IndiaBonds.com Launches Digital Fixed Deposits – Expands Fixed Income Product Suite

IndiaBonds.com, a SEBI-registered Stock Broker (Debt Segment) & licensed Online Bond Platform Provider (OBPP), has launched Digital Fixed Deposits (FDs), making fixed-income investments more accessible and convenient for individual investors across India. With this addition, IndiaBonds.com now offers a unified platform for managing both bonds and fixed deposits seamlessly, bringing all fixed-income investments under one ambit. This launch is in line with IndiaBonds’ vision to deliver stable and rewarding investment options to retail investors while simplifying portfolio management.

The platform offers a fully digital, paperless onboarding process, including quick KYC completion, making it easy for retail investors to get started. On the platform the investors can earn up to 9.4% interest in their fixed deposit investments.  Its integrated portfolio dashboard provides clear insights into cashflows, returns, and fixed income allocations, helping investors track and manage their investments efficiently. 

By combining the stability of fixed deposits with the big flexibility of bonds, the platform empowers investors to build balanced, diversified portfolios. Additionally, investors benefit from customizable payout options, low minimum investment requirements, and the convenience of managing all their fixed-income investments in one place. The platform will expand its offerings with additional FD partners in the coming weeks.

Vishal Goenka, Co-founder of IndiaBonds.com, said, “At IndiaBonds, we have always focused on making regulated fixed-income investments simple, transparent, and accessible for individual investors. The launch of Digital Fixed Deposits is a natural step forward in our journey of expanding product offerings. By integrating bonds and FDs on one platform, we are enabling investors to optimize their portfolios effortlessly and take full advantage of fixed-income opportunities in the current market environment.” 

He added, “We are committed to continuously evolving our platform and product suite to provide clients with seamless access to stable and diversified investment options, empowering them to make informed financial decisions with ease.”

This innovative offering not only caters to the growing demand for diverse investment options but also reinforces IndiaBonds.com’s commitment to empowering individual investors with tools to make informed and rewarding financial decisions.

About IndiaBonds https://www.indiabonds.com/ 

Launched in 2021, IndiaBonds is a SEBI-registered leading Online Bond Platform Provider. It provides access to investors in the fixed-income market in a low-cost, transparent, and easy-to-use manner. 

At the helm of this bondtech company are industry veterans - Vishal Goenka, Co-Founder; and Aditi Mittal, Co-Founder & Director. This core team is committed to pioneering the digital revolution in the corporate bond market in India. 

IndiaBonds provides a wholesome solution to bond investing to its customers; and enable them to unlock the value of the fixed-income asset class. The experienced team assists investors with access to a wide choice of bond investment opportunities that provide stability, generate predictable income, and meet their investment objectives.

Within the Online Bond Platform Providers community, IndiaBonds is recognized as a revolutionizing fintech start-up owing to some of its ground-breaking innovations in the fixed-income industry. 

In 2022, it announced the launch of its strategic tool, the Bond Yield Calculator, which aids investors by simplifying the complexities of calculating corporate bond prices and yield. 

In 2021, it launched a comprehensive Bond Directory for the general public to have detailed information on all INR-denominated bonds outstanding in India.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) Introduced New OBD2B-Compliant Version Of The 'Activa 125

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) today introduced the new OBD2B-compliant version of the Activa 125 with refreshed colours and advanced features. The prices of the new 2025 Honda Activa 125 start at Rs. 94,422 (ex-showroom Delhi).

Introducing the OBD2B Activa 125, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are happy to announce the new OBD2B-compliant Activa 125. The introduction of this updated model demonstrates our commitment to customer satisfaction. With advanced features like TFT display & Bluetooth connectivity via Honda RoadSync app in the 125cc scooter segment, we aim to redefine the riding experience for customers. We are confident that it will set benchmark in its segment.”

Commenting on this announcement, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “The Activa 125 has been a preferred choice for customers and its latest upgrade is designed to further enhance the convenience and style quotient. By integrating smart connectivity features like Bluetooth, navigation, and USB Type-C charging port, we are addressing the evolving needs of today’s riders. With vibrant new colours and advanced technology, the new Activa 125 is all-set to appeal prospective buyers and rule the segment.”  

