ITV

Category: MAM

  • Nestlé India cooks up a strong Q1 with Rs 659 crore profit and volume growth

    Nestlé India cooks up a strong Q1 with Rs 659 crore profit and volume growth

    MUMBAI: Nestlé India’s Q1 wasn’t just about instant noodles, it was an instant hit. Powered by pantry staples, caffeine cravings, and chocolate cheer, the FMCG major cooked up a Rs 5,074 crore sales recipe in the June quarter of FY26, stirring in a 5.9 per cent year-on-year growth and a net profit of Rs 659.2 crore.

    From steaming cups of Nescafé to school tiffins packed with Maggi and KitKat, the company’s core brands did the heavy lifting. Seven of the top twelve brands brewed double-digit growth, fuelling overall volume-led momentum across categories. The EBITDA margin stood robust at 21.7 per cent of sales, while earnings per share for the quarter came in at Rs 6.84.

    “Three of our four product groups bounced back to volume-led growth,” said outgoing Nescafé CMD Suresh Narayanan, who exits the company this month after a decade-long stint. “Maggi noodles saw double-digit growth, and our beverage and confectionery portfolios continued to perform strongly.”

    And perform they did. The Powdered and Liquid Beverages segment led by Nescafé Classic, Sunrise, and Gold perked up with high double-digit growth, aided by cold coffee campaigns that clicked during the summer. Meanwhile, the Prepared Dishes and Cooking Aids category, fuelled by Maggi’s ever-spicy range (Garlic, Cheesy, Pepper, Manchurian), added more masala to the numbers.

    Confectionery was another sweet spot. Kitkat emerged as the crown jewel, leading the charge in both urban and “Rurban” markets. Munch and Milkybar also saw high double-digit gains. Nestlé’s push into premium variants like Kitkat Lemon n Lime and Dark Sharebag helped expand its digital-first distribution.

    Milk Products and Nutrition showed mixed results, but brands like Milkmaid and Nestlé’s growing-up milk range still gained market share. Meanwhile, breakfast cereals buoyed by the recent launch of Munch Choco Fills crunched out high double-digit growth.

    Nestlé’s e-commerce channel now contributes 12.5 per cent of domestic sales, with quick commerce and newer launches proving to be the growth engines. Its Out-of-Home business think vending corners and retail kiosks continues to post double-digit growth, with over 1,000 Nescaf Corners, Maggie Hotspots and Kitkat Break Zones spread across India.

    On the export front too, it was a power-packed quarter, with high double-digit growth across foods, beverages and cereals. The UK even got a taste of desi spice, with Masala-Ae-Magic officially launching there.

    The business faced its share of heat: inflationary pressures pushed up costs of key commodities, and manufacturing expansion led to higher operating expenses. Finance costs rose due to short-term borrowings. But there’s relief in sight coffee, edible oil, and cocoa prices have stabilised, and milk is expected to cool with the monsoon flush.

    As Narayanan passes the baton to incoming Nescafé chairman and MD Manish Tiwary from 1 August, he exits on a high note. Over the last decade, Nestlé India has reported a 150 per cent rise in sales, a 490 per cent jump in PAT, and a 3.9x increase in market capitalisation, with a 17 per cent CAGR in total shareholder return.

    With a legacy that’s chocolate-dipped and noodle-tossed, Nestlé India has shown that even in a high-cost environment, flavour-packed fundamentals and strong consumer connect can serve up consistent, comforting growth.

    (If you are an Anime fan and love Anime like Demon Slayer, Spy X Family, Hunter X Hunter, Tokyo Revengers, Dan Da Dan and Slime, Buy your favourite Anime merchandise on AnimeOriginals.com.)

  • Amagi files for Rs 1,020 crore IPO to boost tech and cloud expansion

    Amagi files for Rs 1,020 crore IPO to boost tech and cloud expansion

    MUMBAI: Clouds, cash, and content Amagi’s IPO play is streaming towards Dalal Street. Amagi Media Labs, the Bengaluru-based SaaS powerhouse fuelling global streaming, has filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with SEBI for a blockbuster IPO combining fresh equity of up to Rs 1,020 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of 3.41 crore equity shares.

    The fresh issue will fund Rs 667 crore in tech and cloud infrastructure, while also financing future acquisitions and corporate purposes. The IPO will also give early backers including Premji Invest, Norwest Venture Partners, Accel, and Avataar Ventures, a chance to partially exit via the OFS route.

