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Tag: Bajaj Allianz

  • Trip Cancellation Coverage in Travel Insurance and How to Claim It

    Trip Cancellation Coverage in Travel Insurance and How to Claim It

    Traveling is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences in your life. It allows you to explore different cultures, traditions, places, history, and even discover more about yourself. The joys of travelling can open new dimensions of peace, while disruptions in these plans can create a perpetual sense of dissatisfaction.

    Trip cancellations are essentially unforeseen events that prevent you from following through on your plans. They can arise due to a number of reasons including medical emergencies, natural disasters or personal crisis. When these unplanned and unwanted situations arise, trip cancellation coverage helps you deal with the financial setbacks. It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo with individual travel insurance or with a group with group travel insurance, trip cancellation coverage will help you recover non-refundable expenses.

    What is travel insurance and what does it cover?

    Domestic or international travel insurance is a financial contract in which you, as the policy holder, acquire financial safety while the insurer guarantees to provide support during unforeseen events. In India, the travel insurance policies are regulated by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India, commonly known as IRDA. Under this governing presence, insurers ensure standardised coverage for domestic andinternational travel insurance plans designed for individual and groups alike.

    The majority of comprehensive travel insurance policies in India offer the following benefits under the coverage:

    Medical emergencies cover hospitalisation charges as well as medical treatments and emergency evacuation if you fall ill or suffer injuries during your trip.

    Trip Cancellation and Trip Disruption reimburse you for prepaid and non-refundable expenses when your journey is delayed or cancelled due to extenuating circumstances.

    Many renowned Indian travel insurance providers such as HDFC ERGO, ICICI Lombard, Bajaj Allianz, Tata AIG and others offer customised policies that cater to both individual and group travellers. You can avail of individual travel insurance plans if you’re travelling solo, or opt for group travel insurance when you travel with your colleagues, friends, family, and other people.

    What is trip cancellation coverage?

    The majority of coverage under domestic and international travel insurance plans deals with emergencies that you can neither foresee nor address without planning. Among them, trip cancellation coverage is a very specific component of travel insurance that reimburses you for prepaid, non-refundable expenses.

    The following reasons are generally accepted as viable causes for trip cancellations coverage:

    Medical emergencies

    If you suddenly fall ill, incur injuries or need hospitalisation, you may cancel your trip. The insurer will help you by providing the necessary compensation for non-refundable charges such as hotel booking, flights, etc.

    Death of a family member

    If an immediate relative passes away before the trip or during, you may delay or cancel your trip for which the insurer will provide the necessary compensation.

    Natural disasters

    Unforeseeable and uncontrollable calamities such as floods, earthquakes, cyclones may affect your travel destination, thus disallowing you from continuing on your journey. In such cases, domestic or international travel insurance can provide reimbursement.

    Terrorism and civil unrest

    Certain issues may arise due to governmental disconcerns that affect certain regions. Such disturbances would prevent you from continuing on your journey, in which case your travel insurance plan will reimburse you the non-refundable amounts.

    It is important to keep in mind that whether you choose individual travel insurance or group travel insurance, if the reasons for cancellation are not included in the contract, the insurer is not bound to pay. This could happen due to personal reasons, visa rejections, and unnecessary or spontaneous changes in travel plans that are not impacted by the terms and conditions of the contract.

    How to file a claim for trip cancellation coverage in India?

    Upon purchasing a group or individual travel insurance plan for domestic or international trips, you can rest assured that the insurer has your back when you suffer unprecedented setbacks. In such cases, you will need to file a claim against your domestic or international travel insurance for the trip cancellation coverage. Here are the steps that you need to follow:

    Check the terms of your policy carefully and understand the terms and conditions related to trip cancellation. It will help you realise whether or not you are filing a legitimate claim, after which you can proceed with the next steps.

    As soon as you suspect cancellation of your trip or extenuating circumstances that could result in cancellation, you must immediately inform your insurance provider. The majority of Indian insurers such as HDFC, Ergo, Bajaj Alliance and others offer 24/7 helplines and online portals where you can report the incident and file your claim.

    You will need to gather a few necessary documents when submitting a claim form for trip cancellation, which are as follows:

    Proof of trip cancellation via official communication from airlines, hotels and other operators involved in the tour.

    Medical reports pertaining to the necessity to delay or cancel your trip, such as doctor’s certificate, hospital discharge summary, medical bills, etc.

