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  • How the Live Bitcoin Price Is Shaping Startup Strategies in 2025

    With Bitcoin recently smashing through the $87,000 mark for the first time in history, a growing number of global startups—from fintechs to SaaS firms—are rethinking how they manage capital and build for a decentralized future. The Live Bitcoin price, now hovering around $87,823 as of March 25, 2025, is no longer just a metric for traders—it’s a key economic signal influencing treasury decisions, product development and even how funding rounds are structured.

    From cross-border payments to crypto-powered business models, Bitcoin is increasingly embedded in the startup playbook.

    Why Startups Are Watching the Live Bitcoin Price in 2025

    After the 2024 halving, which dropped block rewards down to 3.125 BTC, the price of Bitcoin surged greatly, increasing 58% year to date due to strong inflows from institutional investors, the addition of ETFs and supply restrictions. Now, the daily volume of exchanges is above 35 billion, with BTC being a digital and macro reserve asset, in addition to long-term holders accumulating, which indicates great trust in BTC.

    Startups, especially those situated internationally, are changing their capital strategies as well as payment systems.

    Using Crypto as a Treasury Strategy: Speculative Thinking vs. Reasonable Possibility

    Interest rate hikes are causing a shift in investment strategies, with a wave of new startups wishing to diversify their investments to preserve value, including a slice of Bitcoin in the treasury mix. A Galaxy Digital report claims that over 9% of global startups now hold crypto in treasury, compared to just 2 percent in 2021. Liquidity and institutional custody solutions shift for Bitcoin, making it the most sought-after asset.

    In late 2024, Swiss Fintech Numeo allocated 20% of its $8 million Series A round to Bitcoin, which helped preserve value amidst euro volatility. KoinX, a startup from Pune, India, is enabling Indian founders to manage hybrid crypto-fiat treasuries with the help of innovative crypto accounting software that uses BTC live feed for real-time portfolio tracking.

    No longer do founders view crypto as speculative with this new trend. It acts as a store of value and serves the dual purpose of being a payment instrument.

    Startups’ Bravery: Using Bitcoin to Make Cross-Border Payments

    With the increasing value of live Bitcoin along with new crypto infrastructure, cross-border payments are made easier than ever. Global startups still face major pain points with high foreign exchange fees and slow settlement, and Bitcoin provides a solution.

    Freelance payments, SaaS subscriptions and cloud infrastructure payments are increasingly being settled in Bitcoin by startups from India, Nigeria and Argentina. Through APIs provided by OpenNode and Strike, startups can instantly accept or convert BTC with ease. To help startups monitor the volatility of BTC, OKX offers multi-wallet access, automated conversion and real-time pricing services, allowing the startup to settle in local currency when necessary.

    For founders located in regions with heavily controlled capital, Bitcoin offers a much-needed freedom that fiat channels cannot offer.

    Raising Capital in Bitcoin: A Growing Niche

    Although quite rare, an increasing number of founders are using Bitcoin for fundraising, considering it less complex and faster compared to traditional funding.

    With early-stage investment by crypto-focused investors, Nigerian Bitcoin remittance and savings app Bitnob has switched to a Bitcoin-first model. The startup’s infrastructure is Bitcoin-centric, which enables it to rely less on fiat and perform better in African markets that suffer from currency volatility.

    According to Messari, there were $520 million in total for crypto-inclusive rounds in 2024, indicating rising investor interest in Web3-native business model founders. With the changing legal frameworks, this option will be available more widely, particularly for investors focusing on startups and crypto-native users or crypto-adjacent problems.

    Managing Bitcoin’s Volatility: Intelligent Risk for Startups

    The price of Bitcoin swings within a range much lower than previous cycles. Still, it can be troublesome for early-stage ventures. The price fluctuations within the range of 10 to 15 percent can reduce the runway if left unhedged.

    Currently, startups are

    • Keeping operational cash in the form of stablecoins (USDT/USDC)
    • Holding 10% to 25% of capital in BTC for potential gains
    • Using OKX to track live Bitcoin prices and automate conversions

    Recently, a gaming startup based out of Singapore utilized OKX’s API to automatically convert BTC to stablecoins after a certain price threshold was reached. This helped them protect their development budget while capitalizing on profit.

    In this instance, volatility is a tactical advantage rather than a risk.

    Regulation: More Clarity, Less Risk

    The climate of regulation around startups that deal in Bitcoin is also changing for the better. Countries like Singapore, the UAE and the EU have set clear business-use frameworks for cryptocurrency. India appears to have a limitation on retail trading, but corporate use of Bitcoin for treasury and cross-border payments is allowed under the GST and RBI reporting framework.

    Such clarity in regulation provides a clear opportunity for startups to take advantage of and innovate with Bitcoin.

    OKX: Utilizing Bitcoin’s Framework to Foster Startup Development

    As startups expand, they require a more sophisticated framework. OKX offers:

    • Live tracking and analytical tools for Bitcoin
    • Fully integrated APIs for Wallet and Automated Payment System (APS) integrations
    • Coverage of institutional-grade security for assets

    Startups seeking execution of treasury, payment and product functions built on crypto are turning to OKX for easy and safe execution.

