Friday, May 8, 2026
Home Blog Page 351

itel S23+, India’s First Smartphone with 3D Curved AMOLED Display at INR 12,999 Available Now Only on Amazon

0

Available at INR 12,999 with bank offers

The smartphone comes equipped with an exclusive in-display fingerprint sensor

The itel S23+ smartphone showcases an exceptional segment first 32MP Ultra-clear Front Camera with flash

After disrupting the sub 10K segment with innovation of premium affordable smartphones, itel has marked its debut into the 15K segment with the launch of S23+. With segment first 3D curved AMOLED Display Smartphone in less than 15K, itel has raised the bar once again, crafted to match the style quotient of Gen Z. The itel S23+ sets itself apart with its in-display fingerprint sensor, a feature unique to the smartphone in this price range. itel S23+ comes with a special launch offer of free itel T11 earbuds worth Rs 2399. The product is now exclusively available on Amazon at the enticing price of just INR 12,999 with bank offers. Consumers can buy itel S23+ from amazon.in/dp/B0CHJN4R28

itel S23+ Smartphone

Commenting on the launch, CEO, itel India, Mr. Arijeet Talapatra, said, “The under 15K segment represents a substantial 50% share of the smartphone market. With the introduction of the itel S23+, we are embarking on a bold journey, venturing into uncharted territory to redefine this segment with ground breaking features. Todays consumers are discerning and place great importance on their preferences, choices, and fashion sensibilities, reflecting a significant shift in consumption patterns. Mobile devices have evolved beyond mere tools; they have seamlessly integrated into the entertainment and lifestyles of the new Bharat.”

He added, “At itel, our unwavering commitment is to serve our consumers by introducing innovations complemented by trendy features, stylish aesthetics, and cutting-edge technology. The S23+ smartphone, equipped with pioneering features, is poised to cater to the style preferences of Generation Z while setting a new benchmark in the sub-15K segment. With this launch, itel is delivering a significant enhancement to the Bharat consumer experience, offering exceptional viewing and much more.”

The 3D curved AMOLED display delivers a remarkable 240 Hz of touch sampling rate, making it ideal for high-end gaming and better productivity. With storage options of up to 256GB+16GB (8GB RAM with 8GB Memory Fusion), a sleek 7.9mm slim body and weighing just 180 gm, the itel S23+ establishes a fresh benchmark in contemporary design, catering to all walks of life. The smartphones premium features are complemented by an exceptional 32MP ultra clear front camera with flash, first in the segment, offering customized beauty enhancements and multiple modes, alongside a powerful 50MP rear camera.

The itel S23+ features Dynamic Island, allowing users to check notifications for incoming calls, reminders, and battery status. The best-in-segment display comes protected with Gorilla Glass 5, which offers 4 times more resistance to drops than standard glass screens. Expanding its horizons further, itel is primed to assert its strong entry in the INR 15K smartphone arena with itel S23+ which embodies aspiration and sophistication, tailored to the discerning tastes of the youth demographic, delivering a premium and unparalleled experience.

Immersive Visual Enchantment: The Captivating 6.78″ FHD+ AMOLED Curved Screen

Step into a realm of immersive visuals through the itel S23+s captivating 6.78″ FHD+ 3D AMOLED Curved Screen. This cinematic canvas transcends ordinary displays, weaving elegance and interactivity into every glance. Seamlessly integrated is the In-display Fingerprint sensor, a sophisticated fusion of security and aesthetics, greeting you with a gentle touch. The phone also delivers a blazingly fast 240Hz touch sampling rate for an unmatched user experience for productivity and gaming.

Infinite Horizons: Up to 256GB+16GB Grand Storage

Dive into boundless possibilities with the itel S23+s vast storage prowess. With Up to 256GB+16GB (8GB+8GB) Big Storage, your digital treasures flourish on a grand stage. Bid farewell to storage constraints and embark on an unbridled digital journey.

Photography Reimagined: 50MP Main Camera | 32MP Ultra-clear Front Camera

Experience photography transformed with the itel S23+s advanced cameras. The 50MP Main Camera captures lifes essence with unmatched clarity, while the 32MP Ultra-clear Front Camera with flash, elevates self-expression, preserving emotions and details in your selfies.

Aesthetic Excellence: Ultimate Design in a 7.9mm Slim Body

Embrace the world of aesthetics with the itel S23+s Ultimate Design, a fusion of beauty and function. A svelte 7.9mm Slim Body offers both tactile delight and a style statement. Measuring 164.4 x 75.1 x 7.9mm, this masterpiece harmonizes elegance with utility.