    Founded in 2008 by Baskar Subramanian, Srividhya Srinivasan, and Arunachalam Srinivasan Karapattu, Amagi has emerged as a global player in the Media & Entertainment (M&E) technology landscape. Its AI-powered, cloud-native platform supports content providers, OTT distributors, and advertisers in uploading, managing, and monetising video content whether it’s on smartphones, smart TVs, or streaming platforms.

    Today, Amagi works with over 45 per cent of the top 50 listed media and entertainment companies by revenue, cementing its position as the go-to “industry cloud” for streaming.

    The company is structured into three verticals Cloud Modernisation, Streaming Unification, and Monetisation & Marketplace serving television networks, film studios, production houses, telecom operators, OTT giants, and advertising platforms.

    Financially, the company is turning the corner with impressive top-line growth. In FY25, Amagi clocked Rs 1,162 crore in revenue from operations, posting a CAGR of 30.70 per cent from FY23 to FY25. Even more notably, its adjusted EBITDA margin turned positive at 2.02 per cent, bouncing back from -17.69 per cent in FY24 and -20.62 per cent in FY23, a strong indicator of improved operational leverage.

    Amagi may also explore a Pre-IPO placement of up to Rs 204 crore, which would reduce the fresh issue proportionally.

    Leading the IPO charge are Kotak Mahindra Capital, Goldman Sachs India, Citigroup Global Markets, IIFL Capital, and Avendus Capital, with the listing proposed on both the BSE and NSE.

    For a company that started out serving satellite TV channels, Amagi has now become a global cloud-streaming disruptor poised to write its next big chapter on India’s public markets. With video streaming only growing and cloud infrastructure becoming critical, Amagi’s IPO could be the signal investors have been waiting to tune into.

    (If you are an Anime fan and love Anime like Demon Slayer, Spy X Family, Hunter X Hunter, Tokyo Revengers, Dan Da Dan and Slime, Buy your favourite Anime merchandise on AnimeOriginals.com.)

  • Borrow Smart with Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan: Enjoy Quick Approval and Assured Cashback During Gold Loan Utsav Till 31st July

    Borrow Smart with Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan: Enjoy Quick Approval and Assured Cashback During Gold Loan Utsav Till 31st July

    Explore how tracking gold rates in Bangalore can help you make smart borrowing decisions. Get quick funds against your gold and enjoy exclusive cashback during the Gold Loan Utsav.

    Gold loans are becoming a go-to financial tool for many people in India. Whether you have a big plan or an unexpected bill to pay, using your gold jewellery to get a loan is quick and simple. The current gold rate today in Bangalore significantly increases the benefits of taking a gold loan right now. And this July, things are getting even better with the Gold Loan Utsav 2025. You can now enjoy assured cashback till 31st July 2025 when you take a Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan.

    But before applying, you need to know how the gold rate today in Bangalore, or any city you are in, can affect your loan. Gold prices change every day, and this change impacts how much money you can get against your gold.

    Why does the gold rate matter for your gold loan?

    The amount you get from a gold loan depends on how much your gold is worth. So, when gold prices go up, your jewellery can fetch you a higher loan amount. On the other hand, if prices go down, the value of the same gold may drop.

    That’s why it helps to track the gold rate today in Bangalore. You can check the latest rates on the Bajaj Finserv gold rate in India page. Knowing the daily rate helps you decide the right time to apply and get the most value for your 18-22 karat gold jewellery.

    What makes a gold loan a wise choice?

    A Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan is a smart financial choice for several reasons:

    ●  Instant approval: Get funds starting from ₹5,000 up to ₹2 crore against 18-22 karat gold jewellery.

    ●  Quick disbursal: Once your gold is evaluated, the money is sent to your account in just 1 branch visit*.

    ●  Easy eligibility: No income proof or credit score is required. You just need to be an Indian citizen, between 21 to 70 years of age, with basic KYC documents for verification.

    ●  Multiple repayment options: Choose to pay interest on a monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annual basis. Any principal or interest due to be paid before the tenure ends.

    ●  No foreclosure or part-payment charges: Pay off your loan early without any extra charges.

    Why Gold Loan Utsav is the perfect time

    The Gold Loan Utsav makes this July extra special. When you take a gold loan this month, you can enjoy assured cashback till 31st July 2025. This makes your borrowing journey more rewarding and less stressful.

    Plus, with rising gold prices, now might be a good time to get a higher loan amount. Many people in Bangalore are using this opportunity to cover education fees, medical needs, weddings, or even travel plans.

    How to apply for a Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan

    Applying is very easy:

    1.    Apply online via the Bajaj Finserv App or website.  
    2.    Click on the ‘Apply’ button.  
    3.    Enter your mobile number and verify with OTP.  
    4.    Fill in your details and choose your nearest branch.  
    5.    A Bajaj Finance team member will assist with gold valuation and completing your application.

