The AUM Of Women Investors In Karnataka Has Grown 4.1x In The Last Five Years: Reveals Axis Mutual Fund Study

Key Highlights:

·         While 70.4% women seek advice from professionals, friends, and family, nearly 72% women take the final call on their investment journey.

·         25% higher amount invested per woman investor with average investment corpus 37% higher than men, indicating growing confidence and a strategic approach to investing.

·         Survey respondents prioritized past performance as a crucial factor influencing their mutual fund investment decisions.

Axis Mutual Fund, one of the fastest growing fund houses in India, analysed data from over 1 crore existing Axis MF customers and conducted a nationwide survey, to unveil an interesting study titled “Women Investment Behaviour Report 2024”.

In the last five years (31st Mar 2019 to 31st Dec 2023), women investors have grown 3.6x in Karnataka. In the same time period, the AUM of women investors has grown 4.1x in Karnataka.

The findings of the study indicate that nearly 72% of women investors now make independent investment decisions. The report further highlights the proactive approach undertaken by women investors to achieve financial autonomy and growth, underscoring their commitment to long-term investing.

Addressing the significance of the study, B Gopkumar, MD&CEO, Axis AMC asserted, “The mutual fund industry is undergoing a dynamic shift as more people, particularly women, embrace investing in mutual funds as part of their financial strategy. Our research into the investment patterns of Axis MF investors reveal that women constitute 30% of Axis Mutual Fund customer base and hold ~35% of the total AUM. Understanding the evolving investor landscape, especially regarding women's preferences, is crucial for continued growth and our report aims to shed light on this aspect. By analysing their distinct needs and investment behaviours, Axis AMC aims to refine our offerings to empower their financial journeys. This is fuelled by innovative digital tools and comprehensive education programs.”

Key Insights from the report:

A)      Better persistency and Long-Term Vision: Shattering stereotypes, women investors are emerging as strong proponents of long-term investing. The report finds they exhibit a strategic approach, demonstrated by both higher amounts invested (25%) per woman investor and higher corpus on an average by a female investor (37%) compared to men. This translates to a long-term vision, with women showing 22% higher persistency in their mutual fund investments over a five-year period. This preference for long-term wealth building fosters financial security and stability, not just for individual households but also for the broader economy.

B)      Embracing the Digital Future: The digital revolution is transforming the mutual fund industry, and women are at the forefront of this change. The data is striking: in just five years, the proportion of Axis MF women investors using fintech channels has leapt from 14% to 55%. This surge highlights the pivotal role of technology in making financial services more accessible.  The pandemic further accelerated this shift, exemplifying the versatility of women in adapting to market fluctuations.  Digital tools not only simplified investing but also broadened reach for women across regions. Coupled with educational efforts, these technological strides have equipped women with the knowledge to make savvy investment choices, significantly boosting their participation in the mutual fund segment.

C)      Independent Decision Makers: Dispelling the stereotype of passive women investors, the study reveals that a remarkable 71.9% women make independent investment decisions.  The trend more pronounced in the younger generations, with 75% of women aged 25-34 and 70% aged 35-44 taking control of their financial futures by making their own investment choices. This signifies a powerful shift towards financial empowerment and autonomy for women across all demographics, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse investment landscape.

D)      Investment Preferences: The report uncovers an intriguing geographical distinction in investment choices. Women in B30 cities (beyond the top 30) show a preference for traditional investments such as fixed deposits and gold, apart from MFs. Conversely, their counterparts in T30 cities (beyond the top 30) are embracing newer investment avenues like mutual funds, stocks, and even startups. This highlights a nuanced understanding of investment options among women across diverse demographics.

Ashish Gupta, CIO, Axis AMC further added that, “The findings of our 'Women Investment Behaviour Report 2024' paint a truly inspiring picture. Women participation in the investor base is rapidly rising with demonstrably high independence and increasing sophistication. They have a data-driven approach and have quickly adopted digital tools for their investing. Their focus on long term goals and consistency is driving impressive investment outcomes for them. The fact that our 2.2 million women investors have made an average gain of over Rs. 80,000 speaks volumes about their growing financial acumen.”