Seamless connectivity

The itel S23+ comes with 4G+ Technology, elevating the transmission bandwidth and allowing the device to receive data from multiple bands, ensuring seamless connectivity.

Additional features and offers

itel offers a comprehensive 2-year warranty, along with the added benefit of a 100-day screen replacement policy. Additionally, itel boasts the second-largest service network in India to ensure customers receive prompt and reliable support.

Price & Availability

The smartphone will be priced at INR 12,999 with bank offers and will be available in two stunning colors – Elemental Blue & Lake Cyan. The online sale for itel S23+ is live exclusively on Amazon, available at just INR 12,999 with bank offers.

itel S23+

RAM & ROM

16 GB (8+8) RAM+ 256 ROM Big Memory

UFS 2.2 ultra-fast storage

Battery

5000 mAh

Dual Security

In-display fingerprint sensor

Face ID

Camera

Rear: 50MP AI Camera

Front: 32MP with Flash

Operating System

Android 13 T OS

Display

6.78″ FHD+ 3D AMOLED Curved Display

240Hz Touch Sampling Rate

For more information, please visit website www.itel-india.com | Facebook: itelmobileindia | Instagram: itel_india | Twitter: itel_india

Colgate is Combating Smile Shame to Address Concerns of 96 per cent of Indians Who Wish they Could Smile Freely

0

This World Smile Day, global personal and home care brand Colgate-Palmolive (“Colgate”) is taking a stand against Smile Shaming, underscoring the beauty and importance of all smiles through its #FreeYourSmile campaign. This is especially significant given the proven benefits smiles bring to society’s health, mental wellbeing and social bonding. The region-wide campaign kickstarts Colgate’s efforts to tackle this complex topic for society and drive real positive change.

#FreeYourSmile Campaign

Colgate first commissioned an independent study across Asia-Pacific to gain insights and inform initiatives to propel this movement to eradicate Smile Shame for society to fully gain the benefits of smiling.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 found that a whopping 96 per cent of people in India would like the ability to smile more freely. This is higher than the regional average of 94 per cent.

In fact, India is the only market surveyed which pointed to cultural norms as being the main reason why they do not feel that they have the freedom to smile whenever they like. Indians indicate that cultural norms discourage smiling at strangers, so many hold back their smiles to avoid making others uncomfortable. In contrast, the primarily reason people across Asia-Pacific worry about is what others think about their smile.

Colgate Smile Study 2023

The inaugural study, conducted by research company Pureprofile in August – September 2023, surveyed more than 4,000 individuals aged 16 to 55 years old across eight Asia-Pacific markets namely India, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Philippines, Australia and Thailand. More than 500 individuals were surveyed in India.

This World Smile Day, Colgate is celebrating all smiles by adapting its iconic logo to represent the many different and beautiful smiles that surround us daily. Colgate is also collaborating with influencers across the region to further champion this cause. This includes Ethan Kuan from Taiwan, and Xixi Lim from Singapore who have personally experienced Smile Shame but are now embracing their own unique smiles.

Additionally, as part of #FreeYourSmile, Colgate is introducing a Smile Generator AI tool at colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile, encouraging everyone to create their personalised Colgate smile on TikTok and Instagram, and spread the message to celebrate all smiles.

Yves Briantais, Executive Vice President, Marketing Asia-Pacific, Colgate-Palmolive said, “Smile Shame is especially prevalent in Asia-Pacific and this must change. At Colgate, we are on a mission to free people from the constraints of Smile Shame to truly embrace their own unique smiles. We believe brands have the power to challenge unrealistic beauty standards and promote authenticity. This World Smile Day, Colgate is leading the charge by celebrating all smiles.”

A significant 70 per cent of Indians believe that brands should have a role to play in tackling the issue of Smile Shame, according to the Colgate Smile Study 2023.

Advocating for the Benefits of Smiling

Indians indicate that they generally feel relaxed, confident and comfortable when they smile freely. In fact, scientific research supports the idea that smiling positively impacts mental health, acting as natural anti-depressants and pain relievers(1). Smiling is also good for the heart, aiding in lowering blood pressure and expediting recovery after stressful events(2).

A key health benefit of smiling includes strengthening the immune system by increasing white blood cell counts, providing protection against infections(3). Socially, smiling is a powerful tool to foster bonds and building trust by making a lasting positive impression on others(4).

Standing against Smile Shame

Smile Shame may not be a familiar term to many. It encapsulates the feelings of embarrassment, self-consciousness, or insecurity regarding ones smile.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 revealed that more than 61 per cent of Indians have personally experienced Smile Shame, the highest percentage across the region. 43 per cent of Indians have been made to feel bad about their smile because they’ve witnessed family and friends commenting about others’ teeth and also that social media makes them feel like they should have perfect teeth to smile.

