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CloudExtel raises Rs 200-Cr debt to boost AI-ready digital infrastructure

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Kunal Bajaj, Co-Founder and CEO, CloudExtel

Digital infrastructure provider CloudExtel on Thursday announced that it has secured Rs 200 crore in debt from a leading private-sector bank, and this funding will accelerate the rollout of its AI-ready digital infrastructure while simultaneously expanding its metro fibre network across India.

However, the company did not reveal the lender’s identity.

Moreover, the capital raise includes a proportional follow-on equity infusion from CloudExtel’s existing shareholders, and this infusion will directly support its planned expansion initiatives, according to the company’s statement.

CloudExtel will deploy the debt to finance its upcoming Data Centre Interconnect (DCI) network initiative, which aims to deliver high-capacity, low-latency, and redundant connectivity between data centers—critical infrastructure for AI workloads, cloud computing, and digital content distribution.

Furthermore, the company will launch the network in Mumbai first, and it will later extend the rollout to major metro regions such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, and Pune.

Additionally, CloudExtel Co-Founder and CEO Kunal Bajaj stated, “These funds will help us scale more rapidly, deepen our infrastructure presence, and continue driving impact through collaboration and technology-led efficiency. Our upcoming Data Center Interconnect network in Mumbai, and subsequent rollout in other cities, will further strengthen our competitive positioning and ability to deliver integrated solutions for India’s digital future.”

CloudExtel positions itself as a full-stack Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) provider, and it offers next-generation digital infrastructure solutions, including small cell hosting, fibre connectivity, FTTH, and shared RAN services.

Besides this, the company—backed by Macquarie Capital and Advencap—has deployed more than 6,500 small cells across 500 cities, laid over 12,000 km of fibre, and enabled FTTH connectivity for more than one million homes.

Vertoz announces acquisition of marketing automation firm Webimax

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Ashish Shah, Director, Vertoz Limited.

MadTech and CloudTech company Vertoz Ltd. announced on Wednesday that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire a 100 percent stake in US-based marketing automation firm Webimax LLC at an enterprise value of USD 6.6 million (around Rs 59 crore).

Moreover, under this agreement, Vertoz Inc., the company’s wholly owned subsidiary, will acquire the New Jersey-based Webimax business in two tranches. It will purchase around 80 percent for Rs 46.8 crore in the first phase and then acquire the remaining 20 percent over the next three years, tied to clearly defined performance milestones, according to the company statement.

Furthermore, the incumbent management of Webimax will continue to work with Vertoz, ensuring operational continuity and expertise retention.

Additionally, the company confirmed that it will fund 75 percent of the purchase consideration through debt provided by one of India’s premier government financial institutions. The remaining 25 percent will come from Vertoz’s internal cash flows, demonstrating the firm’s financial discipline.

Consequently, this acquisition may add approximately USD 9.5 million (Rs 87 crore) to Vertoz’s existing annualized revenues of around Rs 300 crore, while also contributing Rs 17 crore to annualized PAT, Vertoz noted.

Commenting on the acquisition, Ashish Shah, Director, Vertoz Ltd. said, “This acquisition not only strengthens our position in the competitive digital marketing landscape globally but also significantly amplifies our capabilities in the US market. Webimax’s expertise and values align perfectly with ours, enabling us to deliver broader, connected, and more relevant digital solutions to our clients.”

It continues to build its global footprint as a MadTech and CloudTech powerhouse, offering AI-driven solutions across advertising, marketing, media monetization, digital identity, and cloud infrastructure.

STAAH partnership elevates Roland Hotel’s online visibility and revenue

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Shoaib Ali, National Sales Head STAAH India

STAAH has strengthened the digital booking capabilities of Roland Hotel, a long-standing budget property in Kolkata, by enabling the adoption of its Channel Manager, SwiftBook, and WatchMyRate tools. Moreover, the 30-room hotel, situated near Forum Mall and operating since 1997, had struggled to adapt to evolving online booking trends and maintain consistent listings across multiple OTAs.

Previously, the hotel relied on manual updates, which caused overbookings, pricing inconsistencies, and higher operational workload. However, according to Meghna Chowdhury, general manager of Roland Hotel, automation has delivered notable improvements. “Implementing STAAH solutions has boosted our online bookings and overall revenue measurably. Automation has not only freed up staff time but also sharpened our pricing strategies. By removing the risks of errors and inefficiencies, we’ve strengthened our online channels while driving more bookings through our own website,” she said.