New Activa 125: Advanced Features and New Colours

The Activa 125 now boasts a host of new advancements designed to elevate the riding experience of customers. At the heart of this upgrade is a 123.92cc, single-cylinder PGM-Fi engine that is now OBD2B compliant and develops 6.20 kW of power and 10.5 Nm of torque. It is also equipped with an advanced idling stop system which enhances fuel efficiency, aligning with Honda’s sustainable philosophy.

In terms of features, the Activa 125 sports a new 4.2-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity. It is compatible with Honda RoadSync app, enabling functions like navigation and call/message alerts, allowing riders to stay connected while on the move. The Activa 125 also comes equipped with a USB Type-C charging port, ensuring convenience for riders to charge their devices on the go.

Standing true to the trust reposed by millions of customers in the brand, the Activa 125 retains its iconic silhouette but now gets contrasting brown-coloured seats and inner panels, enhancing its visual appeal. It will be offered in two variants, DLX and H-Smart, with six colour options on sale. They are – Pearl Igneous Black, Matt Axis Gray Metallic, Pearl Deep Ground Gray, Pearl Siren Blue, Rebel Red Metallic, and Pearl Precious White.   

New Activa 125: Price and Availability

The prices of the new 2025 Honda Activa 125 start at Rs. 94,422, ex-showroom Delhi. It is now available at HMSI dealerships across India.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Closes Calendar Year 2024 With 58,01,498 Unit Sales

* 3,08,083 units sold in December 2024

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India today announced its sales numbers for the month of December 2024.

The company’s total sales for December’24 stood at 3,08,083 units. This includes domestic sales of 2,70,919 units and 37,164 units exports.

Noteworthy, HMSI’s wholesales for the calendar year 2024 stood at 58,01,498 units, registering a 32% YoY growth over CY’2023. This includes domestic sales of 52,92,976 units and 5,08,522 units exports.

HMSI’s Key Highlights of Calendar Year 2024:

New Offerings in Red Wing Business

Electric Vehicles: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) ushered into the next era of mobility with the introduction of ACTIVA e: and QC1 in the electric vehicle segment. Bookings for the same began on January 1, 2025, and their deliveries will commence from February 2025 onwards. The prices of these all-new electric scooters will be revealed at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo later this month.

OBD2B Compliant Products: To further delight its customers, HMSI launched the OBD2B compliant models of Activa 125, SP125, SP160, and Unicorn with advanced features.

Honda’s Premium Motorcycle Business ‘BigWing’

New Offerings: HMSI launched the all-new ‘NX500’ adventure tourer. Meaning ’New X-over’, the NX500 is crafted to offer a delightful experience across a spectrum of terrains, on everything from a winding road to a gravel trail or long-distance adventures.

Flex-fuel Vehicle: HMSI launched the new CB300F Flex-Fuel, marking a significant stride in the country's transition to greener mobility solutions. The CB300F is India’s first 300cc flex-fuel motorcycle.

Business & Brand Milestones

New Assembly Lines: In a momentous step towards bolstering the ‘Make in India’ initiative, HMSI inaugurated a new 3rd assembly line at its fourth two-wheeler plant at Vithalapur in the state of Gujarat. The company also added a new state-of-the-art engine assembly line at its Global Resource Factory in Manesar, Gurugram (Haryana), with a focus on CKD (Completely Knocked Down) exports.

Business Milestones: HMSI accomplished a historic achievement of 6 crore domestic sales in India. Starting its retail operations in June 2001, Honda has been delighting the Indian customers for over two decades. Additionally, Honda’s 125cc motorcycles ‘Shine & SP125’ crossed over 30 lakh customers in Eastern India. The company also announced its remarkable feat of crossing 10 million customer mark for Activa in Southern India.

Road Safety

To make Indian roads safer for all, HMSI organized road safety awareness campaigns in schools, colleges, and government organizations for both kids & adults. The initiative was spread to more than 100 cities across the country.