    You can also use the online gold loan calculator to estimate your loan amount before visiting the branch.

    Final thoughts

    The gold rate in India changes daily, and keeping track of it can help you make a better borrowing decision. With Bajaj Finance’s Gold Loan Utsav running this July, it is a great time to unlock the value of your gold and enjoy assured cashback as well.

    If you are in Bangalore and looking for a quick, simple, and rewarding way to manage your expenses, consider applying for a Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan today. Check the latest gold rate today in Bangalore on the official Bajaj Finance website to get started.  
     

  • The Life Insurance Plan Every Responsible Parent Should Know About

    The Life Insurance Plan Every Responsible Parent Should Know About

    Parents have the responsibility of ensuring long-term financial security for their family, even in their absence. While parents strive to provide comfort, stability, and opportunities for their children, life’s unpredictability makes financial preparedness essential. Among various life insurance options, term insurance stands out as a simple, cost-effective solution that offers substantial protection. It ensures your loved ones are financially supported to meet expenses such as education, daily living costs, and future goals. This article explores why term insurance is an important financial step every responsible parent should take.

    What is Term Insurance?

    Term insurance is a type of life insurance plan that provides financial coverage for a specific period or term. In the event of the policyholder’s untimely death during the policy term, a fixed amount known as the sum assured is paid to the nominee. If the policyholder survives the term, there is typically no payout, unless the plan includes a return of premium feature.This type of plan is simple, affordable, and highly effective in offering protection to your family when they need it the most.

    Why Should Parents Consider Term Insurance?

    When it comes to choosing the right life insurance, term insurance stands out as a practical and effective option for parents. Its affordability, high coverage, and focused protection make it especially suitable for safeguarding your family’s financial future. Here are key reasons why term insurance should be a priority for every parent:

    • Cost-Effective Coverage: Among all life insurance plans, term insurance provides a high sum assured at an affordable premium. This makes it suitable for young or middle-income parents looking for maximum protection without straining their budget.

    • Pure Protection: Term plans focus only on life cover, unlike market linked plans that combine insurance with savings or investment. This keeps term plans simple, transparent, and easier to understand.

    • Financial Support for Children: In the unfortunate event of the policyholder’s demise, the lump sum payout can help the surviving family cover essential expenses like school fees, higher education costs, and day-to-day living, ensuring continuity in their standard of life.

    • Debt Protection: Term insurance ensures that any outstanding financial obligations, such as a home loan or personal loan, do not fall on your family. The payout can be used to clear debts, reducing financial stress on your dependents.

    • Peace of Mind: Knowing that your family will have a financial safety net offers emotional security. It allows you to focus on your responsibilities today, without worrying about future uncertainties.

    Key Features of Term Insurance Plans

    Before choosing a term insurance policy, it’s important to understand its key features:

    1.  Sum Assured  
    This is the amount your family will receive in case of your death during the policy term. Choose a sum thatcovers your family’s living expenses, children’s education, and any existing liabilities.

    2.  Policy Term  
    This refers to the duration of the insurance coverage. It should preferably cover the years until your children become financially independent or until your planned retirement.

    3.  Premium Payment Term  
    You can choose to pay premiums regularly (monthly, quarterly, yearly) or as a one-time payment. Regular payments are most common and manageable for salaried individuals.

    4.  Riders and Add-ons  
    Term insurance plans can be enhanced with riders such as:

    a.    Accidental death benefit  
    b.    Critical illness cover  
    c.    Waiver of premium on disability

    These riders provide additional protection at a nominal cost.

    5.  Claim Settlement Ratio  
    Always choose an insurer with a high claim settlement ratio, as it reflects the company’s reliability in paying out claims.

    How Much Term Insurance Coverage Do You Need?

    A suitable coverage amount depends on several factors, including:

    •  Your current income  
    •  Monthly household expenses  
    •  Existing loans and liabilities  
    •  Future financial goals (like children’s education or marriage)  
    •  Inflation

    As a general guideline, the sum assured should be enough to cover your family’s financial needs for several years in your absence. A simple way to calculate this is by estimating your annual income and multiplying it by the number of years your dependents will need support.

    When Should Parents Buy Term Insurance?

    The right time to buy the best term insurance plan is as early as possible. Younger individuals pay lower premiums and can get coverage for a longerduration. Buying early helps you get the plan at a lower cost and without health-related exclusions that may apply if your health changes later.

    Even if you are a new parent or planning to start a family, buying term insurance in advance is a smart financial decision. It provides peace of mind knowing your family is protected from the very beginning.