Furthermore, STAAH’s Channel Manager has enhanced rate parity and reduced booking discrepancies, while SwiftBook now provides guests with a faster and more intuitive interface for direct reservations. Additionally, WatchMyRate offers real-time price comparisons between the hotel’s website and OTAs, which encourages more direct bookings.

Shoaib Ali, National Sales Head of STAAH India, said, “STAAH solutions are designed to cater to every category of hotels, from homestays and budget properties to premium resorts. For Roland Hotels, the challenge was updating their processes to channelize online bookings optimally. We are delighted our solutions addressed all their problems, leaving them enough time to focus on guest experiences.”

Overall, the integration of STAAH solutions has empowered Roland Hotel to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen direct booking channels, and remain competitive in an increasingly digital hospitality landscape.

Indian startups to receive UAE support for global market entry

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Ajay Kabadi, Founder and CEO, DocketRun

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will extend a comprehensive soft landing package to five Indian startups, enabling them to expand their operations in the UAE and scale their businesses globally. Moreover, the startups received selection under the India-UAE CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) Council programme after a multi-stage evaluation process, according to Ahmed Aljneibi, director of the UAE-India CEPA Council.

Aljneibi highlighted the overwhelming response to the programme, saying, “We had 10,000 applications since the launch back in June… I’m so happy that we finally reached the conclusion of identifying 20 of the best and brightest startups in India and narrowing them down to the five winners who will join us in the UAE for an immersion programme. We will provide them with a soft landing package to help them expand their business into the UAE and, hopefully, scale up globally.”

Furthermore, he detailed the extensive support package, stating that it will include visas, accommodation, transportation, mentorship, trade licensing facilitation, and opportunities to engage with investors. He added, “Hopefully, they can find some investment opportunities during their time in the UAE,” while emphasising that the evaluation focused on startups addressing real-world challenges relevant to the UAE and the broader MENA region. He also noted, “It was very hard to choose from all 10,000… This is the first iteration of the UAE-India startup series, and we hope to continue this after today.”

Additionally, DocketRun Founder and CEO Ajay Kabadi outlined the company’s expansion plans. He said, “We are working closely with heavy industries in the UAE of steel, aluminium and other industries to replicate the benchmarks we have set in India… We have seen great results in India, and it’s going to work out similarly across other regions as well.”

Raghavendra Meharwade, Mentor at DocketRun, further emphasised the programme’s impact on their growth. He stated, “… We are into the business of saving lives and increasing the productivity of industries… Our next goal is to prove the same use cases in the UAE at a larger scale… Being selected from 10,000 to being in the top five was not an easy journey. But a fantastic environment and the support provided by this forum, which we used to scale up, helped us believe that we can make it.”

Moreover, the participation of these startups underscores CEPA’s expanding role in enabling market access, investment pathways and technology exchange between India and the UAE. As the Gulf region increasingly emerges as a global hub for advanced and future industries, Indian entrepreneurs continue exploring the UAE’s rapidly growing innovation ecosystem for expansion, strategic partnerships and capital opportunities.

Lords Hotels & Resorts launches its 3rd hotel in Jamnagar

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Jamnagar 24th Nov 2025: Lords Hotels & Resorts proudly announces the launch of Lords Studio Inn Jamnagar, marking it the brand’s 3rd property in the Vibrant and industrial city of Jamnagar. With the addition of this newest property the brand now operates 25 properties in Gujarat, further strengthening its presence in the state and reaffirming its commitment to providing exceptional hospitality experiences to its guests.

Strategically located in the heart of the city, this new property features 36 well-appointed rooms designed for maximum comfort and convenience, catering to both business and leisure travellers. A culinary highlight is the Blue Coriander restaurant, offering all-day dining with a vibrant selection of Indian and international cuisines. The restaurant is ideal for families, professionals, and anyone seeking wholesome vegetarian fare in a welcoming environment.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pushpendra Bansal, COO, Lords Hotels and Resorts, commented, “We are delighted to introduce Lords Studio Inn at Jamnagar. This new hotel reflects our vision delivering our signature True Value Hospitality across key commercial cities. We look forward to welcoming guests to an exhilarating and memorable stay.”

