluechip has been in the business for 33 years and has built very strong client relationships. But the next generation of these clients will need digital solutions and institutional support, which Scripbox can provide.”

The acquisition aligns with Scripbox’s long-term growth strategy as the company continues to capitalize on the increasing digitization of wealth management and investment advisory services across India.

Shinghal further highlighted the company’s experience in executing similar transactions to expand its market presence and assets under management (AUM). He stated, “Bluechip was managing an AUM north of Rs 1,000 crore, mostly mutual funds.”

For more than three decades, Ravi Kohli led Bluechip Capital and built a strong reputation in wealth management through long-standing client relationships and personalized advisory services. Following the acquisition, Bluechip’s customers will gain access to Scripbox’s technology-driven platform, digital investment tools, and modern advisory solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s investors.

As wealth management increasingly shifts toward digital-first experiences, the integration will enable clients to access enhanced portfolio management capabilities, streamlined investment processes, and data-driven financial planning services through a unified platform.

Founded in 2012, Scripbox has emerged as one of India’s leading digital wealth management platforms. The company primarily focuses on mutual fund investments while also offering portfolio management services and investment advisory solutions. Over the years, Scripbox has built a strong presence among retail and high-net-worth investors seeking technology-enabled financial planning and wealth creation opportunities.

The startup has raised approximately $59 million in equity funding through multiple investment rounds led by Accel. In addition, prominent investors such as Omidyar Network and Nippon Life Insurance have backed the company, reflecting strong confidence in its business model and growth potential.

Currently, Scripbox manages assets exceeding ₹20,000 crore across its three primary business verticals: mutual fund distribution, portfolio management services, and investment advisory. The acquisition of Bluechip Capital is expected to further enhance the company’s scale, increase its assets under management, and strengthen its foothold in India’s expanding wealth management market.

Several advisors facilitated the transaction. Bluechip Capital appointed Pegasus Finserv as its advisor, while Scripbox received advisory support from LegaLogic Consulting and Globeview Advisors during the acquisition process.

The acquisition highlights the growing consolidation trend within India’s wealth management industry as established advisory firms increasingly partner with technology-driven platforms to meet changing customer expectations. By combining Bluechip Capital’s decades-long client relationships with Scripbox’s digital capabilities, the transaction positions the company to capitalize on the growing demand for modern investment solutions, digital wealth management, and personalized financial advisory services across India.

As digital transformation continues to reshape the financial services landscape, Scripbox’s acquisition strategy could play a crucial role in expanding its market share and strengthening its leadership position in India’s wealth-tech ecosystem.

KorinMi raises ₹10-Cr to accelerate expansion of Korean beauty clinics across India

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June 1, 2026

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KorinMi Raises ₹10-Cr to accelerate expansion of Korean beauty clinics across India — Jenovia Daun Jung and Reshbha Munjal, co-founders, KorinMi

KorinMi, a Gurugram-based Korean beauty and skincare startup, has secured ₹10 crore in funding from the innovation fund of Lotus Herbals, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey. The investment will support the company’s expansion plans as it scales its clinic network and strengthens its direct-to-consumer (D2C) beauty product business across India.

Lotus Herbals established its innovation fund with a corpus of $50 million to back promising early-stage beauty and wellness startups in the country. Through this investment, the company continues to expand its presence in emerging segments of the rapidly growing Indian beauty and personal care market.

Founded in 2024, KorinMi entered the market as a Korean beauty clinic specializing in advanced skin treatments. Since then, the startup has diversified its offerings by launching a range of D2C skincare products, thereby creating a comprehensive beauty and wellness ecosystem for consumers.

Korean beauty, widely known as K-beauty, encompasses skincare, makeup, and treatment solutions developed in South Korea. Unlike short-term cosmetic fixes, K-beauty focuses on long-term skin health, preventive care, and personalized treatment approaches.

Currently, KorinMi operates three clinics in Gurugram. Each facility employs at least two doctors and benefits from a network of dermatologists along with six to seven trained therapists, enabling the company to deliver specialized skincare and haircare services.

The startup plans to utilize the newly raised capital to expand its physical footprint and establish new clinics in major metropolitan markets, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. Through this expansion, KorinMi aims to strengthen its position in India’s fast-growing premium skincare and aesthetic treatment sector.

Speaking about the company’s growth strategy, Reshbha Munjal, cofounder and CEO of KorinMi said, “We focus on both face and hair treatment. We launched our first clinic in Gurugram in October 2024, and so far we have over 3,000 clients. The treatment frequency is typically 30-45 days, and to help our customers’ skincare journey, we have launched a product range.”