Overall, this report demonstrates the remarkable transformation of women in finance. Their growing confidence and strategic approach, evident in their long-term investment focus and digital adoption, are not just fuelling their own financial success but also contributing significantly to the broader economy.

As they continue to navigate and reshape the investment landscape, empowering women investors remains paramount. Axis Mutual Fund is dedicated to providing them with the tools, resources, and educational opportunities they need.  Our commitment is to ensure they have the confidence and knowledge to make informed financial decisions and achieve their long-term goals.

Source: Axis MF Internal Research, AMFI

(Internal data as on 31st December 2023 | Survey conducted between 22nd to 29th February 2024)

About Axis Mutual Fund: Axis Mutual Fund is one of India`s fastest growing assets managers offering a comprehensive bouquet of asset management products across mutual funds (https://www.axismf.com/), portfolio management services and alternative investments (https://www.axisamc.com/homepage).

Note on methodology: With the objective of mining insights on women investor’s investment behaviour, Axis Mutual Fund conducted a PAN India survey with existing investors via email where more than 1100 investors actively participated. Axis Mutual Fund further conducted a study on over ~1 cr existing investor data to understand the investment trend. The survey consisted of 9 questions on mutual fund investments and 6 demographic questions to understand the profile of the respondent.

Top 30 cities refers to Top 30 cities in India and Other than top 30 cities refers to beyond Top 30 cities in India as on 31-Mar-2022, on AMFI: https://www.amfiindia.com/distributor-corner/circulars-and-announcements/listoftop30cities.

Code AI: 2 Day International Conference On AI and Data Science Wrapped Up In Bengaluru

Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), a constituent institute of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bengaluru, hosted CODE-AI, powered by CGI and in collaboration with Linnaeus University, Sweden, and SUPSI (University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland) on the 3rd and 4th of July at their campus in Bengaluru.

To set the event in motion, on 3rd of July, post a rousing invocation by Ms. Bhavana (Research Scholar) MIT and welcome speech by Dr. Dayananda P (General Chair) HOD - IT, MIT -B’LRU the lamp was lit by the present dignitaries, signalling the start of the event.

Dr. Gururaj H L (Program Chair) Associate Professor, IT, MIT B’LRU made some insightful opening remarks about the conference, following which chief guest Ashok Chaturvedula, Senior Vice-President, Financial Services, Asia Pacific Global Delivery Centers of Excellence, CGI was introduced by Dr. Gopalkrishnan T (Program Chair), Associate Professor, IT, MIT B’LRU. Dr Yashaswini, Assistant Professor, IT was the master of the ceremony.

Director, MITB & General Chair, CODE-AI 2024, Dr. Jagannath Karody provided thoughts and remarks on the conference. He said “We are inaugurating a very interesting conference. A B.Tech. in Data Science and AI is a new and much needed combination in India and the event will provide insights to students from both fields, by bringing in required experts. I congratulate the faculty and CGI for coming together and making this a successful event for our students.”

Addressing the attendees, Ashok Chaturvedula said “As Artificial Intelligence continues to advance and rapidly transform the way we live and work, the collaboration between industry and academia is crucial to address the war for talent in the coming years. As industry leaders, it is our responsibility to collaborate with academic institutions to nurture the next generation that is not only skilled in AI but also prepared to embrace innovation. CGI is pleased to be affiliated with Manipal Academy of Higher Education - MIT, and this conference further highlights our commitment to leading the next wave of change by example”.

After the conference remarks by the chief guest, the audience was addressed by Dr. Prema K V (Associate Director & General Chair) and the Guests of Honour, Dr. Francesco Flammini (Professor, SUSPI, Switzerland) and Dr. Sandip Chakraborty (Associate Professor, IIT Kharagpur) were introduced.

Speaking about the event, Dr. Francesco Flammini said “The primary goal of this event is to showcase global talent and shine a spotlight on innovative minds. Leveraging AI is crucial in tackling the myriad societal challenges we face today, and this conference aims to inspire individuals to thoughtfully integrate AI into their solutions. This platform offers an exceptional opportunity to network with experts across various disciplines and collaborate on groundbreaking solutions."