HMSI also organized eight Road Safety Conventions in various cities with school principals & teachers as a part of their ongoing project - Mindset Development for our Future Generation. With this, the company has cumulatively educated more than 85 lakh Indian citizens on importance of road safety.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Projects for Socio-Economic upliftment: Honda India Foundation (HIF) continued with its flagship program Project Pragati under which it provides theory, simulator & practical training to both new and existing GDAs. HIF along with the Mizoram Youth Commission (MYC) and Visan Foundation launched “Project Buniyaad - Aathmanirbharta Ka Aadhar” that aims at providing employment to the unemployed youth from the marginal sections of society. HIF also commenced its “Stree …steering her own path” women empowerment initiative and completed training female cab drivers at its Institute of Driving Training and Research, Karnal.

Industrial Visit for Students: HMSI conducted an industrial visit for young students at its Global Resource Factory in Manesar (Haryana). Under this initiative, the company organized presentations & practical guided tour of the company’s manufacturing facility along with engaging sessions by HMSI’s experts in the areas of Health, Road Safety & Motorsports.

World Environment Day: HMSI celebrated Environment Month coinciding with the World Environment Day on June 5th. As part of the Environment month celebrations, HMSI is setting an inspiring example by planting 1 lakh trees across various regions of India.

Motorsports

Honda India Talent Cup: Displaying exceptional racing prowess, Mohsin Paramban clinched the top position and won the 2024 IDEMITSU Honda Indian Talent Cup NSF250R.

Asia Road Racing Championship: Making a significant mark on international soil, IDEMITSU Honda Racing India's Kavin Quintal and Mohsin Paramban raced in the Asia Road Racing Championship finale. The IDEMITSU Honda Racing India team earned a total of 13 points for the season in the Asia Production 250cc (AP250) class.

MotoGP: Repsol Honda Team rider Joan Mir attained the 21st position, while his teammate Luca Marini stood at 22nd position in the MotoGP 2024 championship.

Dakar Rally: Monster Energy Honda Team rider Ricky Brabec, riding the CRF450 RALLY factory bike, won the overall motorcycle category for the second time since 2020 in the Dakar Rally 2024, opening round of the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship held in Saudi Arabia.

Waayu- India's First Zero Commission Food Delivery App, Now Expanding To 25+ Cities, Set To Onboard 1 Lakh+ Restaurants

* Aims to onboard 10,000 restaurants in 6 months.

WAAYU, India’s pioneering 0% commission food delivery app, is setting a new benchmark in the online food delivery industry by announcing  its expansion into 25 cities across the country. Strongly backed by the ONDC, WAAYU delivers an innovative solution that blends quality, convenience, and variety, empowering local restaurants while offering customers affordable, memorable meals.

The expansion marks a strategic move to onboard 10,000 restaurants in 6 months, 25,000 in one year, and an ambitious target of 1 lakh restaurants in three years, while aiming to capture 30% of India’s online food delivery market. With the support of ONDC and strong partnerships with platforms like Tata Neu, OLA, Paytm, Pidge and Bajaj Finserv, WAAYU ensures seamless customer experiences, from restaurant discovery to last-mile delivery. WAAYU’s partnership with curated restaurants ensures an unparalleled experience for both restaurants and customers. By leveraging technology and its zero-commission ecosystem, the platform not only empowers local businesses but also enhances customer satisfaction by offering quality food at affordable prices from authentic restaurants.

“WAAYU is here to revolutionize food delivery in India,” said Mandar Lande, Co-Founder & CEO of WAAYU. “By eliminating commission fees, we’re empowering restaurants to maximize their profits and offer customers better value.”

“This model not only resolves the pain points caused by the current duopoly in the food delivery space but also empowers restaurants to control their online business, unlocking new employment opportunities in the process while also providing franchise partners the training and support they need” said Anirudha Kotgire, MD & Co-Founder of Waayu.

