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Category: Marketing

  • Balancing Art: Strategies for maintaining work-life harmony in a corporate environment

    Balancing Art: Strategies for maintaining work-life harmony in a corporate environment

    Mumbai- Picture this: You finally escape the office after a marathon of meetings, only to find yourself checking work emails over dinner with loved ones. This scenario is all too familiar for many in the corporate world, where work-life balance can seem more elusive than ever. As pressures mount and technology keeps us constantly connected, maintaining harmony between work and personal life becomes increasingly important. According to a 2023 Randstad study, 72% of employees believe a healthy work-life balance is crucial for their well-being and productivity.

    Defining Work-Life Harmony

    Work-life harmony isn’t merely about spending equal time at work and home. It’s about finding a satisfying equilibrium that feels right for you—balancing professional demands with personal interests and self-care. When you achieve this balance, you unlock a treasure trove of benefits – increased productivity, greater job satisfaction, and a healthier, happier you.

    The Indian Corporate Challenge

    The Indian corporate world throws several curveballs at achieving work-life harmony. Long hours are par for the course, deadlines are unforgiving, and the pressure to be constantly available blurs the lines between work and personal life. A 2024 Hub staff report paints a concerning picture: 26% of salaried Indian employees routinely work beyond office hours, and a staggering 62% check work emails even during personal time. This constant connectivity makes it incredibly difficult to truly disconnect and recharge.

    Strategies for a Balanced Act

    Both individuals and companies have a role to play in creating a work-life balance ecosystem. Here’s how:

    Individual Strategies:

    1   Draw the Line: Establish clear work hours and stick to them religiously. Avoid checking work emails or taking calls outside those designated times. This creates a crucial separation between work and personal life.

    2   Prioritize Like a Pro: Focus on the most important tasks. Don’t be afraid to delegate or reschedule less urgent ones. This helps manage your workload effectively and reduces stress.

    3   Time Management Hacks: Employ tools like to-do lists and task prioritization to maximize your productivity. Remember, a well-managed schedule is a stress-free schedule.

    4   The Power of Disconnecting: Schedule regular digital detoxes. Shut off work emails and calls during personal time. This allows you to recharge and return to work with renewed focus.

    5   Self-Care is the Secret Weapon: Prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Exercise, meditation, or pursuing hobbies can significantly boost your resilience and performance at work.

    Communication is Key

    1   Talk it Out: Have open and honest conversations with your manager about workload, deadlines, and expectations. Clear communication can lead to a more manageable workload and a better understanding of your priorities.

    2   Explore Flexibility: Discuss flexible work arrangements like compressed workweeks or remote work (if applicable). Studies have shown that remote work options can significantly improve work-life balance for Indian employees.

    The Company’s Role

    Companies have a responsibility to foster a work-life balance culture. Here’s how they can contribute:

    1   Embrace Flexibility: Offer flexible work hours or remote work opportunities. This empowers employees to manage their time more effectively and achieve a better work-life balance.

    2   Prioritize Well-being: Invest in wellness programs to support employee well-being. This could include anything from gym memberships to mindfulness workshops.

    Remember, It’s a Two-Way Street

    The Hubstaff report also revealed a crucial statistic: 33% of employees with a positive work-life balance are more likely to stay with their current employer. This highlights the importance of work-life balance for employee retention.

    Conclusion: Finding Your Harmony

    Work-life balance in today’s corporate world isn’t just about juggling time; it’s about weaving your professional and personal life into a tapestry of fulfillment. By setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks, and taking care of yourself, you can navigate the demands of your job while nurturing a healthy personal life. Companies that champion a culture of flexibility and well-being can empower their employees to achieve this balance.

    Whether you’re a young professional starting your journey or a seasoned manager, finding the right work-life balance is a continuous effort. Take charge by implementing these strategies and fostering open communication. By doing so, you can create a fulfilling and harmonious balance that enriches both your professional and personal life.

    The author of this article is Abhishek Agarwal, President – Judge India & Global Delivery at The Judge Group. 

  • Navigating the risks of electric vehicle startups

    Navigating the risks of electric vehicle startups

    Mumbai: The electric vehicle (EV) transition is well under its way in India. As our urban centers swell and environmental concerns grow, the attraction of EVs only increases. Yet, for startups in this promising industry, the road is filled with both grand opportunities and formidable challenges.

