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  • Drone-Tech Startup Enercomp Raises INR 2 Crore Bridge Round Advised by Bestvantage

    Bestvantage Investments, a boutique investment advisory firm connecting high-growth startups with strategic capital, has successfully advised and facilitated an INR 2 crore bridge funding round for Enercomp Solutions Pvt. Ltd., one of India’s fastest-growing drone technology startups. The round was led by marquee angel investors, with the capital earmarked to accelerate Enercomp’s product innovation, scale operations, and deepen its AI-powered drone software stack.

    The funding marks another strategic milestone for Bestvantage, known for enabling capital-efficient growth for deep-tech ventures across India and the Middle East. With this round, Enercomp is set to expand its manufacturing capacity, invest in cutting-edge drone operating systems, and build execution capabilities for large-scale national deployments.

    “We backed Enercomp because it sits at the intersection of hardware and software and has demonstrated capital efficiency, IP-led innovation, and sector-wide relevance. This deal is a strong example of how strategic capital can accelerate the ambitions of deep-tech ventures,” said Raman Sharma, Founder & CEO of Bestvantage Investments.

    “With India’s drone market projected to reach $13 billion by 2030, we are building not just products, but foundational technology infrastructure for the sector. This bridge round will help us deepen our IP portfolio and strengthen our delivery capabilities for national-scale projects.” said Jatin Patel, Co-Founder & Director, Enercomp.

    Enercomp, known for its end-to-end capabilities across drone manufacturing, services, and GIS software, will use the capital infusion to scale R&D, expand its AI-enabled drone operating system, and grow its national project execution team. Enercomp has earmarked INR 8 crore in strategic investments for the coming year to fuel this expansion.

    The latest round comes on the back of continued business momentum. Enercomp has grown at a compounded annual rate of 1.8x, with revenues rising from INR 3.1 crore in FY22-23 to INR 5.6 crore in FY23-24, while maintaining profitability. In the current fiscal (FY24-25), the company has already recorded INR 4.2 crore in revenue and holds an active order book of over INR 9 crore, signaling strong revenue visibility and client trust.

    Enercomp has raised INR 6.9 crore across previous rounds, with valuations increasing from INR 12.5 crore to INR 60 crore. The founding team retains over 80.5% equity, including a 4% ESOP pool, underscoring long-term alignment and strategic control.

    Operating at the intersection of hardware, services, and software, Enercomp’s integrated offerings include: Indigenous drone manufacturing, Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) models, and a proprietary GIS analytics platform.

    With over 70% Enercomp’s revenue coming from product sales, Enercomp’s core technology advantage is clear. Its clientele includes some of India’s leading infrastructure, agriculture, and energy players such as Tata Projects, Reliance, Mahindra Susten, and L&T, along with several government departments and state utilities.

    The company has developed seven proprietary drone models including VTOL, fixed-wing, and surveillance variants that are already commercially deployed. Its software dashboard is actively used by enterprise and government clients to analyze and visualize mission-critical data.

    This successful round closure advised by Bestvantage Investments not only accelerates Enercomp’s mission but also cements its place among India’s most promising and capital-efficient deep-tech startups.

    About Bestvantage Investments

    Bestvantage Investments is a boutique investment advisory firm that connects high-potential startups with strategic investors across India and the Middle East. Founded by Raman Sharma, Bestvantage specializes in deal sourcing, investment structuring, and capital raising for early to growth-stage companies. With a strong network of family offices, venture funds, and institutional investors, the firm enables businesses to unlock growth opportunities through strategic capital partnerships.

    About Enercomp Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

    Enercomp is a deep-tech drone technology company based in Ahmedabad, India, specializing in indigenous drone manufacturing, drone-as-a-service (DaaS) solutions, and GIS-based data analytics. With a strong IP portfolio including seven proprietary drone models, Enercomp serves clients across infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and government sectors. The company combines cutting-edge hardware and AI-powered software to deliver end-to-end aerial intelligence solutions. Profitable and capital-efficient, Enercomp is building the next generation of unmanned aerial systems to power India’s rapidly growing drone economy.

  • Chai Bisket Raises $5 Million Seed Round Led by InfoEdge Ventures and General Catalyst to Launch Chai Shots – A Regional-First Microdrama OTT Platform

    Chai Bisket, one of South India’s most influential digital content companies, has announced the successful close of a $5 million seed round led by InfoEdge Ventures and General Catalyst. The funding will power the launch and growth of Chai Shots, a mobile-first, short-form OTT platform designed to deliver premium fiction in ultra-short formats to India’s next billion entertainment consumers.

    Chai Shots is a trailblazing new storytelling platform that brings together everything modern audiences crave – high-quality dramas, emotionally resonant narratives, and mobile-first access – all in two-minute episodes. Designed for Gen Z as well as the rapidly growing Tier 2 and Tier 3 audiences, the app will launch with original content in Telugu and scale across multiple languages in the coming months. Unlike traditional OTTs built for drawing rooms and family viewing, Chai Shots is built for individuals on the move – personal, portable, and deeply cultural.