    Death certificate of the immediate relative who passed away, thus resulting in the trip cancellation.

    Travel and payment receipts, such as copies of flight bookings, hotel reservations and other prepaid expenses for which you need reimbursement.

    First incident report or FIR filed for theft, civil unrest or legal issues that led to trip cancellations.

    Once you have all the documents handy, you must fill out the claim form online on the insurer’s portal or app. You must ensure absolute accuracy when filling out the form, especially about personal details, trip details, cancellation reasons, supporting documents and your domestic or international travel insurance ID.

    You must submit the travel insurance trip cancellation coverage claim within the specified deadline. In India, this period is typically between 30 to 60 days of the trip cancellation. If you delay in filing the claim, it may be rejected.

    After submitting the claim form with the necessary documents, you can keep track of its status by contacting the insurer’s customer support system. Typically, Indian insurers process claims within 2-4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the claim and the verification process.

    Trip cancellation coverage can be immensely helpful, especially when you’re traveling internationally. Given the difference in currency, any delays and cancellation of your journey could result in massive unforeseen payments. This would be a cumbersome endeavour, but international travel insurance can bail you out of such situations.

    Conclusion

    Trip cancellation coverage in travel insurance is designed to provide financial relief when you are in an unknown land facing unforeseen disruptions. Understanding what is covered, the terms and conditions of the plan and following the correct claim process can help ensure a hassle-free experience.

    It is important that you read the terms and conditions of the policy document carefully when purchasing group or individual travel insurance policies. It will enlighten you about the limitations and inclusions of your plan, thus allowing you to file legitimate claims. It is also crucial that you purchase your domestic or international travel insurance policy from an IRDAI-approved provider to guarantee necessary support in your time of need.

    Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales. 

  • AiVanta inaugurates IMPACT to revolutionise business communication

    AiVanta inaugurates IMPACT to revolutionise business communication

    MUMBAI: Can communication tools really keep up with today’s fast-paced industries? AiVanta thinks so.

    At the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 in Delhi, the AI powerhouse unveiled AiVanta IMPACT (Intelligent Media Platform for AI-driven Communication and Targeting), an innovative platform designed to deliver hyper-personalised AI video solutions across diverse sectors.

    From simplifying complex data to delivering hyper-targeted messaging, AiVanta IMPACT promises to bridge the gap between precision and scalability in communication. Whether you’re a manufacturing giant, a healthcare provider, or a financial leader, this platform offers tailor-made tools to engage audiences like never before.

    Imagine a world where AI-generated videos are crafted for specific audiences, multilingual smart bots provide real-time customer support, and interactive training modules that speak your language (literally). With AiVanta IMPACT, the days of one-size-fits-all communication are over.

    Commenting on this innovation, AiVanta co-founder & CEO Karan Ahuja said, “Traditional communication methods often lack the speed, personalisation, and scalability needed in today’s dynamic business environment. AiVanta IMPACT bridges this gap, providing businesses with AI-driven tools that are intuitive, adaptable, and IMPACTful. Our goal is to make communication not only efficient but also deeply meaningful, empowering organisations to achieve greater success.”

    Already trusted by ICICI Bank, Bajaj Allianz, Tata Mutual Funds, Ajax Engineering, and Aster Healthcare, AiVanta continues to prove its expertise in customised AI solutions. Now, with AiVanta IMPACT, the company is extending its capabilities to industries including Mobility, Automotive, Manufacturing, and Energy.

    Why stop there? AiVanta also showcased ‘ConcreteAI 2.0 Smart Bots’, developed for Ajax Engineering. Featuring natural voice interactions, multi-avatar support, and bilingual capabilities in Hindi and English, these bots streamline industrial workflows while keeping the user experience front and centre.

    From virtual product tours to compliance communication, AiVanta IMPACT is an all-in-one platform for businesses looking to simplify operations and boost engagement. Whether you’re facing operational bottlenecks or aiming to captivate your audience, this AI solution has the tools to make it happen.

    As industries evolve, the demand for dynamic and adaptable communication tools has never been higher. Will you embrace the future or stick with outdated methods? AiVanta’s AI-driven platform aims to redefine how businesses connect, communicate, and grow.

  • On Insurance Awareness Day, a call to action to keep financial stress at bay

    Mumbai: The world has been through some of the most unprecedented times over the last one year. Most of us have encountered life-altering disruptions in our day-to-day lives and many have had to suffer loss of jobs, income and even loved ones. In such unpredictable times if there’s anything that can guarantee some form of assured security, then policy insurance will definitely be one of them.

