ITV

Category: MAM

  • Innovative International Acquisition Corp and Zoomcar announces effectiveness of registration statement on Form S-4

    Innovative International Acquisition Corp and Zoomcar announces effectiveness of registration statement on Form S-4

    Mumbai: Innovative International Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ: IOAC) (“IOAC”), a Cayman Island registered blank-check special purpose acquisition company, and Zoomcar, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Zoomcar”), an emerging market focused peer2peer car sharing company, are pleased to announce that IOAC’s registration statement on Form S-4, initially filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on 7 February 2023 (as amended, the “Registration Statement”), has been declared effective by the SEC. The Registration Statement was filed in connection with the proposed business combination between IOAC and Zoomcar, previously announced on 13 October 2022.

    IOAC has scheduled an extraordinary general meeting of IOAC shareholders (the “IOAC Meeting”) to seek approval and adoption of the Merger Agreement among IOAC, Zoomcar and the other parties thereto and the transactions contemplated thereby (the “Transaction”), and other related matters, a key milestone in the business combination process.

    IOAC’s shareholders of record as of the close of business on 20 September 2023, are entitled to receive notice of, to vote, and have their votes counted at the IOAC Meeting and any adjournment thereof.  The joint proxy statement, prospectus and other relevant documents in connection with the proposed Transaction will be mailed to IOAC’s shareholders as of the record date. The Registration Statement containing the joint proxy statement and prospectus contains important information about the proposed Transaction, the Merger Agreement, and the proposals to be considered at the IOAC Meeting. The Registration Statement containing the joint proxy statement, prospectus, and proposals to be considered is available through the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    The joint proxy statement also notifies Zoomcar stockholders of Zoomcar’s solicitation of written consents to the Merger Agreement and Transactions associated therewith.  Zoomcar stockholders of record as of 30 September 2023 will be entitled to execute and deliver written consents and are encouraged to review the important information about the proposed Transaction contained in the proxy statement and written consent solicitation materials, in addition to the Registration Statement and IOAC’s other public filings available free of charge through the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    IOAC CEO & chairman Mohan Ananda stated, “I am delighted to announce the SEC’s approval of the effectiveness of the S-4 registration statement. This significant milestone brings us one step closer to finalizing the merger transaction with Zoomcar, a leader in emerging markets as the largest car-sharing platform. With the explosion of emerging markets and the wave of global entrepreneurship, I am confident about Zoomcar’s bright future as a leading global mobility platform.”

    Zoomcar CEO & co-founder Greg Moran commented, “We’re thrilled to announce this important milestone in our ongoing partnership with the IOAC team and we look forward to continuing the buildout of our peer2peer car sharing platform across our core emerging market geographies.”

    The closing of the Transaction, which is expected to occur in the fourth quarter of 2023, is subject to approval by IOAC shareholders, Zoomcar stockholders and the other closing conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement. Upon closing of the Transaction, IOAC is expected to transfer by way of continuation out of the Cayman Islands and into the State of Delaware and be renamed Zoomcar Holdings, Inc., and will continue to operate under the Zoomcar management team, led by Greg Moran, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Zoomcar. The combined company’s common stock is anticipated to be listed on NASDAQ under ticker symbol “ZCAR.”

  • Shalimar Paints Ltd. takes bold strides in long-term transformation strategy

    Shalimar Paints Ltd. takes bold strides in long-term transformation strategy

    Mumbai: Shalimar Paints Ltd., a 120-year-old legacy paints company, has announced a significant step in its journey of transformation with strategic enhancements to its leadership team. The company has appointed accomplished leaders with a wealth of industry expertise and vision across the Marketing, Finance, HR, Technology, and Manufacturing domains. This strategic transformation underscores the company’s commitment to reinforce its efforts for market dominance and reaffirms its dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and unparalleled quality.

    Building on their new vision, the company has onboarded Kuldip Raina, director, of sales and marketing Sanjeev Gupta as director of research and development Rakesh Gupta as director of manufacturing, and Harcharan Singh as chief information officer. These newly appointed leaders will play a pivotal role in driving a comprehensive transformation strategy for Shalimar Paints. Their collective expertise will enable the company to accelerate its research-driven innovation initiatives, expand product offerings, and strengthen its foothold in both domestic and international markets.

    Talking about onboarding new leadership,  Shalimar Paints, MD and CEO Ashok Gupta said “We are thrilled to welcome accomplished leaders to our organization as we continue to chart new paths and expand our horizons. Their addition reinforces our commitment to driving innovation, fostering operational excellence, and delivering unparalleled experience to all our customers. These strategic appointments mark a significant step forward in shaping the future of our organisation, and we are confident that their contributions will play a pivotal role in propelling us to new heights of success.”

