Midwest Energy Opens Its Giga Watt Scale Manufacture Facility For Manufacturing Battery Energy Storage Systems

* Integrated Cell-to-Container production strengthens India's advanced energy storage manufacturing capabilities

Midwest Energy, the technology and clean energy arm of the Midwest Business House, today announced the commencement of commercial production at its 1.2 GWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) manufacturing facility in Bengaluru.

The facility has been established with integrated Cell-to-Container manufacturing capabilities, enabling production of battery modules, trays, racks and fully integrated containerised Systems to serve commercial, industrial, renewable energy and utility-scale applications.

The commissioning of the facility marks an important milestone in Midwest Energy's journey in expansion of its capabilities at a time when battery storage is becoming an essential component of modern power infrastructure.

As renewable energy deployment accelerates and grid flexibility becomes increasingly important, Battery Energy Storage Systems are expected to play a significant role in supporting reliable power supply, renewable integration and energy resilience.

Facility Highlights

Annual manufacturing capacity of 1.2 GWh

Integrated Cell-to-Container manufacturing

Wide capacity range from 3 kWh to 6 MWh (48V–1500V)

Applications across commercial, industrial, renewable and utility sectors

Advanced quality assurance, traceability and end-of-line testing

Products aligned with UL 1973, UL 9540 and UL 9540A

Customised solutions

Soumya K, Chief Executive Officer, Midwest Energy Limited:

"India is pursuing an accelerated transition towards a cleaner energy future driven by renewability, sustainability, decarbonisation and decentralisation. The increasing integration of renewable energy into the power grid is fundamental to achieving these objectives. While, it present challenges such as demand-supply mismatch, grid instability and supply uncertainties.

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) provide a reliable, effective and fast deployable solution to address these challenges and enabling a resilient, stable and decarbonised energy ecosystem. Through this facility, we are building indigenous capabilities to design, manufacture and deploy advanced energy storage solutions that are proudly designed and made in India. Our vision is to become a trusted long-term partner in supporting the country's clean energy transition."

Midwest Energy will focus on supplying advanced Battery Energy Storage Systems across domestic and international markets while expanding its portfolio of customised energy storage solutions for diverse customer requirements.

The facility has been designed to support scalable manufacturing, high product reliability and globally benchmarked quality standards, in line with its stated objectives.

About Midwest Energy

Midwest Energy is the technology and clean energy arm of the Midwest Business House, a Hyderabad-headquartered industrial group established in 1981 with diversified operations spanning mineral exploration, mining, mineral processing, engineering and advanced materials.

The company is developing manufacturing capabilities across Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), rare earth permanent magnets and critical materials that support electric mobility, renewable energy, grid infrastructure and strategic industries.

Midwest Energy has commissioned an integrated 1.2 GWh Battery Energy Storage manufacturing facility in Bengaluru with end-to-end Cell-to-Container capabilities for manufacturing battery modules, battery trays, battery racks and fully integrated containerised Battery Energy Storage Systems.

The company is further building rare earth permanent magnet eco-system first time in India and has established a commercial scale magnet manufacturing unit with a capacity of 500 TPA and expanding the same to 5000 TPA in Hyderabad, Telangana.

Midwest Energy strives continuously to bring in improvements in the entire value system including but not limited to materials, process, products and production systems to support its core purpose i.e., cleaner air, water, food chain and public health.

FOUNDER’S MESSAGE

K Raghava Reddy, Founder Midwest Business House

This project is in sync with our stated objectives and purpose to contribute towards improving the quality of;

Air,

Water,

Food chain and consequently public health by contributing towards energy transition goals of renewability, sustainability, decarbonization & decentralization.   

Photo Caption 2: Photo Caption: Padma Shri Dr. Krishnamurthy Balasubramanian, Director, Nonferrous Materials Technology Development Centre (NFTDC), inaugurated Midwest Energy's Giga Watt-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) manufacturing facility in Bengaluru on Monday. He was joined by K. Raghava Reddy, Founder, Midwest Business House; Soumya K, Chief Executive Officer, Midwest Energy Limited; and members of the Midwest Energy leadership team.