    Founded by Sharath Chandra and Anurag Reddy in 2015, Chai Bisket has spent the last decade shaping the regional content ecosystem. Its YouTube channels and digital content platforms have clocked over 2 billion views, attract more than 50 million monthly video views, and have produced a massive library of thousands of videos. The company’s storytelling footprint spans across four theatrical films, including the acclaimed *Major*, and numerous blockbuster web series and short dramas, many of which have gone viral and become cultural staples. Notably, the team has been producing short dramas consistently since 2021, long before the format became widely adopted. With a 100+ member team based in Hyderabad, Chai Bisket brings full-stack capabilities across content creation, digital strategy, and audience building, now extending that expertise into technology and product.

    The marquee angel investor group backing the company reflects the belief in this vision, including Rana Daggubati (Actor and Entrepreneur), Sriharsha Majety and Nandan Reddy (co-founders of Swiggy), Phanindra Sama (founder of redBus), Rohit Chennamaneni (Co-Founder of Darwinbox), Alakh Pandey and Prateek (co-founders of Ph,sicsWallah), Aravind Sanka, Rishikesh SR, and Pavan Guntupalli (co-founders of Rapido),  Amar Nagaram (founder of Virgio), TiE Nizamabad and others.

    Chai Bisket Angel Investors
    Chai Bisket Angel Investors

    “We’re extremely bullish on microdramas as a format, especially in regional markets like Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada, where there’s both strong demand and high willingness to pay for original content. In this space, content is the product and the Chai Shots team are veterans of the craft, with over a decade of experience in consistently delivering high-quality storytelling. We’re excited to back their vision.”, said Kitty Agarwal, partner at Info Edge Ventures.

    “In today’s world, storytelling lives in the palm of your hand, that’s fast, emotional, and unmistakably local. Chai Shots has built a short-video streaming platform that taps into how India consumes content,” said Rahul Garg, partner at General Catalyst. “This team isn’t just reacting to culture, they’re creating it. We look forward to partnering with Sharath, Anurag & Krishna as they grow.”

    Rana Daggubati, Actor and Entrepreneur, said – “The future of stories is fast, local, and emotional. Chai Shots gets that. I’m excited to be part of the new short culture revolution.”

    Krishna Mohan Varma, who now leads the company’s technology vision, joins Sharath and Anurag as a Co-Founder of Chai Shots. His addition to the founding team brings product leadership, engineering depth, and long-term technology thinking to the heart of the platform.

    “Chai Shots was born out of a clear shift in consumer behavior,” said Sharath Chandra, Co-Founder. “While platforms like YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels have proven the massive demand for short-form video, the space is still dominated by user-generated content. We believe it’s time to elevate the format – to blend the emotional power of fiction with the speed and convenience of short-form, and to do it at scale, in our languages, and on our terms.”

    “We believe content is culture – and culture is what people scroll, skip, and binge every day,” said Anurag Reddy, Co-Founder. “We’ve spent ten years building a storytelling engine rooted in emotional truth and regional identity. With Chai Shots, we’re taking that to the next level – by creating a scalable entertainment brand made for mobile, powered by creators, and built for the future of India’s digital generation.”

    “I’m excited to be building Chai Shots at the intersection of technology and storytelling,” said Krishna Mohan Varma, Co-Founder. “There’s an immense opportunity to deliver a seamless, intuitive, and emotionally resonant product experience. Our goal is to create not just a video app, but a long-lasting relationship between story, screen, and user.”

    Chai Shots will launch in early access soon and aims to release over 100 original shows in the first six months. The company’s long-term vision is to scale Chai Shots into the go-to entertainment app for India’s short-attention economy – deeply local, highly emotional, and designed for how India watches today.

    About Chai Shots

    Chai Shots is a regional-first, mobile-only OTT platform delivering premium microdramas in 2-minute episodes. Built for India, it blends the emotional depth of fiction with the speed of short-form content, all in regional languages. Coming from the house of Chai Bisket, Chai Shots brings together a powerful mix of content, technology, and marketing expertise to create a new storytelling format for Gen Z and Bharat.

  • FSSAI Warns E-Commerce Giants of Strict Action Over Food Safety Violations

    All e-commerce sites were forewarned by the FSSAI on 8 July to maintain strict food safety and hygiene standards or risk punishment. G Kamala Vardhana Rao, the CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), presided over the meeting where the warning was given.

    More than 70 representatives from top e-commerce platforms attended the meeting, which aimed to improve food safety and hygiene standards across the e-commerce food supply chain.

    The CEO reminded the representatives of these platforms that food safety is extremely important and that any failure to follow food safety procedures will be taken very seriously, possibly resulting in harsh consequences.

    Additionally, he emphasised how crucial food safety is in the quickly growing e-commerce industry.