    The new leadership will work together to empower Shalimar Paints into a new-age, tech-driven organization. The company has announced a capex of 200 Cr that will focus on 3 core segments- People, R&D, and Production. With 38-40 per cent growth witnessed in the previous financial year, the company is now directing its efforts towards a consistent upward trend, targeting 25 per cent year-on-year growth. Furthermore, the company plans to take its product offerings beyond national standards and manufacture international-level products within the country with modernized and automated facilities as the key pillars.

  • Klug Klug redefines influencer marketing with 85 cent accuracy boost

    Klug Klug redefines influencer marketing with 85 cent accuracy boost

    Mumbai: In the dynamic realm of influencer marketing, where authenticity and precision are paramount, Klug Klug emerges as a game-changer. With a database boasting insights on over 250 million influencers, Klug Klug leverages cutting-edge AI-ML technology to provide marketers with a level of accuracy reaching up to an impressive 85 per cent. This platform is not just another data hub; it’s a comprehensive solution that empowers brands to navigate the influencer landscape with unparalleled efficiency and confidence.

    Founders Kalyan Kumar and Vaibhav Gupta, visionaries in their own right, bring a wealth of experience from their digital marketing roots. With a track record of success, including the founding of ‘Social Catalyzers’, they recognised the industry’s need for a platform that addresses the core challenges faced by brands engaging in influencer marketing.

    Influencer marketing is a multifaceted endeavour, encompassing everything from pinpointing the right advocate for a brand to ensuring their values align seamlessly. Klug Klug’s Influencer Discovery feature offers a real-time database housing millions of influencers, coupled with 15 advanced filters, enabling marketers to effortlessly zero in on the perfect match for their campaigns worldwide.

    Indiantelevision.com in an email interaction spoke to KlugKlug co-founder and CPO Vaibhav Gupta

    On KlugKlug’s establishment

    On KlugKlug sourcing and verifying data on millions of influencers

    KlugKlug utilises AI-ML technology to source and verify data on millions of influencers across various social media platforms, including Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. Their extensive database ensures that they can provide up to 85 per cent accurate insights about these influencers. This level of accuracy sets them apart in the industry, giving brands and agencies confidence in their influencer marketing decisions.

    On the founders’ inspiration behind creating KlugKlug and entering the influencer marketing space

    The founders created KlugKlug to address the transparency and credibility issues in influencer marketing. They recognised the challenges brands faced in determining the authenticity of influencers and the lack of industry standards. KlugKlug aims to provide a solution to these problems.

    On KlugKlug contributing to the growth of the Indian influencer marketing industry

    KlugKlug has played a pivotal role in advancing the Indian Influencer Marketing industry. By offering accurate AI-ML-led data and insights about influencers, they have empowered brands and agencies to make data-driven decisions. This, in turn, has led to more successful influencer marketing campaigns and increased the prominence of influencer marketing as a key component of digital marketing strategies in India.

    On KlugKlug adapting to changes in social media platforms and their algorithms, which can impact influencer marketing effectiveness

    To adapt to changes in social media platforms and algorithms, KlugKlug continuously updates its data and algorithms. This ensures that brands can navigate the evolving landscape of social media effectively. By staying ahead of the curve, KlugKlug ensures that influencer marketing remains a potent tool for brands, even as social media platforms introduce new features and algorithms.

    On KlugKlug differentiating itself from other influencer marketing platforms in terms of accuracy and depth of insights

    KlugKlug differentiates itself from other influencer marketing platforms through its commitment to accuracy and depth of insights. Their platform’s ability to provide up to 85 per cent accurate insights sets it apart, ensuring that brands can select influencers with confidence. KlugKlug is dedicated to solving the issue of ‘true’ and instant searchability for influencers with relevant audiences, which significantly improves campaign efficiency.

    On KlugKlug’s approach to influencer insights and audience overlap contributing to more effective influencer selection for campaigns

    KlugKlug’s approach to influencer insights and audience overlap is crucial for effective influencer selection. By ensuring that influencers align with a brand’s target audience and values, KlugKlug contributes to more successful influencer marketing campaigns. Brands can engage with influencers who genuinely resonate with their audience, leading to higher engagement and better results.

    On the key benefits of using KlugKlug for data-driven influencer marketing strategies

    Using KlugKlug for data-driven influencer marketing strategies offers several key benefits. Brands gain access to accurate and comprehensive influencer data, allowing for informed decision-making. This accuracy translates to improved campaign efficiency, as brands can confidently select the right influencers. Additionally, KlugKlug’s ability to adapt to changing trends ensures that brands stay relevant in the dynamic world of social media marketing.