An enlightening panel discussion was held on the topic “Being Future Ready in Gen AI World” with panellists Deepa Jayanna (Director Consulting Delivery, CGI), Dr. Francesco Flammini (Professor, SUSPI, Switzerland), Raghav Kumar P (Vice President Consulting, Energy and Utilities APAC Solutions), Badri Ramakrishnan (AI Explorer, Technology Leader Lulumelon India) and moderated by Harikrishnan KS (Vice-President and Director Consulting and Sub BU lead Manufacturing, CGI). Various elements of AI and data science were covered, and panellists explored the possibility of students and trainees being prepared to work with AI to their best capabilities in the future.

Dr. Madhu Veeraraghavan (Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE BLR) also graced the event with his presence.

Dr. Shreyas J (Program Chair), Assistant Professor, IT, MIT B’LRU delivered the vote of thanks to conclude the conference. 

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education Bengaluru (MAHE B’LRU):

Established in 1953, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence and a Deemed to be University. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, honoured MAHE with the prestigious designation of Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. Currently ranked sixth in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience.

MAHE Bengaluru, an off-campus of MAHE, excels in delivering comprehensive education to students, supported by highly qualified faculty, and dedicated mentors. The MAHE Bengaluru campus has an inspiring, future relevant learning ecosystem, on a new age tech enabled living campus. Here, the students immerse themselves, transform and discover multiple choices and opportunities. At MAHE Bengaluru, the potential for growth and the opportunities available are boundless.

Raymond Announces Vertical Demerger Of Its Real Estate Business

Raymond Limited today announced the vertical demerger of its Real Estate Business into its wholly owned subsidiary, Raymond Realty Limited (RRL). Upon completion of this demerger, Raymond Ltd and Raymond Realty Limited (RRL) will operate as separate listed entities within the Raymond Group post all statutory approvals. The new entity will seek automatic listing on stock exchanges and according to the scheme of arrangement, each Raymond Ltd (RL) shareholder will receive 1 share of RRL for every 1 share held in Raymond Limited.

This strategic move comes as Raymond's Real Estate Business has achieved scale, reporting revenue of INR 1,593 Cr. (43% YoY growth) and EBITDA of INR 370 Cr. in FY24, positioning it well to chart its own growth path as a separate entity. Raymond Realty has ~100 acres of land in Thane with ~11.4 mn sq ft RERA approved carpet area of which about 40 acres is currently under development. There are five ongoing projects worth ?9,000 crore on its Thane land, with an additional potential to generate more than ?16,000 crore, making a total potential revenue of over ?25,000 crore from this land bank. Leveraging an asset-light model, recently Raymond Realty has launched its first JDA project in Bandra, Mumbai. Additionally, Raymond has signed three new JDAs in Mahim, Sion, and one more in Bandra East Mumbai, taking the combined revenue potential from four JDA projects in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region to over ?7,000 crore. With the development of Thane Land Bank and current 4 JDA’s gives company the potential revenue of ? 32,000 crore.

Commenting on the development, Gautam Hari Singhania, Chairman C Managing Director, Raymond Limited said; “Having stated that now we have clear three vectors of growth at Raymond group i.e. Lifestyle, Real Estate and Engineering, this corporate action is in line with creating shareholder value creation. This strategy to demerge the Real Estate business into a separate company that will be listed through automatic route is another step to enhance the shareholder value. The existing shareholders of Raymond Limited will get the shares in the new listed Real Estate company in a ratio of 1:1.”

The demerger aligns with Raymond Group's stated objectives of simplifying its corporate structure and enhancing shareholder value for operational and structural benefits. Leveraging Raymond's institutional strength, the move will allow for independent, dedicated management teams with industry-specific expertise to sharpen business focus and tailor investment strategies to each sector's unique dynamics.

