The most recent AI use case WhatsApp is providing for its users is generating a list of all the communications you haven’t read.
The feature is dubbed AI-powered message summaries, as you might expect. It will use the new private computing system that the company has set up especially to protect and encrypt its AI data.
According to WhatsApp, the new AI feature may be used in both private and group chats, but in order to see the summary, you must actively activate the tool.
Using Meta AI to Summarise Chat
According to WhatsApp, these chat summaries are created by Meta AI and are solely viewable to users. WhatsApp, Meta, and the chatbot users used to generate the list are unable to read these summaries.
They will appear in bullet points, with the private processing label next to the lock icon and a visible-only-to-users label at the top. For the time being, WhatsApp is only making this functionality available to its customers in the US in English; later this year, more areas and languages will be enabled.
In order to keep the conversations private, secure, and unusable for AI system training, Meta has discussed its own private computing system that runs in a different cloud tier.
WhatsApp uses Meta AI throughout the platform with great care, and in order to maintain user satisfaction, the platform needs a strong back end.
WhatsApp is working to put safeguards in place to prevent this from becoming a problem, but AI training is being carried out using our data without the user’s knowledge.
WhatsApp to Add Ads on its Platform
The WhatsApp advertising that the Meta-owned messaging firm has formally unveiled won’t appear in users’ calls or chats, so don’t worry. Instead of showing up in users’ personal area, these advertisements will show up in the Updates tab.
The Updates page, where one may view WhatsApp Status posts, is where Meta is placing them. Therefore, no, consumers’ private discussions are not being interrupted by advertisements for shoes or shampoo. These sponsored posts, such as Instagram Stories with occasional promotions, will appear between friends’ status updates.
In an official blog post, WhatsApp stated that these new features will only be available on the Updates page, separate from your private conversations. This implies that a user’s experience remains unchanged if he or she solely uses WhatsApp to communicate with friends and family.
Minting More Revenue Through this Move
WhatsApp did not just adopt this notion without any prior planning. Since acquiring WhatsApp, Meta has considered monetising the app and introducing advertisements to make money.
Meta always had a distinct idea, even though WhatsApp’s initial creators opposed the messaging service’s use of advertisements. In 2020, they postponed their advertising goals, but they have since returned with a strategy that says it respects users’ privacy.
In an exchange filing on June 27, JSW Paints Limited stated that it has finalised agreements to buy up to 74.76% of Akzo Nobel India Limited (ANIL) from Akzo Nobel N.V. and its affiliates. The deal was cracket for a maximum consideration under the Share Purchase Agreement of up to INR 8,986 crores, subject to certain closing adjustments.
The Competition Commission of India must approve the proposed transaction, and ANIL’s public shareholders must complete a mandatory tender offer, or “open offer”.
The news that JSW Paints would soon sign final or definite agreements to purchase the Indian division of the Dulux paint manufacturer was first reported by a renowned media outlet on June 26.
JSW Paints Outpaced Others to Crack the Deal
According to reports from a number of media outlets earlier on May 15, JSW Paints had taken the lead in a fiercely contested deal that also attracted interest from a group including Advent International, Indigo Paints, and Pidilite Industries, a manufacturer of Fevicol.
Following May 15, the Indian business house and the MNC entered into an exclusive agreement.
The US $23 billion JSW Group, India’s largest conglomerate with diversified holdings across a range of B2B and B2C industries, including steel, cement, energy infrastructure, automobiles, and paints, includes JSW Paints, the fastest-growing paint firm in India.
One of the top manufacturers of industrial and decorative paints in India, ANIL is a division of AkzoNobel, a multinational leader in these products with its headquarters located in the Netherlands.
Deal Expands Product Portfolio of JSW Paints
JSW Paints is now one of the leading companies in the industry, which is predicted to develop rapidly in the years to come thanks to this game-changing purchase.
Paints & Coatings is one of the industries in India with the quickest rate of growth, and JSW Paints is one of the fastest-growing paint firms, according to Parth Jindal, Managing Director.
Some of the most well-known paint and coating brands in the world, including Dulux, International, and Sikkens, are produced by AkzoNobel India. “The firm is thrilled to have them join the JSW family at JSW Paints. JSW Paints hopes to create the paint business of the future in collaboration with the AkzoNobel India family, which includes its partners, customers, and workers,” Jindal added.
With the help of Dulux’s magic and JSW Paints’ thoughtfulness, we hope to satisfy customers and create enduring value for all of our stakeholders.
According to AkzoNobel CEO Greg Poux-Guillaume, this deal marks a critical turning point in the company’s strategic implementation.
He added further that AkzoNobel India is proud of the talent and brand that have contributed to its success, and it has continuously performed well. With JSW, AkzoNobel is certain that the company is in the capable hands of a long-term partner with extensive local knowledge and aspirations in the industry.
The world of used cars, which is full of doubt and mistrust, has been waiting a long time for a game-changer. The game-changing factor was the arrival of Cars24, a pioneering eCommerce platform that revolutionized the used automobile market. Join us as we dive into a comprehensive analysis of the business model of Cars24 that has revolutionized the used car market and propelled the company to unprecedented heights of success.