    And what better day than the Insurance Awareness Day (28 June) to remind us about the critical role of insurance in protecting oneself and our families from the uncertainties of life. The pandemic has only heightened the need for long-term financial planning.

    On this day, some of India’s leading life insurers endeavour to create greater awareness about policy insurance amongst consumers with a slew of campaigns and creatives that prompt one to take the time out to reflect on our priorities and get a policy on our life, home and/ or vehicle to secure one’s and one’s family from the tough times the may future hold.

    IndiaFirst Life Insurance

    Insurance brand IndiaFirst released a short video that talks about how it is a good practice to ask questions- the more questions one asks, the more knowledge one gains. Recited by writer, poet, and, storyteller Ishpreet Balbir, the video encourages consumer to clear their doubts regarding the insurance policy and get all their questions answered before buying the insurance.  

    ‘Life insurance ke baare mein questions puchte rehna aur bhi achi baat hai. Aapke sawalo ka humse answer milna, yeh toh certain hai.’ , it says.

    HDFC ERGO

    General Insurance is a safety net we all need in our lives to enjoy the big and small moments by being at peace & worry-free! This is the message HDFC ERGO aims to send out on this  #InsuranceAwarenessDay, via this short video.

    SBI Life Insurance

    It is imperative that we do not delay our decision to secure our loved ones from an ‘unsure’ future, exhorts SBI Life’s creative. With Life Insurance by your side, give your loved ones the surety of a secured financial future.  – ‘Insure’ to undo ‘unsure’ future.

    HDFC Life

    On the occasion of Insurance Awareness Day, HDFC Life organized a digital chat show called ‘Life Sessions’ as part of their efforts towards increasing awareness by discussing the importance of financial planning for the future and working on a holistic well-being in the new normal.  

    The session, moderated by award-winning actor Tisca Chopra, featured Group medical director of the Apollo Hospitals Group Dr. Anupam Sibal, actor, model & author Lisa Ray and HDFC Life executive director Suresh Badami. The latter spoke about how imperative it is to not delay our decision to secure our loved ones, while creating awareness about the dual benefits of protection and long-term savings offered by life insurance.   

    The speakers also shared their own experiences from the pandemic, to emphasise the need for physical, financial and social security from life’s vagaries and to encourage users to take a personal resolution to secure their future.

    Bajaj Allianz General

    Being ‘Insurance aware’ starts with you, urges the brand. Insurance provides you protection in the long run, hence plan your tomorrow by starting your preparation today it advises through this short creative.

    ICICI Lombard GIC

    The insurance brand promises to provide services that entail complete protection from uncertainties anytime and anywhere with this creative to mark National Insurance Awareness Day 2021.

    So, be secured, be insured!

  • Brands salute the indomitable spirit of frontline workers on May Day

    Brands salute the indomitable spirit of frontline workers on May Day

    MUMBAI: As we celebrate one more May Day, also called the International Day of Workers or International Labour Day, dedicated to workers and labourers across the world (from behind closed doors in the safety of our homes), it becomes even more important to recognise the invisible labour of those countless workers who keep our lives going, uninterrupted. Who have put their lives at risk, tirelessly fighting an unseen deadly enemy to just do their everyday job- letting the rest of us have the luxury of choosing not to step out.  

    With this thought in mind, brands have come forward to shine a light on the working community, who have contributed to our well-being by sharing digital campaigns on this day dedicated to them. Here are some of the creatives/campaigns for Labour Day which caught our eye:

    Tata Motors shared a message of hope and solidarity on its Instagram handle, saying “This #LabourDay, we salute those on the frontlines of the battle against #COVID19. Here’s hoping for a safer and healthier future ahead.”

    It also reminded us all that “in these unfortunate times we are fortunate to have them”.

    Croma Retail shared a film that talks about taking out a moment to pause and to “wholeheartedly thank all the service staff who helped make our days brighter everyday”, while urging us to do the same. It shared, “Their work never stopped, even when the world did. Let’s take a moment to honour and celebrate the unsung heroes who have our utmost respect and gratitude, here’s to you!”

     
     
     

     
     
     
     
     

     
     

     
     
     

     
     

    A post shared by Croma Retail (@croma.retail)

    The Aditya Birla Group’s UltraTech Cement gave a shoutout to the labourers who work day in and out, even in these Covid times to create our dream homes.