Mr. Sudhir Jena, Vice President Corporate, further added, “This property is conveniently located just 4km from the Railway station, and a short drive of 15 mnts from the Airport offers an easy access to the key places of interest, including Lakhota Palace, Museum and Pratap Vilas Palace, both located just 2km away. We are ready to delight our guests and offer them an experience defined by quality, convenience, and the trusted warmth of the Lords hospitality.”

JustCo debuts THE COLLECTIVE in India with new flagship centres

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JustCo, the region’s leading flexible workspace provider, marks a major milestone as it enters the Indian market with the launch of THE COLLECTIVE. The company will introduce dual flagship centres set to open in early 2026 at DLF Cyberpark in Gurugram and Helios Business Park in Bengaluru.

Moreover, India continues to stand out as one of Asia’s most dynamic coworking markets, following a record 79 million sq ft of office absorption in 2024, with flexible workspaces contributing almost 20%. This strong momentum will accelerate further in 2026, driven by increasing enterprise demand for refined and adaptable workspace solutions.

Moreover, amid this rapid expansion, THE COLLECTIVE enters at a transformative moment, effectively positioning JustCo to capture significant opportunities and further elevate the premium workspace experience in one of Asia’s fastest-growing markets.

“India’s flex market is entering an exciting phase of growth, and this marks a pivotal chapter in JustCo’s regional expansion,” said Kong Wan Long, Chief Commercial Officer of JustCo. “Workspaces today extend beyond function; they reflect culture, identity, and aspiration. With THE COLLECTIVE, we are creating environments where every element, from spatial design to service, is shaped with intention and care.”

THE COLLECTIVE redefines the modern office as a destination of experience and belonging, viewing every detail through a hospitality-driven approach. Each location therefore offers concierge-style service, curated lounge spaces, and wellness elements designed to elevate every moment at work.

Additionally, members can enjoy thoughtful rituals throughout the day, including morning pour-over 100% Arabica coffee, TWG Tea selections, and an evening Aperitif Hour. The workstations feature Herman Miller seating and height-adjustable desks to ensure comfort and ergonomic support. Rooted in a deep sense of place, every THE COLLECTIVE centre reflects the character and rhythm of its city. Drawing inspiration from local surroundings, the design—from spatial flow to material choices—embodies the brand’s vision of refined, hospitality-led workspaces.

In Gurugram, THE COLLECTIVE will open at DLF Cyberpark, a LEED Platinum-certified destination surrounded by Fortune 500 companies and premium hotels. Furthermore, inspired by the architecture of a modern haveli courtyard, the centre uses tactile finishes and serene lounges to create a retreat-like environment within the business hub.

Similarly, in Bengaluru, THE COLLECTIVE Helios Business Park will anchor the city’s Outer Ring Road, one of its most strategic business corridors. Framed by landscaped greens and abundant natural light, the space reflects Bengaluru’s garden-city legacy through botanical textures and a calming colour palette. Available exclusively in India, THE COLLECTIVE allows members to personalise their workspace with guidance from the brand’s design consultants. Each suite can be customised in layout, materials, and lighting to mirror a company’s rhythm and identity.

Every workspace balances practicality with character, reinforcing THE COLLECTIVE’s commitment to measured design and thoughtful detail.

As the sixth destination in THE COLLECTIVE’s expanding global portfolio, the India launch strengthens JustCo’s ongoing growth across major business hubs, including Tokyo, Osaka, Taipei, and Bangkok. Moreover, it underscores the brand’s mission to elevate work into a refined lifestyle experience, while supporting the evolving ambitions of modern enterprises with spaces defined by choice, sophistication, and design integrity.

Mirana Toys raises Rs 57.5-Cr in funding

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BRL Editor
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Ravi Yadav & Devansh Sharma, co-founders, Mirana Toys

Toy-tech startup Mirana Toys has secured Rs 57.5 crore in a new funding round led by early-stage venture capital firm Arkam Ventures. Additionally, Accel, Info Edge, and Riverwalk Holdings participated in the round.