    Today, an EV startup begins its journey in the backdrop of robust government support and a societal shift towards sustainability. The government has implemented measures such as the faster adoption and manufacturing of hybrid and electric vehicles (FAME) scheme, which incentivizes both manufacturers and consumers through subsidies and benefits. This policy framework is critical because it lowers the barriers to entry for new players and reduces the cost burden on consumers. Additionally, as environmental consciousness rises among our population, more consumers are drawn to EVs as a cleaner alternative to traditional combustion engines.

    However, the path for EV startups is not without obstacles. One of the most significant hurdles is the high initial cost of electric vehicles, primarily due to the expensive batteries that power them. These costs pose a considerable challenge in pricing EVs competitively against conventional vehicles. Additionally, the infrastructure for charging these vehicles is still in its infancy. The lack of widespread and easily accessible charging stations and battery swapping facilities creates ‘range anxiety’ – a concern that EVs can’t undertake long journeys without running out of power.

    Compounding these challenges is the dependency on international markets for critical components like lithium, used in batteries. This reliance exposes Indian startups to global supply chain volatility and potential disruptions, which can impact both production schedules as well as costs. While diversifying supply sources and investing in local capacities may mitigate these issues, they don’t help in the short term. Furthermore, the current market offers limited models of EVs, limiting consumer choice and potentially slowing down the rate of adoption.

    Despite these challenges, there are also vast opportunities. The ongoing expansion of charging infrastructure, driven by both public and private investments, promises to gradually alleviate range anxiety. This expansion will not only make EVs more practical for daily use but also opens up new business avenues for startups focused on charging solutions and battery technology.

    Potential technological collaborations also present another bright spot. Partnerships between Indian startups and leading global tech companies can introduce cutting-edge advancements in battery life and vehicle efficiency into our market. These collaborations are vital for keeping pace with the rapid technological evolution in the EV space and staying competitive against both domestic and international automotive giants.

    Also, as mentioned earlier, growing urban congestion will boost demand for efficient and clean transportation, offering a continuously growing market for EVs. This local growth, coupled with the potential for exporting to other developing nations, provides a lucrative opportunity for scale and impact.

    However, navigating this landscape requires more than just innovative technology and government support; it demands a strategic approach to managing risks. EV startups must be agile, ready to adapt to technological advancements and leverage data analytics to anticipate shifts in consumer preferences. They must also continue advocating for consistent government policies to ensure a stable investment and operational climate.

    Ultimately, the success of EV startups in India will hinge on their ability to turn these challenges into stepping stones. By leveraging government incentives, adopting advanced technologies, and continuously innovating in response to infrastructure and market needs, these companies can not only survive but thrive. The journey of electric vehicle startups in India will indeed be a testament to the dynamic interplay of risk and opportunity – a story of navigating uncharted territories to build the future of our transportation.

    The article has been authored by entrepreneur and graduate of Harvard Business School Sajju Jain.
     

  • “OEM ecosystem advertising helps reach scale and find new audiences efficiently & confidently”: Ashwin Shekhar

    “OEM ecosystem advertising helps reach scale and find new audiences efficiently & confidently”: Ashwin Shekhar

    Mumbai: In the ever-evolving landscape of mobile advertising and app monetisation,  AVOW is at the forefront, pioneering innovative strategies to maximize client outcomes.

    Leveraging mobile OEM advertising has become a cornerstone of their approach, especially amidst the surge of sports marketing and festive seasons in India. AVOW’s mastery of intricate monetization strategies tailored to diverse geographical areas, coupled with their proprietary technology like AVOW Intelligence, sets them apart in the market.

    As regulations like the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) and India’s Digital India Act (DIA) reshape the industry, AVOW anticipates and adapts, fostering collaborative innovation and embracing the opportunities presented by alternative app stores and OEM partnerships. With a focus on sectors like fintech, gaming, OTT, and e-commerce,

    Indiantelevision in conversation with  AVOW, co-founder Ashwin Shekhar shed light on AVOW’s approach to mobile OEM advertising, particularly focusing on its utilisation during significant sporting events and festive seasons, collaborative innovation initiatives, adaptation to regulatory changes, and future business strategies.