Abbott Expands Rashfree™ Portfolio With Launch Of Rashfree™ Eva Cream And Rashfree™ Spray

Abbott, the global healthcare company, has expanded its Rashfree™ portfolio with the launch of Rashfree™ Eva Cream and Rashfree™ Spray, extending its trusted expertise beyond baby care to address the needs of women and elderly adults.

Rashfree™ Eva Cream is specially formulated to help soothe and protect skin from rashes and chafing, making it ideal for women who often experience irritation in sensitive areas. Rashfree™ Spray offers a convenient, touch-free way to care for irritated skin, helping adults, especially those using diapers, to gently manage discomfort and maintain hygiene. Together, these products help relieve everyday skin concerns caused by friction, sweat, moisture, and sensitivity.

In India’s hot and humid climate, skin rashes and chafing are common. Women often experience discomfort in high-friction areas due to sweat, hormonal changes, active lifestyles, tight clothing, and prolonged use of personal hygiene products. At the same time, many elderly adults dealing with incontinence or limited mobility also need simple and effective solutions to care for diaper-related skin irritation. Rashfree™ Eva & Spray are designed to support these needs with gentle, easy-to-use care. [1-4]

Many people often turn to home remedies or quick fixes that may not always provide lasting relief. Abbott’s Rashfree™ Eva Cream and Rashfree™ Spray are specially designed to offer a more effective and reliable solution. Each product is thoughtfully developed to suit different skin needs - whether it’s everyday irritation in women or diaper-related discomfort in adults. Together, they provide easy-to-use care that helps protect the skin, keep it hydrated, soothe irritation, and support the natural healing process.

Through its expanded Rashfree™ portfolio, Abbott aims to elevate care with solutions that enhance everyday comfort, restore confidence, and support skin health across life stages.

Quotes:

V. Ramanathan, Managing Director & General Manager, Abbott’s Primary Care business in India.

“There is a clear and growing need for simple, effective solutions to address everyday skin concerns that are often under-recognized yet impact comfort and quality of life. With this launch, we aim to bridge this gap by offering convenient, easy-to-use solutions that support both individuals and caregivers in maintaining healthy skin.”

Ankith Rai, Associate Director, Medical Affairs, Abbott India

“Skin irritation caused by moisture and friction is common, particularly in India’s climate, and can affect both physical comfort and confidence. Using appropriate, gentle care can help soothe irritation, protect the skin barrier, and support overall skin health”.   

Telangana Cheers Three New Super-Premium Spirits From ABD Maestro

*AODH Irish Whiskey, WOODBURNS Contemporary Indian Whisky and YELLO Designer Whisky hit shelves in Hyderabad

ABD Maestro Pvt. Ltd., the super-premium and luxury spirits subsidiary of Allied Blenders & Distillers Limited (ABD) has arrived in Telangana with the launch of 3 award-winning whiskies – AODH Irish Whiskey, WOODBURNS Contemporary Rare Indian Whisky and YELLO Designer Whisky. ABD Maestro is co-founded by Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh.

AODH is a classic Irish whiskey — triple-distilled for that famously smooth, easy-drinking character. WOODBURNS is India's award-winning pride; the first-ever Indian brand to win the Revelation Blended Whisky Award and Grand Gold at the 27th Spirit Selection by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles (2025). YELLO breaks the rules altogether — a bold, design-forward cross-continental blend of Scotch and Indian malts- crafted for the modern Indian.

The launch of the 3 super-premium whiskies marks a significant step in ABD Maestro's journey in the strategic market of Telangana.

Announcing the debut at a launch event in Hyderabad, Bikram Basu, Managing Director, ABD Maestro, said: “Telangana, and Hyderabad in particular, has evolved into a market where super-premium alcohol beverage consumption is driven by consumers looking to drink better. Consumers here understand quality and great craftsmanship, given its own heritage. This is an exciting market for ABD Maestro, as all 3 brands, Aodh Irish Whiskey, Woodburns Contemporary Indian Whisky and Yello Designer Whisky offers very distinct experiences for consumers who are reimagining modern luxury.”