With its proven model in cities like Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore, WAAYU continues to scale rapidly, unlocking significant employment opportunities in the food delivery sector and enabling restaurants to regain control of their businesses. Further, WAAYU has partnered with Bizwell, a leading franchise consultancy, to facilitate its national expansion by appointing Franchises in each of these cities, ensuring the restaurant onboarding process is seamless across all 25 cities.

About Waayu:

Waayu is India’s first zero-commission food delivery app. With a vision to empower restaurants and make quality food affordable, WAAYU is redefining online food delivery through its unique business model and partnerships.

Watson Pub Ends The Year Celebrations With A Big Bang

Watson’s, the city’s favorite neighborhood pub, is gearing up for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration. Known for its lively atmosphere and excellent service, Watson’s promises a spectacular year-end experience for its patrons.

“At Watson’s, we ensure our New Year’s Eve celebrations offer an unforgettable experience for our discerning customers across all four branches in Bangalore. This year, we’re also introducing an exciting new menu that we’re confident our guests will enjoy,” said Mr. Rajanish Babu, COO, Shilton Hospitality.

The festivities will feature commercial Bollywood nights and an electrifying lineup with DJ T- Jorus and DJ Lobby, who are set to create the perfect high-energy vibe. Guests can also indulge in Watson’s signature cocktails and a specially curated food menu designed to keep the party going all night long.

For details contact : +91 63648 77352/ +91 7760988922

About Shilton Hospitality:

Shilton Hospitality is a premier Bangalore-based hospitality company renowned for its diverse portfolio of exceptional brands that cater to various lifestyle and leisure needs. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Shilton Hospitality operates five distinct brands: Watsons, Fireflies, Starlight, 

Shilton Hotels & 22 Catering Company. With its deep-rooted passion for excellence, Shilton Hospitality continues to redefine hospitality standards across India.

Suzuki-Backed Next Bharat Ventures Hosts The Next Billion Forum To strengthen India-Japan Ties And Empower India's "Next Billion"

Mr. Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Suzuki Motor Corporation, inaugurated the forum in GIFT City on December 23, 2024

This year’s theme, “India’s Next Billion Opportunities,” explored a strategic roadmap for integrating impact driven startups, working in the informal sectors, into the country’s growth story as it approaches its centenary of independence

The forum featured Mr. Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Mr. K. Rajaraman, Chairman of IFSCA, and Guest of Honor Mr. Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog. Also in attendance were the Governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, and over 60 Japanese delegates, including CEOs of prominent Japanese organizations operating in India

The event also hosted a panel discussion on “Bharat 2047,” which included eminent panelists such as Mr. K. Rajaraman, Chairman of IFSCA, Mr. Nilesh Shah, Managing Director at Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Co.; a well-known economist and advisor to the Prime Minister; Ms. Reema Nanavati, Director of SEWA. The discussion was moderated by Mr. Mohandas Pai, Chairman of Aarin Capital

GIFT City, 25th December 2024: Next Bharat Ventures, a subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, successfully hosted the inaugural Next Billion Forum. This event marked a pivotal step in fortifying India-Japan ties and fostering strategic investments in India’s underserved regions. The forum emphasized the importance of charting a course for Viksit Bharat 2047 by integrating the rural and informal economy into the national growth agenda. The forum also marked the opening of applications for the second cohort of the Next Bharat Residency Program. 

During the forum, 13 impact entrepreneurs from the cohort of Next Bharat Ventures were introduced, and the start of the application process for their next batch was announced. Selected from over 1,500 startups across the country, 50% of these select entrepreneurs are women founders. Next Bharat Ventures, apart from providing risk capital, also provides network and mentoring to these startups. 

Launching the Next Billion Forum, Mr. Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Suzuki Motor Corporation said, “Suzuki is proud to contribute to India’s growth story through initiatives like the Next Billion Forum. By fostering innovation, supporting local entrepreneurs, and creating impactful partnerships, we aim to empower Tier 2 and Tier 3 geographies and pave the way for a developed India by 2047. This forum is a testament to the transformative potential of a strong India-Japan partnership.”