    Conclusion

    Every parent planto give their children a secure and comfortable life. But responsible parenting also means preparing for the unexpected. A term insurance plan is one of the practical tools for ensuring that your family remains financially stable in your absence. It protects your children’s future, covers essential expenses, and helps your family manage debt or emergencies. Termplans from trusted insurers like Tata AIA offer high cover at affordable cost, making them a smart and easy choice for every parent.Taking this step today shows you care about your family and want to secure their future.

    Disclaimer: The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional or legal advice. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) is not responsible for any decisions made based on the information.  
     

  • KlugKlug clicks with new funding as it eyes 10x growth and global reach

    KlugKlug clicks with new funding as it eyes 10x growth and global reach

    MUMBAI: From Klueless to Klug influencer intelligence just got sharper. Klugklug, the influencer marketing SaaS platform that’s already making noise across boardrooms and brand plans, has secured a fresh round of undisclosed funding. But this wasn’t just another cheque drop. The backers, a powerful mix of unicorn founders, ex-CXOs, ex-CMOs, and leading angel investors are joining not just as financiers but as co-pilots in Klugklug’s turbocharged growth ride.

    The Delhi-headquartered startup is aiming to scale its operations by 10x over the next two years, with much of the acceleration already kicking in during the first quarter of 2025. Its expansion roadmap now includes India, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), as it sets sail into newer markets with a strong tailwind.

    As part of its scale-up playbook, Klugklug has added some heavyweight marketing minds to its advisory panel: Lloyd Mathias (ex-HP, Pepsico), Amit Jain (Cardekho), Gaurav Agarwal (Tata 1Mg), and Indranil Chakraborty (Storyworks).

    The influencer game is no longer a gut-feel gamble.
    Klugklug’s software, powered by AI, parses and profiles over 300 million influencers across 150 plus countries and 160 plus languages, giving brands deep dives into audience demographics, engagement metrics, campaign ROI, and influencer authenticity. It promises 40 to 60 per cent efficiency gains in influencer-led marketing music to the ears of performance-obsessed CMOs.

    “We’ve seen seasoned marketers achieve campaign wins from day one using Klugklug,” said CPO co-founder Vaibhav Gupta. “More and more CMOs are using data as the starting point not the afterthought in influencer planning.”

    CPO co-founder and CEO Kalyan Kumar added: “The global influencer market is at an inflection point. There’s a growing demand for transparency, smart targeting, and measurable ROI. This round of funding will accelerate not just our global expansion, but also the tech that powers sharper decision-making.”

    Currently, KlugKlug counts 200 plus Indian and global brands among its clients, cutting across categories like FMCG, D2C, electronics, health, beauty, lifestyle and e-commerce.

    With influencer campaigns becoming more high-stakes and ROI-focussed, Klugklug’s mission is to replace mood boards with dashboards and add a little brain to the brawn of brand advocacy. And if this new cohort of investors and advisors is anything to go by, it’s safe to say that KlugKlug just became a smarter bet on the future of marketing.

  • A Modern Men’s Guide ToMaximising Fertility

    A Modern Men’s Guide ToMaximising Fertility

    New Delhi [India], July 16: Thinking about making an addition to your family, or want to start a family? Well, it may be a wake-up call to start thinking about the health of your sperm. Interestingly, a significant number of the male population are facing male fertility issues due to poor sperm health problems, such as low sperm count and low sperm quality. These problems are caused by genetic disorders, hormonal imbalances, anatomical issues, to mention but a few. Fortunately, there are ways in which men can effectively maximise fertility, as proven by specialists from the best IVF centre in Ludhiana.

    Importance Of Maximising Fertility

    Maximising fertility is very crucial as it allows individuals and couples to fulfil their goal of parenthood by enabling them to achieve their desired family size. Not only will they experience the joy of parenthood, but they also obtain personal fulfillment. Moreover, maintaining a sustainable level of fertility ensures the continuation of lineages. Besides that, maximising fertility is crucial for population dynamics as it significantly contributes to the social, economic, and demographic attributes of society. Therefore, it is crucial for men to consult with health specialists to seek ways to maximise fertility, especially if they have been facing issues with fertility.

    How Can You Enhance Your Fertilty?