Celebrating the Diversity of Smiles

Smile Shame is associated with different attributes across markets, reflecting diverse perceptions of what makes a beautiful smile. In India, Smile Shame is typically attributed to whether their smile makes their face look good, or whether they are smiling too widely.

The Colgate Smile Study 2023 also revealed that the key factor that makes Indians worry about their smile is concerns about comments from others including family, friends, and even strangers. This is the concern of approximately one in two people in India.

#FreeYourSmile is the first step in Colgate’s mission to celebrate all smiles and combat Smile Shame, with more initiatives planned. This movement represents Colgate’s goal to inspire individuals to express themselves freely and proudly, regardless of perceived imperfections.

For more information, please visit colgate.com/yourcolgatesmile

About Colgate-Palmolive Company

About Colgate-Palmolive Company Colgate-Palmolive Company is a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for all people, their pets and our planet. Focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Nutrition, they sell their products in more than 200 countries and territories under brands such as Colgate, Palmolive, elmex, hello, meridol, Sorriso, Toms of Maine, EltaMD, Filorga, Irish Spring, PCA SKIN, Protex, Sanex, Softsoap, Speed Stick, Ajax, Axion, Fabuloso, Soupline and Suavitel, as well as Hills Science Diet and Hills Prescription Diet. We are recognized for our leadership and innovation in promoting sustainability and community well-being, including our achievements in decreasing plastic waste and promoting recyclability, saving water, conserving natural resources and improving childrens oral health through the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program, which has reached more than 1.4 billion children since 1991. Our range of products are for everyone to find a way to get the smile they want.

For more information about Colgates global business and how we are building a future to smile about, visit www.colgatepalmolive.com.

(1) ‘Good reasons to Smile’ (2023) John Hopkins Medicine. John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. Available at: www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/Patients-Families/Health-Library/HealthDocNew/Good-Reasons-to-Smile

(2)Smile! It’s Good for Your Heart’ (Sep 2012) Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley. Available at: greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/smile_its_good_for_your_heart

(3) ’11 Benefits of Smlling’ (Oct 2021) Delaware Psychological Services. Available at: www.delawarepsychologicalservices.com/post/11-benefits-of-smiling ’11 Benefits of Smlling’ (Oct 2021) Delaware Psychological Services. Available at: www.delawarepsychologicalservices.com/post/11-benefits-of-smiling

SBI Foundation and Villgro Join Forces to Support Entrepreneurship & Climate Resilience in Agriculture

0

SBI Foundation, under its flagship program, SBIF LEAP (Livelihood and Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program) announced the Innovators for Bharat initiative to support high-impact incubators providing incubation/acceleration to startups working to address pressing development challenges in the country. SBI Foundation partnered with Villgro, one of India’s leading social enterprise incubators to launch ‘Innovators For Bharat: Climate Resilient Agricultural Livelihoods’ program. The initiative will support upto 15 high-potential startups, creating impact on agricultural livelihoods, reducing agriculture’s climate footprint and enhancing the resilience of smallholder farmers to climate change.

Innovators for Bharat, a program by SBI Foundation and Villgro

The program will accelerate agriculture startups to scale sustainably by providing them with Equity seed funding, Grant capital and Incubation support. The customized incubation support includes strategic mentoring for business scale-up, opportunities for field pilots, access to rural distribution networks, guidance on the scientific quantification and evaluation of climate impact and technical assistance for building carbon projects. The initiative will also focus on guiding startups to build financially stable business models and access debt financing to help them grow. In addition to this, this program will act as a platform to raise awareness about startup innovations through different channels.

Through this high-engagement program, Villgro and SBI Foundation will deploy financial support of INR 3.25 Cr, through a combination of grant and equity. Villgro will play a pivotal role in this initiative by designing the implementation of the program, selecting startups through rigorous evaluation and due diligence, providing ongoing incubation support, and championing startup advocacy. SBI Foundation will be providing financial support to the selected startups as well as provide access to its network of banking experts for mentorship, Civil Society Organizations and other key Stakeholders.

As the funding and implementation partner, SBI Foundation is wholly devoted to empowering startups and cultivating an innovative culture within the agricultural sector. In collaboration with Villgro, our shared goal is to create a meaningful and enduring impact. Our dedication extends to driving substantial environmental transformations, with particular emphasis on waste recycling/upcycling, CO2 emissions reduction and removal, and the sustainable management of land and resources. With this program, we aim to improve the lives of 10,000 people in two years, including creating jobs for many of them,” says Sanjay Prakash, Managing Director, SBI Foundation.