Cars24 has come a long way from its start to become a major participant in the secondary market for used vehicles. However, why is the company’s business plan so effective? How do they cope with the complexities of the pre-owned vehicle industry to provide their clients with fair and high-quality deals? To address these inquiries, we will examine the business model of Cars24 through this write-up.
Vikram Chopra, Mehul Agrawal, Gajendra Jangid, and Ruchit Agarwal,launched Cars24 in 2015 to simplify the at times complicated process of buying and selling secondhand cars. After enduring the complex web of the used car market on their own, the founders saw the need for a platform that could simplify, streamline, and increase trust in the industry. The concept of Cars24 was therefore formed. Having its headquarters in Gurugram, the company conducts business throughout India.
Partnerships and commissions charged by the company when purchasing and selling used automobiles are the backbone of the Cars24 business model.Car dealerships, banks, NBFCs, and inspection and refurbishment centers are all part of their collaborations. If Cars24 wants to keep its inventory up-to-date, offer financing alternatives, and sell only high-quality vehicles, it needs these alliances.
The technological infrastructure, the network of partners and car dealerships, and the skilled team of mechanics and automobile engineers are the most important resources for Cars24. Their tech infrastructure allows them to scale and run smoothly, their dealership network guarantees a steady supply of automobiles, and their talented workforce guarantees that the cars on their platform are of high quality. There are a lot of benefits to using Cars24. It provides a simple and fast way for sellers to sell their cars, as well as fast payment and a free vehicle examination. Easy financing choices, a five-day return period, and a large selection of certified and tested cars are what purchasers can expect from this service.
Cars24 Business Model Canvas
The Business Model Canvas (BMC) is a strategic tool used to understand and visualize how a company creates, delivers, and captures value. For Cars24, the Business Model Canvas outlines the key building blocks of its operations, including its partners, activities, customer segments, revenue streams, and more. It provides a clear snapshot of how Cars24 functions as a tech-driven platform in the used automobile market.
Cars24 Business Model Canvas
Key Partners
Car dealerships
Banks and NBFCs (for financing options)
Inspection and refurbishment centers
Skilled mechanics and automobile engineers
Technology and logistics providers
Key Activities
Buying and reselling used vehicles (C2B & C2C)
Car inspection, certification, and refurbishment
End-to-end transaction management
Financing and insurance facilitation
Platform and app development
Customer support and logistics handling
Value Propositions
Simple and fast car selling process for individuals
Free car inspection and instant payment for sellers
Certified, tested used cars with warranty for buyers
Cars24 operates on the asset-heavy customers-to-business (C2B) model, which entails purchasing pre-owned vehicles from private parties and dealers and then reselling them to other parties.
Although the exact fees are not made public, it has been reported in the media that Cars24, in contrast to classifieds platforms that rely on listings, facilitates the entire transaction, charging a small registration fee in addition to a commission of 4-5% on each sale. The company began operations in 2015 and has already sold fewer than 1,000,000 vehicles. Their tech infrastructure allows them to scale and run smoothly, their dealership network guarantees a steady supply of automobiles, and their talented workforce guarantees that the cars on their platform are of high quality. The C2B concept is intentionally incorporated into the platform’s design. Cars are bought by the company and then sold to dealerships. The C2C business model is now part of the company’s expansion.
Under this approach, before a user buys a car, they have to either choose it from the platform’s website or go to the closest branch to test drive it.
Top Revenue Generating Used Cars Startups in India in FY23
USP of Cars24
The scarcity of secondhand cars is a problem that Cars24 is working hard to solve. Cars24 streamlines the whole buying process, in contrast to its competitors which only generate leads. It enhances the customer experience by investing in stronger technologies. The company promises the lowest rates, the quickest deals, and the most knowledgeable staff.
Cars24 SWOT Analysis
Swot Analysis of Cars24
Cars24 Strengths
Cars24 offers online services for purchasing and selling used automobiles.
The company is highly adaptable in the ever-changing market.
Online enterprises, such as Cars24, have thrived during the pandemic era due to their ability to continue growing without interruption.
Cars24 maintains profitability and client connections through its online presence, ensuring a strong position when the economy recovers.
The service delivery process is streamlined for customer convenience.
Customers can have the perfect vehicle delivered to their door in minutes without leaving their sofa.
Budget considerations are crucial for customers when buying an automobile.
Cars24 provides a fully digital solution to avoid complicated transparency procedures.
Low-interest monthly payment options are available, allowing clients to purchase cars even without immediate cash on hand.
Cars24 Weakness
Cars24’s car valuation and pricing methods often make buyers uneasy.
The pricing frequently falls short of customer expectations.
During the off-season, Cars24 experiences idle periods, and profitability is inadequate during these periods.
Cars24 Opportunities
Increasing numbers of people are planning to purchase used automobiles.
Numerous factors contribute to this trend, including:Avoidance of paying taxesCost savingsAccess to higher-quality used cars
Research indicates a global preference for second-hand vehicles.
67% of second-hand vehicle purchases occur at second-hand stores.