    On  KlugKlug staying updated with the latest trends and best practices in the influencer marketing industry

    On kind of reporting and analytics that KlugKlug provides to brands for tracking the performance of their influencer marketing efforts

    KlugKlug provides brands with comprehensive reporting and analytics to track the performance of their influencer marketing efforts. Brands can measure key metrics such as engagement, reach, and conversion rates, allowing them to assess the success of their campaigns accurately.

    On KlugKlug measuring the effectiveness and ROI of influencer marketing campaigns

    On their previous experience in digital content marketing influenced the platform’s development

    The founders’ extensive experience in digital content marketing has been instrumental in shaping KlugKlug’s development. Their emphasis on accuracy and in-depth insights stems from a deep understanding of the importance of data-driven decision-making in the digital marketing landscape. This experience has been a driving force behind KlugKlug’s commitment to providing top-notch influencer marketing solutions.

    On future developments or features that can we expect from KlugKlug in the coming years

    Looking ahead, KlugKlug aims to create advanced AI-powered tools that enhance the efficiency of influencer marketing processes. They also plan to provide brands and marketers with even more data-driven insights. Additionally, KlugKlug intends to expand its services to new markets and industries, catering to the growing demand for influencer marketing. As the influencer marketing industry is projected to experience significant growth, KlugKlug is poised to play a pivotal role in its evolution, empowering brands to achieve their marketing goals.

  • Excellent Publicity makes waves with international expansion

    Excellent Publicity makes waves with international expansion

    Mumbai: Excellent Publicity, one of the independent advertising agencies, embarked on its ambitious international expansion earlier this year. With a steadfast focus on growth and innovation, Excellent Publicity has set its sights on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with Dubai as its primary launchpad. This strategic decision is underpinned by the region’s economic stability, diverse emerging industries, and remarkable economic growth prospects, making it an ideal destination for the agency’s global expansion.

    Before embarking on this exciting journey, Excellent Publicity conducted comprehensive market research and analysis to ensure its success in the MENA region. MENA’s geographical location serves as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a pivotal hub for businesses seeking global reach. The MENA region is witnessing a dynamic shift from traditional sectors to technology, tourism, and entertainment. Excellent Publicity sees this transition as an opportunity to provide its advertising expertise to scale businesses. Besides, countries in the MENA region are experiencing robust economic growth, leading to increased consumer spending. After establishing a strong foothold in the MENA region, Excellent Publicity further intends to build its presence in Canada and the United Kingdom.

    Currently, Excellent Publicity is operating in Dubai for its international operations. It has also started a new corporate office in Indore, India, in addition to its existing presence in Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune, with Ahmedabad being the headquarters. In terms of increasing its footprint, Excellent Publicity is eyeing expansion in metro cities and non-metro regions, with plans to establish its presence in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai,  Vishakapatnam, Kochi, Vadodara, and Surat. The advertising agency has experienced a 2.36X growth from 2020-21 to 2021-22 and achieved a 1.8X increase in revenue from 2021-22 to 2022-23, reaching almost 100 crore Rs.

    In the last decade, Excellent Publicity has witnessed remarkable growth, serving over 3,000 clients, including 100 listed on BSE and NSE, and a handful of Fortune 500 clients. Globally, the agency boasts 20-25 clients across various industries.

    Excellent Publicity co-founder & director Vaishal Dalal said,” The growth trajectory we have witnessed in the last two years is exceptional. Going forward, Excellent Publicity is poised to lead the advertising industry into a new era of international expansion, revenue growth, and unparalleled service excellence. Our entry into the international market, beginning with the MENA region, further strengthens our position in the advertising industry. The agency’s commitment to innovation, strategic planning, and market leadership positions it for continued success in India and beyond.”

    Excellent Publicity has projected an exciting growth trajectory over the next six years, with plans to launch an IPO by 2029. Its comprehensive range of offline and online marketing services remains unrivalled in the market.

  • Diesel partners with King to unveil Vert watches, designed in virtual reality

    Diesel partners with King to unveil Vert watches, designed in virtual reality

    Mumbai: Renowned fashion and lifestyle brand Diesel brought together the worlds of horology and hip-hop this week at a thrilling launch event for their new collection of timepieces. Held at Mumbai’s Jio World Drive, the launch featured India’s leading singer and pop star King, who unveiled Diesel’s Vert Collection alongside the managing director of Fossil Group – India, Johnson Verghese. A first-of-its-kind range of timepieces by Diesel, the Vert Collection has been crafted using a new wave of VR technology that bridges the gap between the physical and digital worlds. The exclusive event was a glamorous affair, attended by a number of prominent influencers and leading press outlets, reaffirming Diesel’s status as a trendsetter in the industry.