About Raymond

Raymond is India’s largest integrated worsted suiting manufacturer that offers end-to-end solutions for fabric and garmenting. Over the years, Raymond has been synonymous with quality, innovation and market leadership. It has some of the leading brands within its portfolio ‘Raymond Ready to Wear’, ‘Park Avenue’, ‘ColorPlus’, ‘Parx’, ‘Raymond Made to Measure’ and ‘Ethnix by Raymond’ amongst others. Raymond has one of the largest exclusive retail networks in the country with about 1,450 stores in more than 600 towns. The group has a presence in the engineering space engaged in precision engineered products with an expansive presence in national as well as international markets. Raymond forayed into realty sector through the launch of its maiden project Ten X Habitat spread across 14 acres housing ~3,100 residential units, followed by launch of a premium residential project – The Address by GS housing ~550 residential units, Ten X Era with ~ 900 residential units. Recently, Raymond launched a new project The Address by GS 2.0 with ~ 440 units and The Invictus by GS with ~ 102 residential units. Recently company has launched its first JDA project in Bandra, Mumbai with ~ 782 residential units.

To know more, visit us today at  www.raymond.in

The All-New BMW R 12 NineT And The All-New BMW R 12 Launched In India

* Classic, purist design as a retro Roadster (BMW R 12 nineT) and as a casual Cruiser (BMW R 12)

* 2-cylinder Boxer engine with a capacity of 1,170 cc

* Exemplary craftsmanship with classic trellis frame, a flatly arranged shock absorber and a revised engine periphery.

* Headlight Pro, Key less ride & Riding Modes available as standard.

* #BMWMotorrad #R12 #R12nineT

The all-new BMW R 12 nineT and the all-new BMW R 12 have been launched in India. Both motorcycles will be available as Completely Built-up Units (CBU) and deliveries will commence from September 2024 onwards.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW Motorrad established the segment of classic bikes with the R nineT. This particular segment invites purists riders who want to focus on the original, and at the same time enjoy dynamic riding. The all-new R 12 series takes this path of emotional, original motorcycle riding even further. While the all-new BMW R 12 nineT as a classic roadster aims to make a stylish impression in urban environments, the all-new BMW R 12 embodies a classic cruiser for every day that makes you feel good and allows you to enjoy freedom. The most important values are charisma and individuality. Both motorcycles combine the authentic character of the boxer engine and the design language of traditional motorcycle eras with innovative technology and modular concept that offers the rider maximum customization options.”

The motorcycles will be available at ex-showroom prices as follows –

The all-new BMW R 12 nineT            -           INR 20,90,000

The all-new BMW R 12                      -           INR 19,90,000

*Prices prevailing at the time of invoicing will be applicable. Delivery will be made ex-showroom. Ex-showroom price (inclusive of GST and compensation cess) as applicable but excludes Road Tax, RTO statutory taxes/fees, other local tax/cess levies and insurance. Prices and options are subject to change without prior notice. For further information, please contact your local authorized BMW Motorrad Dealer.

The all-new BMW R 12 nineT is available in the following color schemes – Base in Blackstorm metallic, Optional Style–Option 719 “Aluminium” in brushed aluminium / Night Black solid paint and Optional Color San Remo Green metallic. The all-new BMW R 12 is available in the following color schemes – Base in Blackstorm metallic, Optional Style – Option 719 in Avus Silver metallic and optional Color Aventurine Red metallic.

To enable customers to own BMW Motorrad motorcycles of their choice, BMW Financial Services India offers customized and flexible financial solutions. Customers can also get their loans approved before delivery takes place. For complete peace of mind, all BMW Motorrad bikes come with a standard warranty for ‘three years, unlimited kilometers’, with an option to extend the warranty to fourth and fifth year. Road-Side Assistance, a 24x7 365 days package further ensures prompt services in case of breakdown and towing situations.

The all-new BMW R 12 nineT and the all-new BMW R 12.

The all-new BMW R 12 nineT and the all-new BMW R 12 are available as a roadster and cruiser, each offering a classic design and optimal ergonomics. The all-new BMW R 12 nineT and the all-new R 12 are built on a common, versatile base with a now one-piece tubular spaceframe, an airbox positioned flat under the seat and an angled spring strut. It offers freedom in designing the seats and side lines. On the all-new BMW R 12 nineT the aluminium tank with brushed and clear-coated side panels, the seat, and the tail-hump create a rising, dynamic line. The focus on essential design is supported by the compact and short rear end. The shorter fuel tank, which is 30 mm shorter and narrower in the rear, ensures significantly improved ergonomics and a more front-oriented seating position compared to its predecessor. On the all-new BMW R 12, the steel tank, reminiscent of the so-called “Toaster Tanks” of the 1970s BMW /5 models, emphasises the typical design language of a cruiser in a classic teardrop shape and forms a descending line with low-mounted rear wheel cover. The large 19-inch front wheel and the small 16-inch rear wheel complement this harmoniously. The classic cruiser design is also reflected in the relaxed seating position with low seat height and wide handlebars.