Environmental regulations in certain nations may require the abandonment of vehicles in excellent condition.
Car resale segments present a great business opportunity to capitalize on this trend.
Cars24 Threats
The used car market holds significant potential. Many people have recently recognized the promise of this ecosystem.
Technological advancements enable new entrants to quickly join the competition.
A major obstacle for customers considering a used car purchase from Cars24 is the lack of assurance regarding the vehicle’s condition.
This lack of assurance poses a massive threat to Cars24’s future business.
When it comes to buying and selling used cars in India, Cars24 has revolutionized the industry. They have achieved great success thanks to their forward-thinking leadership, innovative use of technology, and outstanding understanding of client needs. Cars24 has changed the way people purchase and sell used automobiles by making the process easy, transparent, and efficient. Car trading is now as easy as ordering food or a cab online since they have removed all the old hurdles.
FAQs
What is Car24 company?
Founded in 2015, Cars24 is a leading AutoTech company that is revolutionizing the sale, purchase, and financing of pre-owned cars in India, Australia, Thailand, and the UAE.
Who are the founders of Cars24?
Vikram Chopra, Mehul Agrawal, Gajendra Jangid, and Ruchit Agarwal,founded Cars24 in the year 2015.
Is Cars24 a unicorn company?
Cars24 company raised US$200 million in a Series E round of funding in 2020 and became a unicorn startup as it was valued at over $1 billion.
What is Cars24 business model?
Cars24 follows a Customer-to-Business (C2B) and Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C) business model. It buys used cars directly from individuals and resells them to car dealers or other buyers. Unlike classified platforms that only list vehicles, Cars24 manages the full transaction process—from inspection and pricing to paperwork and delivery. It earns through commissions, registration fees, and value-added services like financing and insurance.
How does Cars24 earn money?
Cars24 earns money by charging a commission of 4–5% on each car sale, along with a registration or processing fee from sellers. It also makes money through resale margins on used cars it buys and sells, and by offering value-added services like car loans, insurance, warranties, and RC transfers. These services generate referral fees and additional revenue for the company.
Is Cars24 profitable?
Cars24 is not yet profitable.
How much commission does cars24 take?
Cars24 charges a commission of about 4–5% on the final sale price of each vehicle, along with a nominal one-time registration or processing fee. These fees cover the end-to-end transaction services, inspection, pricing, paperwork and platform facilitation, ensuring a smooth, transparent experience for sellers.
How does Cars24 work?
Cars24 buys used cars from individuals, inspects and refurbishes them, and then sells them to dealers or other customers through its platform. It handles the entire process, listing, pricing, paperwork, financing, and delivery, making it hassle-free for both sellers and buyers.
Who are Cars24 competitors?
Cars24 competes with several players in the used car and auto-tech space in India. Its main competitors include Spinny, CarDekho (via Gaadi.com), Olx Autos, CarTrade, and Droom. These platforms also offer online car buying and selling services, with some focusing on classifieds and others providing end-to-end transactions like Cars24.
Mumbai, June 27, 2025:Jio BlackRock Broking Private Limited (JioBlackRock Broking), a wholly owned subsidiary of Jio BlackRock Investment Advisers Private Limited (JioBlackRock Investment Advisers), has received regulatory approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to commence operations as a brokerage firm in India.
JioBlackRock Broking aims to bring affordable, transparent, and technology-driven execution capabilities for Indian investors. The broking entity’s parent company, JioBlackRock Investment Advisers is a 50:50 joint venture between Jio Financial Services Limited (JFSL) [BSE, NSE: JIOFIN] and BlackRock Inc. (BlackRock) [NYSE: BLK].
Along with the recent regulatory approvals received by Jio BlackRock Asset Management Private Limited and JioBlackRock Investment Advisers to commence operations, receipt of the broking license enables the JioBlackRock joint venture to offer holistic investment solutions to the people of India.
Marc Pilgrem, Managing Director and CEO of Jio BlackRock Investment Advisers Private Limited, said: “We are delighted to receive SEBI’s final approval for JioBlackRock Broking which moves us closer to contributing to India’s continued evolution from a nation of savers to a nation of investors. With JioBlackRock Investment Advisers, we will be able to offer personalised advice to retail investors. Now with brokerage, we will also bring an execution platform for self-directed investors. “
Hitesh Sethia, Managing Director and CEO, Jio Financial Services Limited said: “These are exciting times for us. Even as JioBlackRock’s Asset Management arm introduces innovative mutual funds to the market, and JioBlackRock Investment Advisers prepares to launch operations, the approval for the broking entity adds another dimension to our strategy of democratising investments in India, through easily accessible and digital-first solutions.”
Rachel Lord, Head of International at BlackRock, said: “JioBlackRock was founded to provide tech-enabled access to capital markets, and affordable, innovative investment solutions, to millions of investors in India. This third approval from SEBI completes the range of offerings of our joint venture. Through these three entities, JioBlackRock will provide a full suite of investment services, enabling Indian investors to work towards their financial goals.”