    The launch event itself was a spectacle of design and technology, featuring a captivating launch film and a showcase of the Vert Collection in all its glory. The brand further set up a striking 3D visual display of the Vert Collection within the mall, for attendees to admire up close. Diesel chose to partner with King, one of India’s most popular pop stars, to celebrate the futuristic aesthetic and transformative design of the Vert Collection and bring this fusion of elements to the public.

    Mr. Verghese began the evening by sharing the story and design journey behind the eagerly awaited Vert Collection; before being joined by King to present the launch movie that gave the public their first-ever look at the Vert Collection. This was followed by a press conference and an in-person unboxing and reveal of the Vert range of watches.

    Fossil Group – India managing director Johnson Verghese said, “The Vert Collection is a testament to Diesel’s commitment to innovation at the most fundamental level. Our timepieces are an expression of individuality, and the creative process behind the Vert Collection aims to let wearers make a unique statement about their personal style. A first-of-its-kind VR technology was employed to create an immersive aesthetic inspired by Diesel Creative Director, Glenn Martens, for this collection, giving it a futuristic look that still seamlessly complements the ensemble of the modern man.”

    King singer and pop star said, “I’ve always believed that style is a powerful form of self-expression, just like music. The Diesel Vert Collection is a series that showcases a new level of craftsmanship with its VR design technology. The daring and futuristic look of this collection is something I relate to and appreciate on a personal level, with its gutsy and unapologetic design. The Vert Collection perfectly complements my style, and I’m proud to partner with Diesel to bring their new design approach to the world.”

    The new Vert watch bridges the gap between the physical and digital worlds and is a first-of-its-kind for Diesel. It’s one of several styles from the new forward-thinking Metamorph collection that’s entirely conceptualised and created from a technologically immersive virtual reality experience with a game-like approach. Here, the flexibility of dreaming of a modern approach to design looks like armour unfolding on the wrist, a disruptive, hard-shelled appearance that’s mutually organic and futuristic. The entire composition is crafted using a new wave of VR technology where virtually everything looks “organically” different.

    With a case size of 44 mm, the watches are available in three colour options – black, gold and silver, and they come with a stainless steel strap bracelet and three-hand date movement. There’s also a limited edition exclusive (DZ2183)—only 700 units available worldwide—and it features contrasting leather black inlay accents along this dynamic design’s inner core and clips. The range begins at Rs 27,995.

    Alongside the collection launch, Diesel invites both Vert holders and all fans globally to experience an immersive, multi-layered, game-like experience—Metamorph. Developed in partnership with the visionary media-tech artists from Artificial Rome, the project further strengthens Diesel’s position as a Web3 pioneer and expert in connecting creativity with culture. The Metamorph virtual world is shaped by Vert design details with breathtaking scenery and a sprawling environment where visitors will move through various challenges with their A:VERT: AR (avatar) to reactivate time in a fictional land where time has stopped. The experience culminates in a virtual concert celebration with artist Lil Dre at the completion of the quests.

  • Sanya Malhotra dazzles as showstopper for Godrej Professional’s ‘Dimension Ombreyage Collection’

    Sanya Malhotra dazzles as showstopper for Godrej Professional’s ‘Dimension Ombreyage Collection’

    Mumbai: Godrej Professional, a professional hair brand with products in  hair care, colour, styling, and keratin from Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL),  participated in the Professional Beauty India trade show with Jawan actor Sanya Malhotra gracing the ramp as the showstopper. Sanya’s look was accentuated by shades from the ‘Dimension-Ombreyage Collection’ hair colour range, which reflects the brand’s commitment to embracing acceptance, inclusivity, and self-expression through vibrant hair colours. The Dimension-Ombreyage collection features four captivating hair colour looks such as Sandstone Ombreyage, Auburn Ombreyage, Crimson Ombreyage, and Pearl Square. The lineup also featured models showcasing the exquisite styles from this collection.  

    The Professional Beauty India trade show took place at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Goregaon. In addition to participating in the show, Godrej Professional hosted an insightful masterclass. Renowned celebrity hairstylists and technical ambassadors, Sylvia Chen, Ryan  Rozario, and Najeeb Rehman, shared their expertise, unveiling the latest trends, techniques,  and innovations in the dynamic realm of hair and beauty.