    Conclusion: Reshaping the Startup Playbook with Bitcoin

    The live trading metric of Bitcoin goes beyond just trading. With the live bitcoin prices, there is an opportunity for capital shift, global financial decentralization and a solvable problem for many entrepreneurial founders. Founders adopting Bitcoin aren’t doing so for fame; they are automating processes related to savings, payments and value for a more seamless approach.

    In 2025, the entrepreneurs who are expected to leverage business and borders alongside various investment opportunities will be the ones who understand the effectiveness and synergistic potential of OKX Bitcoin management.

    The transformation Bitcoin will bring to the world’s ecosystem cannot be postponed anymore. It is already active.

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  • Siemens Energy Sells Majority of its Indian Wind Business to TPG

    A consortium led by TPG, a leading worldwide alternative asset management company, has agreed to buy a 90% share in Siemens Gamesa’s onshore wind turbine generator manufacturing operations in Sri Lanka and India. Without revealing the purchase value, Siemens Gamesa stated in a statement that it will keep the remaining 10% of its wind business in India and Sri Lanka. Siemens Energy owns Siemens Gamesa, a wind power company. In addition to Siemens Gamesa’s ongoing investment, TPG will receive a sizeable minority investment from MAVCO Investments, a private business owned by a few members of the Murugappa family, the statement stated. Former JSW Energy CEO Prashant Jain will also acquire a minority ownership in the business as a Climate Change Partner.

    Forming a New Independent Company

    After the deal closes, a new independent business will be established to address the potential of the Indian wind market by creating a best-in-class business for the production, installation, and maintenance of onshore wind turbines. Onshore wind turbine production, installation, and maintenance in India and Sri Lanka are covered by the agreement. According to the statement, Siemens Gamesa will transfer about 1,000 workers and its current manufacturing facilities to India while continuing to grant the new business an exclusive licence for its technology and intellectual property and creating the next generation of goods. However, the business withheld the transaction’s financial information. According to Vinod Philip, a member of the Siemens Energy board who oversees Siemens Gamesa, the new business would better serve the Indian market and provide a long-term outlook for both consumers and staff. Siemens Gamesa may focus on other key areas while this guarantees ongoing support and growth in this thriving sector.

    New Board Members

    Vellayan Subbiah will chair the new company’s board of directors, while Prashant Jain will be its executive vice chairman. The Siemens Gamesa representative on the board will be Vinod Philip. The group believes onshore wind will continue to play an increasing role in India’s green energy mix, according to Ankur Thadani, Partner at TPG and Head of Climate, Asia. With the support of TPG and MAVCO, as well as Siemens Gamesa’s world-class product manufacturing and service offering, this new platform will continue to accelerate the delivery of gigawatts of clean power to millions of Indians across the socioeconomic spectrum. This partnership, as per MAVCO’s Vellayan Subbiah, will help India’s shift to renewable energy sources and boost the industry in the long run. With the government’s mandate for renewable energy and the necessity to meet the country’s constant electricity demand, Prashant Jain stated that the wind sector in India is at a turning point. The demand-supply imbalance and the importance of supply in the entire wind supply chain will only increase the nation’s need for high-quality wind turbine generator suppliers.

  • Shikhar Dhawan’s Brand Endorsements: A Look at His Top Partnerships

    Shikhar Dhawan is well-known as ‘Gabbar’ in the cricketing world and is not just a cricketer on the field but also a marketing favourite. But what makes Shikhar Dhawan a perfect choice for brands?

    It’s simple: he’s honest, relatable, and shows authenticity. Whether he is going beyond boundaries or portraying his perfect smile in ads, Dhawan’s charm captures millions of cricket fans worldwide.

    In 2025, Dhawan shined as a brand ambassador, partnering with top-notch brands. Are you curious about which brands have teamed up with this cricketing icon and how they’ve tapped into his magnetic persona? Let’s take a closer look at his top endorsements this year.

    ICC Champions Trophy 2025
    TRACTOR WALA
    CREX
    1xBat Sporting Lines
    QUE Eyewear
    TagZ Foods
    Nveda 
    MyTeam11
    Svish
    MotoGP India
    AloFrut 
    Ramsons Perfume 
    Dream11
    boAt
    Alcis Sports 
    Emami
    GS Caltex
    Vedantu 
    Jio Cinema
    Ikeda LTD
    Amazon MX Player

    List of Shikhar Dhawan’s Brand Endorsements

    From sports and lifestyle to tech and so on, Dhawan’s recent endorsements showcase his versatility and widespread popularity. Let’s take a closer look at why brands are lining up to work with him and the exciting partnerships he’s nailed this year:

    ICC Champions Trophy 2025

    ICC Champions Trophy 2025 - Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements
    ICC Champions Trophy 2025 – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Highlighting his esteemed position in international cricket, Shikhar Dhawan was named the official ambassador for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. His stellar record in the tournament, being India’s highest run-scorer with 701 runs, makes this association particularly fitting. 