    Bajaj Allianz paid tribute to the frontline workers on social media. “Working endlessly to fight the global pandemic and keep us safe in the bounds of our home. This #WorldLabourDay, let’s contribute to their efforts by following all the rules and norms effectively. #CaringlyYours “ With the words, “Be it an emergency or a pandemic  they never stop caring  for us,” the insurance company posted.

    JSW paints shared a post to thank those who work round-the-clock for us in an Instagram story, “Seize the day from the safety of our homes and thank our heroes for all their efforts”

    Kotak Life shared an acknowledgement for the frontline workers, whose hard labour in the pursuit of their livelihood makes our lives smoother. “Here’s to the ones who strive hard for the development of our nation while risking their lives.”

    Automotive and inverter battery manufacturer Tata Green shared the following post on its Instagram, saying, “TATA Green appreciates the hard work, dedication and contribution of all the workers across our nation this #InternationalLabourDay,” with the message ‘Let’s honour the hands that have built our nation’.

  • Bajaj Allianz salutes COVID-19 warriors with a compelling video

    Bajaj Allianz salutes COVID-19 warriors with a compelling video

    MUMBAI: The current global COVID-19 pandemic has affected each individual at multiple levels and in various ways across the world. People are seen battling it in hospitals, through self-isolation and in quarantine. But there is an army of people working selflessly to keep them safe – the doctors, nurses, policemen, medical workers and government professionals. These heroes are risking their lives and labouring at the forefront to help control the situation.

    With an aim to salute these heroes, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company and WATConsult, a hybrid digital agency from the house of Dentsu Aegis Network (DAN) India, have released a new video, #CareWillOvercome. The video aims to bring in ‘hope’ and ‘care’ in the world amidst the COVID-19 outbreak. This riveting short video showcases stirring images of people from around the world. It includes doctors, medical workers and citizens who are bravely doing their bit to help to leave no stone unturned in fighting this global crisis.

    The music that accompanies the video is a rendition of the renowned song ‘We Shall Overcome’ popularly known as ‘Hum Honge Kamyaab' in India. The lyrics of the song are in different languages from across the world. It expresses the borderless unity and togetherness we are all witnessing during this pandemic. Listening to the same positive message sung out in different languages like Mandarin, Spanish, Italian, Farsi, German, Hindi and English is indeed motivating. The music too is an amalgamation of cultures. For example, the strings are from Russia, percussion from Nigeria and the vocals are from Italy, Germany, China, America, Spain and India.

    Link – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaksYGn7OIw

    Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company MD and CEO Tapan Singhel said, “Care has always been at the core of Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company. And with the current situation, it has become more important than ever to be caring. Through this video, we wanted to send out a global message of solidarity and positivity, giving a ray of hope to each one of us. It is only through care – for ourselves, for our loved ones and for the people who are at the frontlines – that we can come out of this stronger and rise. Hence, the message of caring enough to be brave, informed and responsible.”

    Commenting on the same, WATConsult CEO Heeru Dingra added, “In such a grim situation like this a word of ‘HOPE’ and ‘CARE’ means a lot. While this pandemic has gripped all of us, it has also brought in a severe effect on one’s mind and soul. We should not forget the fact that there is a huge lot outside battling for us, risking their lives as well as emotions just for ‘us’. This video is an ode of salute to them and has been conceptualized keeping in mind the importance of bringing in a positive feeling that we are ‘in it together’ and ‘we will overcome this together’.”

    Doing its part in the wake of social distancing, the brand intends to create the longest virtual human chain on its Instagram profile as amplification for the campaign.

  • Bajaj Allianz along with CNBC-TV18, announces the Lifegoal Advisor Awards 2019

    Bajaj Allianz along with CNBC-TV18, announces the Lifegoal Advisor Awards 2019

    MUMBAI: CNBC-TV18, in association with Bajaj Allianz joins hands to launch the 1st edition of the Lifegoal Advisor Awards 2019. This award aims to honour Life Insurance advisors, Mutual Fund Distributors and CAs. Keeping in mind the paradigm shift in the buying patterns of the Indian consumers in the insurance sector, advisors play a very important role in helping customers identify and plan for their desired life goals like buying a house, higher education for kids, planning an early retirement, etc.