    Sharing her experience flaunting these bold colours, actor Sanya Malhotra said, “I am  absolutely thrilled to don Godrej Professional’s Dimension-Ombreyage collection. As an  Indian brand, they understand the unique haircare needs of every individual, even my curls.  This collection offers stunning hair colours and sends a powerful message, which I truly  believe in, of embracing diversity and inclusivity. My hair colour is an expression of my true  self and reflects my inner vibrancy and individuality. “

    Godrej Professional’s vision is to revolutionize the salon and beauty industry. This partnership  serves as a dynamic platform uniting salonists, beauty professionals, enthusiasts, and brands,  fostering a vibrant ecosystem of collaboration, education, knowledge exchange, and a  profound celebration of the artistry within the salon and beauty community.

    Commenting on the brand’s participation in this prestigious trade show, Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL) general manager Abhinav Grandhi said, “As a brand, we have always believed that our products are for all. We are one of the foremost brands in the professional hair and beauty space trusted by both consumers and salon professionals. The Professional  Beauty India Expo 2023 featured the latest collection ‘Dimension-Ombreyage Collection’  along with our hair colour and care products. It is a great platform to engage with the salon industry. We made this engagement more special by roping in actress Sanya Malhotra for our hair show. Dimension features a prismatic and diverse take on colours and cuts for every hair type and persona. We are further committed to undertake more such initiatives highlighting  our range of hair colour, care, styling, and keratin products.”

    Celebrity hair stylists Sylvia Chen, Ryan Rozario and Najeeb Rehman conducted an exclusive masterclass showcasing this collection. The session commenced with an informative talk by the stylists on trending haircuts and the four hair colouring techniques. They then highlighted the hair colour; cutting and styling techniques live on stage – revealing all the tips and tricks to stylists to recreate these looks in their salons.

    Godrej Professional offers a colour range consisting of 34 stunning hair colour shades. Apart from its exceptional hair colour range, Godrej Professional offers a wide array of styling products, along with transformative treatments like keratin treatments. Additionally, they provide a range of hair care products, including shampoos, hair masks, and serums, catering to diverse hair needs.

  • Xiaomi India kicks off Diwali with Mi celebrations

    Xiaomi India kicks off Diwali with Mi celebrations

    Mumbai: Get ready for a Diwali like no other, as Xiaomi India, the country’s most trusted Smartphone X AIoT brand, has announced the latest edition of its highly-anticipated “Diwali with Mi” festive campaign with the theme of #TechSeSmartDilSeSmart. This year’s campaign promises to be an unforgettable celebration filled with surprises, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to helping consumers make the smartest choices from the heart.

    Amid the myriad of options available in the tech world, Xiaomi is committed to helping consumers make the “Dil Se Smart” choice this Diwali, where innovative technology meets affordability. Leading the way as Xiaomi’s brand ambassadors, Disha Patani and Pankaj Tripathi, Xiaomi’s “Smart Angels,” are ready to guide consumers through this exciting journey.

    Disha Patani, with her captivating charm and boundless energy, and Pankaj Tripathi, celebrated for his incredible versatility and relatable persona, perfectly embody Xiaomi’s aim to win over both the hearts and the minds of consumers.

    Talking about the campaign,  Xiaomi India chief marketing officer Anuj Sharma said “In India, festivals are considered an auspicious time by people to make their homes look and feel new. In today’s day and age when there are a plethora of options available to consumers on how to go about their technology purchases, they usually either choose to go with something the mind says or something the heart says. We want to tell our consumers that when they buy a Xiaomi product this Diwali, they don’t have to make this compromise. Consumers can look forward to incredible offers on Xiaomi smartphones, Smart TVs and AIoT products as well as exciting bundles that will make their every purchase both ‘Tech Se Smart’ and ‘Dil Se Smart.’

    The “Diwali with Mi” campaign will span a 360-degree approach, reaching consumers through a multitude of digital channels, TV, print media, Mi.com, and offline avenues, including Mi Stores and retail outlets. With this comprehensive strategy, Xiaomi India will be able to offer consumers wherever they are, the information they need to make informed choices.

    Xiaomi India is set to unveil a host of exciting surprises and unbeatable offers, spanning from smartphones to AIoT products, enabling consumers to transform their homes into smart, connected spaces. These deals will bring convenience, innovation, and affordability to consumers, making it easier than ever to embrace a smarter way of living.

    “Diwali with Mi” has always been a celebration of innovation and consumer happiness, and this year’s campaign is set to exceed expectations. Xiaomi India invites everyone to join in the festivities and discover how #TechSeSmartDilSeSmart can truly make this Diwali a truly “Dil se smart” one.

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Xiaomi India (@xiaomiindia)

     

  • “Our dedication to improving educational outcomes for students worldwide is at the core of our existence” Unischolars’s Amit Singh

    “Our dedication to improving educational outcomes for students worldwide is at the core of our existence” Unischolars’s Amit Singh

    Mumbai: UniScholars is a rapidly growing integrated study-abroad platform and a one stop solution for all things study abroad. They play a vital role in fueling and chiselling a student’s ambition of studying abroad, and serve as a one-stop shop for everything students need all through the process, from pre-departure to landing.

