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Tag: Walmart

  • Mythik ropes in Jio, MX Player & Walmart veterans to power product-tech vision

    Mythik ropes in Jio, MX Player & Walmart veterans to power product-tech vision

    MUMBAI: The global entertainment startup, on a mission to be the “Disney from the East” has unveiled a heavyweight product and technology leadership team with three marquee hires. Sachin Thapliyal joins as founding member & chief product officer, Kamalmeet Singh as chief technology officer, and Nitin Pakhare as head of product design.

    Between them, the trio boasts over 60 years of experience across giants like Jiosaavn, MX Player, Amazon, Walmart, Microsoft, Payu, and Paytm, shaping platforms that entertained and engaged millions. From building music and video apps with 100 plus million users to pioneering GenAI architecture, their combined resumes read like a masterclass in consumer-tech at scale.

    Thapliyal, who once scaled Jiosaavn past 100 million MAUs and helped shape MX Player into a 175 million-user super-app, will steer product strategy. Singh, an ex-Walmart principal architect and author of large-scale tech design books, brings the muscle of cloud, GenAI, and enterprise-grade architecture. Meanwhile, Pakhare, who has designed experiences for Jiocinema, MX Player, and Yahoo Labs, will focus on ensuring Mythik’s stories look as good as they feel.

    Founder & CEO Jason Kothari is betting on the trio’s mix of creativity and technology to help Mythik deliver its bold promise: reimagining Eastern mythology, history, and folktales for global audiences in compelling, tech-driven ways.

    As Kothari put it, “Their experience in building entertainment platforms at scale, architecting global solutions, and creating engaging user experiences aligns perfectly with our mission.”

    If Mythik’s new chapter reads anything like its hiring, the East’s tales may just get a blockbuster retelling for the world stage.

  • Aman Kishore appointed head of marketing at Bits Pilani Digital

    Aman Kishore appointed head of marketing at Bits Pilani Digital

    MUMBAI: Bits Pilani Digital, the online education arm of India’s esteemed Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, has announced the appointment of Aman Kishore as its new head of marketing. Kishore, a seasoned professional with over 24 years of experience in integrated marketing and communication, steps into the role with immediate effect, having joined in April 2025.

    His extensive career spans a diverse portfolio of leading brands, including Samsung Mobiles, BMW, Mini Honda, Lufthansa, Nestle, Vodafone, Dabur, Walmart, Singapore Red Cross, and Mundi Pharma. At Bits Pilani Digital, Kishore will leverage his expertise in integrated campaigns, digital strategy, media integration, and performance marketing to expand the institution’s legacy to a wider audience.

    Before this latest assignment, Kishore served as integrated campaign lead at Cheil India, where he spearheaded marketing efforts for Samsung Mobiles’ innovative A-series, M-series, and F-series, focusing on GenZ engagement through digital, influencer, and social content. He also led the Samsung CSR initiative, ‘Solve for Tomorrow.

    His prior experience includes a notable four-year tenure as deputy general manager at The Times Of India, where he managed business development, revenue growth, and P&L for a unit responsible for marquee events such as the Literature Festival and Global Music Festival – Life in Colour. He also held significant roles at Serviceplan India, overseeing integrated media for BMW, MINI, and Lufthansa, and at Ogilvy & Mather, where he led business and strategy for clients like Honda Jazz and Vodafone.

    Kishore’s appointment signals Bits Pilani Digital’s commitment to robust marketing and a content-driven approach as it expands its digital offerings in data science and artificial intelligence. He brings a proven track record of developing communication solutions that deliver business goals, fostering consumer insights, and mentoring teams, all while maintaining a keen focus on technology and digital innovation.

  • Suheil Mohan joins Flipkart as senior manager for brand marketing

    Suheil Mohan joins Flipkart as senior manager for brand marketing

    MUMBAI: Suheil Mohan has taken charge as senior manager 2, brand marketing at Flipkart, marking another high-profile move in India’s fast-evolving digital marketing space. Based in Bengaluru, Mohan joined the Walmart-owned e-commerce major in May 2025.

    Mohan brings with him over a decade of experience across top-tier startups and agencies. Prior to this, he led brand and growth marketing at agritech disruptor Ninjacart, where he spearheaded the platform’s rebranding and digital storytelling campaigns. His earlier stints include brand roles at Byju’s, Mobile Premier League (MPL), and Junglee Games, where he played a key part in executing big-budget campaigns tied to Hindi cinema and gaming IPs.

    A former strategy and branded content manager at GroupM, Mohan also worked with Airtel as a digital consultant during a pivotal phase of its 4G growth drive. Starting his career as an engineer, he later pivoted to marketing after completing his management studies.