India is slowly coming under this curb of the corporate world where we are losing track of existing shops and ‘bazaars’ or ‘mandis’. In these hustle-bustle days of ours, we all aspire to get our daily needs under one roof.
At present, only a supermarket won’t suffice as the online market or digitized market is moving ahead. This kind of service was crucial during the lockdown. More or less, we are all too busy nowadays to “go and shop” outside, which has increased our dependency on online services like Dunzo, Swiggy, Big Basket, and others.
As a result, several supermarket franchises in India are trying to make alliances or tie-ups with online services like Swiggy and Dunzo to have a value-added service.
It is hard to deny that India is equipped with a growing retail market, and franchising contributes largely there. This certainly creates diversity in the business model, and both online and offline retail franchise gets priority and mostly in times of crisis like the wild spread of COVID-19.
India has about 13 million grocery stores. Food and grocery make up the biggest part of the retail market in the country, with a 65% share. In 2023, the food and grocery retail market in India was valued at around US$719.44 billion. According to Grand View Research, this market is expected to grow by 4% every year from 2024 to 2030. Let’s have a look at the Top 10 supermarket franchises in the country.
Spencer Franchise – Supermarket Franchise in India
Spencer’s Retail Limited is a retail store proposed by the RP Sanjiv Goenka Group. It provides quality products ranging from food, personal care, fashion, home essentials, and electronic goods to customers at length.
Recently, they have added a special section in the name of Spencer’s Gourmet, where you will be able to get imported goods at an affordable price. In addition to this, it has other sections like Wine and Liquor, and Patisserie to add flavor to its store. By introducing Epicuisine, they wanted to cater to their customers with every necessity under one roof.
Spencer is considered to be the earliest inclusion in the retail space of India and there for the first time, it introduced an organized way of retailing. At present, there are approximately 120 stores and 37 hyper stores in 35 cities in India.
Ratnadeep Franchise – Supermarket Franchise in India
Ratnadeep is a renowned supermarket founded by Sandeep Agarwal in 1987. It is a space where you can get high-quality products at a really low price. It ensures an elevated standard of lifestyle for its customers and enables them to experience values including quality, variety, and freshness.
Ratnadeep has indeed set a benchmark for many retail stores in India by creating a shopping experience across major centers of the country.
Needless to say that at present, there are over 130+ stores scattered around Telangana, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, making the lives of their customers easy and grand. Ratnadeep franchise cost in Hyderabad is INR 40-60 lakhs.
Supermarket Franchise
Easy Day
Founded
2008
CEO
Jagan Mohan Rao
Headquarters
New Delhi, India
Total Unit
100+
Website
www.easyday.in
Easy Day Franchise – Supermarket Franchise in India
Easy Day is a friendly neighborhood grocery store that focuses on the needs of local communities. Its small and easy-to-shop stores make daily shopping simple and convenient. Easy Day offers fresh fruits and vegetables, daily essentials, and household items, all at good quality and value. The store listens to what local people want and cares about its customers, making it a trusted place for everyday shopping.
Vijetha Super market Franchise – Supermarket Franchise in India
Vijetha Supermarket has been regarded as the biggest food and grocery retailer in Hyderabad, providing freshness and value-added services to its customers. Mr. Jagan Mohan Rao, the Chairman and Managing Director of the Company, runs on the philosophy that Vijetha retailing is made to give their customer the best service by offering the best deals and seasonal bargains every time.
In 1999, Vijetha opened its first single supermarket in Chandanagar, Hyderabad, with 1000 products, but now, they have succeeded in spreading 25,000 products over 70 stores. They care about their customers’ comfort, and so recently, they started providing them the pleasure of shopping from home by proudly launching an online shopping app named Vijetha Live.
Vijetha is accessible in the state of Andhra Pradesh and Hyderabad with 75+ store locations. Vijetha super market franchise cost in Hyderabad is INR 30-50 lakhs.
More Supermarkets are the most preferred choice of consumers as they can get hold of food, groceries, apparel, and others with ease. It was founded by Aditya Birla Group and by now they have secured franchises in different parts of India within the shortest span of time.
More is only conscious about providing their customers with a more preferred choice of shopping. They are more engaged in implementing cross-functional collaborations to resolve customers’ issues in one go.
It gives 24/7 services to its customers and caters to their needs within the organization. This retail store is firmly committed to assuring its customers of quality products and services consistently. They have around 900+ stores across the country as of 2022.
Star Bazaar Franchise – Supermarket Franchise in India
Star Bazaar is indeed the most significant modern retail store in India. It provides fresh food and groceries to its customers. It is branded by the Tata Group of Companies all over India, including Mumbai, Pune, Kolhapur, Hyderabad, and others.
Star Bazaar is counted in the list of India’s most modern and pioneering supermarkets with a variety of product categories like food, groceries, fresh produce, bakeries, and others. Moreover, it is dedicated to providing immense customer loyalty.
Star Bazaar is regarded as a supermarket format store, positioned as a one-stop store to cater to customers’ daily needs, providing better lives, better service, and better savings to them. STAR is present across 48 stores in Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Kolhapur, and Hyderabad.