    According to a report by Moneycontrol, the funding to Indian startups fell 77 per cent from Jan-July 2023 over 2022 and very few startups were able to secure funding around this time. Despite facing a funding slump, UniScholars not only secured $5 million of funding but also embarked on a journey that has left an indelible mark on their brand and the education industry.

    A key turning point in UniScholars’ journey was their collaboration with the cricketer Surya Kumar Yadav. His endorsement not only injected fresh energy into their brand but also opened doors to new possibilities.

    Indiantelevision.com caught up with in an email interaction with UniScholars founder Amit Singh, who shared some interesting insights on the company…

    Edited excerpts

    On motivating UniScholars to persevere and seek innovative solutions despite the funding constraints

    The education landscape is evolving rapidly, with increasing demands for personalised learning experiences and digital solutions. According to a market report, the Indian overseas education market is projected to hit $100 billion by 2025. This data signifies substantial growth potential, which we couldn’t afford to overlook.

    Furthermore, our dedication to improving educational outcomes for students worldwide is at the core of our existence. We’ve witnessed firsthand the positive impact our solutions have on students’ academic growth.

    We have also been resourceful in finding alternative funding and partnerships. Through strategic alignment with educational institutions and technology partners, we have gained access to vital resources and expertise, enabling us to sustain our innovation efforts.

    Our motivation to persevere and innovate in the face of funding constraints is fueled by the undeniable market potential in the education sector, the positive impact we have on students’ outcomes, and our ability to forge strategic partnerships. UniScholars remains resolute in its pursuit of improving education through innovation.

    On elaborating the strategic decisions UniScholars made to adapt and grow during this challenging period

    During challenging periods, we made strategic decisions to adapt and grow, ensuring our continued relevance and success in the global education landscape.

    UniScholars significantly invested in data analytics, leveraging data to gain a deeper understanding of user behaviour, learning patterns, and market trends. For instance –  We analysed student application data and uncovered a noteworthy trend: students who received personalised guidance from our advisors in selecting the ideal study abroad destination experienced a 30% higher acceptance rate at their chosen universities compared to those who did not receive such guidance. This data-driven insight prompted us to prioritise and enhance our personalised advisory services, leading to a 25% increase in the overall success rate of our students’ study abroad applications.

    Cost Optimization: During challenging periods, cost optimisation is crucial. We, at UniScholars, underwent a comprehensive review of its operational expenses, identifying areas for efficiency improvements. This allowed us to reduce our operational costs by 15%, ensuring sustainability even with limited funding.

    Strategic Partnerships: Furthermore, we actively sought out partnerships with educational institutions, governments, and non-profit organisations. These collaborations not only provided access to additional resources but also enhanced our credibility in the market.

    On sharing some insights into the development and execution of the marketing campaign and the specific results you witnessed

    Before launching the campaign, we conducted extensive market research to understand the challenges and pain points faced by students looking to study abroad. We realised that the study abroad market was cluttered with numerous players, many of whom lacked transparency and authenticity. This presented an opportunity for Unischolars to stand out as a trustworthy and reliable partner for students.

    Our campaign aimed to establish UniScholars as the premier solution for study abroad challenges, emphasising our unwavering reliability and integrity in a chaotic market.

    Surya Kumar Yadav, renowned for his 360 style cricketing skills, shared a natural synergy with the Unischolars brand. This connection stems from our comprehensive approach, where we assist students in realising their dreams of studying at their desired institutions while also helping them secure essential elements such as loans and accommodations.

    Our campaign message was straightforward and effective: “Unlock #TheRightDoor in the crowded study abroad market with Unischolars.” This succinctly communicated the problem and the solutions we offered.

    The impact of the campaign was significant. We observed an immediate 30% increase in website traffic during the first week of the campaign period, and our social media engagement grew by 40%. More importantly, there was a 25% increase in student inquiries and applications.

    On any other similar plans to collaborate with someone in future

    Our collaboration with Surya Kumar Yadav was a game-changer for Unischolars, and the excitement continues to ripple through our team. As for future partnerships, we’re currently delving into intriguing possibilities that are all about integrity, transparency, and reliability – the very foundations of Unischolars. While I can’t unveil the specifics just yet, rest assured, they’re as promising as they are groundbreaking. 

  • Howden harnesses the collective power of its global broking operations under a new brand

    Howden harnesses the collective power of its global broking operations under a new brand

    Mumbai: Howden, the global insurance group, today unveils a new brand as it brings together its global broking operations under one name.