    CEO Issued Various Crucial Directives

    The CEO gave the e-commerce platforms some important instructions during the discussions. On each receipt, invoice, and cash memo given to customers, he instructed them to clearly display their FSSAI License/Registration numbers.

    Additionally, they were requested to include information about the Food Safety Connect App on any documents that are viewed by consumers.

    The need for e-commerce companies to publish thorough information on all warehouses and storage facilities connected to their activities on the FoSCoS platform was also emphasised.

    It was also debated whether food products’ “Date of Expiry/Use By” may be shown on the user interface.

    In addition, the CEO directed all e-commerce platforms to strictly comply with food safety and hygiene regulations in all of their warehouses and storage facilities, making sure that images of these establishments are consistently posted to the FoSCoS web.

    All food handlers participating in the process, including those working in e-commerce, were also required to complete mandatory FSSAI FoSTaC (Food Safety Instruction & Certification) instruction on hygienic procedures.

    Platforms must notify FSSAI of their training schedules and plans. Additionally, they must strictly adhere to all FSS Act regulations and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

    Warehouses to be Registered or Licenced by FSSAI

    A strong emphasis was placed on the importance of all warehouses associated with e-commerce operations being duly registered or licensed by FSSAI.

    To further ensure increased transparency and compliance, e-commerce platforms were also instructed to provide the FSSAI with information about their warehouses, food handlers, and other pertinent data.

    The FSSAI statement said that the food regulator has underlined that everyone in the supply chain, from manufacturing to home delivery, is accountable for compliance and that food safety is a shared duty.

    To guarantee that the entire procedure is incredibly secure for customers, a cooperative approach is necessary.

    The statement went on to say that the FSSAI is unwavering in its resolve to ensure that consumers receive food items that are safe and wholesome, regardless of whether they buy them online or through conventional retail channels.

  • Apple Races for Formula 1 US Rights After Brad Pitt’s Film Success

    Apple is negotiating to get the US rights to broadcast Formula 1 as the internet giant expands its live sports programming and builds on the success of its popular film based on the racing car series.

    Various media reports stated that when the broadcast deal opens up next year, the iPhone manufacturer plans to challenge Disney’s ESPN, the current American broadcaster of Formula 1.

    Considering that Brad Pitt’s F1 is the company’s first major box office hit since it started producing original content for its Apple TV+ streaming service, demand is high.

    Liberty Media, the US owners of Formula 1, hopes that by drawing in younger, female, and American viewers, the movie and Netflix’s Drive to Survive documentary series will have raised the value of the racing rights.

    F1’s Box Office Collection

    Apple’s highest-grossing film to date is F1, which has grossed approximately $300 million at the box office. This production marks a transition to mainstream spectacles following the commercial failures of Killers of the Flower Moon and Napoleon.

    With a 2022 agreement with Major League Baseball to stream games on Friday nights and a more comprehensive agreement with Major League Soccer in North America, Apple has already ventured into the live sports streaming space.

    The race car series’ current television partner, ESPN, brings in approximately about $85 million annually. Additionally, F1 charges viewers directly for live race streaming on its own streaming service in the United States.

    Prior to the debut of the F1 movie, analysts at Citi had previously predicted that the next US broadcast deal for Formula One may be worth $121 million annually. In 2024, its overall revenue from media rights increased by nearly 8% to approximately $1.1 billion.

    According to someone with intimate knowledge of the situation, F1 has not yet decided on its future broadcasting arrangements, and ESPN may still hold the rights.

    Formula One is no Longer a Monopoly of ESPN

    ESPN had a window of opportunity to negotiate a contract without having to contend with other bidders. But last year, that window closed without a contract, so competitors might now enter the market.

    It is anticipated that other bidders would pursue the rights as well. Liberty Media prioritises the US market, and in recent years, it has expanded its race calendar to include Miami and Las Vegas in addition to its grand prix in Austin, Texas.

    In 2026, Cadillac, a US brand supported by General Motors and billionaire financier Mark Walter’s TWG Motorsports, will become the eleventh team to compete.

    From 554,000 viewers per race in 2018, the year after Liberty Media acquired Formula 1, to around 1.1 million in 2024, F1’s audience on ESPN has doubled. F1 saw an average of 1.3 million spectators over its first 10 events this year, with record attendance in Australia, China, Monaco, Spain, Canada, and Austria.

    The $100 billion in services revenue that Apple generates annually, which includes goods like the App Store, iCloud, and Apple Pay, does not include money from Apple TV+ or its production division, Apple Studios.

  • Blinkit Business Model & Revenue Streams Explained: How Blinkit Earns Money

    Putting in an order for groceries was once considered the most difficult task. Shopping for groceries is becoming more pleasurable because of the development of “smart grocery stores” like Nature’s Basket, Dmart, Reliance Mart, and others. But now that technology is driving more solutions, online grocery shopping is becoming increasingly popular. Blinkit is one of the players that has risen to the top in this field. An Indian grocery delivery business that operates on demand. Blinkit (formerly Grofers) has simplified people’s lives by bringing a vast array of products right to our front doors. Subsequently, the company changed its name to Blinkit and adopted the slogan “Let’s Blink It.” This includes food, baked goods, baby necessities, and more.