    According to the best IVF centre in Amritsar, to maximise fertility, men have to focus on the following areas:

    •    Diet – Men have to consume food that is important for sperm production and health. Their diet should consist of plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Additionally, they also need to incorporate foods that are rich in zinc, folate, and antioxidants. Besides that, they should limit the mistake of unhealthy fats often found in processed foods, as they can negatively impact their sperm quality. Staying hydrated also helps with optimising bodily function.   
    •    Lifestyle – A few tweaks to daily habits can help to maximise fertility. By engaging in moderate physical exercise, men can encourage the production of testosterone and improve sperm quality.. Also, stress management is crucial as it helps to avoid sperm production and hormonal imbalance issues. Maintaining a healthy weight is also vital as it helps to prevent low sperm count. Habits like smoking and excessive drinking should be avoided as they can lead to poor sperm quality.

    To recapitulate – This simplistic guide can help men to maximise fertility effectively. There are also other considerations, such as the incorporation of certain supplements that may be beneficial, like vitamin B and C, zinc, and many others available; however, it is important to consult with a healthcare specialist before starting a supplement routine. IVF treatment is also highly effective for maximising fertility, and one may need to consult a specialist to inquire about IVF cost in India and other related information. Therefore, it is important for men to address lifestyle factors and look for professional guidance. Men should take bold steps to maximise their fertility and increase their chances of having children.  

    Disclaimer:This article has been published without the journalistic or editorial involvement of Indiantelevision.com. IndianTelevision.com Group, or any of its affiliated websites. IndianTelevision.com Group does not endorse, subscribe to, or take responsibility for the content, opinions, or views expressed herein.

    Readers are further advised that Online Casino, Betting, Cryptocurrency products, Financial Investments/Engagements, NFTs, and products or calls-to-action related to Health, Booking, Wellness, and Food are largely unregulated and carry significant risk. There may be no regulatory protections or avenues for recourse in the event of financial losses or health-related risks arising from engagement with such products or services.

    IndianTelevision.com Group expressly disclaims any responsibility or liability for the information, views, announcements, declarations, or affirmations presented in this article. By choosing to proceed, the reader acknowledges and agrees that they do so at their own discretion and risk, and expressly absolve indiantelevision.com (IndianTelevision.com Group) from any potential legal claims, liabilities, or actions.

    The content provided is solely for informational and awareness purposes.
        

  • Waves 2025 Brings Big Deals and Bold Dreams to India’s Media Sector

    Waves 2025 Brings Big Deals and Bold Dreams to India’s Media Sector

    MUMBAI: If the Indian media sector were a movie, Waves 2025 would be the montage sequence fast cuts of big money, bold ideas and breakout talent all coming together for a dramatic makeover. Held in Mumbai, the Waves Summit 2025 saw the Government of Maharashtra sign MoUs worth nearly Rs 8,000 crore, giving the media and entertainment sector a starring role in the state’s growth narrative. Among the headliners:

    . Rs 3,000 crore from Prime Focus to build a 200-acre Film City

    .  Rs 2,000 crore from Godrej for a film, TV and media campus in Panvel

    .  Rs 1,500 crore each from the University of York and the University of Western Australia to set up their first Indian campuses in Mumbai

    And just like that, education and entertainment are sharing billing on the marquee.

    Waves 2025 also introduced the Nifty Waves Index, listing 43 media and entertainment companies finally giving the sector its own Sensex-style snapshot. Meanwhile, the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) inked partnerships with industry giants including Google, Apple, Microsoft, Meta, Adobe, Nvidia, and Toon Boom, rolling out opportunities for scholarships, internships, rendering parks, game design courses and creative entrepreneurship.

    Waves Bazaar cemented its role as the sector’s B2B-B2G power corridor. Launched in January 2025, the digital-first marketplace has already hosted 2,450 projects, with 6,442 buyers and 6,106 sellers participating across film, animation, XR, gaming and advertising verticals. It’s India’s global swipe-right moment for creative deals.

    Elsewhere, WaveX turned into a high-stakes pitch fest where creative dreams met venture capital muscle. From 1,504 applicants, 30 high-potential M&E startups in gaming, storytelling, immersive tech and the creator economy pitched live to 29 marquee investors including Lumikai, Jio, and Warmup Ventures. With 127 startups securing connections or partnerships, and applications vetted by IAMAI and KPMG, this wasn’t just razzle, it was rigor with returns.  

    Enter the Create in India Challenge, a flagship talent hunt that hosted 34 creative contests across animation, AR/VR, gaming, music and films. Finalists competed in the buzzing Creatosphere, a zone dedicated to next-gen creators. Eight expert masterclasses helped sharpen their edge, while the finals turned the stage into a launchpad.