Hyderabad has become one of India's most future forward drinking capitals — a place where a strong pub, bar and restaurant culture, a young cosmopolitan crowd and a taste for global experiences mean new brands are sought. That curiosity extends beyond the capital, with super- premium spirits finding growing audiences in cities like Warangal, Karimnagar, Nizamabad, and other towns.

Where to find them: All 3 whiskies are now available at leading retail outlets in Hyderabad — AODH at Rs. 3,470, WOODBURNS at RS. 2,500 and YELLO at Rs. 2,630 respectively for a 750ml bottle. The brands will also be available at premium bars and restaurants.

About ABD Maestro Private Limited

ABD Maestro Private Limited is a super-premium and luxury spirits company, and a subsidiary of Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited, the largest domestic Spirits company in India, in terms of annual sales volumes. Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh is a co-founder and creative partner at ABD Maestro.

The ABD Maestro portfolio include The Collective Limited Edition, Arthaus Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, Aodh Irish Whiskey, Woodburns Contemporary Indian Malt Whisky, Yello Designer Whisky, Zoya Special Batch Gin and its flavours, Rangeela Contemporary Indian Vodka, Pumori Small Batch Gin and Pink Gin, Segredo Aldeia Café and White Rums. Through its partnership with Roust Corporation, the company has introduced Russian Standard Vodka to India in three distinct segments: Original, Gold, and Platinum.

Bhartiya Mall Of Bengaluru Presents Science Fest 2026: Enter The Roboverse

Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru is set to transform into a vibrant hub of innovation, creativity and future-ready learning with Science Fest 2026: Enter The Roboverse, a nine-day celebration of science, technology and innovation designed for students, families and aspiring young innovators.

Scheduled from 25th July to 2nd August 2026, the event will bring together robotics, artificial intelligence, electronics and experiential learning through an engaging programme of interactive workshops, competitions and live demonstrations. Designed to spark curiosity and inspire innovation, the festival offers visitors of all ages the opportunity to explore emerging technologies through immersive, hands-on experiences.

One of the key attractions will be a series of weekend workshops introducing participants to the fundamentals of science and engineering through practical learning. Sessions include Block Electronics, Build Your Own Car, Breadboard Circuit Making and the Obstacle Car Race, encouraging participants to design, build, experiment and solve real-world challenges. Visitors can also register for weekday workshops through BookMyShow, making it easy to participate in activities throughout the festival.

By bringing together education, innovation and community participation, Science Fest 2026: Enter The Roboverse aims to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, innovators and problem-solvers while making science engaging, accessible and enjoyable for audiences of all ages.

Venue: Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru

Dates: 25th July – 2nd August 2026

Entry: Free | Register on BMS  

Beyond Snack Launches ZERO And VIBE Across Indian Market

* Two distinct additions to the Beyond Snack portfolio, bringing new formats, flavours and ingredient choices to consumers.

Beyond Snack, one of India's fastest-growing premium banana chips brands, today announced the launch of Beyond Snack ZERO and Beyond Snack VIBE, two distinct additions to its portfolio that reflect the brand's continued pursuit of redefining the banana chips category.

Beyond Snack ZERO builds on the brand's belief that great banana chips start with great ingredients. Developed over four months, ZERO contains zero palm oil, zero preservatives, zero added colour and zero added refined sugar, while delivering the signature taste and crunch people know Beyond Snack for. The range is available in Original Style, Peri Peri and Salt & Black Pepper across Blinkit, Zepto and Swiggy Instamart, as well as premium retail outlets across Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai and Pune, in 50g packs at an MRP of ₹50.

Beyond Snack VIBE introduces a new vertical-cut banana chip with Masala Mingle, developed for party and sharing occasions. Every element, from the distinctive cut and flavour profile to the pack sizes, was developed to create a distinctive snacking experience while staying true to the taste, texture and quality the brand is known for. VIBE is available across Blinkit, Zepto and Swiggy Instamart, as well as modern trade and retail outlets in metro cities in 50g packs at ₹50 and 100g packs at ₹100.