    About Blinkit
    Blinkit Business Model
    How Blinkit Makes Money | Blinkit Revenue Model
    USP of Blinkit
    Analysing the Future

    About Blinkit

    Launched in December 2013, Blinkit is spearheading the use of innovative technologies to revolutionize India’s massive unorganized grocery market. The Blinkit platform, which is based on a proprietary stack of technologies, brings together shoppers in need of common necessities, retailers who can meet those requirements, and manufacturers seeking a way to reach shoppers throughout the country. The technology developed by Blinkit, co-founded by Albinder Dhindsa and Saurabh Kumar, is well suited to meet the needs of India’s rapidly expanding urban population and the additional 100 million or so people who have not yet shopped online.

    Blinkit – The Success Story of the Zomato-Owned Company!
    Blinkit (formerly Grofers) is a Zomato-owned quick commerce marketplace that helps users shop for various products online, and delivers them in a flash.
    StartupTalkyRishabh Rathi

    Blinkit Business Model

    The foundation of Blinkit is the marketplace model. It lacks any autonomous marketplaces or storage facilities. Instead, delivery people are sent by the corporation to collect the necessary supplies from several nearby shops and grocery stores. The customers’ orders are subsequently fulfilled by the delivery boys.

    Through its tie-up mechanism, Blinkit can swiftly transport consumers’ orders submitted through its app or website to neighboring supermarkets. Blinkit makes money from these orders since the company charges a commission. The core elements of Blinkit’s business model are regional suppliers, regional clients, and delivery personnel.

    Blinkit Business Model Canvas

    Blinkit operates on a marketplace-based business model that connects local stores with nearby customers through its app and website. It earns primarily through commissions on orders, delivery fees, and advertisements. Below is the Blinkit Business Model Canvas summarized:

    Blinkit Business Model Canvas
    Blinkit Business Model Canvas

    1. Key Partners of Blinkit

    • Local grocery stores and supermarkets
    • Delivery personnel
    • Advertising brands

    2. Key Activities of Blinkit

    • Managing the app/website platform
    • Order processing and logistics coordination
    • Partner onboarding and support
    • Running targeted ad campaigns

    3. Key Resources of Blinkit

    • Blinkit mobile app and website
    • Delivery workforce
    • Partner network (local suppliers)
    • Brand reputation for quick delivery

    4. Value Propositions of Blinkit

    • Ultra-fast delivery (“within the blink of an eye”)
    • No need to visit stores physically
    • Easy-to-use ordering and tracking app
    • Convenience for urgent grocery needs

    5. Customer Relationships of Blinkit

    • App-based customer support
    • Real-time order tracking
    • Personalized offers and ads

    6. Channels of Blinkit

    • Blinkit mobile app
    • Blinkit website

    7. Customer Segments of Blinkit

    • Urban households
    • Busy professionals
    • Students and bachelors needing quick deliveries

    8. Cost Structure of Blinkit

    • Delivery partner payouts
    • App and tech maintenance
    • Advertising and marketing expenses
    • Partner management and operations

    9. Revenue Streams of Blinkit

    • Marketplace commission (54.10% of revenue)
    • Delivery charges (21.47% of revenue)
    • Advertising fees from brands promoted on the platform

    How Blinkit Makes Money | Blinkit Revenue Model

    As stated earlier, the company earns heavily through its online orders, there are other earning sources as well from where now company has started minting money. Following are the revenue streams that encompass Blinkit’s revenue model:

    Marketplace Commission from Online Platforms: Online orders make up the bulk of Blinkit’s sales, accounting for 54.10% of the company’s total revenue.

    Delivery Services: The company charges certain commissions or delivery charges on each customer’s delivery. The delivery partner receives a portion of the commission while the company retains the remaining portion. The yearly income of the company is around 21.47 percent generated by this model.

    Advertisement Services: Blinkit has quickly become one of the most popular online grocery shopping platforms, and it continues to rank among the industry’s leaders. The company has also taken advantage of this potential by implementing a business strategy in which it promotes specific companies on its website in exchange for payment.

    Blinkit Revenue
    Blinkit Revenue

    In Q2 FY25, Blinkit reported a revenue of INR 1,156 crore, more than doubling from INR 505 crore in the same period last year. However, its adjusted EBITDA loss increased to INR 8 crore, up from an INR 3 crore loss in the June quarter. Additionally, Blinkit’s gross order value (GOV) surged by 122% year-on-year to INR 6,132 crore.

    Blinkit’s revenue grew significantly from INR 747 crore in FY23 to INR 1,934 crore in FY24, driven by strong growth in operations.

    USP of Blinkit

    Delivery Within the Blink of an Eye: With this incredibly quick service, customers won’t even need to plan their grocery list. Did you forget to include a component in your dinner? Do you require a snack on the go? Blinkit responds lightning-fast to these urgent demands. This makes it a very handy option to go to.