    Through this award property, the channel aims to acknowledge heroes who have been life goal enablers, assessing them based on their contribution to the lives of consumers, leveraging best practices, technology adoption among other things. The awards will also highlight the opportunities and obstacles that lie ahead in the insurance advisory field.

    The Awards shall be hosted in 7 zones i.e. Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Lucknow and Chandigarh.

    Commenting on the awards, Bajaj Allianz Life  MD & CEO Tarun Chugh said “The role of an insurance consultant or other financial distributor goes beyond just selling investment solutions to customers. Insurance consultants, mutual fund distributors and other financial advisors map the journey of a customer's life goals and play an integral part right from planning for the life goals to systematically investing towards them to achieving these goals. As an industry, we do not have a common platform to recognize the contribution of these unsung heroes in the financial planning journey of customers”

    The platform also extends a chance for interested participants such as life-insurance and mutual fund advisors along with CA’s amongst others to nominate themselves by visiting their official website.  

    For more details please visit www.news18.com/lgaa 

  • Haier Kicks off The Festive Season with Exciting Consumer Offers

    Haier Kicks off The Festive Season with Exciting Consumer Offers

    MUMBAI: Haier, the global leader in Home Appliances & Consumer Electronics and World’s Number 1 brand in Major Appliances for 9 Consecutive Years*, has announced a range of attractive consumer offers, bringing joy to the festive celebrations this season. The promotion has begun with the festivities and will last till 7th November, 2018 across the country.

    Haier understands the evolving needs and preferences of the consumers and its product innovations are a testimonial of the same. Thus, boosting the consumer buying sentiment and adding to the festive fervor, the brand has announced a Fixed EMI offer with Bajaj Allianz to bring home any product from its premium range at INR 2018 only. Haier is also offering unique warranties on its range of products like 3-year warranty on all Haier televisions (80 cm and above) and 4-year extended complete warranty with free installation on Haier split air conditioner range for just Rs.999.

    Adding sparkle to your gaieties and to enhance the shopping experience of customers, Haier is offering attractive consumer finance options. Further, an array of attractive consumer offers will be available across all product categories where consumers will get exciting assured gifts on purchase of Haier products during the promotion period.

    List of Offers:

    Free cutlery set with a purchase of any Bottom Mount refrigerator
    Free Haier dry iron with any top mount refrigerator
    Free wine glasses with Haier wine cellars
    Free Haier steam iron with any Front Load washing machine
    A dry iron free with purchase of any Top load washing machine
    Absolutely free Installation on purchase of any Haier water heater

    Commenting on the launch, Mr. Eric Braganza, President, Haier Appliances (India) said, “We are extremely happy to announce the lucrative consumer offers for this festive season. With the core focus on our brand philosophy of customer inspired innovation, we aim to forge a stronger bond with our consumers by addressing their evolving needs and expect to have phenomenal festive season sales this year. Following a 360 degree approach this festive season, we will run our marketing initiatives via various platforms such as Electronic, Print, Digital and in-store branding etc.”

    Haier has put together a strong marketing strategy across categories to promote its products this festive season. The brand has devised consumer-insight based campaigns to target its audience across age groups and geographies. This year, Haier will be an associate sponsor of season 10 of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ with its Bottom Mounted Refrigerator line-up on Sony channel. Other key sponsorships include – ‘Mega Icons’ on National Geographic channel, Dance Plus Season 4 on Star Plus, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa on Zee TV and Master Chef Australia on Star World. These partnerships are in sync with the brand’s philosophy of customer inspired innovation thus, increasing the excitement and brand recall amongst its consumers.

    This year, Haier also partnered with Unimoni Asia Cup 2018 as Official Global Partner & Associate Gold Sponsor. To bring cricket to a larger Indian audience, Haier ran a consumer contest #AsiaCupWithHaier through which fifty lucky winners stood a chance to travel to UAE to watch an Asia Cup match live. Additionally, the brand will also be sponsoring India-West Indies cricket series which will start from 4th October 2018 to 11th November 2018 to build a closer connect with the consumers and enjoy the spirit of cricket together.

  • Bajaj Allianz signs internet’s ‘dancing uncle’

    Bajaj Allianz signs internet’s ‘dancing uncle’

    MUMBAI: Professor Sanjeev Srivastava, whose videos have gone viral on the internet and is trending as #DancingUncle and #GovindaUncle, has been signed up by Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance for their latest video.