    Not to be left out, Waves Culturals gave attendees a feel of India’s artistic pulse through performances blending traditional and global forms. The event’s heart, however, was the Bharat Pavilion, inaugurated by prime minister Narendra Modi on 1 May 2025. Designed as an immersive tribute to India’s storytelling roots, it showcased four thematic zones Shruti (oral traditions), Kriti (written heritage), Drishti (visual storytelling), and Creator’s Leap (future tech).

    Over in the FM lane, the 8th National Community Radio Conference saw 12 CR stations receive national awards for innovation and inclusivity. With 531 CR stations and over 400 representatives attending, it was a mic-drop moment for grassroots broadcasters.

    Add to that the launch of the first Indian Film Festival in New Zealand and fresh Indo-UK film collaborations and you’ve got an M&E summit that doesn’t just talk global, it screens it.

    From classroom tie-ups to cultural showcases, and from startup pitches to mega MoUs, Waves 2025 didn’t just imagine India as a global creative powerhouse it laid down the blueprint, cast the crew and started shooting.

    And with Maharashtra calling action on infrastructure, investment and innovation India’s media industry is no longer just watching the story unfold. It’s writing the script.
     

  • From Chai Breaks to AI Breaks: How Indian Marketers Are Letting Robots Handle the Hustle

    From Chai Breaks to AI Breaks: How Indian Marketers Are Letting Robots Handle the Hustle

    MUMBAI: There is a huge change happening in India’s digital marketing scene. 73 per cent of marketing teams worldwide now use AI tools for jobs that used to take up 40 per cent of their workday. However, Indian marketers are at a crucial point right now. Most people are not using AI solutions appropriately; therefore, they miss out on smart automation’s life-changing power.

    The Task Delegation Revolution: A Chance Worth Rs 4 Lakh Crore

    The Indian digital marketing business, worth more than Rs 4 lakh crore, is experiencing what experts call “the productivity revolution.” AI tools are no longer just ideas for the future; they are real tools that are changing the way marketing teams work at advertising agencies in Mumbai, IT startups in Bengaluru, and e-commerce giants in Delhi.

    What AI Tools Do Best for Digital Marketers

    Content Scheduling and Localisation: The fashion store Myntra has successfully used AI tools to manage content scheduling in 12 Indian languages. These agents automatically change campaign messages for regional festivals like Durga Puja in Bengal and Onam in Kerala. Their AI systems currently take care of 80 per cent of social media scheduling, allowing creative teams to concentrate on campaign planning.

    Lead Scoring and Customer Segmentation: Bengaluru’s B2B SaaS business Freshworks used AI tools for lead scoring, which led to a 45 per cent increase in conversion rates. The system looks at how Indian businesses act during certain times, such as when they get budget clearances at the end of the fiscal year and when they buy things during festivals.

    A/B Testing at Scale: Paytm, a Delhi-based finance firm, employs AI tools to conduct large-scale A/B tests across diverse demographics. They evaluate everything from colour preferences (green vs. saffron themes around Independence Day) to messages that work for people with different income levels. Their AI-based testing method has increased click-through rates by 35 per cent and cut campaign setup time by 60 per cent.

    Real Numbers of Impact: During the 2024 holiday season, a well-known e-commerce firm based in Mumbai that sells ethnic clothing cut campaign management time by 40 per cent and increased Return on Ad Spend (ROAS) by 25 per cent. The AI tool changed how much to bid on Google Ads and Facebook campaigns on its own, based on changes in demand in real time during the busiest buying times of Diwali.

    The Human-AI Partnership Model: Changing the Roles of Marketers

    The best Indian marketing teams aren’t using AI instead of people; they’re making strong partnerships that use AI’s speed and human inventiveness.

    What People Are Still Best At

    Cultural Intelligence: AI can digest data, but human marketers are better at identifying cultural differences. A Chennai-based agency’s human team recently stopped a big cultural mistake when its AI proposed utilising beef images in a campaign aimed at South Indian vegetarians.

    Strategic Interpretation: AI tools give information, and people give it meaning. During COVID-19, Flipkart’s AI algorithms showed strange purchase habits. Human strategists saw this as a sign that people wanted more home exercise equipment and kitchen appliances, which led to successful pivot campaigns.

    Crisis Management: During the farmer demonstrations in 2024, human marketers at different companies made quick judgments to stop or change advertisements. AI tools couldn’t do this without human help.

    What AI tools Are Good At

    AI tools monitor social media sentiment in regional languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and inform human teams about possible problems before they get worse.

    Predictive Analytics: Zomato’s AI tools can predict when people will want more food during cricket matches and immediately change marketing budgets and inventory suggestions.

    Personalisation at Scale: Hotstar, a streaming service, employs AI tools to make content recommendations for 400 million customers, making it feasible to create unique marketing experiences that would be difficult for human teams to handle.