    Accessibility at Your Seated Pleasure: With the Blinkit app, customers can quickly browse inventory, place orders, and monitor their deliveries. The need to physically go to a store and wait in checkout lines has become irrelevant by this.

    Analysing the Future

    Blinkit may have been the investor favorite for a long time, but it is far from alone. Internet sales are becoming more important to many large enterprises and grocery stores. Because of this, competition among eCommerce platforms is increasing. Zopnow, Dunzo, Zepto, and many more delivery partners are preparing to dominate the industry. Therefore, for Blinkit to maintain its lead, it must perform exceptionally well.

    FAQs

    What is Blinkit?

    Blinkit is an on-demand online grocery delivery service that was founded in the year 2013. This eCommerce startup platform provides a variety of daily needs products ranging from groceries, bakery items, baby care items, and many more to its customers. Blinkit is a Gurugram-based company that is currently present in 26 cities across the country.

    How does Blinkit make money or what is revenue model of Blinkit?

    The main revenue streams of Blinkit include Marketplace Commission from Online Platforms, Advertisement Services, and Delivery services.

    Is Blinkit acquired by Zomato?

    Yes, in 2022, Zomato acquired Blinkit for $569 million.

    Who is the CEO of Blinkit?

    Albinder Dhindsa is the co-founder and CEO of Blinkit.

    What is the business model of Blinkit?

    Blinkit follows a marketplace model, connecting local grocery stores with customers through its app. It earns mainly from commissions on orders, delivery charges, and brand advertisements.

    How Blinkit works?

    Blinkit works by receiving customer orders via its app or website, then assigns delivery partners to pick up items from nearby stores and deliver them quickly, often within minutes.

  • Blackbuck Hit with INR 28.56 Lakh Tax Demand for FY18, Set to Appeal

    On July 8, listed logistics startup BlackBuck announced that the Income Tax (IT) Department has sent it a tax demand notice for INR 28.55 Lakh. The company stated in a statement with the exchanges that the July 7 tax notice was sent because certain expenses that qualified for tax deducted at source (TDS) had not been taxed.

    The company claims that the tax demand, which included taxes, was made by the Bengaluru office of the Assistant Commissioner of Income Tax (TDS) and related to the fiscal year 2017–18 (FY18).

    In explaining the nature of the infractions, BlackBuck said that an order under Sections 201(1) and 201(1A) of the Income-tax Act, 1961, was issued because some expenses did not have tax deducted at the source, confirming the total demand payment of INR 28,55,872/-, including applicable interest.

    BlackBuck Plans to Appeal the Order

    According to BlackBuck, it has a “strong case on merits,” and the business intends to appeal the notification to the relevant authority.

    The logistics firm added that there would be “no material implications” for the business from the IT department’s order.

    BlackBuck, which was founded in 2015 by Rajesh Yabaji, Chanakya Hridaya, and Ramasubramaniam B, began as an online truck aggregator before growing to include a wide variety of load management, telemetry, payment, and vehicle financing products.

    It links small and large companies with shipping needs with truck fleet operators. Additionally, the organisation provides fuel cards and FASTag payments, GPS tracking and truck theft protection systems, certified communication channels between the shipper and the trucker, and vehicle financing options.

    BlackBuck Financial Outlook

    The logistics company’s fourth quarter (Q4) of the fiscal year 2024–25 (FY25) had a consolidated net profit of INR 280.1 Cr, compared to a net loss of INR 90.8 Cr in the same period last year.

    A tax credit of INR 245 Cr during the reviewed quarter was the reason for the strong, profitable results. Operating revenues, on the other hand, increased by 30.6% to INR 121.8 Cr in Q4 FY25 from INR 93.2 Cr in the same period the previous year.

    BlackBuck Subsidiary Gears Up for Digital Payments with RBI’s PPI Nod

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has granted a prepaid payment instruments (PPI) licence to Zinka Logistics, a subsidiary of listed logistics giant BlackBuck.

    The business stated in an exchange statement that its fully owned subsidiary, TZF Logistics Solutions Pvt Ltd, was awarded the licence by the central bank. Banks and non-banks cannot issue PPIs without a licence under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act of 2007.

    To put it in perspective, PPIs enable remittance facilities, conduct financial activities, assist the purchase of goods and services, and more, all of which are facilitated by the value they store.

    According to BlackBuck’s petition, the licence will assist the company’s fully owned subsidiary TZF Logistics Solutions Pvt Ltd, in setting up and running a payment system for prepaid payment instruments.

  • Jane Street Slams Sebi Order as ‘Fundamentally Mistaken’ Amid Allegation Storm

    In an internal letter to staff, the US-based trading company Jane Street slammed the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), calling its recent ruling accusing market manipulation “fundamentally mistaken.”

     The company rejected SEBI’s description of its trading approach as manipulative and instead described it as “basic index arbitrage.” According to Jane Street, it is considering its legal options and is getting ready to respond formally.