    Tapping on Sanjeev’s popularity, Bajaj Allianz Life has roped in the ‘Dancing Uncle’ to shake his legs on their latest announcement of one-time special bonus for their policyholders. The latest video sees him dancing to Bajaj Allianz Life’s new jingle ‘Samjho Ho Gaya’ that captures the essence of the brand’s new philosophy ‘Life Goals. DONE.

    This is the fourth video from the internet sensation that has gone LIVE and has got huge traction in a matter of minutes. His earlier videos where he danced to Govinda’s tracks that made him a superstar overnight have already crossed millions of views and saw his fan following increase by the day including the who’s who of Bollywood.

    Bajaj Allianz life insurance chief marketing officer Chandramohan Mehra says, “Sanjeev evokes our brand values of optimism, confidence and youthfulness. The idea was to ride on the popular wave and ensure our customer-centric bonus offer is reached out in an engaging manner. The idea emanates from our belief that life insurance is about enabling our policyholders to live life to the fullest and help them achieve their Life Goals”.

    After rolling out the brand transition campaign “Samjho Ho Gaya”, Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance has been raising the bar with their marketing initiatives. As part of its earlier digital initiatives, the company launched bite-sized three episodes web series #GameOfLifeGoals where they roped in two popular faces from the web comedy world Rahul Subramaniam and Kumar Varun. It was a follow-up to the vox pop video of #GraveyardOfLifeGoals that was launched in end of March 2018 with popular YouTube star Sahil Khattar.

  • Bajaj Finserv new ad drives awareness around insurance

    Bajaj Finserv new ad drives awareness around insurance

    MUMBAI: Bajaj Finserv has launched a TVC campaign to drive awareness around width of products offered through its lending, life insurance and general insurance arm.

    The third phase of ‘Think It. Done’ campaign highlights the set of possibilities in every individual’s life thereby giving a solution to convert the thought into reality. It urges consumers to not only aspire for a better lifestyle but also offer means and resources to live a better lifestyle. The TVC reflects the core proposition of the group of making customers’ life hassle-free through its innovative products.

    The campaign rolled out on 21 February and is conceptualised and executed by Leo Burnett. The campaign is targeted across all digital platforms and will continue till March 2018.

    Bajaj Finserv through it group companies, offers a gamut of products in finance, insurance and investment segments. These products cater to consumer life journey at various stages enabling them to uplift the standard of living with an ease.

    Bajaj Finserv extends the width of the product portfolio through its life and general insurance arms. Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance caters to every segment and age-income profiles and has a strong life insurance portfolio that caters to all kinds of customer needs. Bajaj Allianz general insurance offers a wide range of non-life categories like four-wheeler and two-wheeler, health, home, cyber safe etc.

  • Jio, Sun Direct, Dish TV among top 50 as HDFC retains BrandZ crown

    Jio, Sun Direct, Dish TV among top 50 as HDFC retains BrandZ crown

    MUMBAI: HDFC Bank has continued to maintain its leadership position in fourth consecutive year, according to the BrandZ Top 50 Most Valuable Indian Brands 2017 report released by WPP and Kantar Millward Brown.

    HDFC Bank (24 per cent) is the India’s most valuable brand, almost doubling its brand value since the ranking started in 2014 from $ 9.4bn to $ 18.0bn.

    “It has a strong purpose – to improve lives by bringing world class financial services to all sections of India – and demonstrates it through increased access to banking in rural areas, an expanded digital presence and leveraging the latest technology to simplify its offering for customers. BrandZ data shows that consumers perceive the bank as increasingly innovative,” the report stated.

    India’s most valuable brands have increased their brand value by 21 per cent to US$ 109.3 billion in the last year. This compares with a two per cent decline in 2016, and is well ahead of the eight per cent value increase of the BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands 2017.

    There are seven newcomers in the overall ranking. Telecom provider Jio ranks at number 11 — only months after its launch, having disrupted its category with free-data promotions. The others are newly-listed retailer D-Mart (no.24), appliance brand Whirlpool (no.45), insurance brand Bajaj Allianz (no.49), Canara Bank (no.50) and entertainment brands Sun Direct (no.27) and Dish TV (no.47)

    The Store WPP CEO EMEA and Asia David Roth said, “Indian consumers seek authenticity and value for money, and the meaning of those things is being constantly redefined. As consumers become wealthier, they look beyond price to factors such as extra features, innovation and a personalised experience. As reflected in this year’s ranking the most agile Indian brands have recognised the complexity in the market, and achieved just the right balance between aspirational and affordable.”