    The rebrand follows Howden’s announcement in April that it would unify and simplify its business structure under a single, aligned global executive, with insurance broking, reinsurance broking and underwriting reporting directly to David Howden, CEO.

    Howden CEO  David Howden commented, “As we unveil our new brand and enter our 30 years, we are excited to mark this new chapter for Howden.  I am incredibly proud of what we’ve built.  The Howden brand will be represented by 15,000 people in 50 countries, not only capturing the scale of the firm’s operations for millions of clients but also, with a fresh and dynamic visual approach, expressing their collective difference.

    “By remaining true to our founding principles of independence, employee ownership, expertise, friendship and trust, we have created a company owned and run by the people who work in it. We have the architecture in place, and by continuing to bring the best insurance expertise to our clients, we can now unlock further opportunities for growth through the power of a single global brand.

    “As we move forward at scale our focus is firmly on harnessing our collective power, attracting talent and aligned businesses and putting our people first.  By investing in our infrastructure and empowering our experts to do their best for our clients, we can show the force for good we know insurance can be.

    “We act for clients ranging from individuals to the largest global corporations, spanning the full spectrum of local, speciality and international (re)insurance.  We now have a brand that shows all we have to offer our customers.  It reflects who we are.

    “Our go-to-market strategy is simple; we are committed to acting as one business, bringing the full force of all our experts, regardless of specialism or geography, for the benefit of our clients.  That way, with transparency and trust, I can promise that all our stakeholders get the very best of us.

    Howden India CEO Amit Agarwal said, “As we move forward, we are consolidating our collective strength under a single, powerful umbrella, fostering innovation, efficiency, and outstanding value for our clients. We will work together to build a future in which Howden is a beacon of excellence, setting new industry standards and providing great customer experiences. We are committed to fostering a culture in which every individual, working with us, is not just acknowledged, but also celebrated. Performance excellence gets enlivened by this culture of empowerment and respect”.

    As of today, Howden’s Indian operations span seven offices and over 300 employees with specialist expertise servicing local clients. India is one of the world’s fastest-growing insurance markets and Howden’s aspiration is to become a top three broker in the country by 2026, building on its solid reputation as a specialised commercial intermediary. Howden’s focus is to continue to build out its capabilities and invest in local expertise, including reinsurance, for the benefit of its Indian and multinational clients.

  • Canara HSBC Life Insurance concludes ‘Depend on Insurance’ season four with Kirron Kher

    Canara HSBC Life Insurance concludes ‘Depend on Insurance’ season four with Kirron Kher

    Mumbai: Canara HSBC Life Insurance concludes the fourth season of ‘Depend on Insurance’, a digital series that brings forth heart-warming and inspirational stories from veteran actor Kirron Kher. The series drew inspiration from brave women who have achieved incredible things by depending on their inner strength, which is the most dependable form of insurance. Through the initiative, Canara HSBC Life Insurance aims to reaffirm its positioning, “Promises Ka Partner” and underpins its brand promise with the message #DependOnInsurance-DependOnUs.

    The series comprises of five episodes around the theme ‘Life Lessons from Women Who Changed The World’. The first episode with Deepa Malik’s life journey from paralysis to the Paralympics is one of resilience and triumph. Other episodes include stories of Sudha Murty’s determination to fight for her rights, Bachendri Pal’s grit to scale the Everest, Kalpana Chawla’s courage to reach for the skies, and Guneet Monga’s perseverance to win the Oscar. All these inspiring stories are a testament to women’s power to break barriers and fulfill promises, inspiring all to embrace courage and determination.

    Canara HSBC Life Insurance chief distribution officer – alternate channels & chief strategy officer and marketing head Rishi Mathur, “In the realm of Life Insurance, where most brands tend to place their product at the forefront of all communication, this series offers a welcome departure. Through this campaign, our goal is to motivate and encourage a growing number of individuals to take a bold step forward, confident in the knowledge that they have a highly reliable insurance partner supporting them. At Canara HSBC Life Insurance, we strive every day to be a dependable insurance company for our customers. We have roped in Kirron Kher as the face of the campaign, her resonant voice and a commanding presence adds that dependability and authenticity factor to these magical stories. Her connect with the audience on an emotional level helps us deliver the key narratives of resilience with an even greater impact.”

    Face of the campaign, Kirron Kher said, “In my perspective, personal inner strength stands as the primary wellspring of reliability for an individual. Irrespective of circumstances, it serves as the most trustworthy form of assurance. As my own journey has been shaped by my inner strength, it was truly gratifying to narrate the equally remarkable stories of others who have achieved the extraordinary.”