G-Fresh Mart Franchise – Supermarket Franchise in India
G-Fresh Mart is a friendly neighborhood grocery store that brings together community care and modern shopping. Unlike big, impersonal chains, each G-Fresh Mart is shaped by the local area, offering both popular global products and special local items. Their ‘farm-to-shelf’ idea means you get fresh fruits and vegetables straight from farms, close to home. They also care about the environment by using eco-friendly packaging and helping local farmers. G-Fresh Mart is not just about selling food – it’s about supporting the people and the planet behind it.
Fortune Mart Franchise – Supermarket Franchise in India
Fortune Mart is a grocery store that offers a mix of local food and global products. It cares about the environment, using biodegradable packaging and working to create zero waste. Fortune Mart also has a smart loyalty program that gives rewards to regular shoppers and helps build a strong community. Each store is designed to fit the needs of its local area, so while the brand is big, it still feels local. Shopping at Fortune Mart means supporting a cleaner planet with every purchase.
Hyper Supermarket – Supermarket Franchise in India
Hyper Supermarket is a fast-growing grocery store known for its large, clean spaces filled with both local and international products. It makes shopping easy by offering fresh items, many choices, and good value. The store focuses on keeping customers happy, with both in-store help and easy online shopping. As it grows, Hyper Supermarket also cares about the environment and works with local suppliers, setting a great example for eco-friendly shopping.
Fairway Supermart
Founded
2022
CEO
Jack Murphy
Headquarters
Delhi, India
Total Unit
17+
Website
www.fairwaymarket.com
Fairway Supermarket – Supermarket Franchise in India
Fairway Supermarket, started in 2017, is a special grocery store located in busy city areas. It is known for offering fresh, high-quality food. From local fruits and vegetables to rare and special items like artisanal cheeses and organic produce, Fairway gives shoppers a wide variety to choose from. It’s more than just a place to shop – it’s a fun experience for anyone who loves food.
Conclusion
Providing home delivery services is a plus for Indians, and franchising is currently adding value-added services to it. It is essential to stay competitive in the market, but for that, it is important to quickly restore the business that revolves around supermarket franchising.
So, it can be concluded that supermarket franchises are spreading fast in India, making our lives easier to deal with on a daily basis, and we in this digitized world are getting more succumbed to it.
FAQs
How much does it cost to open a supermarket in India?
The grocery store investment can swing between Rs. 10Lakh to Rs 2 Crores, depending on the size, shape, and capacity of the infrastructure.
Which Supermarket Franchise is best in India?
It is hard to say which supermarket franchise is best in India because there are many.
Is owning a supermarket profitable?
Yes, owning a supermarket is highly profitable as it includes the daily use items that a person needs to buy, and with the option of getting all the required products from a single roof, customers tend to visit supermarkets more frequently.
What is Ratnadeep franchise cost?
Ratnadeep franchise cost is INR 40-60 lakhs.
What is Star Bazaar franchise cost in India?
The Star Bazaar franchise cost is INR 50 – 70 lakhs.
India’s startup ecosystem remained vibrant on 26 June 2025, with multiple high-value funding announcements across sectors, including defence tech, internet services, and e‑commerce enablement. From Wiom’s $40 million raise to Raphe mPhibr’s record-breaking $100 million round, investors continue to back innovation at scale. Meanwhile, strategic moves from Pine Labs, Net1, and Bumble also made headlines. Here’s a quick roundup of the day’s key developments.
Daily Indian Startup Funding Digest – 26 June 2025
Company
Amount Raised
Lead Investor(s)
Sector
Wiom
US $40 million
Bertelsmann India, Accel, Prosus et al.
Internet services
StayVista
Over ₹40 crore (~US $4.6 m)
JSW Ventures, DSG Consumer Partners, Capri Global FO
Luxury villa rentals
Brihaspathi Technologies
US $10 million
Foreign institutional investors
Defence/Ai security tech
Jobizo
₹12 crore (~US $1.44 m)
Inflection Point Ventures, Alkemi Ventures
Health‑tech HR platform
Raphe mPhibr
US $100 million
General Catalyst, Amal Parikh, Think Investments etc.
Defence drone/aerospace
ShopOS
US $20 million
Binny Bansal via 3STATE Ventures
AI‑powered e‑commerce OS
Flipspaces
₹50 crore (~US $5.9 m)
Asiana Fund (Asian Paints-backed)
Commercial interior tech
📰 Top Funding News
Wiom raised $40 million, secured a major growth round
Delhi-based internet-services aggregator Wiom secured $40 million in a growth capital round led by Bertelsmann India Investments and Accel, with participation from Prosus, Promaft Partners, and existing backers such as RTP Global. The funds will support product development, hiring, and expansion into underserved Indian cities.
StayVista raised INR 40+ crore from JSW Ventures, others
Luxury villa rental platform StayVista raised over INR 40 crore ($4.6 million) in a round led by JSW Ventures, along with DSG Consumer Partners and Capri Global Family Office. The capital will be used to expand geographically, enhance offerings, and grow the team.