    Edited Excerpts

    On AVOW leveraging mobile OEM advertising to facilitate gaming monetization strategies for brands and app developers, especially amidst the rise of sports marketing with OEM players

    Smartphones have seamlessly connected sports lovers to apps. During the IPL 2023, roughly 70 per cent of digital viewers engaged with their smartphones for various activities, including checking match updates, participating in online discussions about the IPL, ordering food online, playing fantasy cricket and exploring related promotions. This engagement demonstrates the seamless connection between sports enthusiasts and mobile apps, providing a rich environment for focused advertising campaigns. Moreover, sports betting and games app downloads increased by 53 per cent and 14 per cent respectively during the IPL 2023 season. (Source: Adjust Mobile App Trends)

    This kind of outreach demands advertisers to master intricate monetization strategies and show remarkable flexibility in adopting diverse business models tailored to different geographical areas. On the other hand, developers must balance their approaches while implementing a mixed model of In-App Purchases (IAP) and In-App Advertising (IAA). Interestingly, over 80 per cent of mobile gamers are interested in in-game ads and 30 per cent of all the Gen Z and millennial gamers spend money on IAP.  

    The emergence of several gaming centres such as Xiaomi Game Centre signifies the growth of on-demand gaming, along with an upsurge in alternative payment ecosystems. By uploading to OEM native app stores with their corresponding payment services, opening their shops, and marketing their offerings directly to their user base, game and app developers are edging away from the monopolistic shadows of Google and Apple.

    On AVOW’s strategies around trends in app downloads during significant sporting events versus India’s festive seasons to maximize client outcomes

    India is a land of festivals where all the sporting events are celebrated with increasing enthusiasm year after year. Consumer trends reach new heights during important festivals and major sporting events.

    D2C brands, gaming developers and mobile marketers plan to go big with Mobile OEM advertising during festive and sports seasons. The D2C segment along with e-commerce players made Rs 76,000 crore in sales during the festive season of 2022. where tier II and III cities outperformed, accounting for a significant share of purchases made through digital devices and smartphones.

    Sports streaming via mobile apps is growing annually. In 2022, a record-breaking 32 million global users viewed the FIFA World Cup Final 2022 on JioCinema. Last year, it was estimated that over 550 million viewers engaged during the IPL 2023, with 61 per cent of IPL viewers doing so via smartphones. Revenue from digital ads climbed by 33 per cent in 2023, peaking at Rs 20 billion, or more than US$241 million.

    Some of the largest RMG apps do a bulk of their advertising during the IPL season, with dream11 a sponsor of the IPL. My11Circle —another major app that has utilized mobile OEM advertising to its fullest– runs promotions on their app during the IPL season, providing daily prizes of up to Rs 3 crore for participating customers.

    With over 1.5 billion untapped daily active users, OEM platforms such as Xiaomi, Huawei, Oppo, OnePlus, Realme Transsion and Vivo, represent a vast resource for mobile app marketers seeking to draw in new users and boost app downloads, Alternative app stores are a viable option for brands from all verticals, from D2C brands to e-commerce and mobile gaming. Mobile OEMs ought to be a default part of businesses’ marketing mix in 2024 and beyond.

    Advertisers looking to create more personalised and engaging campaigns can employ display ads, full-screen videos, splash ads, and appographic marketing. For apps looking to stand out in a crowded app market Dynamic Preloads, which leverages Mobile OEMs’ ability to recommend apps to users during the setup of a new mobile phone, is an extremely successful user acquisition strategy. Capitalizing on Private Marketplace (PMP) deals can provide new avenues for user acquisition and generate incremental ROAS from advertising campaigns that are action-driven. PMPs allow advertisers to bid on specific ad inventories for specific times during major sporting events.

    Advertisers need to pay only for installs (CPI), rather than clicks (CPC), making it a prime advantage of mobile OEM advertising. Thus, mobile app developers can reach millions of people without spending much, making mobile OEM advertising a trustworthy source to connect with quality users. Additionally, as all the layers between users and advertisers get eliminated, mobile OEM advertising fosters a fraud-free environment to run ad campaigns.

    On the role of collaborative innovation in AVOW’s approach in 2024

    Privacy regulations including the App Tracking Transparency framework and Android’s Privacy Sandbox have a profound impact on the industry, leading to a reduction in the average mobile advertiser’s ROI and diminishing the target capabilities of publishers.

    Considering such privacy changes by giant players in the industry, mobile OEMs are increasingly inclined towards collaborative innovations such as creating and adopting a new tracking standard, similar to that of the Open Anonymous Device Identifier (OAID) introduced by the Mobile Security Alliance (MSA), rather than coming up with individual proprietary solutions. These collaborations are strategic endeavours to safeguard the prospects of mobile OEMs against the depreciation of Google Advertising ID (GAID), or in places where GAID cannot be used. MMPs and mobile OEMs will work hand in hand to ensure that this new tracking standard and the subsequent attributions are carried out accurately, so the advertisers know the “where, what and how” of the campaign success. They aim to offer an efficient solution, helping maintain the efficacy of advertising campaigns while limiting the performance drop experienced by lost targeting capabilities.