    Additionally, it asserted that since February, many attempts to communicate with the market’s regulator have been “consistently rebuffed.”

     Jane Street accused Sebi of using “inflammatory language” and demonstrating a lack of grasp of typical hedging procedures and the connections between derivative and underlying markets in its July 3 order in a letter distributed to staff members over the weekend.

    Deeply Upsetting of Being Mischaracterised: Jane Street

    The letter went on to say that seeing the company misrepresented in this manner is really distressing. Jane Street is proud of the part it plays in global markets; therefore, it hurts to have a study that contains so many false or unsubstantiated claims damage its reputation.

    In addition to prohibiting Jane Street and its group companies from engaging in the Indian market, Sebi’s ruling ordered the disgorgement of INR 4,834 crore in claimed “unlawful gains.” Additionally, the regulator stated that it was still looking into the group’s other trading tactics.

    The market’s watchdog responded to Jane Street’s allegations by stating that the July 3 ruling, like all SEBI orders, is a speaking order that lays out SEBI’s prima facie case and answers all pertinent issues.

    SEBI has nothing more to contribute to what has already been included, clarified, and rationalised in that order at this point. When Sebi initially asked for information about its trading in August 2024, Jane Street claimed to have responded quickly and openly.

    Jane Street’s senior officials from the company’s headquarters in Hong Kong and New York had gone to Mumbai to meet with the National Stock Exchange (NSE), it further stated.

    Why did Sebi Issue the Order?

    Several examples of what SEBI claimed was index manipulation by Jane Street were highlighted in the 105-page study.

    It claimed that on January 17, 2024, the day that weekly index options linked to the NSE Nifty Bank Index were about to expire, the company had engaged in aggressive trading to raise the values of the underlying cash and futures markets.

    According to the report, Jane Street piled up a lot of bearish options transactions and then made a lot of money by closing some of them and letting others expire.

  • Apple Names Indian-Origin Exec Sabih Khan as New Chief Operating Officer in Leadership Shake-Up

    After long-time operations chief Jeff Williams plans to retire, Apple CEO Tim Cook has made a significant leadership change by appointing Indian-origin executive Sabih Khan as the company’s new COO.

    Khan, who has worked for Apple for thirty years, has been instrumental in creating and overseeing the company’s international supply chain.

    Khan was born in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, and spent some time in Singapore. His ascent to the second-ranking spot at Apple is a landmark achievement for Indian-origin talent in the global computer sector.

    From Moradabad to USA

    Born in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, in 1966, Sabih Khan later relocated to Singapore with his family. After moving to the US, he graduated from Tufts University with two bachelor’s degrees in economics and mechanical engineering.

    He then went on to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to acquire a master’s degree in mechanical engineering. Khan was an applications development engineer at GE Plastics before joining Apple.

    He joined Apple in 1995 as a member of the procurement team and worked his way up to the position of Senior Vice President of Operations in 2019. Khan has been in charge of Apple’s global supply chain, manufacturing, product fulfilment, procurement, and logistics in this capacity.

    His leadership was also evident in Apple’s supplier responsibility initiatives, which prioritised environmental sustainability and worker rights.

    Khan a ‘Brillian Strategist’: Cook

    Apple said in a statement that Jeff Williams will retire later this year and hand over his duties to Khan by the end of the month. Tim Cook hailed Khan as a “brilliant strategist” and one of the main designers of Apple’s worldwide supply chain in his statement.

    Cook credited Khan with helping Apple reduce its carbon footprint by more than 60%, highlighting his efforts in sophisticated manufacturing, expanding production in the US, and sustainability programs.

     Cook expressed complete faith in Khan’s ability to influence Apple’s future, saying, “Above all, Sabih leads with his heart and his values.”

    With this change, Khan assumes a position that places him among the most powerful executives in the most valuable corporation in the world, and Tim Cook will now receive direct reports from Apple’s design team.

    India Benefiting from US-China Trade Tension

    The shifting of Khan coincides with Apple’s efforts to lessen the effects of US tariffs by moving some of its manufacture from China to India.

    Trade conflicts between the US and China, which started under former President Donald Trump, are the direct cause of Apple’s entry into India.

    These tensions have now developed into strategic actions on both sides, with China retaliating with limits on technology, talent, and raw materials and the United States providing tax incentives and trade agreements to nations like Vietnam and India.

    Though it might not seem as dramatic, China’s most recent action might be just as destructive as a trade battle. The risk is growing on both sides for Apple, which intends to manufacture the majority of iPhones for the US in India by 2026.

  • Amul Franchise Guide: Cost, Online Application, and How to Start Amul Dairy, Milk, or Ice Cream Outlet in India

    Are you a budding entrepreneur looking to foray into the food and dairy sector? Well, starting an Amul franchise in India could be a rewarding venture. Starting a franchise can be a great way to become a business owner without having to start from scratch. Amul, one of India’s most beloved dairy brands, offers an exciting franchise opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs.