Moreover, the company plans to use the fresh capital to set up a new manufacturing facility and establish its own packaging lines. It also aims to ramp up monthly production for both domestic and international markets. Furthermore, the startup intends to strengthen its design and sales teams to accelerate its expansion in global markets.

Founded in March 2021 by Devansh Sharma and Ravi Yadav, Mirana Toys designs and manufactures a diverse range of toys, including AI-enabled robots, AR-enabled remote-control (RC) cars, hobby-grade RC vehicles, STEM kits, and educational toys. The company also serves as a contract manufacturer while running its own product labels.

In addition, the company expects B2B sales to emerge as its biggest revenue driver within the next two years. Mirana Toys also maintains partnerships with Indian automobile brands for licensed toys and has built a strong pipeline of orders from the US and Europe. Notably, exports to the US already make up about 40% of its overall demand.

Furthermore, the company distributes its products across more than 3,000 stores in India, including major retailers like Hamleys, Toys ‘R’ Us, and Lulu Mall, while also selling through e-commerce and quick-commerce platforms.

Mirana Toys says it has reached over one million children so far.

Meanwhile, India’s tech toy market—valued at $2.14 billion in 2024—is shifting from imports to homegrown innovation. It is projected to reach $6.95 billion by 2034, growing at an annual rate of 12.5%, the company added.

Commenting on the investment, Bala Srinivasa, managing director, Arkam Ventures, said, “Mirana will be able to take advantage of massive structural shifts in global toy supply chains. Unlike typical contract manufacturers, Mirana controls every critical stage—from design and tooling to electronics and assembly—allowing faster iteration, better sourcing control, and shorter lead times.”

SaffronStays marks record growth with 100 homes across North India

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BRL Editor
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Devendra Parulekar, founder of SaffronStays

SaffronStays announced today that it has crossed the milestone of 100 homes in North India, establishing the region’s largest professionally managed portfolio of private vacation homes.

This expansion reflects rapid growth across Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi NCR, further reinforcing the brand’s leadership in India’s premium private-stay segment. Moreover, the 100th home, SaffronStays Emerald Farms in Delhi NCR, marks the brand’s formal entry into the capital region.

This milestone builds on SaffronStays’ expanding PAN-India footprint of nearly 400 homes and more than 1,500 keys, making it the country’s most extensive curated network of private holiday homes. The brand has crossed 100 homes across North India, developed the largest curated Northern portfolio of private villas, chalets, havelis, estates, and houseboats, and strengthened its presence across Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi NCR.

In addition, with a portfolio of over 400 homes and 1,200+ keys nationwide, SaffronStays offers a diverse collection that includes mountain chalets, heritage estates, lakeside houseboats, pool villas, forest homes, boutique estates, and spiritual-circuit villas, catering to multi-generational families, wellness travelers, couples on romantic getaways, and long-stay digital nomads.

The portfolio includes riverside and hillside villas, heritage Kumaoni homes, and forest-view retreats across Dehradun, Rishikesh, Mukteshwar, Nainital, Bhimtal, Ranikhet, and more, with each home designed for meaningful conversations, group meals, and quiet reconnection away from city noise. Additionally, SaffronStays offers alpine chalets, boutique villas, and orchard-lined homes across Shimla, Manali, Kasauli, and Kufri, giving families warm lounging spaces, fireplaces, and panoramic snow views for distraction-free bonding.

In Srinagar, SaffronStays curates private villas and houseboats, while in Tanmarg the brand offers secluded alpine estates and custom-built wooden chalets that provide intimate settings for families to experience Kashmir—from Shikara rides to ski mornings.

Furthermore, restored havelis and modern villas highlight Rajasthan’s cultural richness, offering privacy and comfort for families celebrating milestones or spending uninterrupted time together. In Vrindavan, Nivāsa: Premium Apartments supports spiritual families seeking a peaceful, private base close to temples and devotional circuits.

SaffronStays Emerald Farms, the 100th home, spans six acres and features a 40-foot swimming pool and professional sports courts, making it ideal for large groups, family gatherings, and weekend celebrations. Across the North, West, and South, SaffronStays has established itself as a brand synonymous with family-first travel, offering homes designed to foster deeper bonding and quality time. Moreover, every home is professionally managed, quality-checked, and crafted to deliver a consistent and memorable guest experience rooted in the essence of each region.