    Campaign conceptualisation and execution agency Pravis Growth Partners creative head Pragya Bhatnagar added, “We have put forth our utmost effort to authentically portray their journeys, the challenges they faced, and the genuine emotions they experienced. While these women relied solely on their inner strength, we can all dare to pursue our dreams with confidence if we have a trustworthy insurance partner to rely on. We are also inviting the audience to share similar stories and create more impact.”

    • First episode: Ability Beyond Disability – Deepa Malik

    The episode with Deepa Malik’s life journey is one of resilience and triumph. Despite being diagnosed with a spinal tumor at the age of 5, enduring years of recovery, and later facing a life-threatening surgery at the age of 30, Deepa’s determination to walk, to overcome societal doubts, and to showcase “ability beyond disability” fueled her extraordinary transformation throughout. Overcoming multiple surgeries, the loss of bones and lung capacity, Deepa not only defied the odds but excelled. From financial independence through entrepreneurship to becoming a gold medalist swimmer and winning at the Rio Paralympics, she reshaped perceptions of age, gender, and disability. Deepa Malik’s story is a testament to a Women’s power to break barriers and fulfill promises, inspiring all to embrace courage and determination, with a dependable partner like ‘Insurance’.

    • Second Episode: Leading From The Back – Sudha Murty

    The episode is about Sudha Murty, an educationist, author, philanthropist, and the chairperson of Infosys Foundation. Born in Karnataka, she defied societal norms and pursued a career in engineering, becoming the first lady engineer at TELCO. She met Narayan Murthy and supported his entrepreneurial dreams by providing financial assistance. This marked the beginning of Infosys, a renowned software consulting company. Sudha Murty’s unwavering support extended to Infosys employees, even pledging her jewelry to ensure they received their salaries. Further to this, she founded Infosys Foundation in 1996, focusing on education, rural development, healthcare, arts, and destitute care, making a significant impact on society. Sudha Murty’s story illustrates the power of determination and supporting one another, emphasizing the importance of keeping promises, with Canara HSBC Life Insurance being a dependable partner.

    • Third Episode: The Everest Of Life – Bachendri Pal

    It is a remarkable story of Bachendri Pal, the first Indian woman to conquer Mount Everest and the fifth woman globally to do so. Born in Uttarakashi, India, Bachendri faced societal challenges but pursued education and later mountaineering. Her relentless determination led her to scale numerous peaks, ultimately reaching the summit of Everest in 1984. Surviving an avalanche during her ascent, she exhibited unwavering courage and continued her climb, becoming a source of inspiration. Bachendri Pal’s achievements extended beyond mountaineering as she trained others in adventure sports and led rescue missions. Her story highlights the strength and resilience of women, and just like Bachendri, anyone can conquer life’s challenges with their inner strength and a dependable insurance partner like Canara HSBC Life Insurance.

    • Fourth Episode: Reaching For The Stars – Kalpana Chawla

    The story revolves around Kalpana Chawla, a woman driven by a passion for aviation and a dream to explore beyond Earth’s boundaries. Born in Karnal, India, she defied gender barriers to pursue aerospace engineering, earning advanced degrees in the United States. Kalpana joined NASA as an astronaut, ultimately becoming the first India-born woman to venture into space. Tragically, her second mission on the Columbia space shuttle in 2003 ended in disaster as the shuttle disintegrated during re-entry with earth’s atmosphere, claiming the lives of all seven crew members, including Kalpana Chawla. Her legacy endures through her contributions to space exploration and her commitment to inspiring girls to dream limitlessly. NASA honored her by naming a spacecraft after her. Kalpana’s story underscores the power of determination and keeping promises, with Canara HSBC Life Insurance as a dependable partner.

    • Fifth episode: Lights Camera Action Success – Guneet Monga

    A commendable journey of Guneet Monga Kapoor, a visionary Indian film producer. Despite humble beginnings and numerous challenges, Guneet rose to prominence as the founder of Sikhya Entertainment and the producer of acclaimed films/series like “Gangs of Wasseypur” and “The Lunchbox.” Her tenacity led her to achieve her dream of attending the Oscars, and she made history with her work on the Academy Award-winning documentary short film “Period – End of Sentence.” Guneet’s dedication towards empowering women in the film industry led to the creation of the ‘Indian Women Rising’ cinema collective. Her story embodies the strength and determination that women are known for, and she has not only created her table but also left an indelible mark in the male-dominated film industry, putting Indian cinema on the global stage. With inner strength, anyone can overcome life’s challenges, and with a dependable insurance partner like Canara HSBC Life Insurance, you can Depend On Insurance to chase your dreams.