    At Flipkart, Mohan is expected to bolster the company’s brand storytelling and campaign strategy as it prepares for festive season blitzes and deeper consumer engagement in tier 2 and tier 3 India.

    His appointment signals Flipkart’s ongoing investment in top marketing talent to stay ahead in the fiercely competitive e-commerce space.

  • Routematic steers towards growth with new people and culture chief

    Routematic steers towards growth with new people and culture chief

    MUMBAI: Routematic, have recruited Chidananda Murthy as their new vice president of people and culture. Murthy, a seasoned HR veteran, is tasked with transforming Routematic’s people strategy.

    Murthy’s background spans major firms – Walmart, Nokia, and others. He’s experienced in all aspects of HR, aiming for a less stressful workplace.

    Routematic co-founder and executive director Kavitha Ramachandragowda is clearly chuffed with the appointment. “Murthy’s expertise is like a shot of adrenaline for our growth,” she says. “He’ll ensure we attract the best and brightest, and keep them happy.”

    Murthy’s mission is to cultivate a culture of innovation and inclusivity. “Routematic’s at a pivotal point,” Murthy enthuses. “We’re not just moving people; we’re moving mountains.”

    Routematic, with its recent Hyderabad expansion and EV integration, is clearly on a roll. “We’re aiming for a workplace that doesn’t just tick boxes, but ignites passions,” Murthy concludes. “And hopefully, avoids any HR-related road rage.”

  • Phonepe prepares for IPO, targets $15 billion valuation with top banks

    Phonepe prepares for IPO, targets $15 billion valuation with top banks

    MUMBAI: Phonepe is gearing up for its stock market debut, enlisting J.P. Morgan, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Morgan Stanley, and Citi to oversee its IPO. The fintech firm, backed by Walmart, is eyeing a valuation of up to $15 billion as it plans to list on Indian stock exchanges.

    Marking a decade in business, Phonepe has restructured its corporate framework, consolidating its various divisions into wholly owned subsidiaries. This strategic move, coupled with robust financial growth, positions the company favourably for public listing.

    Phonepe has reported over 70 per cent revenue growth in the past fiscal year while narrowing net losses and achieving an adjusted post-tax profit. A sharp focus on automation, operational efficiency, and cost management has reinforced its financial stability.

    With a strong user base and innovative digital solutions, Phonepe aims to sustain its strong position in India’s fintech space. As it advances towards the IPO, the company remains committed to scaling its business and driving long-term profitability in the evolving digital payments sector.

  • Brand Finance Global 500 Brands 2025 report: Apple maintains lead as tech giants dominate

    Brand Finance Global 500 Brands 2025 report: Apple maintains lead as tech giants dominate

    MUMBAI: The band of top brands globally continues to be dominated by tech giants. At least that’s what Brand Finance’s top 500 Global Brands report for 2025 has revealed. Apple has retained its position as the world’s most valuable brand, with a brand value of $574.5 billion. The tech giant is followed closely by Microsoft, Google, and Amazon, which occupy the second, third, and fourth spots, respectively.

    The top 10 most valuable brands are dominated by US-based companies, with Walmart, Facebook, and Nvidia also featuring in the list. However, Chinese brands such as TikTok/Douyin, State Grid Corp of China, and China Construction Bank are rapidly gaining ground, with significant increases in their brand values.

    The report highlights the growing influence of Asian brands, with 17 Chinese companies featuring in the top 100, including newcomers such as Moutai and Wuliangye. Japanese brands such as Toyota, Honda, and Mitsubishi Group also make significant appearances in the list.

    European brands, meanwhile, are struggling to keep pace, with only 12 companies from the continent featuring in the top 100. German brands such as Deutsche Telekom, Mercedes-Benz, and SAP are among the notable exceptions.

    The report also notes that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on brand values, with many companies experiencing a decline in their brand worth. However, tech giants such as Apple, Microsoft, and Google have been largely immune to the pandemic’s effects, thanks to their diversified revenue streams and strong brand recognition.

    The top 10 most valuable brands in the world are:

    1. Apple (USA) – $574.5 billion
    2. Microsoft (USA) – $461.1 billion
    3. Google (USA) – $412.9 billion
    4. Amazon (USA) – $356.4 billion
    5. Walmart (USA) – $137.2 billion
    6. Samsung Group (South Korea) – $110.6 billion
    7. TikTok/Douyin (China) – $105.8 billion
    8. Facebook (USA) – $91.5 billion
    9. NVIDIA (USA) – $87.9 billion
    10. State Grid Corporation of China (China) – $85.6 billion

    Brand Finance also analysed what brands have grown the most since 2020, plus TikTok – although Brand Finance began valuing the brand in 2022, its 79 per cent growth in four years puts it in the same league as the other high-growth brands. 