    A 3-Step Process That Works for Implementation Reality Check

    Step 1: Start small and learn quickly

    Start with easy automated chores, such as scheduling social media posts or sending out basic email marketing. Urbanclap, an Indian startup now called Urban Company, started by automating appointment confirmations and then added more complicated customer journey mapping. Many Indian businesses rush through this phase, making AI work poorly, and teams do not want to work.

    Step 2: Smart Scaling

    Add increasingly difficult duties, such as assessing leads and personalising basic content. Nykaa, an e-commerce site, grew by focusing on one group of customers (urban women aged 25–35) before branching out to other groups. Ensure AI knows how Indians shop, like the importance of wedding and festival seasons and regional preferences.

    Step 3: Strategic Integration

    Use AI tools for strategic tasks like optimising campaigns and performing predictive analytics. Swiggy, a big food delivery company, reached this point by adding AI tools to all of its marketing tools, from acquiring new customers to keeping them.

    How to Avoid Common Mistakes

    The Problem: AI tools often have trouble maintaining a consistent brand voice across Indian languages and cultural settings.

    The Answer: Ogilvy India, an advertising agency located in Mumbai, produced thorough brand voice standards in Hindi, English, and regional languages, with examples for distinct cultural settings.

    Worries About Data Privacy

    The Truth: Marketers need to be extra careful about how they use data now that India has a Personal Data Protection Act.

    Best Practice: Use AI solutions that put privacy first and follow local rules while still being useful.

    Risks of Too Much Automation

    Warning Signs: Customer satisfaction generally goes down when all human touchpoints go away.

    Example from India: A luxury firm based in Delhi first automated all of its customer care responses, which led to complaints about how impersonal they were. They were able to employ AI for early responses while making sure that humans handled more complicated questions.

    Important Success Metrics

    Effect on Revenue: There is a direct link between using AI and sales growth.

    Customer Satisfaction: Keeping high NPS scores even while more work is being done by machines
    Market Share Growth: Having better AI implementation gives you a competitive edge.
    Cultural Relevance Score: How well AI keeps a brand relevant in different Indian marketplaces

    Role Change vs. Role Loss

    Changing Roles:
    Digital Marketing Managers → AI Marketing Strategists
    Content Creators → AI Content Managers
    Performance Marketers → AI Performance Boosters

    New Roles:
    Trainers for AI Marketing
    Experts in Cultural AI
    Managers of Human-AI Collaboration
    The Competitive Edge of Being First

    Indian businesses that employ AI tools early are realising big benefits:

    . Cost Efficiency: Marketing operations costs go down by 30 per cent to 50 per cent

    . Market Responsiveness: the ability to quickly adjust to changes in how customers act

    . Scalability: the ability to grow more quickly in India’s many markets

    Looking Ahead: The Future of AI Marketing in India

    AI tools will be very important for marketers in India as the country progresses toward becoming a 5 trillion dollars economy. India has the most varied market in the world. In the next ten years of Indian digital marketing, the organisations that can find the right mix between AI efficiency and human innovation will be the most successful.
    The transformation isn’t about replacing marketers with AI; it’s about giving Indian marketers the tools they need to make ads that are more culturally relevant, effective, and impactful. It’s not a question of whether to use AI tools; it’s a question of how quickly and effectively you can do it while still keeping the personal touch that Indian customers love.

    The future of Indian marketers belongs to those who can successfully use artificial intelligence and human understanding to create marketing experiences that appeal to a wide range of people and achieve measurable business goals.

    The writer is a digital marketing specialist with extensive experience using AI in Indian markets. His company, C Com Digital, has worked with top companies to successfully add AI tools to their marketing operations while still remaining culturally relevant and connecting with people.    By Chandan Bagwe – Founder/Director of C Com Digital 

  • How Accurate Are Online Personal Loan EMI Calculators?

    How Accurate Are Online Personal Loan EMI Calculators?

    In today’s digital world, applying for a personal loan is quicker than ever. But before you commit to borrowing, it’s essential to know how much you’ll need to repay each month. This is where an EMI calculator becomes incredibly useful. It helps you get a quick estimate of your monthly payments, allowing you to budget better and plan your finances in advance.

    But how reliable are these online tools? Can you trust the results they provide? Let’s explore what goes into a personal loan calculator and how close it comes to real figures.

    Understanding What an EMI Calculator Does

    An EMI calculator is a free online tool that estimates your monthly Equated Monthly Instalment (EMI) based on three inputs—loan amount, interest rate, and tenure. Once you fill in these fields, it instantly shows how much you’ll need to pay every month to clear the loan over the selected time period.