Hyderabad-based Brihaspathi Technologies, focused on AI-powered surveillance and defence tech, raised $10 million from foreign institutional investors. The firm also secured a project with the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation and announced plans to go public in FY 2026–27.
Jobizo raised INR 12 crore to grow health-tech hiring
Gurugram-based health workforce platform Jobizo raised INR 12 crore ($1.44 million) in a Pre-Series A round led by Inflection Point Ventures and Alkemi Ventures. The company aims to expand its tech stack, ramp up marketing, grow the team, and boost working capital.
Raphe mPhibr raised $100 million in a historic defence round
Drone and aerospace startup Raphe mPhibr, based in Noida, raised $100 million in equity funding led by General Catalyst, with support from Amal Parikh, Think Investments, and others. Valued at around $900 million, this marks the largest private defence-tech funding in India to date.
ShopOS raised $20 million from Binny Bansal
E-commerce enablement startup ShopOS, founded by Sai Krishna VK and Ajay PV, raised $20 million in seed funding from Binny Bansal’s 3STATE Ventures. The funding will go towards product development, team scaling, and expanding into Europe and the UAE.
Flipspaces raised INR 50 crore for global expansion
Commercial design-tech firm Flipspaces secured INR 50 crore ($5.9 million) in funding from Asiana Fund, backed by an Asian Paints promoter. The funding will be used to support operations in India, the US, and the UAE.
Key News Highlights – 26 June 2025
Net1 exits MobiKwik after 8 years with significant loss
South Africa-based fintech firm Net1 has fully exited its investment in Indian digital payments platform MobiKwik, ending an 8-year association. Net1 had initially invested around $18.5 million between 2016 and 2017 but exited with losses due to MobiKwik’s stagnant valuation and shifting strategy. The exit comes amid broader challenges for older fintech backers.
Pine Labs files IPO papers, aims to raise INR 2,600 crore
Fintech unicorn Pine Labs has officially filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with SEBI, targeting a fresh issue of INR 2,600 crore. Existing investors including Peak XV Partners, Temasek, and PayPal plan to offload a significant portion of their stakes. Peak XV is expected to sell the largest chunk, signalling a partial exit amid the long-awaited IPO.
India’s online commerce to touch $300 billion by 2030: Bessemer
According to a new report by Bessemer Venture Partners, India’s online commerce market is projected to reach $300 billion by 2030, driven by increased consumer spending, digital infrastructure, and D2C innovation. Sectors like e‑commerce enablement, logistics, and vernacular platforms are identified as key growth enablers.
Bumble to lay off 240 employees in global restructuring
Dating app Bumble has announced plans to cut 240 jobs globally as part of an organisational restructuring. The company is undergoing leadership transitions and seeking to streamline its operations. The layoffs are expected to impact employees across markets, including India, though an exact region-wise breakdown was not disclosed.
BSE shares fall over 1% as SEBI imposes INR 25 lakh penalty
Shares of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) declined over 1% after SEBI imposed an INR 25 lakh penalty. The regulator found that BSE had allowed frequent modifications during trades without following proper protocols, breaching the Securities Contracts Regulation norms. The penalty adds pressure amid increasing scrutiny on exchanges.
Report focuses on how e-commerce, content plays, and consumer discernment will continue to fuel the rise of a $1 trillion dollar digital opportunity
The India practice of Bessemer Venture Partners today released a report titled ‘Click, Watch, Shop: the consumer opportunity in India’. The report outlines the tech, demographic and policy tailwinds from the past decade that have fueled the rise of a $1 trillion digital opportunity and also talks about the user behaviours that will shape consumer offerings in the future.
A tailwind trifecta of internet penetration, evolving demographics, and policy changes is among the trends that have enabled the rise of new age consumer companies such as Swiggy, Urban Company, Boldfit, Vetic and more. Going forward, it is the evolution of commerce marketplaces, content platforms and changing consumer aspirations that will power newer companies to win in the Indian context.
Commerce will become quicker, better and more aspirational across channels
India’s burgeoning online commerce sector has witnessed an extraordinary expansion in recent years. Starting from a base of $30 billion in 2020,and is expected to get to $300 billion by the end of the decade in 2030, contributing to a $1 trillion digital opportunity. This demonstrates it is no longer a niche phenomenon catering to a small segment but has firmly established itself as a dominant force within the Indian retail landscape for a significant and growing share of the population.
In addition, the recent rise of quick commerce (q-commerce) has introduced a new dimension to the online retail ecosystem, further revolutionising the way consumers access goods. Platforms such as BigBasket, Blinkit, Swiggy, and Zepto have spearheaded this movement, demonstrating the viability and consumer appeal of rapid delivery services. This segment is seeing the further trend of verticalised q-commerce emerging, with startups like Snabbit, Swish and Slikk catering to niche needs.
Lastly, D2C brands are increasingly catering to an aspirational mass-premium audience – an audience characterised by the demand for newer, better-priced, higher-quality products.
India is experiencing a content revolution driven by consumers’ diverse appetites for entertainment, education, and gaming. Characterised by short attention spans and a multitude of accessible platforms across interests, languages, and budgets, user engagement is rapid, facilitated by frictionless microtransactions or autopay-led subscriptions.