    On  AVOW anticipating the impact of regulations like the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the Digital India Act (DIA) on its operations in India’s advertising and marketing sector

    Under the EU DMA law, industry gatekeepers like Apple and Google are now required to allow users to download alternative app stores on iOS and Android. Furthermore,  they’ll have to let consumers select the default apps on new smartphones. I believe this marks the beginning of a new era in the smartphone and apps space. Eventually, it’s all about consumer choice and allowing competition so that there can be more successful companies—not fewer. Undeniably, the industry needs big brands, but it is smaller companies that help achieve scale so that industry and technology make headway. This felt like a dream previously. However, with the DMA’s support, and the Indian Digital Competition Act, hopefully, it will turn into a fairer competitive environment for all.  We can start to see the foundations of these alternative app stores being laid in India, with the launch of the Indus App Store by PhonePe. An App store made in India, for India, with apps in 12 distinct Indian languages. This is the sort of innovation and competition that these regulations are meant to foster. An App Store that takes no commissions for in-app payments and freely allows the integration of any payment solution is precisely the freedom of choice that mobile OEMs and alternative app stores provide.

    On AVOW adapting to the changing landscape of media buying in mobile OEM advertising, and it uses data and technology to ensure successful strategies for its clients

    The award-winning, global app growth company, launched its proprietary technology called AVOW Intelligence to help mobile marketers overcome one of their biggest challenges- the limitation of buying OEM advertising inventory individually from different OEMs. Purchasing from each OEM platform is not only cumbersome but also lacks in providing complete views of one’s marketing campaign performance. Another challenge is optimizing the campaigns across multiple OEM platforms without being able to merge them into one tool.

    A first-of-its-kind tool, AVOW Intelligence processes enormous amounts of data from multiple OEMs and mobile measurement partners (MMPs), bridging the gap between media buyers and data and offering critical insights and analysis to support real-time data-driven decision-making. The tool offers actionable insights by combining different data sources for a cohesive strategy. These insights result in a highly focused yet cost-effective campaign that gradually reduces acquisition expenses.

    At AVOW, we leverage our team and technology to optimize for down-funnel events. We focus on the outcomes beyond the initial install, such as in-app purchases, sign-ups, and/or subscriptions. With a deeper understanding of the user journey, we help create campaigns that are optimized for meaningful, long-term results.

    On  AVOW’s business and marketing strategies for 2024-25, and it aims to seize emerging opportunities while addressing potential challenges

    We provide an innovative solution for mobile OEM aggregation that enables app discovery on several alternative app stores and facilitates a higher return on advertising spend (ROAS). Our unparalleled access to the mobile OEM user base combined with our unmatched customer-centric approach has led to our faster and more steady growth.

    We will continue raising awareness around the tremendous potential that mobile OEMs offer and its many benefits to mobile marketers and app developers. Our team’s extensive experience in performance optimization allows us to assist clients as they get to grips with OEM marketing. It has become indispensable for mobile marketers to include mobile OEM advertising in their marketing mix by default. Since India is our largest inventory market, we will focus on on-device display ads delivery, retargeting, and Dynamic Preload services as major strategic areas.

    On the changing mobile marketing landscape and legislation front, the EU’s landmark Digital Market Act (DMA) aimed at breaking the tech’s big players’ monopoly has an impact on similar legislation in India and other countries. With DMA in effect, users can not only download alternative app stores on iOS and Android but are also free to choose the default apps on new smartphones. This will help foster fairer competition and support startups.

    On AVOW’s partnerships with players in sectors such as OTT, fintech, and e-commerce leverage OEMs to enhance customer acquisition and specific strategies that AVOW use in these collaborations

    AVOW provides access to over 1.5 billion daily active users (DAUs) and over 10 million monthly downloads for its clients. Advertising within the OEM ecosystem helps reach scale and find new audiences efficiently and confidently. We leverage dynamic preloads to help brands become the users’ first choice when they start the device for the first time. We aim to increase the LTV and install rates of these apps with dedicated placements.. All these together open up avenues for larger customer acquisition.

    For instance, Fintech services across verticals such as digital payment services, crypto trading, Buy Now Pay Later (short-term financing), lending, and personal finance, and insurance apps have been growing at an unprecedented rate. Notably, the fintech sector in India is expected to generate $400 billion in value creation by 2030, indicating a 4X increase from its level in 2023.