    Amul, a brand synonymous with trust and quality, offers various franchise opportunities that promise good returns. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to start an Amul franchise, the benefits, costs involved, and tips for success.

    Franchise Name: Amul

    Franchise Name Amul
    Area Required 300-400 sq. ft. for preferred outlet, 200-300 sq. ft. for Ice cream scooping parlor
    Minimum Investment INR 1.5 lakhs to 2 lakhs for preferred outlet, INR 5 lakhs to 10 lakhs for Ice cream scooping parlor
    Royalty No Royalty
    ROI 5% to 20%

    About Amul and Why It Is a Good Option

    Amul, which stands for Anand Milk Union Limited, is a cooperative brand managed by the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (GCMMF). Launched in 1946, Amul has become synonymous with quality dairy products in India. The brand’s extensive product line includes milk, butter, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and a variety of sweets.

    Why Choose Amul?

    1. Strong Brand Recognition: Amul is a household name in India, known for its quality and trust.
    2. Wide Product Range: The extensive variety of products ensures multiple revenue streams.
    3. Proven Business Model: With years of successful operation, Amul offers a tested and reliable business model.
    4. Support System: Franchisees receive comprehensive support in terms of training, marketing, and logistics.
    5. High Demand: Dairy products are daily essentials, ensuring consistent demand.

    Types of Amul Franchises

    Amul offers two main types of franchise models:

    • Amul Preferred Outlet Franchise (APO) or Amul Railway Parlour Franchise: These are exclusive Amul outlets that sell a variety of Amul products. They are usually located in high-footfall areas such as railway stations, bus stands, and marketplaces.
    Amul Ice Cream Scooping Parlor
    Amul Ice Cream Scooping Parlor
    • Amul Ice Cream Scooping Parlor: These parlors specifically focus on selling Amul ice creams in various forms like scoops, sundaes, and shakes. They are often set up in commercial areas, malls, and near educational institutions.

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    Step-by-Step Guide to Starting an Amul Franchise

    How to Open Amul Franchise
    How to Open Amul Franchise

    Step 1: Research and Planning

    Before diving into the franchise application, conduct thorough research. Understand the market demand, competition, and potential locations for your outlet. Create a business plan outlining your goals, target audience, and financial projections.

    Step 2: Meet the Eligibility Criteria

    To qualify for an Amul franchise, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria:

    • Financial Capability: You need to have the financial capability to invest in the franchise and manage operational costs.
    • Minimum Area Requirement: For an Amul Preferred Outlet, you need a space of 100-300 sq. ft. For an Ice Cream Scooping Parlor, the minimum area required is 300 sq. ft.

    Step 3: Application Process

    Visit the official Amul website and navigate to the franchise section. Fill out the application form with accurate details. You can also contact the regional Amul office for guidance on the application process.

    Step 4: Site Selection and Approval

    Once your application is reviewed and approved, Amul representatives will assist you in selecting a suitable location for your outlet. The site should ideally be in a high-traffic area to attract maximum customers.

    Step 5: Signing the Agreement

    After finalizing the location, you’ll need to sign a franchise agreement with Amul. This agreement will outline the terms and conditions, including the duration of the franchise, royalty fees, and other important details.

    Step 6: Setup and Training

    Amul will provide you with the necessary infrastructure and equipment to set up your outlet. They will also conduct training sessions to familiarize you with product handling, sales techniques, and customer service.

    Step 7: Launch and Marketing

    Once everything is set up, it’s time to launch your Amul franchise. Amul will support you with initial marketing and promotional activities to attract customers. Make sure to maintain high standards of hygiene and customer service to build a loyal customer base.

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    Details Amul Preferred Outlet (APO) / Amul Railway Parlor Amul Ice Cream Scooping Parlor
    Area Required 100 – 150 sq. ft. 300 – 500 sq. ft.
    Investment Range INR 2 – INR 6 lakhs INR 5 – INR 10 lakhs
    Average Return on MRP ~10% on MRP ~20% on MRP

    Area Required

    Depending on the type of Amul franchise you opt for, the space requirements can vary. Here are the primary types:

    • Amul Preferred Outlet (APO): Requires 300-400 square feet
    • Amul Ice Cream Scooping Parlour: Needs around 200-300 square feet

    Investment and Profitability

    The investment required for an Amul franchise varies based on the type of outlet and location. Here’s a rough breakdown:

    • Amul Preferred Outlet: The initial investment ranges from INR 1.5 lakhs to 2 lakhs, which includes a non-refundable brand security deposit, equipment, and initial stock.
    • Amul Ice Cream Scooping Parlor: The investment ranges from INR 5 lakhs to 10 lakhs, depending on the size and location of the parlor.

    Royalty

    Amul does not charge any royalty fees from its franchisees. Instead, the business model operates on a profit-sharing basis, making it a less risky investment.