The new Heritage models display a strong attention to detail. This is evident in numerous features, such as the intricately designed front fender bracket or the LED headlight - with a black-framed light guide element on the R 12 nineT. The instrument panel also seamlessly integrates into the overall style. On the R 12 nineT, it features two round instruments in a traditional design, while the R 12 has a single round instrument. The LED turn indicator lights on the upper fork bridge are harmoniously equipped with tinted smoke lenses. The all-new R 12 nineT also has smoke-lens turn indicator lights at the rear, while the all-new R 12 features integrated functional turn indicator lights.

Both the all-new R 12 models feature an air/oil-cooled boxer engine, providing both powerful and character performance. The engine with 101 mm bore, 73 mm stroke and 1,170 cc capacity delivers 80 kW (109 hp) in the R 12 nineT at 7,000 rpm and the maximum torque of 115 Nm is reached at 6,500 rpm. In the R12, 70 kW (95 hp) are available at 6,500 rpm and 110 Nm are generated at 6,000 rpm.

The centrepiece of the all-new BMW R 12 models is the completely newly developed tubular bridge steel spaceframe. The new frame eliminates the need for previous fastenings, reducing weight and giving the new R 12 models a cleaner and more classic appearance. The rear frame, also made of tubular steel, is bolted to the main frame. The left-mounted “Twin Pipe” exhaust system with two rear silencers with reverse cone design caters to both the desire for a classically designed roadster and a cruiser. On the all-new BMW R 12 nineT, the manifolds and the front silencer are chrome-plated and the rear silencer is electro-polished. The all-new R 12, on the other hand, features electro-polished manifolds along with a front silencer and rear silencer with a brushed surface.

The all-new R 12 nineT and R 12 feature upside-down telescopic forks with a 45 mm slider tube diameter. The rear wheel suspension of the R 12 nineT features a Paralever swinging arm combined with a directly linked sprint strut, which is now angled diagonally compared to the previous R nineT series.

On the front wheel of the all-new R 12 nineT and the all-new R 12, a twin disc brake with two radially mounted 4-piston monobloc brake callipers and 310 mm diameter provides stable and efficient braking power. A single disc brake with 2-piston floating calliper and 265 mm diameter is used on the rear wheel. The all-new R 12 models are already equipped with BMW Motorrad ABS Pro as standard. ABS Pro also offers more safety when braking in bends by enabling ABS-assisted braking when leaning into corners.

Both all-new R 12 models are equipped with Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), which ensures a high level of driving safety when accelerating. In addition, the all-new R 12 Models equipped with standard engine drag torque control and Tyre Pressure Control.

The revs of the R 12 models are now shown with the multiplication factor 100 in the standard round instruments. The standard adaptive Headlight Pro light system in both the models offer even more safety at night. The standard Keyless Ride system replaces the conventional ignition lock on the new R 12 models.

The all-new R 12 nineT already features the "Rain", "Road" and "Dynamic" riding modes as standard and the new R 12 has the "Roll" and "Rock" riding modes so the rider can adapt the riding behaviour to his personal preferences.

Optional Packages:

The Hill Start Control Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, heated grips and cruise control are all available as part of the optional Comfort package in both the models.

Option 719 “Aluminium” Style in the all-new BMW R 12 nineT stylishly combines traditional and dark look milled components together with the vibrant solid Racing red frame complete the heritage look of the bike. The single seater lends a touch of dynamism to the motorcycle.

Option 719 Style Avus Silver metallic paintwork sets the machine apart with the dark contrasts highlighting the high-grade milled component package. Another standout optional package in all-new BMW R12 is the Option 719 seat with gold-coloured stitching and the design option exhaust system.