Sharing about the program, Maithili Rege, Associate Lead, Agriculture, Villgro, said, “Climate resilience in agriculture has become crucial due to unpredictable weather, extreme events, and shifting climate conditions. The vulnerability of traditional farming practices to these climate-related disruptions leads to crop failures, reduced yields, and economic instability for farmers. The Innovators for Bharat program is a fantastic opportunity to harness innovation to improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers while making agriculture more environmentally sustainable. The program stands out by offering strong go-to-market support to enterprises, enhancing startups readiness for debt financing, and providing dedicated advocacy for startup success. Villgro is dedicated to making the world better through social entrepreneurship, and we are excited to be part of this program as it aligns with our vision to nurture impactful startups that can make a big difference.”

The program is open for startups in the early MVP stage or more mature enterprises in the growth stage. Agritech startups, Agri Fintech startups and Climate Tech Startups with a primary focus on themes such as Climate resilient agriculture, Reducing post-harvest losses, Waste to Value, and Carbon Impact and Measurement are invited to submit their applications for the program.

The program encourages women entrepreneurs to apply. The selection of the startups for the program will be based on their innovative solutions, the current stage of the enterprise, its business viability, team, and potential to create impact at scale.

The application window will remain open until October 11, 2023 – villgro.org/current-programs/#cause-20

The startup selection process is set to commence in October 2023, with the announcement of selected startups scheduled for November 2023. The Incubation Period is planned to run from February 2024 to July 2025.

About Villgro
Villgro is Indias foremost impact-first incubator with expertise in 4 sectors – Healthcare, Agriculture, Climate Action, and Gender Inclusion. Our mission is to make innovative, impactful businesses succeed. Since 2001, Villgro has supported 387 social enterprises that have raised over INR 4.7 billion in investments, created 8175 jobs and impacted over 20.8 million lives. Villgro was recognized as the “Top Incubator” in India by Invest India (DPIIT, GoI) in 2020 and won the DivHERsity awards in 2022 and ’23.

For more details: www.villgro.org

About SBI Foundation
SBI Foundation is the CSR arm of the State Bank Group. True to the Bank’s tradition of ‘Service Beyond Banking’, the Foundation engages with communities in various focus areas, including rural development, healthcare, empowerment of PwDs, education, sustainability and environment, livelihood and skill development, and more. Operating across 28 States and 7 Union Territories of India, the Foundation undertakes initiatives to provide resources to vulnerable sections of society through strategic partnerships with impactful entities in the social sector. The Foundation believes in reflecting the ethos of the State Bank Group in running interventions that are ethical, promote growth and equality, and improve the socio-economic well-being of the society.

For more details: www.sbifoundation.in

Win Big with Miraj Cinemas’ #MirajChallenge and Seize the Opportunity to Take Home the iPhone 14 and Many Other Exciting Prizes

0

Miraj Cinemas, India’s third-largest and fastest-growing national multiplex chain, has recently unveiled the #MirajChallenge on Instagram – a captivating social media campaign that offers cinema-goers and content creators the opportunity to win exciting prizes, including a brand-new iPhone 14. Miraj Cinemas aims to empower users to share their authentic experiences through Insta-reels. The company fosters creativity, innovation, and a sense of community. Whether you’re a cinephile or a content creator, Miraj Cinemas’ state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to excellence are the ultimate cinematic destination.

Craft a reel at your nearest Miraj Cinemas, share it on Instagram using #MirajChallenge, and tag them @MirajCinemas

Bhuvnesh Mendiratta, Chief Operating Officer of Miraj Cinemas, unveiled this innovative marketing strategy and said, “At Miraj Cinemas, our dedicated team has consistently strived to offer our patrons exceptional cinematic experiences. Recognizing the digital revolution and the rising popularity of user-generated content, we saw a unique opportunity to blend these spheres seamlessly, match the digital era, and be in trend. Thus, the #MirajChallenge was conceived, uniting the best of both worlds. Through the lens of our audience, the world will get an unfiltered view of the unique cinematic journey we offer.”

He added, “With these reels and stories, we aim to show the world that Miraj Cinemas consistently delivers some of the nation’s best cinematic experiences, and we’re doing it interactively and engagingly. So, grab your mobile phones and your enthusiasm because together, we will rewrite the cinema script. Welcome to the #MirajChallenge, where your story becomes our blockbuster!”

The #MirajChallenge serves as a platform for Miraj Cinemas’ audience to share their authentic experiences at the theatres, enabling a global audience to witness the exceptional cinematic journey that Miraj offers. Participants can create short videos during their visits to Miraj Cinemas and share them on Instagram using the hashtag #MirajChallenge and tag @MirajCinemas. By doing so, participants stand a chance to win the highly coveted iPhone 14 and many other thrilling prizes.