    Returns

    The return on investment for an Amul franchise can be quite lucrative, with profit margins ranging between 5% to 20% depending on the product. Typically, franchisees can expect to break even within one to two years of operation.

    💡
    Did you know?
    Amul has been honored by the Government of India with the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi National Quality Award in the “Best of All Categories” segment.

    Tips for Success

    • Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with the latest products and promotions from Amul.
    • Customer Service: Focus on providing excellent customer service to build a loyal customer base.
    • Effective Marketing: Utilize both online and offline marketing strategies to attract customers.
    • Maintain Quality and Hygiene: Ensure that your outlet adheres to Amul’s quality and hygiene standards.
    • Choose the Right Location: A prime location with high footfall is crucial for the success of your franchise.

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    Conclusion

    Starting an Amul franchise in India is an excellent opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs. With a strong brand, diverse product range, and a proven business model, Amul offers a lucrative and low-risk investment. Whether you choose to open an Amul Preferred Outlet, Railway Parlour, or Ice Cream Scooping Parlour, you can expect good returns with a moderate initial investment.

    Beyond Amul, other franchise opportunities like McDonald’s, Subway, and Domino’s Pizza also offer compelling options. The franchising model’s inherent advantages, such as established brand recognition, proven business models, and extensive support, make it a viable option for those looking to start a business.

    By opting for a franchise, you take a significant step toward financial independence and business success. So, why wait? Explore the world of franchising and embark on your entrepreneurial journey today!

    FAQs

    What is the full form of Amul?

    The full form of Amul is Anand Milk Union Limited. It is a cooperative brand managed by the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (GCMMF).

    How many franchise models does Amul offer?

    Amul offers two main types of franchise models which are Amul preferred outlets and Amul ice cream scooping parlor.

    What is the minimum area and investment requires to start an Amul franchise?

    The minimum area for an Amul preferred outlet is 300-400 square feet with a minimum investment of INR 1.5 lakhs to 2 lakhs and for Amul Ice Cream Scooping Parlor is 200-300 square feet with an investment of INR 5 lakhs to 10 lakhs.

    What is Amul franchise cost in India?

    Amul dairy franchise, Amul milk franchise, or an Amul icecream franchise cost ranges from INR 2–INR 6 lakhs for an outlet and INR 5–INR 10 lakhs for an ice cream scooping parlor.

    What is Amul franchise application process?

    To apply for an Amul franchise, visit the official Amul website, fill out the franchise inquiry form with your details, and submit it. Amul will contact you if shortlisted.

  • From Downing Street to Wall Street: Goldman Sachs Hires Ex-PM Rishi Sunak as Senior Adviser

    The former prime minister of the United Kingdom, Rishi Sunak, has returned to Goldman Sachs Group Inc. as a senior adviser. In a statement released on July 8, Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon announced that Sunak, who was prime minister from October 2022 to July 2024, will collaborate with executives at New York-based Goldman.

    Sunak will provide worldwide clients of Goldman Sachs advice on a variety of subjects while offering his distinct viewpoints and insights on the macroeconomic and geopolitical environment.

    Prior to becoming prime minister, Sunak held the positions of chief secretary to the Treasury and parliamentary under-secretary of state at the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government.

    He also served as chancellor of the exchequer from February 2020 until July 2022. In 2015, he became a Member of Parliament, marking the beginning of his political career.

    Sunak was born into a family with immigrant origins. His mother and father were born in Tanzania and Kenya, respectively, after his grandparents left Punjab, in northwest India, for East Africa.

    After their families moved to Southampton, southern England, in the 1960s, they met and got married. Sunak’s father joined the National Health Service as a general practitioner. His mother had a small drugstore and was a pharmacist.

    Current Political Status of Sunak

    Sunak is still an MP for the northern English constituency of Richmond and Northallerton, where he led the Conservative Party to its worst-ever loss in the general election last year.

    Regardless of the result of the vote, he pledged throughout the election campaign to serve as an MP for the entire next Parliament. Keir Starmer of Labour, who succeeded him, has until mid-2029 to call the next general election.

    Sunak began his career at Goldman as a summer investment banking intern in 2000. From 2001 to 2004, he worked as an analyst. Later on, he co-founded an investment firm that works with businesses all over the world.

    Common Move of Former Government Officials

    Former government officials frequently migrate into finance, where their worldwide network and policy experience are viewed as key assets. This shift highlights a well-established career trajectory.

    Former Chancellors of the Exchequer George Osborne and Sajid Javid also entered the business, with Javid becoming a partner at the investment firm Centricus and Osborne joining BlackRock as an adviser.

    These days, banks are valuing such experience even more as they try to help customers navigate a geopolitical environment that is becoming more complicated.

    The wealthiest individuals to have occupied 10 Downing Street are Sunak and his spouse, Akshata Murty, who is a trustee of her alma mater, Claremont McKenna College in Southern California.

    The Bloomberg Billionaires Index estimates that Murty’s wealth exceeds $700 million, primarily due to her ownership of Infosys Ltd., the software behemoth her father created.