"Banana chips are all we do, and every product we launch has to stay true to what people already enjoy about Beyond Snack. Whether it's ZERO or VIBE, our goal is always the same: to deliver the taste, texture and quality people expect from us while giving consumers another reason to choose Beyond Snack." said Manas Madhu, Founder and CEO, Beyond Snack.

Having closed the last financial year at ₹74 crore in revenue, Beyond Snack is now targeting ₹200 crore in annual recurring revenue, supported by continued investment in product development, manufacturing and distribution.

Founded in 2020, Beyond Snack works with more than 200 farmers across Kerala and manages an integrated farm-to-pack supply chain. Today, the brand is available across quick commerce, modern trade, general trade and international markets, bringing Kerala's iconic Nendran banana chips to consumers across India and around the world.

About Beyond Snack

Beyond Snack (Dr Jackfruit India Pvt. Ltd.) is one of India's fastest-growing premium banana chips brands. Founded in Kerala, the company works with more than 200 farmers and manages an integrated farm-to-pack supply chain, bringing premium Nendran banana chips to consumers across India and international markets.

YES Bank Starts FY27 With Strong Growth Momentum, Higher Profitability, Improved Asset Quality And Rating Upgrades

Key Highlights:

* The Bank earned a net profit of INR 1,071 crores in Q1 FY27, up 33.7% Y-o-Y

* Total Deposits stood at INR 3,15,373 crores, up 14.3% Y-o-Y

* CASA Ratio at 32.7% v/s 32.8% in Q1FY26 and 35.1% in Q4FY26

* Net Advances at INR 2,85,118 crores, up 18.3% Y-o-Y

The Bank's operating profit grew to INR 1,704 crores in Q1FY27, up 25.5% Y-o-Y

YES BANK announced strong financial results for Q1FY27, showing growth in profitability, improved asset quality, and multiple upgrades by rating agencies.

The Bank reported a net profit of INR 1,071 crore in Q1FY27, registering a robust Y-o-Y growth of 33.7% over Q1FY26, underscoring the sustained momentum in earnings. The Bank’s Net Interest Income stood at INR 2,786 crore for Q1FY27, a growth of 17.5% Y-o-Y. The Non-Interest Income grew to INR 1,798 crores, up by 2.6% Y-o-Y.

The Bank's cost-to-income ratio improved to 62.8% from 63% in Q4FY26 and 67.1% in Q1 FY26. The Return on Assets (RoA) was at 0.9% in Q1FY27, versus 1.0% in Q4FY26. Total deposits grew 14.3% Y-o-Y to INR 3,15,373 crores. CASA deposits grew by 14.3% Y-o-Y to INR 103,233 crores. The CASA ratio stood at 32.7% in Q1FY27.

Retail Assets disbursements remained strong, and grew by 27.5% Y-o-Y. YES BANK's asset quality in Q1FY27 remained strong, as GNPA Ratio stood at 1.3% in Q1FY27 which is down 30 bps Y-o-Y, and NNPA Ratio stood at 0.2% Y-o-Y. The Provision Coverage Ratio (PCR) stood at 81.7% - which is amongst the top quartile within the peer set

Commenting on the results and financial performance, Mr. Vinay M. Tonse, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, YES BANK said, “YES BANK has begun FY27 on a strong footing, with Q1 Net Profit growing ~34% Y-o-Y to INR 1,071 Crs. We delivered higher core earnings even as gains from Security Receipts and treasury fell sharply - clear evidence that the underlying franchise is strengthening. Margins held steady at 2.7%, cost-to-income improved further, and asset quality strengthened as slippage eased. We also earned meaningful external validation this quarter — rating upgrades from Moody's, CARE and ICRA, and our inaugural international rating from S&P Global. Growth was broad-based, including sustained momentum in Retail disbursements. Looking ahead, our focus is clear: deepen the core, sustain profitability, and create a resilient franchise that delivers lasting value for every stakeholder.”