Miraj Cinemas intends to see as many individuals as possible join this movement, documenting and sharing their movie-watching experiences at their theatres. Another significant aspect of this initiative is the collaboration between Miraj Cinemas and Josh, the official short video partner. Josh, one of India’s rapidly expanding short video content platforms, is ideally poised to amplify the campaign’s reach, providing a broader audience with a glimpse into the outstanding experiences that await at Miraj Cinemas.

How to Participate in the #MirajChallenge

Create a short video at Miraj Cinemas.

Share it on Instagram with #MirajChallenge and tag @MirajCinemas.

Follow Miraj Cinemas on Instagram!

The grand prize is the coveted iPhone 14, accompanied by a host of other exclusive rewards for additional winners. Lights, camera, action – participants are encouraged to start filming and share their cinematic journey with Miraj Cinemas today!

Participants in this contest agree to adhere to the contest rules, which include requiring all entries to be original and filmed exclusively at Miraj Cinemas. Winners will receive Direct Messages within seven days after the contest concludes by 25th November 2023, tentatively. Miraj Cinemas retains the right to use the winning entries for promotional purposes across all platforms. Prizes are non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash. Participants release and hold Miraj Cinemas harmless from any liability, injuries, loss, or damage associated with this contest or any prize won.

It’s essential to note that this contest is not sponsored, endorsed, administered, or associated with Instagram or Apple Inc. Any disputes related to this contest will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

About Miraj Cinemas

Miraj Cinemas, India’s fastest-growing and third-largest national multiplex chain, is dedicated to delivering unparalleled entertainment and culinary delights. With 191 screens across 60 cinemas in 42 cities and 16 states, our expansion drive is set to soar beyond 300 screens by FY24. Prepare for an extraordinary cinematic adventure, blending cutting-edge technology and unwavering excellence.

Careernet’s Virtual All Diversity Career Fair Concludes with Around 1,000 Participants

0

Careernet Prism, the diversity-focused vertical of India’s leading talent solutions provider Careernet, successfully concluded the 5th edition of India’s largest virtual ‘All Diversity Career Fair‘. The event witnessed the participation of around 1,000 individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, women, Persons with Disabilities (PwD), and Armed Forces veterans. The career fair was supported by community partners Brisk Olive, Mitra Jyothi, SignAble, Spectrum of Inclusion, TALMS, WeIndia, and Tech for Good partner NASSCOM Foundation. The partnering employers, TESCO, Citibank, CRISIL, and Philips provided a plethora of opportunities in both technical and non-technical roles for professionals with 3+ years of experience.

The event stayed true to its theme, “Championing Diversity at India Inc.”, by addressing the critical gap in promoting diversity within India Inc’s culture. The virtual career fair enabled professionals from intersecting diversities to explore employment opportunities from some of India’s leading equal-opportunity employers.

Additionally, the entire event was interpreted in real-time by Indian Sign Language (ISL) interpreters to ensure that the content was accessible to deaf candidates in attendance. Careernet Prism collaborated with SignAble Communications (India’s first on-demand Indian Sign Language interpretation service for the deaf) for the virtual event. The interpreters also helped deaf attendees interact with employers at the company booths.

“Today, individuals from diverse communities continue to face challenges in finding employment opportunities that truly match their capabilities and skill sets. In this context, it is extremely encouraging to see the excellent response that our diversity career fair received from job seekers and employers alike. With employers increasingly recognising the importance of creating diverse, accessible and inclusive workplaces for all employees, the need of the hour is to engage in outcome-focused discussions and debates on what diversity really means for India Inc. I am confident that our event was an important stepping stone towards charting a roadmap towards enhancing D, E, and I at the workplace, and we look forward to hearing the resultant success stories,” said Mr. Anshuman Das, Co-founder and CEO of Careernet.

The event began with a keynote address by Ms. Madhu Singhal, Founder and Trustee-Manager of Mithra Jyothi, on “Beyond Just Numbers: Enhancing Cultural Competence at India Inc.” It also featured a panel discussion on “The Future of Work: India Inc Adapting to a Diverse Workforce”, moderated by Sqn Ldr Delshad Master, Associate Vice President of D and I at Careernet, and Mr. Manish Sethi, Director of Property, TESCO Bengaluru; Ms. Anwesa Nanda, Manager, CRISIL Limited; Ms. Seetha Rani KP, Head of Human Resources, Philips Innovation Centre, Bengaluru; and Ms. Gunjan Narang, State President of WICCI’s Psychological Well-being Council in Karnataka, as panellists.

