MADAME Elevates Fashion Landscape With AW'23 Roadshow & Plans To Launch Digital Clothing Store At PARIZ Metaverse

The most coveted women's fashion brand, MADAME, recently treated fashion aficionados to an exclusive sneak peek of its latest Autumn Winter 2023 collection at the highly anticipated AW'23 Roadshow. The four-day extravaganza, held in Gurugram, saw the display of over 4,000 articles of sartorial splendour, attracting a gathering of over 700 guests, including franchise partners, distributors and industry insiders.

Visitors were indulged in the latest fashion trends, including commanding outerwear in daring shades, chunky knitwear and practical leather pieces. The showcase also highlighted the newest denim styles, including wide-leg pants and fitted jackets. The collection offered something for everyone, from elegant casual wear to opulent party attire.

The Apparel House, a 24,000 sq. ft. venue, played host to the event, exhibiting the newest and most sought-after merchandise from MADAME's flagship line, as well as its subsidiaries CAMLA and MSecret. With its eye fixed on growth and keeping pace with the latest fashion trends, MADAME aims to achieve a 33.3% increase in its overall business in the forthcoming financial year.

The roadshow wasn’t the only recent highlight of the brand. Madame is leaving no stone unturned to deliver a unique and immersive shopping experience, investing in the latest technology to make sure customers get the best of both worlds - a virtual store that provides a seamless shopping experience, and the chance to showcase their individual style in the Metaverse. Madame partnered with Trace Network Labs to give an experience of a digital clothing store in the PARIZ Metaverse, becoming the first apparel brand to do so. The virtual store allowed customers to experience immersive shopping. This partnership marked Madame's innovative approach to online shopping and revolutionized the fashion industry.

"At MADAME, we believe that fashion is a celebration of individual style and expression. Our latest Autumn Winter 2023 collection embodies this ethos, with a range of pieces that cater to every style preference and occasion. We are thrilled to showcase our latest offerings at our AW'23 Roadshow event and offer a glimpse into the upcoming fashion trends of the season. The digital clothing store experience at PARIZ Metaverse adds to the icing on the cake, enabling us to adorn the virtual space with great fashion." said Akhil Jain, Executive Director, MADAME.

Launch Of A Supplierthon For The “Metaverse And Other Virtual Experiences” To Crowd-Source Innovation

* Call for Metaverse solutions to solve specific industrial challenges

* Opportunity of a partnership with the BMW Group for the winning teams +++

The BMW Group Supplierthon with a focus on the “Metaverse and other Virtual Experiences” has started. The aim is to attract researchers, startups and pioneering tech leaders from within the global Metaverse community in order to gain an outside-in perspective.

Application here: Link to Metaverse Supplierthon

The Metaverse is the next iteration of the internet: a single, shared, persistent, immersive, 3D virtual space where humans experience life in ways they could not in the physical world. The Supplierthon will empower applicants to bring their innovative and visionary ideas for the Metaverse to life. Experts from the BMW Group have identified challenges in three different areas (for details see below): Vehicle Readiness, In-Car Experience and Virtual Ecosystems. The BMW Group believes that virtual experiences could make a significant difference by strengthening the entire customer experience and the product substance and could have an impact on the whole automotive industry in the future.

Registration has begun and the first deadline for submission is March 15, 2023. The ideas that are submitted will be examined and judged by a panel of experts who will select the finalists. They will proceed to the second round, where the ideas will be developed further to produce real business solutions by May 10, 2023. The second round will end with a pitch event where the finalists will present their solutions to a panel of experts before the winners are selected on May 24, 2023.  The winners will have the opportunity to partner with the BMW Group and will also be involved in the implementation of pilot projects.

The BMW Group is a pioneer when it comes to virtualization and is now taking one step further

The Supplierthon for the “Metaverse and other Virtual Experiences” highlights the fact that the BMW Group is playing a leading role in efforts to bring the next level of digitalized human interaction to life. The BMW Group is generating value by consistently developing greater interaction and more immersive experiences using XR1 and Web 3.0, building on a vivid landscape of use cases, some of which are already connected, along the entire value chain. To ensure that its solution is coherent, the BMW Group is currently developing a strategic, centralized Metaverse Platform.

In December 2022, the company became one of the first automotive manufacturers to join the Metaverse Standards Forum. The company takes a holistic approach across three strategic dimensions: a Corporate Metaverse, a Commercial Metaverse and an In-Car Metaverse, as recently demonstrated by the BMW i Vision Dee vehicle and its Mixed Reality Slider, which was presented at the CES in Las Vegas. The Metaverse Supplierthon will focus only on in-car use cases.