    Giant Indian fintech apps, such as Navi and ACKO have used alternative app stores and mobile OEM advertising to drive incremental user growth and maximize ROAS (Return On Ad Spend) for their apps. Investing in mobile OEM alternative app stores has helped these fintech apps tap newer audiences, resulting in a more viable revenue stream.  

    On the sectors that AVOW identifies  as having significant growth potential, and its intention to seize upon these opportunities

    We believe fintech, gaming, mobility, OTT, and e-commerce are some of the sectors which present a huge scope to address the needs of players. We are dedicated to making mobile OEM advertising accessible for brands and apps while remaining performance-oriented in the Indian market.

    On AVOW scaling its team to support business growth and expand its range of services/products

    With Melissa Bohlsen as chief marketing officer and Guenole Le Gall as the new vice president of client strategy, we are all geared up for our next phase. Melissa’s acumen in mobile marketing and impressive leadership experience together with Guenole’s extensive experience and expertise in mobile advertising and digital marketing empowers the AVOW team to fulfill its ambition of revolutionizing the mobile OEM market in India and other global markets. With both of them on board, I’m confident that we will continue our growth trajectory and set new benchmarks in the industry.

    On factors contributing to AVOW’s success in India, and what insights can you share regarding its response and achievements in the market

    AVOW has observed a remarkable 6-year track record of exponential year-on-year growth in the mobile OEM marketing space. AVOW is the only company holding strong partnerships with all premium mobile OEMs such as Xiaomi, Huawei, Oppo, OnePlus, Realme, Transsion and Vivo, accounting for over 62 per cent of the India market share.

    In a dynamic market like India, we have successfully collaborated with leading industry players including Amazon Prime, Navi, Zupee, Unacademy, Paytm, Swiggy, JioMart, MPL, Byju’s and Matrimony.com providing incremental user growth and engagement for their mobile apps. To deliver exceptional value to our clients and strengthen our roots in the country, we welcomed Meliisa Bohlsen and Guenole Le Gall in our leadership team. From launching apps on multiple mobile OEMs to fine-tuning user acquisition campaigns for maximum results, our client services team in India functions as an extension of our client’s internal growth teams, offering a holistic 360-degree service experience throughout their mobile business growth journey.

    With the launch of our proprietary technology, AVOW Intelligence, we aim to revolutionize mobile OEM advertising by giving a smart and holistic view of media inventory across premium mobile OEMs, in one platform. This empowers us to provide clients with a competitive advantage when running user acquisition campaigns on alternative app stores.

  • Transform your space with Godrej Interio’s summer vibe sale

    Transform your space with Godrej Interio’s summer vibe sale

    Mumbai: Each customer has distinctive preferences shaped by their personal style and specific needs which also resonates in their choices of furniture. This has been beautifully captured in the newly launched campaign “Summer Vibe Sale” by Godrej Interio, a business of Godrej & Boyce – the flagship company of the Godrej Group. The series of three films capture Godrej Interio’s wide range of aesthetically designed furniture crafted to suit the needs of modern Indian families, their dynamics, lifestyle, and aspirations, showcasing stories about tailored solutions for personal spaces.

    The first film focuses on how consumers today find inspiration everywhere around them including social media and magazines; it showcases a young couple capturing snapshots of furniture inspirations. This journey transitions into them visiting the store, illustrating the seamless fusion of imagination and reality – ‘If it’s on your mind, you will get it at the Godrej Interio store’. The second film provides audiences with a glimpse of the abundant choices and personalisation options available for a sofa at Godrej Interio. From multiple fabric options to various designs and layout choices, customers can choose sofas to suit their preferences. Lastly, the third film invites viewers into the heart of the home – the kitchen. Through a charming vignette, a couple’s playful banter over breakfast leads them to the Godrej Interio Kitchen Gallery, where they discover the perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics tailored to their tastes and needs.

    Speaking about the films, Godrej Interio head of marketing communications Sumeet Bhojani said, “Godrej Interio continues to be an integral part of modern Indian families and their journey towards personalization. We offer our consumers a wide range of furniture catering to their needs. For instance, our latest range of Upmods furniture offers endless customisation possibilities of each component to the consumers. Our latest campaign gives you a glimpse of a varied range of furniture and furnishing solutions that the brand has to offer right from the colours to the material of the furniture. At Godrej Interio, we firmly believe in empowering customers to create spaces that reflect their unique personalities. Through these films, we invite viewers to embark on a journey of discovery and creativity with us. This approach has enabled us to build and maintain the love and support of consumers for over a century.”