During the quarter, YES BANK has received multiple upgrades from credit rating agencies such as - Moody's upgraded to ‘Ba1’/ Stable, CareEdge upgraded to ‘CARE AA+ (Stable)’ and ICRA upgraded to ‘AA (Stable)’.

The Bank also received its inaugural international credit rating of ‘BB+’ / Stable from S&P Global. On the ESG front, the Bank was included in the FTSE4Good Index Series for the fourth consecutive year and was recognised as the 'Most Sustainable Bank' at the Business Today – India's Most Sustainable Companies 2026 summit and awards. Additionally, the Bank was recognised among the Top 25 India's Best Workplaces™ in BFSI 2026 by Great Place to Work® India.

About YES BANK

YES BANK is one of the leading new generation private sector banks in India, headquartered in Mumbai. The Bank offers a wide range of banking services such as Corporate & Institutional Banking, Retail Banking, MSME, Transaction Banking and Treasury. The Bank has over 1300 branches, 200+ Business Correspondent Banking Outlets (BCBOs) and more than 1350 ATMs (including CRMs and BNAs) spanning across 300 districts of India. YES BANK operates an International Banking Unit (IBU) at GIFT City and also has a Representative Office in Abu Dhabi, strengthening its cross-border capabilities.

YES Securities, a subsidiary of the BANK provides a wide range of broking and investment products to Retail, HNI, and Institutional clients. YES Foundation, the CSR arm of YES BANK drives social impact agenda across areas such as livelihoods, education, skilling, sustainability and community development, reinforcing its commitment to responsible and inclusive banking.

For more information, visit the Bank's website at https://www.yes.bank.in/     

Kotak Mahindra Bank Records Standalone PAT For Q1FY27 At ₹ 4,123 Crore, Up 26% YoY

* Consolidated PAT For Q1FY27 At ₹ 5,480 Crore, Up 23% YoY

The Board of Directors of Kotak Mahindra Bank (“the Bank”) approved the unaudited standalone and consolidated results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, at the Board meeting held in Mumbai, today.

Kotak Mahindra Bank standalone results

The Bank’s PAT for Q1FY27 increased to ₹ 4,123 crore, up 26% YoY from ₹ 3,282 crore in Q1FY26 (up 2% QoQ from ₹ 4,027 crore in Q4FY26).

Net Interest Income (NII) for Q1FY27 increased to ₹ 7,928 crore, up 9% YoY from ₹ 7,259 crore in Q1FY26 (up 1% QoQ from ₹ 7,876 crore in Q4FY26).

Net Interest Margin (NIM) was 4.53% for Q1FY27 (4.65% for Q1FY26 and 4.67% for Q4FY26). Cost of funds was 4.46% for Q1FY27 (5.01% for Q1FY26 and 4.45% for Q4FY26).

Fees and services for Q1FY27 increased to ₹ 2,500 crore, up 11% YoY from ₹ 2,249 crore in Q1FY26 (₹ 2,767 crore in Q4FY26).

Operating expenses for Q1FY27 stood at ₹ 5,135 crore, up 8% YoY from ₹ 4,775 crore in Q1FY26 (flat QoQ from ₹ 5,137 crore in Q4FY26). Cost to assets improved to 2.66% for Q1FY27 (2.83% for Q1FY26 and 2.73% for Q4FY26).

Operating profit for Q1FY27 increased to ₹ 6,131 crore, up 10% YoY from ₹ 5,564 crore in Q1FY26 (up 5% QoQ from ₹ 5,855 crore in Q4FY26).

Provisions for Q1FY27 decreased to ₹ 668 crore, down 45% YoY from ₹ 1,208 crore in Q1FY26 (₹ 516 crore in Q4FY26). Credit cost (annualised) for Q1FY27 stood at 0.46% (0.93% for Q1FY26 and 0.39% for Q4FY26).

Net Advances increased 15% YoY to ₹ 512,249 crore as at June 30, 2026 from ₹ 444,823 crore as at June 30, 2025. Customer Assets which comprise Advances (incl. IBPC & BRDS) and Credit Substitutes grew to ₹ 570,901 crore as at June 30, 2026, up 16% YoY from ₹ 492,972 crore as at June 30, 2025.