“Bharat has about 1.4 billion people, but we have only reached about 0.4 billion with our mobility business. Our goal is to connect with the "Next Billion" people of India, extending beyond mobility and becoming a part of India's future story. Next Bharat Ventures builds on Suzuki's legacy of solving real-world problems to empower impact entrepreneurs in rural India. By investing in innovative solutions, we aim to create value for both India and Japan, supporting the next billion people and fostering sustainable growth for a brighter future.” Mr. Suzuki added. 

Themed “India’s Next Billion Opportunities,” the forum highlighted strategies for integrating India’s rural and informal economies into its broader development trajectory. A panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Mohandas Pai, also included esteemed panelists such as Mr. Nilesh Shah, Managing Director at Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Co., a well-known economist and advisor to the Prime Minister; Ms. Reema Nanavati, Director of SEWA; and Mr. K. Rajaraman, Chairman of IFSCA. Discussions centred on strategies to achieve India’s development goals by 2047, with a special focus on key investment practices to unlock the growth potential of the Next Billion.

Mr. Vipul Nath Jindal, MD & CEO of Next Bharat Ventures, emphasized: “Next Bharat Ventures was founded with the vision of building a community of great entrepreneurs, creating greater impact for the next billion people. The Next Billion Forum represents a transformative step in reshaping India’s growth narrative. By focusing on patient capital and fostering ‘elephant entrepreneurs’—who prioritize social value alongside steady growth—we can drive sustainable, inclusive development. This forum is not merely a discussion platform but a call to action for real change by both India and Japan.”

Mr. Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, Govt. of India and former CEO of NITI Aayog, added “India, a $4 trillion economy growing at 8.2%, is the only country building eight airports and three metros annually, 30 km of roads and 13 km of railway tracks daily, and has increased solar energy 31x in nine years. Our virtual banking system handles 50% of fast payments in real-time on mobile and we aim to become a $30 trillion economy by 2047 under PM Modi's vision to achieve this milestone we require more partnerships like those with Japan, particularly through Suzuki Motors, which has been integral to India's manufacturing success over so many decades. 

Next Bharat Ventures backed by Suzuki is transforming rural livelihoods by empowering young entrepreneurs and driving value addition in agriculture. I’ve never seen such an investment strategy by any private organization; the impact Next Bharat Ventures will create in the next decade is set to redefine India’s growth trajectory. This initiative will create sustainable jobs and increase producer earnings, fostering a new generation of entrepreneurs in India. Through support in finance, mentorship, and market access, Suzuki is laying the groundwork for lasting change. The Government of India fully supports this transformative program, which will have a profound impact on India's future.” Mr. Kant concluded.  

Further to this, Mr. K Rajaraman, Chairperson of International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), discussed at length how India must move from being a passive consumer to a global leader in innovation and domestic capabilities. He outlined progress in India's reform journey led by Hon Prime Minister, mentioning “With over 28 international banks and 200 alternate investment funds already operational at GIFT City, we are witnessing unprecedented progress. Initiatives such as Next Bharat Ventures' impact investment fund registered in GIFT IFSC further underline the critical role of collaborations in unlocking Middle India’s potential and empowering communities. IFSCA's focus remains on creating an ecosystem that seamlessly attracts global capital while driving inclusive, sustainable, and technology-enabled growth for ViksitBharat@2047 journey.” He also pointed out increased scope for Japanese investors to invest in India.

Mr. Nilesh Shah, Managing Director at Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Co.; a well-known economist and advisor to the Prime Minister reflected during the panel, "Investors are drawn to India for growth, governance, and efficiency. Over the last decade, Indian markets have delivered 166% earnings growth in rupee terms, far surpassing China's 10% in renminbi. Despite needing capital, India is an exporter of capital."

The forum also witnessed the launch of new initiatives aimed at advancing India’s informal and rural sectors. These initiatives reaffirm Next Bharat Ventures’ commitment to sustainable development and fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems across the country’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 geographies.