A comprehensive range of original BMW Motorcycle accessories & gears are available for further individualization.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Accelerates ‘Green Wave Initiative’ Through ‘Miyawaki Concept’ Driven Afforestation And Sapling Distribution

Towards its commitment to environmental sustainability, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) further accelerates the ‘Green Wave Project’ commemorating this year’s environment month. Aimed at enhancing its nature conservation activity in the community, TKM distributed saplings to its employees, under its sixth challenge namely ‘Establishing a Future Society in Harmony with Nature’, contributing towards the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050. This eco campaign continues to drive active community involvement to promote greenery, through employee engagement.

The company has successfully distributed 7000+ saplings to its employees, marking significant progress towards its 8,000-sapling target set under its plantation activity. In this direction, TKM employees are encouraged to plant and nurture the distributed saplings within their neighbourhoods and submit periodic reports on plant growth. They have been enthusiastically involving their local communities in afforestation activities, fostering a collective effort to create a greener environment.

Towards this, it is noteworthy to mention about Toyota’s tree plantation activities that are strongly driven by adopting a unique concept namely the ‘Miyawaki Method of Afforestation’ since 2009, and TKM was the first corporate in India to implement such plantation methodology. TKM’s steadfast commitment to sustainability and ecological restoration is yielding remarkable results, as evidenced by the numerous advantages of the Miyawaki approach. A comprehensive study conducted in collaboration with experts from Bangalore University revealed that the Miyawaki method excels in carbon sequestration, capturing an impressive 30.86 tons of carbon per acre.

By doing so, TKM not only restored native habitats but also created self-sustaining ecosystem that contribute to a healthier planet. Under the guidance of Late. Dr. Akira Miyawaki himself, TKM initiated its maiden Miyawaki plantation drive, way back in 2009, marking a significant milestone in its journey towards conservation of greenery and eco-consciousness. Since that momentous day, TKM's plantation drives have continued to evolve and expanded to 112 acres of green cover within the factory premises, out of which 32 acres of afforestation has been developed using Miyawaki method. Today, Toyota’s manufacturing facility, located in Bidadi, proudly boasts more than 328,000 trees of over 790 native species planted within its premises. The results have been truly awe-inspiring, with a remarkable increase in biodiversity observed over the years. From a mere 181 plant species, the count has surged to an impressive 790, while the number of faunal species has risen from 76 to 284. The vibrant ecosystem now encompasses 88 bird varieties, 38 butterfly species, 107 insects, 17 reptiles, 8 mammals, and 6 amphibians, reflecting the successful development of a thriving native forest ecosystem.

In addition, TKM has created an experiential environmental learning centre ‘Ecozone’ (spread across 25 acres with 17 theme parks and home to 65,000 trees with 650 native species) for children, teachers, community members and other stakeholders, within its manufacturing facility aimed at creating the environment leaders and change champions for the future, to usher in desired behavioural change in the communities. This green zone depicts the creation of dense forest within the plant facility using the ‘Miyawaki Concept’ of plantation. The forests are dominantly planted with species of 4 major forest types such as Dry Deciduous, Moist Deciduous, Semi-evergreen and Evergreen Forest, covering 21 different sub-concepts such as Pollination meadows, herbal garden, plants for spices etc. So far, more than 42,000+ students & other stakeholders have been covered through ecozone initiative.

Expressing his thoughts, Mr. B. Padmanabha, Executive Vice President & Director of Manufacturing - Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we recognize that environmental and social sustainability are just as crucial as economic progression. Guided by Toyota’s Global Environmental Challenge 2050 (six challenges announced in 2015), our sustainability efforts are far reaching that go beyond product zero emissions. While the first three challenges seek to achieve zero carbon emissions covering the entire life cycle of our products, across manufacturing operations as well as our value chain, the last three challenges focuses to achieve water conservation, establishing recycled based society and living in harmony with nature.

We believe that a sustainable future is built through collective action and community involvement, as exemplified by one of our eco initiatives - Green Wave Program that covers afforestation (plantation drives, distribution of saplings), sharing best practices (e.g. Miyawaki plantation methodology), creating awareness on nature conservation and imbibing good eco behaviour (Toyota Ecozone – Experiential Eco Learning). Together with our employees and other stakeholders, we aim to catalyse positive change in the community to safeguard the environment to the future.”