Total period-end Deposits grew to ₹ 572,820 crore for Q1FY27, up 12% YoY from ₹ 512,838 crore for Q1FY26.

Average Total Deposits grew to ₹ 558,891 crore for Q1FY27, up 14% YoY from ₹ 491,998 crore for Q1FY26.

Average Current Deposits grew to ₹ 78,107 crore for Q1FY27, up 15% YoY from ₹ 67,808 crore for Q1FY26.

Average Fixed rate Savings Deposits grew to ₹ 125,061 crore for Q1FY27, up 16% YoY from ₹ 107,450 crore for Q1FY26.

Average Term Deposits grew to ₹ 341,992 crore for Q1FY27, up 14% YoY from ₹ 300,003 crore for Q1FY26. CASA ratio as at June 30, 2026 stood at 40.3% (40.9% as at June 30, 2025).

Credit to Deposit ratio as at June 30, 2026 stood at 89.4% (86.7% as at June 30, 2025).

Customers as on June 30, 2026 were 5.0 crore.

Slippages for Q1FY27 decreased to ₹ 1,321 crore, down 27% YoY from ₹ 1,812 crore in Q1FY26. As at June 30, 2026, GNPA was 1.18% & NNPA was 0.27% (GNPA was 1.48% & NNPA was 0.34% as at June 30, 2025).

As at June 30, 2026, Provision Coverage Ratio stood at 78% (77% as at June 30, 2025).

Standalone Return on Assets (ROA) for Q1FY27 (annualised) was 2.14%. Return on Equity (ROE) for Q1FY27 (annualised) was 11.98%.

Capital Adequacy Ratio of the Bank, as per Basel III, as at June 30, 2026 was 22.8% and CET1 ratio of 22.4%.

Consolidated results at a glance

Consolidated PAT for Q1FY27 stood at ₹ 5,480 crore, up 23% YoY from ₹ 4,472 crore in Q1FY26 (up 1% QoQ from ₹ 5,423 crore in Q4FY26). Consolidated PAT increased by 5% QoQ excluding gains on Infina divestment.

PAT of Bank and key subsidiaries given below:

 

PAT (₹ crore)	Q1FY27	Q1FY26	Q4FY26
Kotak Mahindra Bank	4,123	3,282	4,027
Kotak Securities	533	465	400
Kotak Asset Management & Trustee Company	399	326	184
Kotak Mahindra Prime	354	272	240
Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance	336	327	90
Kotak Alternate Asset Managers	126	59	54
Kotak Mahindra Investments	113	107	115
Kotak Mahindra Capital	89	89	1031

Q4FY26 Kotak Mahindra Capital PAT does not include gains of ₹ 1,094 crore on divestment of stake in its associate, Infina.

Consolidated Customer Assets which comprise Advances (incl. IBPC & BRDS) and Credit Substitutes grew to ₹ 645,812 crore as at June 30, 2026, up 16% YoY from ₹ 557,369 crore as at June 30, 2025.

Consolidated Customer Assets Under Management as at June 30, 2026 grew to ₹ 805,531 crore, up 8% YoY from ₹ 747,404 crore as at June 30, 2025. The total Domestic MF AUM increased by 10% YoY to ₹ 603,718 crore as at June 30, 2026.

Consolidated Networth as at June 30, 2026 was ₹ 188,214 crore. The Book Value per Share increased to ₹ 189 as at June 30, 2026, up 14% YoY from ₹ 166 as at June 30, 2025 (computed based on subdivision of 1 equity share of face value of ₹ 5 each into 5 equity shares of ₹ 1 each with effect from 14th January, 2026).

At the consolidated level, Return on Assets (ROA) for Q1FY27 (annualized) was 2.18%. Return on Equity (ROE) for Q1FY27 (annualized) was 11.90%.

Consolidated Capital Adequacy Ratio as per Basel III as at June 30, 2026 was 22.9% and CET I ratio was 22.6%. Consolidated Average Liqudity Coverage Ratio stood at 138% for Q1FY27.