    Contract Mumbai executive VP & general manager Ayan Chakraborty, shares the inspiration behind the commercial, “Summer is a great season and a reason to refresh our homes, also because the new year is celebrated across many states in the country. The Godrej Interio Summer Vibe campaign focuses on kitchens, sofas and other furniture in a series of 3 films. The Indian consumer is both particular and fastidious about her choices when it comes to choosing a kitchen build or furniture and Godrej Interio with its extensive range of designs, materials, colours and configurations delivers on this mindset quite seamlessly.”

    The brand has attractive schemes offering 35% off on their range of furniture. The campaign consists of 3 videos and will be available in 5 regional languages – Telugu, Kannada, Bengali, Malayalam, and Tamil in addition to English and Hindi. The film will be promoted on YouTube and the brand’s social media platforms.

  • Almonds Ai opens new office in Dubai

    Almonds Ai opens new office in Dubai

    Mumbai: Almonds Ai, a pioneering force in B2B loyalty and channel partner engagement solutions, proudly announces the expansion of its global presence with the opening of a new office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion strategy.

    The expansion to Dubai aligns perfectly with Almonds Ai’s vision to cater to the evolving needs of businesses across diverse sectors. By leveraging the opportunities presented in the vibrant Dubai market, Almonds Ai aims to foster stronger relationships with existing clients while forging new partnerships to drive mutual growth and success.

    The opening of the Dubai office underscores Almonds Ai’s commitment to global expansion and its ability to attract top-tier industry partners. This strategic move will further strengthen the company’s position as a leading provider of transformative B2B loyalty and channel engagement solutions, empowering enterprises worldwide to drive sustainable growth and success.

    The new Dubai office will allow the company to collaborate more closely with regional clients, providing localised expertise and seamless support to elevate their channel sales and marketing initiatives.

    The company also secured funding from prominent Dubai-based anchor investors. The funding will be used primarily to fulfill regional resource requirements & technology enhancement. The anchor investment from prominent Dubai-based investors underscores Almonds Ai’s commitment to global expansion and its ability to attract top-tier industry partners.

    “At Almonds Ai, we are tirelessly innovating to cater to our client’s evolving needs and to deliver on our brand promise of ‘Happier Channel Partners, Healthier Bottom Line. Our new Dubai office will enable us to better serve the unique needs of enterprises in this dynamic region, delivering transformative AI-powered loyalty and channel engagement solutions to help them thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.” Almonds Ai co-founders Abhinav Jain & Apurv Modi jointly said.

    Leveraging its innovative Channelverse platform and advanced AI capabilities, Almonds Ai empowers distribution-led companies of all sizes to drive accelerated revenue growth through optimized channel partner engagement. As Almonds Ai embarks on this new chapter, the company remains committed to driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and delivering measurable value to its clients worldwide.

  • Manipal Digital expands its global footprints

    Manipal Digital expands its global footprints

    Mumbai – Manipal Digital, one of the largest creative production businesses, serving brands and agencies globally and a business unit of Manipal Technologies Limited (MTL) is thrilled to announce its global expansion with the inauguration of new offices in Chicago, USA and London, UK. This marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to serve its international clientele and explore new avenues for growth through its wide range of digital solutions.

    Manipal Digital has established a strong presence in the international market by working closely with global brands, design agencies, production houses, printers, advertising, and retail activation providers. It offers design, production, and content amplification for the Fashion, FMCG, and Entertainment industry.

    With the strategic expansion into the UK and USA markets, Manipal Digital will harness its expertise in AI-based digital content for design, production, and marketing applications to effectively address the evolving needs of its clients.

    “Manipal Digital’s newly established offices are a testament to our dedication towards delivering exceptional services to our clients across the globe”, said Manipal Digital CEO Guruprasd Kamath. “With our unwavering commitment to innovation, we are confident that our comprehensive range of digital solutions will help organizations deliver a seamless experience to their customers. We look forward to leveraging the large ecosystem of the USA and UK to drive value for clients. Our expertise in AI-based digital content for the design, production, and marketing applications, enables businesses to effectively engage with consumers”, he further added.

    Commenting on the occasion, Manipal Digital VP pre-media Vikrant Hiremath said, “Expanding our global presence, we are excited to navigate growth and deliver exceptional value to our clients worldwide. With creativity at our core and innovation in our approach, we believe our integrated media-to-market solutions, including premium packaging design, CGI, Image retouching, content adaptation, 3D visualization, and AV solutions will empower brands in the UK and USA to be at the forefront of the digital spectrum.”