Setting Benchmarks In Safety, Vedanta Iron Ore Karnataka Hosts The Concluding Day Event Of Mines Safety Week 2024

The ‘Mines Safety Week 2024’, organized by the Mines Safety Association Karnataka (MSAK), Zone-3, under the aegis of the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), culminated in a grand ‘Concluding Day Event’ hosted by Vedanta Sesa Goa - Iron Ore Karnataka. This prestigious event was graced by Shri. Ujjwal Tah, Director General of Mines Safety (DGMS), Dhanbad, as the Chief Guest, alongside Shri. R. T. Mandekar, Dy. Director General of Mines Safety, Southern Zone, Bengaluru, Shri. Vinod Kumar, President, MSAK Zone-3 & Chief Operating Officer (COO), Vedanta Sesa Goa, Shri. R. Praveen Chandra, Chairman, MSAK & Mine Owner of M/s. R. Praveen Chandra (ERM Group), and other dignitaries.

Around 1500 mining professionals, workers, from across mines in Karnataka, government officials, participated in the Mines Safety Week ‘Concluding Day Event’. The ‘Mines Safety Week 2024’ serves as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of safety measures in the mining industry and to recognize the outstanding contributions to safety protocols. This year’s events were based on the theme - ‘Safe Handling of Explosives in Mines.’ The week-long initiative witnessed active participation from mining organizations across Karnataka, aiming to foster a robust safety culture in the mining sector through knowledge-sharing & technical innovations. The ’Closing Day Event’ commenced with a Mines Safety Flag hoisting, oath taking ceremony aimed at ensuring safety at all times, formal addresses by the Chief guest, dignitaries, releasing the Mines Safety week souvenirs, and cultural performances.

Addressing the gathering, Shri. Ujjwal Tah, Director General of Mines Safety (DGMS), Dhanbad emphasized, “Safety in mining is not just a regulatory requirement but a moral responsibility that must be deeply ingrained in every action we take. Events like Mines Safety Week provide a platform to recognize efforts, share best practices, and reaffirm our commitment to a safer mining ecosystem. I am confident that organising the Mines Safety Week Observance will help the mining industry to achieve the goal of zero accident potential.”

Shri. R. Praveen Chandra, Chairman, MSAK, lauded the collaborative efforts of the industry, stating, “Safety Week is a testament to the mining community's resolve to prioritize worker safety. I commend Vedanta Sesa Goa – Iron Ore Karnataka for hosting this remarkable event and for their continuous leadership in embracing advanced safety technologies.”

The ‘Closing Day Event’ also recognised individuals and teams who have displayed exceptional commitment to safety practices. Awards were presented in categories such as Best Safe Mines, Best Practices in Safety Management, and Overall excellence in Mines safety.The event concluded with a vote of thanks, emphasizing the shared vision of fostering a zero-harm culture in mining. Vedanta’s hosting of the Mines Safety Week 2024 highlights its unwavering dedication to creating a secure and sustainable future for all stakeholders in the mining ecosystem.

Shri. Vinod Kumar, President, MSAK Zone-3, reiterated Vedanta's commitment to safety, saying, “Mines Safety Week serves as a platform to highlight the significance of safety measures within the mining industry. At Vedanta Sesa Goa, safety is a fundamental aspect of our philosophy, and we are proud of the comprehensive measures we have implemented to minimize risks, enhance safety protocols, and prevent untoward incidents.”

Speaking at the event, Shrishaila Gouda, CEO, Vedanta Iron Ore Karnataka, said: “At Vedanta, the safety and security of our employees and business partners are our highest priorities. Mines Safety Week 2024 reaffirms our commitment to creating a secure and thriving work environment. Safety is not just a practice; it is a mindset that guides every operation. We are dedicated to providing a safe working environment for all, including our women employees and women mining engineers at our iron ore mine in Karnataka.”

Vedanta Sesa Goa, the hosts for the event , have increasingly adopted latest technology in ensuring that mining operations are conducted under inviolable safety conditions, these include the deployment of state-of-the-art equipment such as the Slope Safety Radar (SSR).Further, to achieve the highest standards of safety compliance, the Company has launched the ‘Safety is Us’ campaign which innovatively engages internal stakeholders as also the communities, and aims at enhancing safety consciousness, demonstrating a holistic approach to safety.