    Dhawan expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Some of my most cherished cricketing memories come from playing in the Champions Trophy, and I’m thrilled to be a part of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as an ambassador.”

    TRACTOR WALA

    TRACTOR WALA - Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements
    TRACTOR WALA – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    In a strategic move, he collaborated with TRACTOR WALA as both a partner and brand ambassador. This collaboration announced recently, showcases his interest in the agricultural sector and commitment to supporting farming communities.

    CREX

    CREX – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    In the digital realm, Dhawan joined hands with CREX, a comprehensive cricket exchange platform, as their brand ambassador. This collaboration emphasizes his dedication to enhancing fan engagement and promoting cricket analytics. ​

    1xBat Sporting Lines

    1xBat Sporting - Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements
    1xBat Sporting – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Shikhar Dhawan has joined forces with 1xBat Sporting Lines, a brand that’s making waves in the world of cricketing gear, apparel, and accessories. This partnership is about taking the game to the next level, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting.

    1xBat Sporting Lines is all about innovation and quality. Dhawan has contributed to 1xBat Sporting Lines’ popularity among cricket players and fans. He is popularly known for his incredible talent and passion for the sport, Dhawan’s endorsement is a seal of approval that this gear is top-notch.

    QUE Eyewear

    QUE Eyewear - Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements
    QUE Eyewear – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Expanding his portfolio, Dhawan invested in and became the brand ambassador for QUE, an innovative eyewear brand. This partnership reflects his interest in fashion and lifestyle, showcasing his multifaceted personality.

    TagZ Foods

    TagZ Foods - Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements
    TagZ Foods – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    In the FMCG sector, Dhawan became the face of TagZ Foods, a brand known for its range of popped potato chips and gourmet dips. His association with TagZ Foods aligns with his image of endorsing healthier snack alternatives, resonating with the brand’s target audience.

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    Nveda 

    Nveda – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Dhawan has also teamed up with Nveda, a health and wellness brand that specializes in natural supplements and organic products. His collaboration focuses on promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle through scientifically backed nutrition.

    The campaign highlights the importance of daily wellness, fitness, and immune support, aligning perfectly with Dhawan’s commitment to health and performance.

    MyTeam11

    MyTeam11 – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan was appointed as their brand ambassador for MyTeam11, a prominent fantasy sports platform in India. In this role, Dhawan featured in several promotional campaigns focused on improving user engagement and expanding the platform’s reach among sports enthusiasts.

    Svish

    Svish - Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements
    Svish – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Demonstrating his versatility, Dhawan ventured into the personal hygiene sector by partnering with Svish. This collaboration underscores his commitment to promoting innovative hygiene solutions, reflecting his adaptability on and off the field.

    MotoGP India

    MotoGP - Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements
    MotoGP – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    In a move that excited motorsport enthusiasts, Shikhar Dhawan was appointed the brand ambassador for MotoGP in India. This collaboration, announced in mid-2024, aligns Dhawan’s dynamic image with the exhilarating world of motorcycle racing. 

    Expressing his excitement, Dhawan remarked, “Partnering with the prestigious MotoGP as its India Ambassador is a remarkable honour. The growing excitement around MotoGP in India is exceptionally growing.

    AloFrut 

    AloFrut – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Shikhar Dhawan’s latest collaboration with AloFrut, a leading brand in fruit-based beverages, promotes healthy hydration for active lifestyles. As an advocate of fitness and well-being, Dhawan emphasizes the natural goodness of AloFrut juices, which offer a refreshing alternative to sugary drinks.

    The campaign showcases Dhawan enjoying AloFrut post-training sessions, reinforcing the message of natural energy and rejuvenation.

    Ramsons Perfume 

    Ramsons Perfume – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Dhawan recently became the face of Ramsons Perfume’s ‘One Day Wala Deo’ campaign. The campaign aligns with his bold and fearless attitude, promoting long-lasting freshness for individuals who hustle daily. With his aggressive yet composed batting style, Dhawan embodies the essence of the campaign—staying fresh and confident in high-pressure situations.

    The advertisements feature him in action, demonstrating how the deo keeps up with his energetic lifestyle, whether he’s on the field or off it.

    Dream11

    Dream11 – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Dhawan is a key ambassador for Dream11, India’s biggest fantasy sports platform. Fantasy cricket has taken India by storm, and having a player of Dhawan’s stature backing it adds credibility and excitement. He frequently features in Dream11’s campaigns, engaging fans with his signature humour and fun banter.

    He has also participated in digital campaigns, where his fans create their best teams and compete in fantasy leagues.

    boAt

    boAt – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    boAt, a leading audio and wearables brand, roped in Dhawan to promote its premium range of wireless earphones and smartwatches. Known for his fitness regime and love for music, Dhawan perfectly represents boAt’s ‘Do What Floats Your boAt’ philosophy.