    The automobile category, which also includes tyres, lubricants and motor fuels, grew 23 per cent in value. Brands responded to the changing market with new models that combined smart pricing and functionality with style and power. Royal Enfield, Maruti Suzuki and TVS were among the Top 10 overall fastest risers. Royal Enfield (no.40, 59 per cent) engaged with biker  groups on social media, and marketed a range of accessories. Maruti Suzuki (no.7, 56 per cent) extended the brand beyond its traditional appeal to the value segment of the market, while introducing new showrooms called NEXA to reach premium customers.

    India’s Top 50 faced successive disruptions in the last year, some global, some created by fast-growing competitors and others strategically imposed by the government – including demonetisation.

    The FMCG category, which includes alcohol, food and dairy, personal care and soft drinks, was significantly affected by these challenges but still managed to grow 6 per cent in total value. Some brands achieved impressive value increases by accurately understanding and responding to Indian sensibilities. Noodle brand Maggi (no.32; 66 per cent), the overall second-fastest riser, aligned itself with the trend for nostalgia. This helped it bounce back after a difficult couple of years; its rapid regrowth demonstrating how a strong brand can help a company weather a crisis and recover faster, although it is still some way below its peak brand value of $1.1bn in 2014. Health food brand Saffola (no.36; 24 per cent), meanwhile, introduced oats in new localised flavours and expanded its range of oils into a new super premium sub-segment.

    The financial services category increased its value by 26 per cent. The fastest rising banks were Punjab National Bank (no.39; 43 per cent), which is highly customer-focused and more agile than some of its competitors, and Kotak Mahindra Bank (no.6; 36 per cent), which has innovated in areas including digital banking. Both of these brands still have significant catching up to do, however, if they are to reach the top of the leader board.

    The BrandZ™ Top 10 Most Valuable Indian Brands 2017

    Rank 2017

    Brand

    Category

    Brand value 2017 (US$M)

    Change

    1 (-)

    HDFC Bank

    Banks

    17,965

    +24%

    2 (-)

    Airtel

    Telecom providers

    10,233

    +3%

    3 (-)

    State Bank of India

    Banks

    8,334

    +31%

    4 (-)

    Asian Paints

    Paints

    4,717

    +15%

    5 (-)

    ICICI Bank

    Banks

    4,697

    +19%

    6 (+1)

    Kotak Mahindra Bank

    Banks

    4,522

    +36%

    7 (+1)

    Maruti Suzuki

    Automobiles

    4,449

    +56%

    8 (-2)

    Bajaj Auto

    Automobiles

    3,564

    +5%

    9 (-)

    Hero

    Automobiles

    3,295

    +17%

    10 (-)

    Axis Bank

    Banks

    2,428

    +2%

    Other trends highlighted in this year’s BrandZ Top 50 Most Valuable Indian Brands include: The long-term growth curve of the Top 50 is positive, with the total brand value of the ranking up 57 per cent  since the study was first carried out in 2014, when it amounted to $69.6bn

    India experienced a resurgence in national pride, while also embracing globalization. This manifested in a desire for products and brands that best reflect Indian heritage, sensibilities and tastes, which benefited local brands and put pressure on multinationals to follow suit. Colgate (no 28; two per cent) launched a toothpaste with Ayurvedic properties to meet this demand.

    The top riser is insurance brand ICICI Prudential (no.35; 89%). It benefited from the ‘halo effect’ of other brands’ successful responses to rising consumer affluence, which led to an increase in sales of assets such as cars that need insurance protection

    Kantar Millward Brown MD — South Asia Vishikh Talwar said, “There are now ‘multiple Indias’. Consumers continue to love the brands they’ve loved for generations, while equally embracing the brands of the future. Brands must be completely in rhythm with the pulse of the market. Those that can accurately interpret Indian sensibilities, while ensuring smart pricing, are likely to be most successful. This is easier for local brands, but people will relate just as positively to a global brand if it uses insight to understand and meet their needs, and communicate in a way that builds trust.”

    For the first time, this year’s BrandZ Top 50 Most Valuable Indian Brands 2017 study incorporates new research from Y&R’s BAV Group into what it takes to build powerful nation brands. According to the 2017 Best Countries report, India stands out for its history, cultural influence, distinction and reputation for entrepreneurship; especially among the world’s business decision-makers.