KorinMi follows a personalized treatment model that begins with a comprehensive 3D skin analysis. After the assessment, clients consult with medical professionals who design customized skincare and haircare solutions based on individual requirements.

The company’s cofounder and COO Jenovia Daun Jung, a South Korean national with extensive experience in the Korean beauty industry, oversees treatment protocols and consultation processes to ensure the authenticity of KorinMi’s K-beauty offerings.

In addition to clinic-based services, KorinMi has developed a portfolio of D2C skincare products manufactured in South Korea. The company claims it formulates these products specifically for Indian skin types and climatic conditions. Furthermore, the clinics utilize advanced Korean equipment and skincare technologies sourced directly from South Korea.

The latest funding round follows an earlier investment secured by the startup in May last year. At that time, KorinMi raised ₹3 crore from former Kaya Skin Clinic (UAE) CEO Vikas Agarwal and a group of angel investors, providing early momentum for the company’s expansion plans.

Commenting on the recent investment, Nitin Passi, managing director of Lotus Herbals, said, “With this investment we wanted to diversify into other beauty and skincare segments where we currently don’t operate.”

The investment marks the third deployment from the Lotus Innovation Fund since its launch in June 2024. According to Passi, the fund seeks not only to support innovative startups but also to help organize and professionalize India’s rapidly expanding beauty and wellness industry.

The Indian beauty startup ecosystem has witnessed increasing investor interest in recent years. Notably, Lotus Herbals’ innovation fund represents the second major strategic beauty-focused investment vehicle in India. Earlier, in 2022, Estee Lauder-backed New Incubation Ventures partnered with Nykaa to launch a dedicated investment platform focused on early-stage beauty and personal care startups.

As consumer demand for advanced skincare treatments, Korean beauty solutions, and personalized wellness experiences continues to grow, KorinMi is positioning itself as a prominent player in India’s premium beauty market. Backed by fresh funding, an expanding clinic network, Korean expertise, and a growing D2C portfolio, the startup appears well-equipped to capitalize on the rising popularity of K-beauty and accelerate its nationwide expansion.

Kaara Hotels expands hospitality footprint with launch of Kaara Dehradun property in Uttarakhand

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June 1, 2026

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Kaara Hotels has strengthened its presence in India’s hospitality sector with the launch of Kaara Dehradun, a premium hospitality destination in Badripur, Dehradun. The new property marks a significant step in the company’s expansion strategy across high-growth leisure tourism and gateway markets, while catering to the increasing demand for luxury stays, destination weddings, corporate events, and weekend getaways in Uttarakhand.

The company strategically positioned Kaara Dehradun approximately 18 kilometers from Jolly Grant Airport and 6 kilometers from Dehradun Railway Station, ensuring convenient access for both business and leisure travelers. Additionally, its location near the Delhi–Dehradun Highway and Mall of Dehradun enhances connectivity and urban accessibility, making it an attractive choice for visitors seeking comfort and convenience.

Kaara Hotels has planned the project as a phased development featuring 100 rooms and comprehensive hospitality infrastructure. Furthermore, the property offers easy access to several of Uttarakhand’s most popular tourist destinations, including Mussoorie, Rajaji National Park, Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara, Mindrolling Monastery, Malsi Deer Park, and Lachhiwala Nature Park. As a result, Kaara Dehradun serves as an ideal base for tourism, family vacations, short leisure trips, and experiential travel.

The hotel operates within the premium four-star category and provides contemporary accommodations equipped with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy air-conditioned rooms, private bathrooms, tea and coffee-making facilities, premium toiletries, and balconies in selected room categories. Moreover, the property features a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves buffet breakfast and all-day dining options for both resident guests and walk-in customers.

Beyond accommodation, Kaara Hotels has developed the property as an integrated hospitality and events destination. The hotel includes spacious wedding venues, indoor banquet halls, expansive outdoor lawns, recreational facilities, ample parking, and a range of guest-focused services. Consequently, the property caters to weddings, social celebrations, corporate events, business travel, and group stays. The hotel also welcomes families and pets, addressing the evolving preferences of modern Indian travelers who seek experience-driven hospitality at accessible price points.

As part of its second phase of development, Kaara Hotels will introduce 56 additional rooms, a swimming pool, a multi-cuisine all-day dining restaurant, and a fully equipped gymnasium. These additions will further strengthen the property’s position as a comprehensive leisure, wedding, and events destination in Dehradun.