“From our perspective, our industry is in the process of a step by step transformation, shifting human experiences into a virtual world driven by the metaverse.” says Rudi Bencker, Senior Vice President Global Research, Tech Offices and Development Cooperations.

“With this Crowd Innovation Challenge we want to take the next step and invite the global metaverse community to share their innovative and visionary approaches within the Metaverse spectrum.” says Florian Weig, Senior Vice President Purchasing and Supplier Network Digital.

Specific Challenges for the Metaverse Supplierthon

Vehicle Readiness:

Creating the right infrastructure with new technologies such as 5G, cloud computing and human interfaces (for example, smart glasses, wearables and biosensors) will be a critical part of this evolution. With the help of mixed reality technologies such as AR2 and VR3, IoT, machine learning and sensor technology, the physical vehicle will merge with the virtual world to enhance various touchpoints of future premium mobility.

In-Car Experience:

Metaverse-ready vehicles will create more immersive in-car experiences. By integrating the latest trends for CE-specific devices, such as headsets, glasses and sensor systems, both driver and (rear seat) passengers will be able to interact with the vehicle in different ways and the physical and digital worlds will be merged in real time. Interoperability between different platforms will allow users access to all kinds of content in one place, creating even more interactive and personalized experiences.

Virtual Ecosystems:

Due to its open and decentralized nature, the Metaverse not only introduces a whole new society, but also an ecosystem with new opportunities for the automotive sector. With underlying blockchain-based technologies such as cryptocurrencies, assets and smart contracts, the Metaverse opens up new business opportunities along the entire customer journey. From new businesses (for example car configurators and NFT marketplaces) to aftersales, an entirely new virtual ecosystem will be created, enabling customers to experience and engage with the brand in completely new ways.

Methodology of a Supplierthon:

A Supplierthon is a forward-looking innovation scouting method that allows new partners to be identified and supports quick onboarding into the BMW Group ecosystem. The BMW Group has achieved significant results from past challenges, which focused on Quantum Computing, Smart Cities and Connected Car technologies. Using a peer-review process, we identify finalists with high potential. The winners of the challenge will be made public and will have the opportunity to present their solution at the BMW Group’s digitalization days.

1Extended Reality (XR): Multisensory extended reality integrates Mixed Reality (MR), Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and the five traditional senses, including sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch.

2 Augmented Reality (AR) describes the computer-aided extension of reality perception.

3 Virtual Reality (VR) is the representation and simultaneous perception of an apparent reality and its physical properties in a real-time computer-generated, interactive virtual environment.

4 Mixed Reality (MR) comprises environments or systems that mix natural and artificial perception.

Herbalife Nutrition India Enters Eye Health Segment With Ocular Defense

In line with its commitment to nutrition and wellness, the global nutrition company, Herbalife Nutrition India, has entered the eye health segment with its new product, ‘Ocular Defense’.

The product comes in capsule format and is scientifically formulated to support eye health^. The product contains nutrients that help in maintenance of normal vision and helps in supporting macular health.

Ocular Defense contains a combination of lutein and zeaxanthin that is clinically proven to support the macular health of eyes and improves macular pigment optical density. Macula is the central portion of the retina which helps to clearly see the objects in front of you, and an eye's macular health can be indicated by its density measured as Macular Pigment Optical Density (MOPD). MPOD measures the concentration of carotenoids  (lutein, zeaxanthin- that help filter blue light) in the macular pigment of the eye. Blue light has a potential to cause retinal damage and MPOD is an indirect indicator of the ability of macula to filter high energy blue light. The density could also change over time depending on factors such as ageing, lifestyle, and dietary choices. 

Human eye has complex cellular connectivity and many molecules play a role in helping us with the normal visual process. Ocular Defense also contains vitamin A and zinc that helps in maintenance of normal vision and vitamins C, E and minerals including copper and zinc that have antioxidant properties. 

While commenting about this new product, Ajay Khanna, Senior Vice President & Managing Director of Herbalife Nutrition India, stated, “At Herbalife Nutrition India, we are constantly innovating to find new solutions to support health & wellness. The eye is a vital organ in the human body, and one needs to care for it. Ocular Defense is a scientifically designed formula,  containing a combination of lutein and zeaxanthin* that is clinically-proven to support macular health and contains nutrients that support maintenance of normal vision.”