    This helps you get clarity on affordability. Whether you’re borrowing for medical expenses, home renovation, or a planned purchase, knowing your potential EMI in advance keeps you informed and in control.

    What Makes a Personal Loan Calculator Useful?

    The following are key reasons to use personal loan:

    Instant Results

    One of the biggest advantages is speed. A personal loan calculator gives you results within seconds. You don’t have to manually work out formulas or estimate monthly payments—it does all the math for you.

    Transparent Planning

    It provides a full breakdown of your EMI, including the principal and interest components. You also get an idea of the total interest payable over the loan’s tenure. This allows you to compare loan terms and decide what works best for your budget.

    Helps with Comparison

    If you’re considering multiple offers, a calculator can help you compare them side by side. You can adjust interest rates and tenures to see how they affect your monthly outgo and total repayment.

    How Accurate Are These Tools?

    Most online personal loan calculators use a widely accepted formula to calculate EMIs. The accuracy depends on how closely your actual loan terms align with the values you input.

    EMI is calculated based on three key factors: the loan amount, the monthly interest rate (derived from the annual rate), and the loan tenure in months. For example, a ₹5,00,000 personal loan at 10.70% interest over 5 years results in an estimated EMI of around ₹10,829. Doing this math manually can be tedious and error-prone, which is why using an EMI calculator is a quicker and more reliable way to get accurate repayment estimates instantly.

    If the details you enter match the final loan offer you receive, then the EMI estimate will likely be very close to your actual repayment amount.

    Variables That Can Affect Accuracy

    While the tool itself is precise in calculation, it does not account for extra fees like processing charges, late payment penalties, or insurance costs that some loans might include. These hidden costs can affect the overall amount you pay, even if the EMI itself stays the same.

    Also, if the interest rate is floating or changes over time, the calculator won’t be able to predict those fluctuations; it works only with the values you enter at that moment. For a more detailed estimate, you can enter the details in the eligibility calculator on IDFC FIRST Bank’s website. You might also find that platforms like FIRSTmoney Instant Personal Loan offer integrated tools that provide more comprehensive insights, potentially factoring in these additional costs for a clearer overall picture of your loan liabilities.

    Conclusion

    An online EMI calculator is an effective way to estimate your monthly payments and get a better understanding of what a personal loan might look like. While the figures it provides are based on standard calculations and are generally accurate, the final numbers could vary slightly depending on the exact terms offered to you.

    To get the best results, make sure the inputs you provide, especially the interest rate and tenure—are realistic and as close to your loan offer as possible. Think of the calculator as a guide, not a guarantee. Used wisely, it can help you borrow with clarity and confidence.

  • Festive campaigns made easy with Bigcity’s new strategy tool

    Festive campaigns made easy with Bigcity’s new strategy tool

    MUMBAI: Santa’s got a new rival and it’s data-driven. Bigcity Promotions, the loyalty and sales promotions powerhouse, has just unwrapped a game-changer for Indian marketers: a tech-enabled tool that promises to take the guesswork and the chaos out of festive campaign planning.

    Meet the Festive Reward Strategist: a sleek, insight-led platform designed to whip up ROI-focused, sector-specific reward campaign strategies in minutes. At a time when every marketing rupee is being scrutinised for returns, this digital assistant might just be the CMO’s new best friend.

    Accessible via bigcityfestiveworks.in, the tool draws from over 18 years of Bigcity’s campaign experience across sectors FMCG, retail, durables, BFSI, alcohol, automobiles, and more. Whether the brief is to drive product trials, boost footfalls, spark engagement, or push repeat purchases, the tool does the thinking strategically and swiftly.

    No more late-night Excel wrestling or endless decks. With built-in competitive benchmarking, audience insights, and budget guidance, the platform offers ready-to-deploy strategies tailor-made for festive madness. Brands get instant answers to questions like: “Which reward works best for my TG?”, “What’s trending in my category?”, or “How can I squeeze the most ROI from my Diwali budget?”

    “The festive quarter in India is the most competitive and chaotic for marketers,” said Bigcity Promotions Vikas Shah, Co-founder. “Speed, precision, and innovation become non-negotiables. Our tool delivers all three with zero margin for error.”

    He added that the platform’s execution-ready output bridges the gap between creative ambition and operational clarity, enabling campaigns that are “compliant, creative, and conversion-ready”.

    At its core, the Festive Reward Strategist isn’t just about smart marketing, it’s about faster, sharper, and more rewarding decisions. It’s strategy, gift-wrapped in tech.