Commenting on the launch, Puneet Sethi, managing director of Kaara Hotels, said, “Dehradun represents one of the most important emerging hospitality markets in North India today. The city sits at the convergence of leisure travel, destination weddings, spiritual tourism, and growing corporate movement into Uttarakhand. Kaara Dehradun has been developed to respond to that demand with a format that combines personalized hospitality, strong event infrastructure, and operational consistency. The larger vision is to build properties that feel warm, dependable, and deeply connected to the way Indian travelers actually move and celebrate today.”

Founded in 2021, Kaara Hotels has steadily expanded its footprint within India’s mid-market hospitality segment through a dual-brand strategy. The company currently operates leisure-focused Kaara properties alongside its recently launched Aayra boutique city hotel format. At present, Kaara Hotels manages properties in Gurugram and Dehradun while actively developing projects in Udaipur, Jaipur, Jim Corbett, Ranthambore, Goa, and several Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities across India.

The company follows an asset-light business model that incorporates revenue-sharing agreements, leasing arrangements, and management contracts. Additionally, Kaara Hotels leverages its proprietary hospitality technology platform, HOSPINS, which integrates pricing, procurement, analytics, and property management functions across its portfolio, enhancing operational efficiency and scalability.

Looking ahead, Kaara Hotels aims to significantly accelerate its growth trajectory. The company has set an ambitious target of operating 120 hotels and generating ₹500 crore in annual revenue by FY30-31 as it expands its presence across India’s rapidly growing leisure tourism, destination wedding, and urban hospitality markets.

The launch of Kaara Dehradun highlights Kaara Hotels’ commitment to capitalizing on India’s booming travel and tourism industry. With strategic expansion plans, technology-driven operations, premium hospitality offerings, and a growing pipeline of properties across key destinations, the company is positioning itself as a strong player in the country’s evolving hospitality landscape. As demand for experiential travel, destination weddings, and leisure tourism continues to rise, Kaara Hotels appears well-positioned to achieve its long-term growth ambitions.

EV startup Simple Energy targets IPO by FY28, eyes ₹3,000-Cr revenue by FY30 after raising ₹250-Cr funding

By

BRL Editor

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June 1, 2026

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EV startup Simple Energy targets IPO by FY28, eyes ₹3,000-Cr revenue by FY30 after raising ₹250-Cr funding — Suhas Rajkumar, Shreshth Mishra, and Ankit Gupta, co-founders, Simple Energy

Bengaluru-based EV startup Simple Energy has accelerated its growth plans, setting its sights on an initial public offering (IPO) in the second half of FY28 while targeting revenue of more than ₹3,000 crore by FY30. The electric two-wheeler manufacturer recently secured ₹250 crore in a Series B funding round, strengthening its expansion strategy and reinforcing investor confidence in India’s rapidly growing electric vehicle market.

The development follows a series of successful public listings in the electric mobility sector, including the IPOs of Ola Electric Mobility in August 2024 and Ather Energy in April 2025. Meanwhile, Greaves Electric Mobility has already received approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) for its planned IPO.

Speaking about the company’s public market ambitions, Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Suhas Rajkumar said, “We are looking at the second half of FY28. Our plans got a bit delayed because of the current market conditions. We believe that in a year’s time, the entire supply chain will be intact.”

On Sunday, Simple Energy announced the closure of a ₹250 crore Series B funding round comprising both debt and equity. The funding round attracted participation from the family office of Arokiaswamy Velumani, along with Rajkumar and cofounder and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Ankit Gupta. Additionally, HDFC Bank and Capitar Ventures joined as debt partners, while several non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) collectively contributed ₹123 crore.

The company plans to utilize a significant portion of the newly raised capital to expand manufacturing operations and increase production capacity. Furthermore, it will allocate the remaining funds toward sales, marketing, and research and development (R&D) initiatives to strengthen its product portfolio and enhance customer experience.

Commenting on the funding milestone, Rajkumar said, “The funding reflects strong investor confidence in Simple Energy. This will help us scale production, strengthen our Made-in-India manufacturing stack, and expand access to our long-range, performance-led scooters nationwide.”

Simple Energy has witnessed remarkable business growth over the past year. According to Rajkumar, the company’s revenue increased more than four times, rising from ₹40 crore in April 2025 to ₹170 crore in April 2026.

Highlighting future plans, he said, “The funding amounts will be mainly directed towards capacity expansion, targeting monthly sales of 10,000 scooters by March 2027, alongside continued investments in R&D and marketing. This milestone marks Simple Energy’s transition from a homegrown startup to a full-stack EV OEM, reinforcing brand trust and readiness for a long-term path to public markets.”