Platforms are adapting to these shorter attention spans with quick and engaging content. Over the past five years, short-form video platforms in India have witnessed a 3.6X growth in daily active users, competing with mainstream digital platforms. Moreover, the rise of virtual tipping, UPI autopay and other micro-transactions is expected to reach $1.5 billion by 2029 and exemplifies the growth of UPI-enabled microtransactions, which allows companies to experiment with diverse monetisation models beyond just ads.
The rise of new lifestyle and consumption habits
The modern Indian consumer’s choices increasingly prioritise what was previously seen as lifestyle spending. These include previously thought “non-essential” spending in areas such as physical and mental health, financial wellness, and pet care. This expenditure has moved from being a good-to-have to a must-have for Indian consumers.
For instance, there is increased spending on organic food, protein, fitness gadgets, preventive healthcare, and wellness services.) Health-focused food and beverage (F&B) as a category has expanded from ~11% to ~16% of F&B spend and is expected to continue to increase as brands have been quick to adapt to this trend.
Similar trends can be seen in segments such as financial services (eg, personal finance offering such as Groww) and petcare.
Anant Vidur Puri, Partner, said “India presents a $1 trillion dollar digital opportunity. The emergence of multiple consumer marketplaces, platforms and new-age brands in the past decade are a testament to the growing aspirations of an emergent India. This makes us exceptionally optimistic about the potential for many more consumer plays to emerge in the coming years.”
Manika Plastech Limited, a design-led, precision-engineered, rigid polymer packaging manufacturing company, has filed a Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with SEBI for an Initial Public Offering (IPO).
The public offer comprises of a fresh issue of equity shares aggregating up to INR 115 crore by company (THE “FRESH ISSUE”) and an offer for sale (OFS) aggregating up to 15 million equity shares of face value of INR 2 each by VRIDAA Holding Trust the Promoter Selling Shareholders (“OFFER FOR SALE”).
Nikunj Mohanlal Kapadia, Munjal Nikunj Kapadia, Mihir Nikunj Kapadia, Pratik Nikunj Kapadia and VRIDAA Holding Trust are the promoters of the company.
Manika Plastech Limited is a design-led, precision-engineered rigid polymer packaging manufacturer catering to diversified critical industries such as energy storage, dairy and edible food products, paints, and chemicals. The company’s products are designed and developed in-house, with 36 designs registered as unique intellectual property, out of which two have been applied for renewal, under the Designs Act, 2000 and the Designs Rules, 2001. (Source: Technopak Report)
With a focus on application-specific performance, durability, product safety and efficiency, the company has a product portfolio built around precision-engineered solutions such as high-performance battery casings, pail & thinwall containers, each tailored to serve industrial and consumer use cases. These offerings cater to a broad spectrum of industries, including automotive, energy storage, telecommunications, paints, lubricants, agrochemicals, food, and dairy, among others. The company undertakes production in injection moulded, rigid polymer components, such as precision battery casings, pails and thinwall containers.
The company proposes to utilise the Net Proceeds towards funding the capital expenditure towards purchase of plant and machinery, Repayment/pre-payment, in part or full, of certain borrowings availed by the company, and General Corporate Purposes.
The Company is proposing to implement using ISBM technology to manufacture an additional range of products like PET bottles, jars, containers, etc. for industry segments such as personal care, cosmetics, beverage and pharmaceutical applications, among others.
Manika Plastech Limited is one of the top three players for recycled polymers/post-consumer recycled processing output in CY 2023/ FY 2024. Manika Plastech Limited incorporates recycled and eco-friendly materials, along with energy-efficient production processes. (Source: Technopak Report).
For the nine months ended December 2024, the company reported a total income of INR 301.754 crore, while the company reported a profit after tax of INR 11.69 crore for the same period.
Currently, the Company’s operations are spread across seven Operating Facilities, in Dehradun, Hosur, Panipat, Una and Dadra and five warehouses.
The Company customers include Livguard Energy Technologies Private Limited, Luminous Power Technologies Private Limited, UNO Minda Limited, JSW Paints Limited, Indigo Paints Limited, Jotun India Private Limited and Grasim Industries Limited, and ULTRAVIOLETTE Automotive Private Limited.
The Equity Shares that will be offered through the Red Herring Prospectus are proposed to be listed on the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited.
Pantomath Capital Advisors Private Limited is the Book Running Lead Manager to the issue.
Mumbai, June 26, 2025: Hyderabad-based AI surveillance and security solutions provider, Brihaspathi Technologies Limited, has successfully raised USD 10 million in funding from foreign institutional investors (FIIs) and others. This capital infusion will fuel the company’s expansion efforts, including the establishment of a new 72,000 sq. ft. CCTV manufacturing facility in Hyderabad, expected to be operational by the end of the current financial year.
As part of its growth strategy, the company plans to hire over 400 additional employees to support its mission of delivering world-class, Made-in-India AI-based security solutions. Brihaspathi Technologies is also gearing up for an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in the next financial year (FY 2026–27). Proceeds from the IPO will be utilized to strengthen its research and development (R&D) capabilities, expand manufacturing capacity, and advance AI-driven solutions.