“Crossing 100 homes in the North is more than a number; it’s a direct reflection of how India’s affluent families now choose to travel. They are prioritizing privacy, authentic connection, and the comfort of a professionally serviced home over traditional hospitality models. Our homes are not just accommodations; they are meaningful pauses in the pace of life, designed for creating lasting memories. The North’s unique landscapes continue to inspire us, and we are proud to lead the responsible, quality-focused expansion in this region,” said Devendra Parulekar, Founder, SaffronStays.

Rhino & River Resort opens in Pobitora near Mayang, Assam

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Rhino & River, a boutique wildlife retreat, has officially opened in the lush plains of Mayang, just minutes from the renowned Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.

Surrounded by expansive farmlands and the Brahmaputra River, the property offers travelers an immersive experience that blends wildlife, culture, and modern hospitality. Moreover, the retreat features log hut-style rooms that harmonize rustic charm with contemporary comfort. Guests can choose from Tea Garden Rooms or Safari Rooms, all equipped with private balconies and curated amenities.

Additionally, the heart of the property lies in its experiences that celebrate Assam’s natural and cultural richness—with jeep and elephant safaris in Pobitora, birding trails led by naturalists, visits to rural households and ancient temples, dolphin cruises on the Brahmaputra, and heritage walks through Mayong, known for its folklore and traditions, said a release.

Culinary experiences play a central role at the retreat. The signature restaurant, Baan Kaahi, emphasizes farm-to-table dining, while the bar Apong serves locally inspired cocktails along with premium spirits. Furthermore, leisure facilities include a temperature-controlled swimming pool overlooking the river, Nirban—the Spa offering therapies using indigenous oils, and Rock Bar—a stunning lawn designed for intimate gatherings, celebrations, and corporate retreats.

Speaking about the vision behind the property, Vikas Agarwal, MD & CEO of SM Developers, said, “Rhino & River is designed to showcase Assam’s unique blend of nature and culture. Our goal is to offer discerning travellers more than just a stay and to give them an experience that connects them to the land, its people, and its stories. With tourism in the Northeast expanding rapidly, this retreat is a step towards positioning the region as a premium destination while also creating meaningful livelihood opportunities for the local community.”

The Northeast is witnessing a surge in tourist arrivals, supported by improved connectivity and increasing demand for experiential travel, making the launch of Rhino & River especially timely. In addition, the release added that Rhino & River’s commitment to sustainability, cultural immersion, and boutique luxury positions it to become a landmark in Assam’s evolving hospitality landscape.

BWH Hotels makes its debut in Rajasthan

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BWH Hotels announces a major milestone in its India expansion with the signing of Best Western Plus Seasons Park Udaipur, which marks the brand’s debut in the culturally vibrant and high-potential state of Rajasthan. Moreover, the signing strengthens the rapid growth of the Best Western Plus portfolio across the country.

Set to welcome guests in 2026, the new property will offer a 98-key upscale resort strategically positioned along the scenic Ahmedabad Highway in Udaipur.

Surrounded by the city’s renowned natural beauty, the resort will serve as a contemporary retreat featuring expansive lawns, elegant interiors, and thoughtfully crafted spaces designed for leisure, events, and celebrations. Furthermore, Best Western Plus Seasons Park Udaipur will cater to both domestic and international travelers, positioning itself as a leading destination for family getaways, social gatherings, and corporate events. In addition, with its serene ambiance, flexible event venues, and extensive outdoor areas, the resort aims to become a preferred choice for destination weddings, social functions, and business meetings—further boosting Udaipur’s reputation as one of India’s most sought-after hospitality hubs.

“This milestone moves us closer to our long-term goal of expanding in India’s leisure market. Udaipur’s unique charm makes it the ideal home for a Best Western Plus, and we’re proud to bring guests a refined, reliable stay experience,” said Atul Jain, COO, BWH Hotels South Asia.

Highlighting the shared vision, Zubin Jhambani, Managing Director of Seasons Park Udaipur, affirmed, “We’re proud to join hands with BWH Hotels to bring a premium Best Western Plus offering to Udaipur. This collaboration aligns with our vision to offer world-class hospitality, great comfort, and the trusted standards of BWH Hotels.”

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