On the manufacturing front, Simple Energy currently operates with a production capacity of 3,000 electric scooters per month. Over the past several months, the company has invested significantly in expanding its battery production line. As a result, management expects the benefits of these investments to become visible from August 2026 onward.

In addition, the company plans to strengthen its workforce as it enters its next phase of expansion. It will recruit talent across critical functions, including sales, production, and marketing, to support its growing national footprint.

Rajkumar also acknowledged ongoing industry challenges, including rising input costs and supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions in West Asia. However, he expressed confidence in the company’s ability to navigate these obstacles.

He stated, “There are challenges of input costs going up and shortages of raw materials and manpower due to the West Asia crisis, but I think we are well placed to get over these challenges. There are temporary hurdles, but we are running a marathon, so it’s not going to have any significant impact, and we hope and believe things will get better soon.”

Currently, Simple Energy sells approximately 1,500 electric scooters every month and operates through more than 71 outlets spread across 38 cities, including Bengaluru, Delhi, Patna, and Chennai. At the same time, the company continues to aggressively expand its nationwide presence. In the coming months, it plans to enter additional markets such as Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, and Cuttack, further strengthening its position in India’s fast-growing electric vehicle ecosystem.

As India’s electric vehicle industry continues to evolve, Simple Energy is positioning itself as a major player in the electric scooter segment. Backed by fresh capital, expanding manufacturing capabilities, growing revenues, and ambitious IPO plans, the company aims to capitalize on rising EV adoption and strengthen its standing in the competitive Indian electric mobility market. If it successfully achieves its FY30 revenue target and FY28 IPO roadmap, Simple Energy could emerge as one of India’s leading homegrown EV manufacturers.

Multi-City Expansion Fuels 18% Surge in Listed Developers’ Pre-sales to INR 1.48 Lakh Cr

By

BRL Editor

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May 30, 2026

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Mumbai, 28 May 2026: India’s residential real estate market is increasingly being dominated by developers who have diversified beyond their ‘home’ markets to establish multi-regional footprints. Data trends across listed real estate companies analyzed by ANAROCK Research indicates that some of the top listed developers are expanding aggressively across key cities beyond their home turf—and recording stronger growth in presales revenue in FY26.

ANAROCK’s analysis of the investor presentations, annual reports, and regulatory filings of the top 11 listed developers reveals that combined pre-sales revenue increased from INR 1,25,841 Cr in FY25 to INR 1,48,158 Cr in FY26, registering an annual growth of 18%. The analysed developers are Godrej Properties, Prestige Estates, DLF, Lodha (Macrotech), Signature Global, Brigade Enterprises, Puravankara, Oberoi Realty, Kolte-Patil,Keystone (Rustomjee) and Sobha Ltd.

Anuj Puri, Chairman of ANAROCK Group, says, “The strongest growth was witnessed among developers with significant premium and luxury housing portfolios. Prestige Estates tops the chart with a sharp 76% annualgrowth in pre-sales revenue, followed by Puravankara at 48%, Keystone/Rustomjee at 33%, Sobha at 30%, Godrej Properties at 16% and Lodha at 16%.”

Data trends also indicate that pan-India expansion has now become a major strategic focus for India’s top listed developers. These players are rapidly reducing dependence on their ‘home’ markets and expanding into high-demand residential markets across MMR, NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai.

“For instance, nearly 68% of Godrej Properties’ FY26 pre-sales came from markets outside MMR,” says Puri.

“Similarly, Prestige Estates has aggressively diversified beyond Bengaluru, with nearly 60% of its FY26 pre-sales contributed by Mumbai, Hyderabad, and NCR. Lodha (Macrotech) also continued reducing its dependence on MMR, with nearly 32% of FY26 pre-sales generated from Pune and Bengaluru markets. Puravankara has been expanding aggressively intoredevelopment opportunities in Mumbai and other key cities, reducing Bengaluru’s share in its overall business.”

Notably bucking this trend, NCR-focused DLF remains heavily concentrated in its home market, with nearly 90% of FY26 pre-sales originating from NCR itself. Signature Global also continued to remain entirely NCR-centric during FY26.

“There is sound logic involved in India’s leading developers transitioning from regional brands to national residential platforms,” says Anuj Puri. “Players diversifying their geographic exposure are better positioned to capture demand across multiple high-growth corridors—while reducing dependence on single-city market cycles. The data clearly highlights that multi-city expansion, particularly in premium and luxury housing, is emerging as the key growth driver for listed developers.”

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