The candidates are expected to be contacted by the partnering employers in the coming weeks, after the necessary screening of their applications.

The diversity career fair was organised as part of Careernet Prism’s vision to make inclusive workplaces with diverse talent happen. Careernet believes that competency should be the only criterion that determines employability and is using the same as a guiding principle to connect diverse professionals to the right jobs. By ensuring sign language interpreters at every sponsor’s booth and curating a good mix of roles and domains, the career fair provided an inclusive platform for individuals across all diverse categories.

Truecaller Acquires TrustCheckr, A Fraud Detection Service

0

Truecaller, the leading global communications platform, has acquired the Bengaluru-based company Unoideo Technologies Pvt Ltd. The company provides the service TrustCheckr, which, through a SaaS platform, helps businesses verify customer information and detects risk of fraud based on phone numbers and digital signals. TrustCheckr’s current offering has attracted interest from different industries with the most noticeable interest coming from banks, fintech, and other financial institutions. The acquisition will strengthen Truecaller’s risk intelligence tool for enterprises which was launched last week.


Truecaller is the number one solution for identifying spam as well as fraud attempts globally. While our main focus has been on CallerID and spam protection, fraud calls and messages are increasing at an unprecedented rate globally. Fraudsters operate in a different manner than spammers, so investing in elevating our fraud detection capabilities is a natural evolution for us. The acquisition will add a great service and competence to Truecaller that we believe will both bring value to our users and strengthen our current enterprise offering which includes the newly launched Risk Intelligence-services where we support enterprises to minimize risk and fraud. The combination of the skills that TrustChekr has in identifying fraudsters through external signals of fraud with Truecaller’s internal signals will be really powerful,” said Nami Zarringhalam, co-founder, Chairman and Chief Strategy Officer at Truecaller.

In 2022, TrustCheckr won the Reserve Bank of Indias (RBIs) first global Hackathon “HARBINGER 2021 – Innovation for Transformation” in the category of “Social Media Analysis Monitoring tool for detection of digital payment fraud and disruption.” TrustChekr brings existing customers like IIFL Finance Limited and Piramal Capital and Housing Finance Limited plus a number of relationships with other potential customers for Truecaller for Business. The acquisition adds seven full-time employees and improved tech-capabilities to Truecaller.

This business decision has been finalized during the fourth quarter of 2023 and is financed through existing cash. It will have a minor cash flow effect and is not expected to have a material impact on the financial results in 2023.

About Truecaller
We enable safe and relevant conversations between people and make it efficient for businesses to connect with consumers. Fraud and unwanted communication are endemic to digital economies, especially in emerging markets. We are on a mission to build trust in communication. Truecaller is an essential part of everyday communication for over 356 million active users, with more than a billion downloads since launch and close to 50 billion unwanted calls identified and blocked in 2021. Headquartered in Stockholm since 2009, we are a co-founder-led, entrepreneurial company, with a highly experienced management team. Truecaller has been listed on Nasdaq Stockholm since October, 2021.

Visit truecaller.com for more information.

Tata Communications completes acquisition of Kaleyra, a leading global CPaaS platform player

0

Tata Communications, a global digital enabler, has acquired Kaleyra, Inc successfully.

On June 28, 2023, Tata Communications agreed to buy Kaleyra, Inc. The acquisition is complete after receiving approval from Kaleyra’s shareholders, regulatory nods, and meeting standard closing requirements. Tata Communications Limited paid around $100 million in cash and took on all of Kaleyra’s debt as part of the deal. As a result, Kaleyra, Inc. and its subsidiaries are now wholly owned by Tata Communications Limited.

The merger of Tata Communications’ customer engagement solutions with Kaleyra’s expertise in technology, engineering, and research & development will boost the expansion of global businesses. This partnership will enable highly customized and intelligent customer interactions, driving growth.

“In today’s hyper-connected world, customer success and loyalty are pivotal to enterprise growth across industries and geographies,” said A.S. Lakshminarayanan, MD and CEO of Tata Communications. “We at Tata Communications are committed to revolutionize how businesses engage with customers, leveraging a digital fabric to harness data insights for delivering seamless, secure, smart and impactful customer interactions. We’re thrilled to welcome Kaleyra in this journey, as together we pave the way for the future of customer experience!” 

Mysore Madhusudhan, Executive Vice President, Collaboration and Connected Solutions at Tata Communications, added, “In this digital age, businesses require multi-channel customer engagement solutions built for intuitive, intelligent and automated interactions. Together, Tata Communications and Kaleyra form a powerful combination, poised to shape the customer engagement platforms of tomorrow.”   