     

  • Shaadi.com sends Instagram comment section strangers to IPL match

    Shaadi.com sends Instagram comment section strangers to IPL match

    Mumbai: In a twist worthy of the most thrilling T20 games, a self proclaimed cricketing fan and lover boy, Parth (@parthmadrid), has scored big time in the comment section of Shaadi.com!

    During the ongoing MI Vs CSK IPL clash, Parth displayed his knack for the game but also on the grounds of romance! With his creative match updates, he bowled over the heart of fellow cricket lover Simra (@simraissime_). Parth’s witty banter earned him runs in the comment section and secured him the coveted title of ‘Man of the Match’ on the internet!

    It all started on 14 April, during the fiery showdown between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings. Simra, feeling bowled over by the excitement of the match, expressed her frustration about not having a partner to watch the match and the rest, as they say, is history in the making.

    Parth and Simra’s match made in cricketing heaven is a testament to the fact that love can be found in the most unexpected places, even amidst the chaos of the IPL!

    His comments caught Anupam Mittal’s (CEO & founder of Shaadi.com) attention too and here’s how the super shark reacted:

     

     

    Everyone on the internet picked this up and talked about how CSK won the match but this guy won the trophy in Shaadi.com’s comment section –

     

     

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Dank Story (@dankstory)

     

     

     

    With the entire social media batting for Parth, Shaadi.com decided to bowl them a googly by gifting the two strangers tickets to catch an IPL match together. Not stopping there, they also handed Parth a Shaadi.com-certified Green Flag Cap, declaring him a verified Green Flag player!

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Shaadi.com (@shaadi.com)

     

  • Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur (RRJ) announces the launch of its Spring Summer 2024 collection

    Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur (RRJ) announces the launch of its Spring Summer 2024 collection

    Mumbai: Embracing the ethos of recycling and reinventing classic styling, the new collection offers an exquisite blend of heritage and contemporary designs, tailored for the discerning modern client.

    At RRJ, we believe that personal style should transcend fleeting trends. The Spring Summer 2024 collection is a testament to this belief, featuring a sophisticated mix of colours, textures, and silhouettes that harmonize classic indo-western elements with a fresh, modern twist. Each piece from the collection, including the Jodhpuri Bandhgalas, Waistcoats, Kurtas, and Achkans, are designed to provide timeless elegance while ensuring ease and adaptability to suit various destinations, events, and occasions. Handcrafted accessories such as personalized buttons, cufflinks, pocket squares, and more, designed to enhance the look of any ensemble will also be a part of the bespoke offerings from the brand.

    The showcase with Studio Rudraksh at the Ritz Carlton promises a curated selection that caters to the wardrobe requirements of our discerning clients and patrons, delivering a captivating fusion of traditional and contemporary styles.

    True to our brand’s DNA, the textures and surface treatments in the Spring Summer 2024 collection reflect a meticulous consideration for balance, with sharp cuts in silhouette that emulate an effortless grace. This approach not only preserves but also elevates the traditional essence of our classical overtures, making each garment not just a piece of clothing, but a personal statement.

  • Ananya Panday gets candid in Femina’s April 2024 issue

    Ananya Panday gets candid in Femina’s April 2024 issue

    Mumbai: Since her debut in the hit film Student Of The Year 2, Ananya Panday has stood out in Bollywood. With each new role she has essayed, she has showcased a talent that demands attention. Her compelling performances in Gehraiyaan and Kho Gaye Hum Kahan have been especially praised, highlighting her ability to tackle complex characters with depth and sensitivity. In the April 2024 edition of Femina, the dynamic actor shares insights into her flourishing career, the intricacies of fame, and the vital role of female friendships in her life.

    Talking about her love for the camera, Ananya shared, “It’s not something that I’m used to, or I feel I’ll ever get used to – and I don’t want to get used to it because I like having that wonder, excitement and happiness. Every day, being in front of the camera, being on set, makes me just feel joyful. Every time I step on the set, it brings me joy. Every time!”

    Speaking about her progression as an actor, Ananya admitted it was with Kho Gaye Hum Kahan that she finally felt validated as an actor. “I think everything happens at the right time. The stars align when you’re at the right age. You look a certain way; you feel certain things in your life that are able to lend to the characters you’re playing.”