^ maintenance of normal vision and helps improve macular pigment optical density (MPOD)

*Zeaxanthin content represents zeaxanthin isomers (RR-zeaxanthin and [RS]-meso-zeaxanthin)

#This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease. Pregnant or lactating women should consult their physician prior to use of this product. Not for medicinal use. Please see the product label for detailed information.

About Herbalife: 

Herbalife Nutrition (NYSE: HLF) is a global company that has been changing people’s lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers science-backed food products to consumers in 95 markets through entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle. Through the Company’s commitment to nourish people, communities and planet, Herbalife Nutrition pledges to achieve 50 million positive impacts – tangible acts of good – by 2030, its 50th anniversary. 

ICICI Bank Signs MoU With BNP Paribas Across India & Europe

·         The MoU establishes a framework of partnership between the banks to meet the banking needs of corporate customers in India and Europe

ICICI Bank, a leading private sector bank in India, and BNP Paribas, a top European bank, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to cater to the banking requirements of European corporates operating in India and Indian companies in the European Union.

The MoU establishes a framework of partnership between the two banks for providing financial services to corporate customers operating in the India – Europe corridor.  

The MoU was signed at an event held in Mumbai by Mr. Anup Bagchi, Executive Director, ICICI Bank, and Mr. Grzegorz Marczuk, Chief Operating Officer, BNP Paribas India.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Anup Bagchi, Executive Director, ICICI Bank said, “We are delighted to enter into a partnership with BNP Paribas, one of the oldest foreign banks in India. As the fifth largest economy in the world and with a strong focus to become a regional manufacturing hub, India is at the forefront of leading the world growth in the near future. This makes India a very attractive destination for trade and foreign investment, with Europe ranking amongst the top regions investing in India. With our strong physical network across the country, world class digital offerings and comprehensive suite of corporate and retail banking products, we are confident that ICICI Bank will support BNP Paribas’ customers grow their business in India, and make India one of their key markets. Further, we will leverage BNP Paribas’ pan-Europe presence to support our corporate clients for any of their banking requirements across Europe.”

Mr. Sanjay Singh, Head of Territory & CEO, BNP Paribas India said, “We do see several Indian corporates emerging as global champions. Our partnership with ICICI Bank will support corporates’ expansion plans with a right mix of ICICI Bank’s robust domestic physical network combined with our deep global footprint. This alliance will further strengthen our commitment to supporting Indian corporates in their global journey and European corporate clients looking to expand their footprint in India.” 

About ICICI Bank: ICICI Bank Ltd (BSE: ICICIBANK, NSE: ICICIBANK and NYSE:IBN) is a leading private sector bank in India. The Bank’s consolidated total assets stood at Rs 15,21,748 crore at December 31, 2022.

For news and updates, visit www.icicibank.com and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ICICIBank

About BNP Paribas: BNP Paribas Group has been in India since 1860 and is among the leading international financial institutions providing a wide range of financial services covering corporate & institutional banking, and personal investment services for individuals. As the second oldest foreign bank in India, BNP Paribas has branches in key metros and has a rich and broad offering across the entire range of corporate and institutional banking products and services, covering flow banking (transaction banking), financing, hedging, global markets, derivatives and investments. Asiamoney has also accorded “Best International Corporate Bank for India” to BNP Paribas in 2022.

Lending Platform mPokket To Expand Its Workforce By March 2023

* The company’s mission is to empower India’s youth and promote gender diversity at work

Digital lending platform mPokket plans to expand its team strength by March 2023 across all verticals, as part of its mission to empower India’s youth and maintain its growth trajectory. The total number of employees at the Kolkata-based company stands at  2700 including employees at it’s Bangalore office.

Commenting on the hiring plans, Gaurav Jalan, Founder and CEO, mPokket, said, “As a leading digital lending player, our hiring is connected to either bolstering cutting-edge technology or fostering deeper customer relationships. The ongoing hiring is aimed at empowering young professionals from vast domains for a better future. The new pool of talent will support mPokket’s mission of making young India financially independent. Accordingly, it will augment business outcomes by creating positive product and digital experiences, besides improving our go-to-market efforts.”

The hiring strategy plans to onboard diverse young people for various positions, such as technology, product, data analytics, and digital customer expert. The technology recruitment is targeted at individuals skilled in SDET, Python, Android, Java, NodeJS, and DevOps. mPokket believes in building a positive work culture and fostering the intellectual development of employees.

Geographical diversity apart, mPokket has been promoting gender diversity at work. In the customer experience domain, leadership roles begin at Team leaders and higher levels. Here, the company comprises about 61 women leaders out of a base of 177 employees, which makes a total of 34% of the women workforce.