    1. TikTok/Douyin: USD105.8 billion, up from USD59.0 billion (in 2022)
    2. DraftKings: USD5.1 billion, up from USD18 million
    3. FanDuel: USD7.0 billion, up from USD56 million
    4. NVIDIA: USD87.9 billion, up from USD4.7 billion
    5. AMD: USD11.0 billion, up from USD1.4 billion
    6. Pinduoduo: USD13.0 billion, up from USD2.5 billion
    7. BYD: USD14.0 billion, up from USD3.1 billion
    8. Apple: USD574.5 billion, up from USD140.5 billion
    9. TSMC: USD34.2 billion, up from US8.6 billion
    10. Microsoft: USD461.1 billion, up from USD117.1 billion
    11. Lilly: USD8.0 billion, up from USD2.1 billion

    To take a dekko at the Top 100 Global Brands 2025 list click on the word free. Basic data for the top 100 is available for free.

  • Sularia and Dimitrov: the executives behind Intelligence Node

    Sularia and Dimitrov: the executives behind Intelligence Node

    MUMBAI: It’s as low profile as they come. Mumbai-based retail ecommerce analytics firm  Intelligence Node hit the headlines after it was acquired by global marketing solutions company the  Interpublic group for a healthy $100 million. Not much is known about the firm –  or its founders – to executives in the business world, but it is seen as a star in the world of retail and retail analytics.

    Intelligence Node co-founders CEO Sanjeev Sularia and chief data analytics officer Yasen Dimitrov met each other when they were employed at UK-based  firm ClientKnowledge as heads of analytics & research in 2008 And they hit it off.  The firm was acquired by ICAP in 2010.

    Yasen went on to work for Expand Research as analyst practice leader where he was  responsible for managing and delivering business research projects and strategy initiatives such as market and competitor analysis, benchmarking, KPIs, and helping clients optimise growth. He  also implemented a change-management programme that reduced analyses production time by 45 per cent through a process-re-engineering and formalisation program for the analysis and research groups. The firm was acquired by Boston Consulting Group in 2013.  

    Sanjeev, on his part, joined  Exclusively.in (an e-commerce portal for upscale fashion – now acquired by Snapdeal)  and Shersingh.com (a private label e-commerce fast fashion portal inspired by cricket – now under Myntra)  as CFO between 2011 and 2012. It was there that he gained a deeper understanding of the retail industry and understood what lacunae in terms of data and intelligence plagued retail.

    He created  CIBnode in 2010, the precursor to Intelligence Node, while working at the two firms. His idea was to create one of the world’s largest and cleanest retail databases, tracking over 1.2 billion products across nearly 100 languages.

    Yasen, who was based in the United Arab Emirates,  came on board in 2014 after it evolved into Intelligence Node. He  managed operations, analytics architecture, and category expansion; including building and maintaining the largest database in the industry and a team of top-flight in-house data scientists. Sanjeev focused on client acquisition and making the business vision a possibility

    Along the way they brought in high profile angels to fund their dream project as well as marquee investors including MegaDelta, NEA, Orios VP, CornerStone VP, Caliber VP.

    It is the commitment to accuracy and excellence that has driven the firm to come up with products that wowed  clients such as Walmart, Nestle, Lenovo, LVMH, Prada, Unilever as they tried to stay on top of the global retail trends and the ever-changing consumer.

    Today Intelligence Node’s proprietary AI technology offers competitive intelligence and real-time analytics across pricing and promotions, assortment and availability, digital shelf, and brand compliance.

    Yasen has a master of science in finance degree from Hult International Business School, while Sanjeev is a graduate of London Business School. 

    In an alternate life, Sanjeev would have been a bartender at Lord’s; the home of cricket. An avid cricket fan, he has played professional cricket and waited tables at the Lord’s too. Hence, his extreme level of fitness as he continues to play even to this day, but in local matches. Sanjeev also loves writing and is frequently featured on the Forbes Technology Council.

    With the Interpublic group now acquiring intelligence Node, the duo, along with the team at the company are sure to get the scoreboard ticking even faster. 

  • Competition Commission clears Alphabet’s investment in Flipkart

    Competition Commission clears Alphabet’s investment in Flipkart

    MUMBAI: Indian ecommerce giant  Flipkart  -owned by  US retail major Walmart – has a new minority shareholder. India’s monopolies  and fair trade watchdog, the Competition Commission of India, on 26 November, gave the green signal to Alphabet’s subsidiary Shoreline International Holdings LLC to acquire a stake in it. Shoreline International Holdings is a wholly-owned offshoot  of Alphabet,  Google’s parent company. It is a holding firm and does not own or operate any Google products or services.