    In this interview, Ananya also sheds light on life, lessons, and making her mark in Bollywood.

  • Learning the art of online outreach your companion to effective digital marketing

    Learning the art of online outreach your companion to effective digital marketing

    Mumbai: In a period defined by rapid-fire technological advancements and ever-evolving digital platforms, learning the art of online outreach has come an imperative skill for individualities, businesses, and brands aiming to make their mark in the digital realm. As the world becomes decreasingly connected through the internet, the capability to effectively engage, connect, and reverberate with target cult online has transcended being a bare advantage; it’s now a critical element of success.

    This comprehensive companion serves as an each-encompassing companion through the complicated corridors of digital marketing, offering a lantern of perceptivity illuminated by a foundation of data and numbers that illuminate the path to success.

    The power of digital marketing

    The digital realm offers an unequaled reach and influence, with over 4.9 billion people laboriously using the internet as of 2021. This number represents further than 60 of the global population, pressing the vast eventuality for online outreach. also, social media platforms boast stunning stoner bases, with Facebook alone having roughly 2.8 billion yearly active druggies.

    Understanding your followership

    One of the foundational pillars of effective digital marketing is a deep understanding of your target followership. According to a check by HubSpot, 64 of marketers believe that understanding their followership’s requirements is the most critical aspect of a successful crusade. exercising data analytics tools, similar as Google Analytics and social media perceptivity, can give inestimable perceptivity into stoner actions, preferences, and demographics.

    Content is king

    The saying “Content is king” has noway been nay in the digital marketing geography. High-quality, applicable, and engaging content forms the backbone of successful online outreach. exploration by Demand Metric reveals that content marketing costs 62 lower than traditional marketing while generating roughly three times as numerous leads. Incorporating a blend of written, visual, and interactive content can feed to colorful followership preferences and ameliorate engagement.

    Hunt machine optimization(SEO)

    SEO plays a vital part in perfecting a brand’s online visibility. According to BrightEdge, organic hunt drives 53 of all website business, making it a pivotal aspect of online outreach. By optimizing website content, incorporating applicable keywords, and erecting quality backlinks, businesses can enhance their hunt machine rankings and attract organic business.

    Social media engagement

    The wide relinquishment of social media platforms has converted the way businesses interact with their cult. A study by Sprout Social indicates that 89 of consumers prefer to engage with brands through social media channels. Maintaining an active presence on platforms similar as Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn allows for direct engagement, brand structure, and client feedback.

    Dispatch marketing effectiveness

    Despite the rise of colorful digital marketing channels, dispatch marketing remains a potent tool for online outreach. According to Statista, the global number of dispatch druggies is projected to reach 4.6 billion by 2025. Casting substantiated and applicable dispatch juggernauts can yield emotional results, with an average return on investment( ROI) of $42 for every $1 spent on dispatch marketing.

    The part of influencer marketing

    Influencer marketing has surfaced as a important strategy for enhancing online outreach. Data from Mediakix reveals that businesses earn$5.20 for every $1 spent on influencer marketing, italicizing its effectiveness. Partnering with influencers who align with a brand’s values and target followership can significantly amplify reach and credibility.

    Data-driven decision making

    One of the distinct advantages of digital marketing is the vacuity of data for analysis and optimization. Tools like Google Analytics give comprehensive perceptivity into stoner geste, business sources, and conversion rates. According to Forbes, companies that borrow data- driven marketing are six times more likely to be profitable time-over-year.

    Conforming to mobile dominance

    The proliferation of smartphones has led to a mobile-dominated online geography. As of 2021, mobile bias reckoned for roughly 55 of global website business. icing that websites are mobile-responsive and optimizing content for mobile consumption is essential for effective online outreach.

    The nonstop elaboration

    The field of digital marketing is characterized by constant elaboration. Algorithms change, new platforms crop, and followership preferences shift. Staying streamlined with assiduity trends and espousing a flexible approach is vital for sustained success. According to Smart perceptivity, 45 of companies do not have a clear digital marketing strategy, emphasizing the need for structured planning and adaption.

    In conclusion, learning the art of online outreach is essential in moment’s digital age. The statistics and data presented above underscore the immense eventuality of digital marketing. By understanding your followership, creating precious content, optimizing for hunt machines, using social media, and making data-driven opinions, you can navigate the dynamic geography of digital marketing and achieve remarkable results. Flashback, the key lies in staying informed, being adaptable, and constantly delivering value to your online followership.

    The author of this article is iXceed Solutions director & co-founder Yogita Tulsiani.