    His promotional campaigns showcase him using boAt products during intense workout sessions and travel, highlighting their durability and superior sound quality.

    Alcis Sports 

    Alcis Sports - Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements
    Alcis Sports – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    As a professional athlete, Dhawan’s endorsement of Alcis Sports, a premium sportswear brand, makes sense. The brand focuses on innovation in activewear, and Dhawan’s association enhances its credibility among fitness enthusiasts and aspiring cricketers.

    Alcis has launched a signature collection in collaboration with Dhawan, designed for comfort and high performance.

    Emami

    Emami - Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements
    Emami – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Emami Limited, a reputed Indian FMCG company, ventured into the home hygiene sector with a new range named ‘Emasol’. This wide array of products was developed to meet the heightened demand for effective home hygiene solutions, a need that became particularly pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic. To promote this new range, Emami appointed international cricketer Shikhar Dhawan as the global brand ambassador for Emasol.

    GS Caltex

    GS Caltex - Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements
    GS Caltex – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Dhawan has also partnered with GS Caltex, an energy and lubricants brand, to promote its high-performance products. The campaign revolves around endurance, speed, and power—qualities Dhawan embodies on and off the field.

    His association with GS Caltex emphasizes reliability and efficiency, which are key elements in both cricket and automobiles.

    Vedantu 

    Vedantu – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Dhawan’s association with Vedantu, an online learning platform, highlights his commitment to empowering young minds. As someone who values discipline and perseverance, Dhawan perfectly represents Vedantu’s vision of nurturing future champions through quality education.

    His campaigns focus on motivation and goal-setting, encouraging students to excel in academics and extracurricular activities.

    Jio Cinema

    JioCinema – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Shikhar Dhawan ventured into the entertainment industry by launching his chat show titled “Dhawan Karenge” on JioCinema Premium. This collaboration marked Dhawan’s debut as a host, where he engaged in candid conversations with prominent figures from Bollywood, cricket, and the digital content sphere.

    To prepare for his role as a host, Dhawan dedicated time to acting classes, aiming to bring authenticity and flair to the show. His natural charisma and the genuine rapport he shared with his guests contributed significantly to the show’s appeal.​

    Ikeda LTD

    Ikeda LTD - Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements
    Ikeda LTD – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    Ikeda LTD, also known as FinKeda, a digital banking and financial services company, announced the onboarding of renowned cricketer Shikhar Dhawan as its brand ambassador. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen Ikeda’s brand positioning and expand its presence, particularly in India’s tier-2, tier-3, and tier-4 cities.​

    Amazon MX Player

    Amazon MX Player – Shikhar Dhawan Brand Endorsements

    The unexpected duo of cricketing star Shikhar Dhawan and social media sensation Orry has sparked curiosity in the entertainment and sports circles. Their recent collaboration for Amazon MX Player has fans wondering whether this partnership stands out as a blockbuster hit or a complete misfire.

    Whether it’s a superhit or a flop will depend on how well they connect with audiences. But one thing’s for sure—their collaboration has already created a buzz, and all eyes are on what they’ll bring to the table!

    Conclusion

    Shikhar Dhawan’s journey so far showcases that he’s not just a cricketing legend but also a marketing genius. And let’s be honest, he’s not just endorsing brands; he’s becoming the brand. His passion, energy, and trademark charm make him unforgettable. Whether promoting healthy snacks, stylish eyewear, or even MotoGP, Dhawan brings his A-game every single time.

    There’s one thing we can be sure of: Shikhar Dhawan is just getting started. We look forward to seeing what Gabbar does in the future, and we can’t wait to see what he comes up with. Everything’s going to be exciting, authentic, and 100% Dhawan.

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    FAQs

    What types of products/services do Dhawan’s endorsements typically cover?

    Shikhar Dhawan endorsements span a diverse range, including apparel, electronics, paints, air conditioners, automobiles, and financial services.

    What is Shikhar Dhawan best known for in cricket?

    Shikhar Dhawan is particularly known for his consistent performances in ICC tournaments and his ability to score big runs at the top of the order.

  • EPFO will Implement Fast PF Withdrawals Via ATMs and UPI

    With immediate access via UPI and ATMs, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) plans to implement a significant modification to PF withdrawals. By the end of May or the beginning of June 2025, EPFO members will no longer have to endure drawn-out withdrawal processes. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), which is in charge of the nation’s digital payment infrastructure, has approved the plan, which is supported by the Ministry of Labour and Employment.

    Government Setting a Limit of INR 1 Lakh

    With a withdrawal cap of up to INR 1 lakh, employees would have immediate access to their PF money, according to Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment. Members would be able to monitor their PF balance directly on UPI and make instantaneous withdrawals using an automated mechanism by the end of May or early June, she told a news agency. For transfers, they can choose the bank account of their choice. Members will be able to easily fulfil urgent financial necessities thanks to the INR 1 lakh withdrawal limit. Withdrawals from PF are now a laborious procedure. Members of EPFO must file claims online and wait for approvals, which can occasionally take weeks. Employees will also be able to monitor their balances and conduct instant transactions thanks to the UPI connection.