    “The proposed transaction comprises an investment through subscription of shares of Flipkart Pvt Ltd (Target) by Shoreline International Holdings LLC (acquirer) and an arrangement between an affiliate of the acquirer and the target’s subsidiary for the provision of certain services,” the regulator said in a release.

    Flipkart mainly  offers wholesale cash and carry operations and runs marketplace-based e-commerce platforms to facilitate trade between customers and sellers in India. 

    In 2023, Flipkart had started a funding round of close to a billion  Us dollars which included $350 million from Google and around $600 million from Walmart. The agreement with Google also included, according to reports, access to its cloud services which would allow it expand its digtal infrastructure further. With that its valuation had risen to $36 billion and it said it would use the money to expand into quick commerce and other fintech ventures.

    85 per cent owned by Walmart, Flipkart will probably move towards an IPO in the not-too-distant future, as it is something which the Binny Bansal and Sachin Bansal-founded firm has been thinking about for sometime. 

  • Walmart CodeHers, a hiring challenge for women coders, is back in association with Unstop

    Walmart CodeHers, a hiring challenge for women coders, is back in association with Unstop

    Mumbai: Unstop, the community engagement and hiring platform for students and graduates, is back with the third edition of the Walmart CodeHers hiring challenge. Set to be bigger and better than the last two editions, CodeHers 2024 will be India’s biggest hiring challenge conducted exclusively for women, providing them a golden opportunity to land their dream job. In the past two editions, Walmart CodeHers has provided female coders a chance to showcase their skills and make their way into a Fortune #1 Company.

    Open to all female undergraduate and postgraduate students across India’s engineering colleges, CodeHers 2024 has 3 levels that participants must succeed in to become the ultimate winners. Level 1 will comprise an MCQ challenge while Level 2 will be a Coding challenge where shortlisted participants will present logical coding solutions to two problem statements. Participants who clear both Levels 1 and 2 will then be shortlisted for the final level, which will involve a profile verification and an interview process.

    The top 15 students from each graduating batch (2024 and 2025) will receive a cash prize of INR 30,000. But that’s not all. The top coders from the 2025 graduating batch will be offered direct summer internship opportunities at Walmart Global Tech India in Chennai or Bangalore with a monthly stipend of Rs 1,00,000-1,10,000 lakh.

    The top coders from the 2024 graduating batch will also be contacted for Pre Placement Interviews against relevant opportunities for Software roles at Walmart Global Tech India. For software engineers, the salary package ranges from Rs 18-21 lakhs with an Rs 2-3.5 lakh joining bonus and stock grants of up to Rs 2.5 lakhs.

    Unstop founder and CEO Ankit Aggarwal, shared his thoughts. “10 lakh+ females are enrolled in Engineering & Tech courses in India as per the AISHE report. Walmart CodeHers gives this talented cohort a great opportunity to showcase their skills. Building on the success of the last two editions, India’s premier hiring challenge for females, CodeHers 2024 aims to be bigger and better. Together with Walmart, we are committed to fostering diversity and empowering female talent in the tech industry.”

    The deadline for registrations for the contest is 18th February 2024. For more details, you can visit Unstop’s official website

    unstop

  • HiveMinds bags digital mandate for Flipkart Health+

    HiveMinds bags digital mandate for Flipkart Health+

    Mumbai: The digital mandate for Flipkart Health+ was awarded to the digital expert of Madison World’s innovative market solutions HiveMinds. After a multi-agency pitch that included multiple rounds of presentations, the account was awarded. HiveMinds will be in charge of achieving the digital performance goals using all the publisher networks and digital channels accessible under the new mandate.

    Flipkart Health+ is the healthcare foray of Flipkart, the Walmart group firm. In order to provide clients with simple and convenient access to high-quality, reasonably priced pharmaceuticals and healthcare products from independent sellers, the Flipkart Health+ App, a digital healthcare marketplace platform, was introduced on 6 April, 2022.

    Flipkart Health+ chief business officer Arvind Charanyan V commented, “Post Covid, there has been an increase in demand for healthcare and wellness products across the country, which is currently underserved especially in the remote areas. We want to leverage technology in a way that strengthens the healthcare ecosystem and enables it to serve customers better by making accessibility to healthcare simpler even for those residing in distant areas of the country and contributing towards a healthier India. Digital as a medium has the reach with the customers and we’ve carefully selected HiveMinds for the experience and expertise they bring to the table.”

    “We’re proud to be associating with Flipkart Health+ by winning this highly contested mandate. I am sure that with our experience with the digital healthcare ecosystem, we will be able to take the Flipkart Health+ message across the country,” said HiveMinds chief strategy officer Deepti Bhadauria.