Mauro Carobene, Head of Customer Interaction Suite, Tata Communications, commented, “Together, Kaleyra and Tata Communications stand on the brink of a new era, powered by the world-class communications capabilities of Kaleyra.io platform and a determination to drive the future of communications via our intelligent suite of customer interaction solutions. Our joint aspirations are massive, not only in terms of growth but also in expanding our portfolio that drives value for our customers.”

Dr Avi Katz, Founding Managing Partner of GigCapital Global, said: “As the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kaleyra since inception in November 2019 by way of combination with GigCapital1, Inc., I am delighted to see this outcome for the Kaleyra team and its stakeholders. This acquisition reflects a global recognition of the leadership of Kaleyra in the CPaaS industry, fruits of hard work of the entire Kalyera team for the last four years and excellent relationship with Tata Communications.”

Exotel’s Flagship Office in Bengaluru Reinforces Commitment to Unified Customer Interactions

0

Exotel, the emerging market’s leading connected customer conversation platform today announced the opening of its flagship office in Bengaluru. Located at the renowned Maruthi Infotech Center, Domlur, Coming back to work amplifies Exotel’s undying passion for innovation, rapid growth, and creating an invigorating workspace to bolster team creativity and dynamism.

The opening of this new office marks a significant milestone in Exotels expansion strategy, and a testament to Exotels commitment to instilling a culture that breathes creativity, encourages open communication, and values every members contribution.

Every corner of the spacious office, designed to accommodate nearly 300 innovators, is infused with elements that reflect Exotels vibrant organizational culture. A ‘Reading Zone‘ invites employees to immerse themselves in a world of knowledge and innovation. The ‘Fun and Play Area‘ is not just about relaxation but a space where ideas flow freely, and creativity is unbound.

The design fosters an environment where brainstorming is not confined to meeting rooms. Open spaces, adorned with elements of fun and engagement, encourage spontaneous ideation and collaboration. The organization is committed to its open-door policy that blurs hierarchical lines and fosters an atmosphere of inclusivity and respect.

Sumanpreet Bhatia, Vice President, Human Resources at Exotel, on the office unveiling, remarked, “Our new abode is a reflection of Exotel’s journey from a startup with a focused vision to a global entity, revered for transforming customer engagement. Every element of this office resonates with our ethos of transparency, trust, and innovation. We’re not just coming back to work; we’re stepping into a space where every voice matters, every idea is valued, and every member is a pivotal piece of the larger picture.

As Exotel steers ahead, powering over 70+ million conversations daily, the new office stands as a beacon of its organizational culture. It’s a space where work is not just about technological innovation but also about fostering human connections, upholding transparency, and building a legacy rooted in trust and excellence. In this mix of technology and human ingenuity, Exotel is not just scripting a story of corporate success but is weaving a narrative where people, values, and innovation are the celebrated heroes.

About Exotel
Exotel is the emerging market’s leading customer conversation platform and business-focused virtual telecom operator. Exotel has also recently received a virtual telecom operator license in India to offer cost-effective end-to-end VoIP telephony services, making the company a 100% compliant cloud calling operator. Exotel was founded in 2011 and has an impressive cloud-based product suite that drives 70+ million conversations every day for more than 7000 businesses in India, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Today, the omnichannel contact center, communication API suite, and conversational AI platform from Exotel help some of the fastest-growing businesses in emerging countries manage their customer engagement.

Exotel won The ET StartUp Awards 2022 under the Comeback Kid category.

For more info, please visit: exotel.com.

CEAT Creates History; Becomes the 1st in the Tyre Industry Across the World to Win the Deming Grand Prize

0

CEAT Ltd., Indias leading tyre manufacturer, has been awarded the prestigious Deming Grand Prize making it the first tyre brand in the world to receive this rare distinction in 2023.

The Deming Grand Prize Medal awarded to CEAT Tyres

The Deming Grand Prize is an illustrious honour for organizations that have achieved the Deming Prize and have continued to sustain and elevate their Total Quality Management (TQM) practices for more than three years. CEAT has been on the TQM journey for over fifteen years and was the first tyre company outside Japan to win the prestigious Deming Prize in 2017.

Deming Grand was institutionalized in 1969 and is one of the longstanding quality awards presented by the Union of Japanese Scientists and Engineers (JUSE) for excellence in Total Quality Management (TQM). CEAT is one of only 33 companies worldwide to win this honour and the only tyre brand on a global stage.

Companies that operate at high levels of TQM stand out in their customer centricity, systematic way of working and people capabilities.