    In addition to the current option for medical crises, the EPFO is expanding the scope of fund withdrawals by permitting members to take money out for housing, education, and marriage. The goal of this expansion is to give the nation’s workers more financial flexibility. Dawra emphasised that in order to streamline withdrawals, EPFO has enhanced its digital infrastructure by integrating more than 120 databases. With 95% of claims now automated, the claim processing time has been reduced to only three days, and more advancements are planned.

    Drafting these Reforms was a Big Challengee: Dawra

    According to Dawra, implementing these improvements proved challenging. The enormous size of the EPFO is demonstrated by the number of its members. With 147 regional offices spread across the country, the organisation has over 7.5 crore active members and is still expanding, acquiring 10–12 lakh new members each month. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goal of “ease of living” for both businesses and employees is in line with these reforms, Secretary Dawra said. The project intends to modernise IT infrastructure, streamline social security procedures, and give Indian workers more financial ease. A major turning point in India’s digital financial transformation will be reached with the upcoming introduction of UPI and ATM-based PF withdrawals, which will provide millions of working professionals with previously unheard-of speed and ease.

  • With Investment of INR 7.25 Cr, Zaggle Increases its Stake in Mobileware

    The Hyderabad-based spend management solutions provider Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services Limited has paid INR 15.60 crore to buy a 26% interest in Mobileware Technologies. Additionally, for INR 7.25 crore, Zaggle purchased a 12.34% interest from Mobileware’s proprietors, which represents a percentage of the company’s post-closing issued and paid-up capital on a fully diluted basis. In India’s digital payments ecosystem, mobileware is a key component that supports banks, financial services, NBFCs, and all other financial institutions. Following this investment and acquisition, Zaggle now owns 38.34% of Mobileware Technologies on a fully diluted and post-issue basis.

    Enhancing its Stance in Spend Management Sector

    According to the company, the move will help it secure its position in the SaaS FinTech industry and boost its position in the Spend Management area. According to a formal statement, Zaggle’s integration with Mobileware has already begun to improve its services by giving its customers embedded payment experiences. According to Raj P. Narayanam, founder and executive chairman of Zaggle Prepaid Ocean Services Limited, the investment would allow Zaggle to collaborate on creating cutting-edge solutions for its wide range of clients. Zaggle’s goal of providing smooth, integrated payment experiences is well aligned with Mobileware’s demonstrated proficiency in developing strong payment infrastructures, especially in UPI and other NPCI-certified solutions. In the third quarter that concluded in December 2024, Zaggle recorded a 29.6% growth in consolidated earnings after tax, reaching INR 19.7 crore, up from INR 15.2 crore the previous year. Through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP), the company has raised INR 595 crore, which would be used for strategic acquisitions and to reach a revenue objective of $1 billion.

    About Zaggle and Mobileware Technologies

    Established in 2011, Zaggle is a prominent participant in the spend management space, providing financial technology solutions such as SaaS-based cost management software and corporate prepaid cards. The company’s most recent action is an attempt to capitalise on Mobileware’s extensive knowledge of digital payments infrastructure, which includes NPCI-certified products, including UPI, IMPS, AEPS, BBPS, and the exclusive API banking platform TransXT.

    For 15 years, Mobileware Technologies, which Satyajit Kanekar co-founded, has been a major force in India’s financial industry. The company’s innovative digital payment solutions power banks, NBFCs, and businesses. Kanekar was excited about the partnership, saying that Zaggle’s investment is a significant step for Mobileware since it would enable the company to scale its technology and reach a wider audience. Through this collaboration, Mobileware will be able to improve its payment infrastructure, spur innovation, and establish new benchmarks for effectiveness, security, and customer satisfaction.

  • Inside the Battle Between Registration Agencies and Ola Electric

    Fresh questions about Ola Electric’s approach were raised when a confrontation with vendors, delayed deliveries, and a INR 3,000 crore market rout resulted from an attempt to lower registration fees. Customers who were excitedly anticipating their Ola Electric scooters started to notice an unanticipated delay last month. The typical turnaround time was one week, but delivery took almost a month. Social media was flooded with complaints, and store managers had few responses. A dispute over payments between Ola Electric and its registration agency was at the centre of the disturbance. In addition to frustrating customers and depleting investor wealth by about INR 3,000 crore, the issue halted scooter delivery. The administration has also taken notice of the impact. According to media sources, the dispute has already cost the corporation a top executive, General Legal Counsel Rohit Kumar, who departed due to disagreements over the way the matter was handled. Since its August 2024 stock market debut, this is one of Ola Electric Mobility Ltd’s largest obstacles. After talking to seven executives who were aware of the situation, Mint puts the whole disagreement with the registration agency together.