Last year, over 5,000 saplings were planted by TKM employees, driven by both company’s plantation efforts as well individually, promoting mass afforestation within and outside the company premises. We also encourage our employees to visit Ecozone and confirm the growth of the plants. Building on these successes, TKM continues to enhance the nature conservation activities by encouraging and sharing the best practices on plantation activities across its value chain, including its suppliers and dealers, promoting the wider adoption of greenery along with other sustainable initiatives such as 'No Plastic' campaign, reducing water usage, and minimizing carbon footprints in operations.

TKM remains dedicated to its vision of "Mass Happiness for all" and strives to inspire individuals and stakeholders to actively participate in environmental conservation.

Samsung Opens Pre-Reserve For Next Galaxy Z Series Foldable Smartphones

Samsung, India’s largest electronics brand, said consumers can now pre-reserve its next Galaxy Z series foldable smartphones to become eligible for early access and special offers.

Customers can pre-reserve the next Galaxy Z series foldable smartphones by paying a token amount of INR 2000 on Samsung.com, Samsung Exclusive Stores, Amazon.in, Flipkart.com and leading retail outlets across India. Consumers who pre-reserve the next Galaxy Z series smartphones will get benefits worth up to INR 7000 on purchase of these products.

Samsung had recently announced that it would launch the next generation of Galaxy Z series smartphones and ecosystem devices at its global event on July 10. The Galaxy Unpacked event will be hosted in Paris — where the iconic cultural nexus and trend epicentre becomes the perfect backdrop for the rollout of our latest cutting-edge innovations, Samsung said in a statement.

“The next frontier of Galaxy AI is coming. Prepare to discover the power of Galaxy AI, now infused into the latest Galaxy Z series and the entire Galaxy ecosystem. Get ready for a world of possibilities as we enter a new phase of mobile AI,” the company added.

Samsung India also announced pre-reserve for the next Samsung Galaxy wearable and hearable devices. Customers can pre-reserve Samsung’s next Galaxy ecosystem products with a token amount of INR 1999 and avail benefits worth up to INR 6499 on purchase of these products.

Samsung will optimize the Galaxy AI experience for the upcoming foldable devices to deliver a completely new and unique AI experience, according to analysts.

Mahindra Lifespaces Closes Deals Worth Rs 2050 Crore, Strengthening Presence In Key Markets

* Secures third redevelopment project in Mumbai with a GDV potential of Rs 1800 crore

* Acquires land parcel in Bengaluru's Singasandra with a GDV potential of Rs 250 crore

Mahindra Lifespace Developers Limited (MLDL), the real estate and infrastructure development arm of the Mahindra Group, today announced the closure of two deals aggregating to Rs 2050 crore in Gross Development Value (GDV). These strategic moves include securing a third redevelopment project in Mumbai and acquiring a prime land parcel in Bengaluru, further strengthening the Company's foothold in two of India's most dynamic real estate markets.

Mahindra Lifespaces has been chosen as the preferred partner for the redevelopment of seven residential societies in prestigious Borivali West, Mumbai neighborhood. This project offers an estimated Gross Development Value of approximately Rs 1800 crore. The project will be developed under state’s cluster redevelopment policy.

The Company has recently acquired 2.37 acres of land in Singasandra, South Bengaluru, located next to its existing Mahindra Zen project, which received a stupendous response at launch. The land is estimated to have a developable potential of approximately 0.25 million square feet, with a Gross Development Value of around INR 250 crore.

Amit Kumar Sinha, Managing Director & CEO, Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd., said, “These strategic moves in Mumbai and Bengaluru, with a combined GDV potential of ?2050 crore, mark a significant milestone in our growth trajectory. Our third redevelopment project in Mumbai, with a GDV of ?1800 crore, reinforces our commitment to urban renewal by creating value in established neighborhoods. Simultaneously, our ?250 crore GDV land acquisition in Bengaluru's Singasandra area positions us to further capitalize on the city's robust real estate demand. Both deals align with our focus on high-potential markets and underscore Mahindra Lifespaces' dedication to delivering quality living spaces across diverse urban landscapes. As we strengthen our presence in key markets, we remain poised for sustained growth and value creation in India's dynamic real estate sector.”