Mr. Anant Goenka, Vice Chairman, CEAT Ltd., said, “Were deeply honoured by the Deming Grand Prize. This accolade underscores our unwavering commitment to excellence. Our gratitude goes to our invaluable partners and vendors for their steadfast support. This achievement inspires us to continue leading the tyre manufacturing industry worldwide, focusing on quality and customer satisfaction.”

Mr. Arnab Banerjee, MD & CEO, CEAT Ltd., said, “We are extremely delighted with this achievement. Winning this prize reflects our robust business systems and processes, leading to the creation of highly reliable and dependable products and services every time. This is delivered through involvement of every employee and all stakeholders making it truly partnership based. We believe that CEATs customer-centric approach and superior quality standards have played a critical role in winning us this honour.

About CEAT Ltd.

CEAT, the flagship company of RPG Enterprises, was established in 1958. Today, CEAT is one of India’s leading tyre manufacturers and has a strong presence in global markets. CEAT produces more than 41 million high-performance tyres, catering to various segments like 2-3 Wheelers, Passenger and Utility Vehicles, Commercial Vehicles and Off-Highway Vehicles.

For more information, please visit www.ceat.com.

About RPG Group

RPG Group, established in 1979, is one of India’s fastest-growing business groups with a turnover of US$ 4.4 Billion. The group has diverse business interests in the areas of Infrastructure, Tyres, Pharma, IT and Specialty as well as in emerging innovation-led technology businesses.

For more information, please visit www.rpggroup.com.

REW 2023 will Focus on Restructuring the Global Oil Market in Terms of Trade and Logistics

0

Moscow, Russia

The Russian Energy Week International Forum (REW 2023) will be held in Moscow on 11-13 October. The participants will discuss the prospects for energy cooperation between Russia and the worlds largest emerging economies including China, India, and the African countries. One of the key topics of the upcoming Forum is the impact of the restructuring of transportation and logistics corridors on the global energy sector.

Russian Energy Week

The structural change is on the way

The global oil trade is undergoing a major structural change. Middle Eastern countries, which used to play an important role in providing commodities to the growing economies of East Asia, are now increasing their oil supplies to Europe. In turn, Russia has sharply increased its oil exports to India, China, and some other Asia Pacific countries.

Additionally, Latin American countries, including Brazil and Guyana, with a commensurate shipment distance to Europe and Asia Pacific countries, are playing an increasing role in the oil market,” said Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation and Executive Secretary of the REW 2023 Organizing Committee.

The shifts in the oil market impacts its future

Stating that the global oil market continues to try to adapt to the current geopolitical events, “Russian oil, despite the restrictions imposed, enters various markets with a changed price structure. Logistics have become more complicated and expensive, as oil tankers have to travel long distances to deliver raw materials and petroleum products. The impact of these shifts on the future of the oil market will be one of the most important topics of the upcoming Russian Energy Week,” Kobyakov added.

Almost half of the supply goes to 3 countries

The largest importers of Russian refined products in August 2023 were Turkey, India, and the UAE. These three countries accounted for 46% of marine supplies from the Russian Federation (1.04 million out of 2.27 million b/d). The role of Brazil, China and Malaysia is becoming increasingly significant: These regional consumers accounted for a total of 18% (397,000 b/d) of the total structure of Russian oil products supplies.

Singapore, which is actively developing its oil product hub, accounted for another 7% of the Russian Federations refined products shipments (152,000 b/d) in August. Greece and Malta also play a notable role: Transshipment of petroleum products takes place in the territorial waters of these EU countries, making the total share of these countries in exports in August 2023 8% (191 b/s).

Logistics flows to be restructured

The restructuring of logistics flows is not just a beautiful slogan, but a solid fact. For example, in August 2023, the top 20 leading importers of petroleum products from the Russian Federation included 9 African countries: Algeria, Ghana, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Tunisia, and Togo. The volume of marine supplies of petroleum products from Russia to these countries reached 411 thousand barrels per day (b/d), and their share in the structure of Russian exports amounted to 18%,” says Igor Yushkov, an expert from the REW Energy Club.

In general, according to Igor Yushkov, the volume of offshore supplies of oil products from Russia has decreased by about 780,000 b/d over the past few months. This is primarily due to Russias commitments to reduce oil production under the OPEC+ deal.

Supported by the Moscow City Government, the Russian Energy Week International Forum is organized by the Ministry of Energy of the Russian Federation and the Roscongress Foundation, which is a socially oriented non-financial development institution and a major organizer of conventions, exhibitions and business, public, youth, sporting, and cultural events.

Contact: Igor Kuznetsov, clubrew2024@gmail.com.