    The Starting Point of Dispute

    A disagreement between Ola Electric and Shimnit India Pvt. Ltd. and Rosmerta Digital Services Ltd., two of India’s biggest car registration companies, was the beginning of the issue. Since December 2021, the authorities have collaborated with Ola to process vehicle registrations, issuing licence plates and entering client information into the government database. It was a good arrangement for over two years. However, Ola Electric’s sales began to decline by the middle of 2024. Although the company never again reached that milestone, it did reach a peak of 50,000 units in March of last year. People with knowledge of the situation claim that Ola Electric was paying INR 1,400–1,600 for each car for registration, a price determined by the anticipated volume of sales. Ola pressed for severe reductions as part of a larger cost-cutting initiative that was started in November 2024, but the agencies objected, claiming that reduced sales volumes meant greater expenses per unit for them.

    Network Transformation and Opex Reduction Programme

    Ola announced that it had started a Network Transformation and Opex Reduction Program in a statement on March 12. According to the statement, this programme has included projects to alter the distribution network, such as automating registration and shipping vehicles, spare parts, and accessories straight from the plant to retail locations, as well as closing all regional warehouses. According to the corporation, the implementation of this approach has resulted in monthly savings of approximately INR 90 crore. According to media reports, a senior official who is no longer at Ola Electric stated that the company has occasionally been dissatisfied with Rosmerta’s performance. According to media reports, there were occasionally delays that harmed the clientele’s interaction with the business. The corporation decided to stop cooperating with these organisations after determining that the registration procedure could be completed internally.

  • GreenFortune Secures $4.5Mn in Pre Series A Round from Foundamental, Titan Capital Winners Fund, Incubate Fund Asia and Others

    GreenFortune, a windows and doors brand, announced today the successful close of its $4.5 million funding round led by Foundamental with participation from Titan Capital Winners Fund and existing investors Incubate Fund Asia & Others.

    The capital, approx. INR 39 crore will be used to fuel national level expansion, 6x volumes and build PartnerGate — the company’s proprietary tech platform —  into a full-stack solution to improve customer service. The company looks to treble the in-house R&D/Design and Technical services capabilities to develop new products across various material types and become a complete solution provider for fenestration products.

    GreenFortune, founded in May 2022 by Dilip Kumar & Pratyusha Kosaraju and based in Hyderabad, is on a mission to revolutionize India’s fenestrations industry by making premium-quality products affordable and accessible. While working as a partner at BCG, advising building material companies across India and Europe, Dilip identified a significant gap—middle-income customers struggled to find high-quality, budget-friendly solutions made for Indian weather conditions. Determined to bridge this gap, the duo left their high-paying jobs to launch GreenFortune. Today, the brand is available across 100+ locations in India, and its materials are used to deliver 2+ million square feet of windows and doors. 

    From the outset, GreenFortune invested in in-house R&D to design products specifically suited for India’s diverse climate. The company started small, but with a consultative, customer-first approach, GreenFortune quickly built trust across retail, commercial, and institutional sectors. 

    India’s real estate and construction industry is heading toward $1 trillion by 2030, with facade and joineries contributing $15 billion nationally ($500 billion globally). Despite increasing adoption of sustainable materials and prefabricated solutions, the sector struggles with quality control, poor service orientation, lack of transparency, and high costs. GreenFortune addresses these challenges through innovative, customer-focused solutions tailored to industry pain points.

    Dilip Kumar, Co-Founder and CEO of GreenFortune, expressed, “GreenFortune’s latest round of funding reflects the unwavering trust our investors place in our vision to empower the middle-income section of the nation with quality solutions tailored to their needs in a pocket-friendly manner. With this round of funding, the company aims to scale operations, strengthen its network of fabricators, and achieve INR 250 Cr ARR within the next two years.”

    Rajeev Ranka, India Partner, Incubate Fund Asia said, “ We are thrilled to continue our partnership with GreenFortune as repeat investors. From the early days of B2B business, we are now seeing it evolve into a B2C business with strong demand from consumers on the back of good quality, experience and affordability. We are excited to support them in creating a unique category in home engineering materials with a blend of superior customer experience.”

    Shubhankar Bhattacharya, Co-Founder & General Partner of Foundamental, said, “GreenFortune has been executing brilliantly on the pivotal aspects of a new-age building materials brand: Upscaling existing manufacturing supply, improving service quality and customer access, and delivering strong margins. We are proud to lead GreenFortune’s Pre Series-A and are excited to partner with Dilip and Pratyusha on their journey to build India’s premier fenestrations brand.”

    Shiv Kapoor, Vice President at Titan Capital Winners Fund, said, “As an early investor in Green Fortune, we have seen this team be laser-focused on building up the supply chain in the right way to ensure great quality at very reasonable prices for the customers. Having made good progress here, we feel they are ready to go to the next level of growth, build a much-loved brand in this space. Dilip and Pratyusha are the right founders to address this problem as India’s consumption grows.”