In another significant development, Brihaspathi Technologies has been awarded a major surveillance project by the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC). The project involves implementing a comprehensive AI-enabled CCTV monitoring system across the MSRTC network, reinforcing the company’s strong credentials in the public sector and its ongoing collaborations with government and institutional clients.
To date, the company has deployed over 1.2 million CCTV cameras across India. Its portfolio includes high-profile installations such as surveillance systems for the Border Security Force (BSF) along international borders, election monitoring for the Election Commission of India, AI-based classroom monitoring systems, wildlife and national park surveillance, and exam control room solutions across various states. In the past, Brihaspathi Technologies has achieved a historic milestone by deploying 64,000 CCTV cameras across 19 states in a single day for the NEET examination.
Buoyed by a strong order book, Brihaspathi Technologies anticipates a 30% growth in revenue during the current financial year. This growth is attributed to the rising demand for integrated security solutions across sectors such as education, transportation, and public safety in both urban and rural areas. Brihaspathi Technologies is the first Indian company in the Security Surveillance Industry sector to attract Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) for strategic funding. This pioneering move positions the company to scale its innovations and further penetrate global markets.
Commenting on the future prospects, Mr. Rajasekhar Papolu, Managing Director, Brihaspathi Technologies Limited, said, “This is a transformative phase for Brihaspathi Technologies. The USD 10 million funding will accelerate our expansion plans, particularly the commissioning of our new manufacturing unit in Hyderabad, which will significantly scale up our production capabilities. Additionally, winning a major contract from the MSRTC is a testament to our ability to deliver impactful surveillance solutions on a large scale. As we prepare for our IPO in the next financial year, we remain committed to developing world-class, AI-powered, Made-in-India technologies that will redefine the security landscape across the nation.”
“India’s CCTV and surveillance sector is witnessing rapid growth, driven by heightened government focus on internal security, smart city initiatives, and increased demand for institutional monitoring. With the integration of AI and rising public awareness, the industry is expected to grow at a double-digit CAGR over the next five years, offering substantial opportunities for domestic manufacturers and solution providers. With a robust team of over 300 professionals at an average age of just 35 years, and a pan-India presence through GST-registered offices in 19 states, Brihaspathi Technologies has established itself as a trusted name in smart surveillance, IoT, and digital transformation,” added Mr. Rajasekhar.
Brihaspathi’s innovative product suite incorporates AI video analytics, real-time monitoring, and solar-powered security systems, making it ideal for both remote and infrastructure-rich environments. With its upcoming manufacturing facility, solid financial support, and large-scale national deployments, the company is poised to emerge as a future-ready, indigenous leader in India’s evolving surveillance ecosystem.
According to people familiar with the situation, the fintech unicorn Pine Labs filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) on June 26.
According to a media report, the company intends to raise up to INR 2,600 crore ($304 million) through a new share offering, while current investors such as PayPal, Mastercard, Peak XV Partners, and Macritchie Investments will sell up to 14.78 crore (147.8 million) shares.
The proceeds of the new issuance will be utilised to pay down debt and make investments in companies including Pine Payment Solutions Malaysia, Pine Labs UAE, and Qwikcilver Singapore, in accordance with the DRHP.
Axis Capital, Morgan Stanley, Citi, J.P. Morgan, and Jefferies to Manage Offerings
The business might potentially think about placing shares up to INR 520 crore before the IPO. Axis Capital, Morgan Stanley, Citi, J.P. Morgan, and Jefferies are managing the offering.
This represents a significant departure from its previous discussions since last year, when Pine Labs was allegedly considering an IPO of $1 billion (INR 8,300 crore). Pine Labs, which was last valued at $5 billion when it raised money in 2022, was granted permission in April to relocate its headquarters from Singapore to India.
The platform has been branching out into other industries, such as online payments (Fave), Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL), invoice management, and gifting solutions, enabling merchants to diversify revenue sources. Its primary focus is on offline payments through Point of Sale (PoS) terminals.
IPO Getting More Popular Among Startup Sector
Due to a robust IPO market and a resurgence of investor interest in tech equities, a number of technology businesses intend to go public in 2025.
Lenskart, an eyeglasses startup, has contacted investment banks to present for the mandate for its possible initial public offering (IPO), which may raise $1 billion. Groww, a stock broker, had selected five investment banks for a $1 billion initial public offering.
In the near future, startups like SoftBank-backed OfBusiness and contract maker Zetwek hope to raise $1 billion through initial public offerings (IPOs). Up to 25 firms hope to debut on the public market in 2025.
This comprises companies that aim for $500 million initial public offerings (IPOs), such as edtech company PhysicsWallah, AI unicorn Fractal, construction materials portal Infra.market, and leader in rapid commerce Zepto.
With solid institutional support and a broad range of digital payment and issuance tools designed for India’s quickly digitising commerce sector, Pine Labs’ initial public offering (IPO) is anticipated to be a notable fintech listing in 2025.