The company resonates with the ethos of inclusivity, people-driven work culture and a mission to empower India’s youth via employment generation and upskilling.

About mPokket 

An Instant Loan App that provides loans to college students and young working professionals, mPokket was founded by Gaurav Jalan in 2015.  

Borrowers can avail of loans ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 30,000. mPokket’s business model is similar to credit card lending but it focuses on a segment that is ineligible for traditional loans yet requires instant funds. The loan is disbursed to customers instantly and credited to their bank accounts via smartphones within seconds. Based on this model, the mobile application seamlessly delivers credit anytime, anywhere. 

Nutanix Has Announced The Release Of A Starter Kit Bundle For Its Channel Partners Across India

The kit provides customers new to Nutanix the quickest and easiest way to get started with the Nutanix Cloud Platform. It includes Nutanix’s leading hybrid multicloud platform, integrated virtualization, and one-click management, along with deployment and migration services to accelerate time-to-value, and education vouchers to get IT staff the skills they need to maximize the value of their investment.

Harsh Vaishnav, Director Channels, Alliances and Ecosystem, India & SAARC, said the starter kit can be deployed on any hardware within the Nutanix hardware compatibility list or on supported public or service provider clouds.

“Having an all inclusive kit to support our customers helps them engage in an effortless manner,” Harsh said. We ensure our customers a seamless process when migrating to the Nutanix Cloud Platform.

Key features of the Nutanix Starter Kit Bundle include:

·            The Nutanix Cloud Platform: Nutanix Cloud Infrastructure Pro and Nutanix Cloud Manager Starter are included in the bundle. These provide rich data services, resilience, and management features with infrastructure AIOps, monitoring, planning, right sizing, and low code automation.

·            Deployment and Migration Services: Cluster deployment at a single site for up to eight nodes on the customer’s choice of supported hardware platforms. Fastrack deployments are also available for integrations of Nutanix Prism (intelligent infrastructure management) and Nutanix Move (for VM migration).

·            Education and certification: Nutanix Certified Professional (NCP) exam vouchers for three students and three individual seats for NCP – Multicloud Infrastructure classes with virtual instructor-led training.

Michael Magura, Vice President, APAC Channel Sales at Nutanix, said, “We created this bundle following feedback from partners that customers are looking to mitigate risk due to changes in the vendor landscape. As a result, customers are looking to establish a dual vendor strategy for particular workloads or migrate from their current vendor, and the Starter Kit is designed to help build that migration bridge for ease and assurance of transition.

“Critically, we believe that once customers experience Nutanix, it won’t be long before they engage our partners to increase their deployment.”

Uber Tech Announces 7-Year Strategic Cloud Partnership With Oracle

Oracle and Uber Technologies, Inc., today announced a seven-year strategic cloud partnership to accelerate Uber’s innovation, help deliver new products to market, and drive increased profitability. 

As Uber continues to grow and enter new markets, it is increasingly important for the business to focus resources on its core strengths and strategic initiatives. By migrating some of the company’s most critical workloads to Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), Uber will be in a position to modernize its infrastructure while also accelerating its path to profitability.

“Uber is revolutionizing the way people, products, and services move across continents and through cities,” said Uber CEO, Dara Khosrowshahi. “To deliver on that promise for customers while building value for shareholders, we needed a cloud provider that will help us maximize innovation while reducing our overall infrastructure costs. Oracle provides an ideal combination of price, performance, flexibility, and security to help us deliver incredible customer service, build new products, and increase profitability.”

This new strategic partnership with Uber along with recent analyst reports serve as powerful validation of OCI’s strategy and product vision. Customers want both flexibility and best-in-class price-performance infrastructure across a global footprint. Uber can now take advantage of these capabilities that only OCI provides.

“Uber is expanding into a ‘go anywhere, get anything’ platform, and the company needed a cloud partner that shares a relentless focus on innovation,” said Oracle CEO, Safra Catz. “This landmark competitive win for OCI is further validation of the momentum and acceleration we are experiencing in the market. Enterprises, governments, and startups around the world are recognizing the differentiation of Oracle Cloud Infrastructure and experiencing our performance, security, and economic benefits versus other hyperscalers.”

Along with the OCI agreement, the strategic partnership includes other areas of collaboration between the two companies. Oracle will become a global Uber for Business client, selecting Uber as a preferred rideshare for its employees to travel and eat around the world. Uber and Oracle will also continue co-innovating on additional retail and delivery solutions that will evolve from the cloud partnership including consumer experiences with last-mile logistics.

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