    The startup’s last fundraise was $1.0 million in July 2023, led by Incubate Fund Asia. 

    About GreenFortune

    GreenFortune is one of the fastest-growing uPVC window and door brands in India. Our unique tech-driven approach with a highly capable design and technical Services team makes us a preferred partner to fabricators and a preferred brand to customers. Our products are manufactured with over 25+ years of global experience from India, Germany and Japan. We have built a strong reputation for offering high-quality uPVC products at affordable rates.

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  • Zerodha Makes Kite Easier to Use by Adding Six Additional Features

    To facilitate order placement, broking company Zerodha has added six new capabilities to Kite, its trading and investment platform. In his announcement of the X upgrade, founder and CEO Nithin Kamath highlighted several important improvements, including order slicing, available margin display, a new basket icon, and more.

    Newly Added Features of Kite

    1.Order Slicing- If a large order exceeds the exchange limit, it is now automatically divided into smaller portions. For instance, customers can trade up to 36,000 quantities without the need for manual intervention by splitting Nifty orders into up to 20 slices, each of which has 1,800 quantities.

    2.Available Margin- Instead of switching tabs to check margins before placing an order, users may now see their available funds straight in the order window.

    3.Market Depth- Users can now check stock details more quickly without leaving their current screen by accessing market depth data immediately in the order window.

    4.Remember F&O Quantity- For regular traders, Kite now streamlines the process by remembering the previous quantity provided for a contract and automatically filling it in when the order window is reopened.

    5.Market Protection- By establishing a predetermined range around the current market price, this function helps stop market orders from being executed at unexpected prices during volatile times.

    6.The New Basket Icon- On the Kite platform, users can now open and manage their baskets from any location, enabling them to swiftly create and complete several orders with a few clicks.

    Zerodha Launches a Trading Platform for Borrowed Funds

    The margin trading feature (MTF), which Zerodha has introduced in December 2024, enables users to trade on borrowed funds on the platform. Nithin Kamath, founder and CEO of Zerodha, said on X on December 19, “I don’t know if it is a good time with the markets falling, but we are finally launching MTF (margin trading facility), which allows you to buy stocks for delivery by borrowing money from us.” However, Zerodha cautioned against utilising MTF in its blog post. Its post stated that trade with caution because leverage is like a weapon of mass destruction, and MTF is a leveraged product.

    Zerodha claims that because keeping a stock purchased through an MTF has a cost, time is working against the user while engaging in a leveraged trade. It is important to mention that the platform will charge a daily fee of 0.04% of the funded amount. On the site, users are able to borrow up to 80% of the transacted value. “This reduces the potential profits the longer you hold,” Zerodha stated. Speaking on the subject, Kamath claimed that clients who trade for delivery frequently overlook the effect of borrowing costs, which results in a larger loss. However, MTF has expanded significantly over the past three to four years, and almost everyone now offers it.

  • How to Reduce Tax on Salary Without Relying on Section 80C Investments?

    This article has been contributed by CA Manish Mishra, Founder of GenZCFO.

    Tax planning for most salaried individuals begins and ends with investments under Section 80C- Provident Fund, ELSS, Life Insurance, and PPF. But how about in the case of a salaried person for whom this ₹1.5 lakh limit has already been exhausted under 80C limits? Or, what if you are willing to explore some smarter ways to reduce tax liability without locking up funds into long-term investment schemes? The good news is that beyond 80C, tax planning begins, and with some smart structuring, one can whimsically optimize salary components, claim deductions, and minimize taxable income. Here’s how. 

    1. Choose the Right Tax Regime

    The first step before dwelling on deductions is to choose between the Old Tax Regime and the New Tax Regime. The New Tax Regime pegged lower rates but took away exemptions like HRA, LTA, 80D, and 80C, while the Old Regime allows one to claim deductions but has a higher tax rate. If you have very few deductions, the New Regime may be a good option. However, if your salary structure includes a House Rent Allowance, Leave Travel Allowance, medical insurance, or education loan benefits, you may save more tax with the Old Regime. 

    2. Maximize HRA (House Rent Allowance) Exemption

    The HRA exemption under Section 10(13A) is one of the most effective means of reducing one’s taxable salary. Tax benefits can be claimed to a significant extent if you live in a rented house and are receiving HRA from your employer.

    An exemption is determined based on actual rent paid, your salary, and the city you live in: in metro cities, like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, it’s 50% of your basic salary, and in non-metro cities, it is 40%.

    In case, however, your employer has not provided HRA, you may still claim the rent deduction as per Section 80GG up to ₹60,000 within a financial year. 

    3. Use the Standard Deduction

    Regardless of the tax regime you choose, every salaried individual is eligible for a ₹50,000 standard deduction. Unlike other exemptions, this doesn’t require any proof or investment—it’s an automatic benefit that lowers taxable income.

    4. Reduce Taxable Income with Employer’s NPS Contribution

    People usually think of the National Pension System concerning 80C, but there’s another great tax-saving option under Section 80CCD(2). When the employer contributes to NPS, that will provide another powerful tax deduction of up to 10% of the basic salary (14% for government employees). This deduction will be in addition to the limits of 80C, so it is a great way to reduce taxable income with no additional financial burden. 

    5. Claim Deductions on Health Insurance (Section 80D)

    The deduction primarily depends upon the policies taken: The health insurance premium, if it is in your name, covers you, your spouse, and dependent children; a deduction of a premium of ₹ 25,000 is available. The amount goes up to ₹ 50,000 if you are treating your senior citizen parents under the policy. And if that applies to you and your parents being seniors, a tax deduction of up to ₹ 1,00,000 will be considered. 

    6. Leverage Leave Travel Allowance (LTA) for Tax-Free Travel

    You can claim tax exemption on domestic travel expenses through an LTA if your company has one; the LTA can be claimed for yourself and your family. However, this benefit can only be claimed twice in a block of four years, and it is restricted to travel expenses alone, meaning food and lodging bills do not qualify for it at all. An LTA is very handy for any employee who loves to travel within India, as it offers a great opportunity to lower taxable income while enjoying a vacation. 

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    7. Save Tax on Interest Income

    Interest accrued on a savings account is taxable, but Section 80TTA allows individuals below the age of 60 to claim a deduction of ₹10,000 on the interest income earned from it.

    For senior citizens, in contrast to this, Section 80TTB allows a very high deduction of ₹50,000 on interest earned from fixed deposits and savings accounts. 

    8. Optimize Salary Components for Maximum Tax Benefits

    One of the best means to save on taxation is to ensure that the structure of your salary contains tax-efficient components. Rather than receiving all your remuneration as taxable salary, ask your employer to restructure the package whereby Meal vouchers (a company like Sodexo) are tax-free up to ₹2,400 a month. Gift vouchers – tax-free up to ₹5,000 over one financial year. Telephone and internet reimbursements – tax-free when provided by the employer. These minor adjustments can reduce the tax being paid during the year by Full Earnings. 

    9. Invest in a Voluntary Provident Fund (VPF) for Additional Tax-Free Savings

    If contributions under 80C have already been exhausted and yet one wants to secure tax-free guarantees of returns, then maybe one can think of increasing contributions into Voluntary Provident Funds or VPFs. Active members would stand to benefit greatly if they contribute above and beyond the regular mandatory deductions. The rate of interest remains constant and at par with the Employee Provident Fund‘s (EPF) current rate of about 8%, with tax benefits going all the way up to ₹2.5 lakh earmarked every year completely tax-free. This remains a low-risk, tax-efficient savings option worth considering. 

    10. Deduct Education Loan Interest (Section 80E)

    Section 80E provides for a 100% deduction of the interest paid on an education loan; there’s no cap on such deductions, and the benefit can be availed for eight years from the date of payment of the loan.

    This would particularly benefit professionals who take student loans for higher education abroad, where interest rates could be rather steep. 

    Smart Tax Planning Beyond 80C

    Reducing tax liability doesn’t always mean locking money into long-term schemes under Section 80C. By structuring your salary wisely and taking advantage of deductions under Sections 80D, 80E, 80TTA, and 80GG, you can legally reduce taxable income while maintaining financial flexibility.

    To summarize, here’s how you can minimize taxes without relying on 80C:

    • Choose the right tax regime based on deductions.
    • Claim HRA if living in a rented home.
    • Utilize the ₹50,000 standard deduction.
    • Maximize NPS contributions (Section 80CCD(2)) for additional tax savings.
    • Deduct medical insurance premiums under Section 80D.
    • Use LTA benefits for tax-free travel.
    • Reduce tax on interest income under 80TTA/80TTB
    • Optimize salary components with meal cards, vouchers, and reimbursements.
    • Invest in VPF for higher tax-free returns.
    • Claim deductions on education loan interest (80E).

    With proper tax planning, you can significantly reduce tax outflow while increasing savings and investment opportunities. Smart tax-saving strategies don’t just reduce your taxable income—they also improve your overall financial health.

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  • Major Reorganisation of BluSmart with CEO Departure and INR 315 Cr Deal

    BluSmart Mobility has seen several high-profile exits and is currently going through a significant operational reorganisation to strengthen its financial stability. As per the recent reports in the media, its Vice-President Priya Chakravarthy, Chief Business Officer Tushar Garg, Chief Technology Officer Rishabh Sood, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Anirudh Arun have all resigned from their positions. According to the reports, which cited sources, Nandan Sharma, who was previously the Vice-President of Business and Operations, has been named the new CEO.

    As Gensol Engineering, BluSmart’s parent business, works to terminate its current lease agreements, the taxi service provider is restructuring its business. Gensol is selling 2,997 electric cars to Refex Green Mobility, a company based in Chennai, as part of this new revamping strategy. These cars, which make up 34% of BluSmart’s 8,700 EV fleet overall, will be leased back to the ride-hailing company. Refex would also take up Gensol’s current INR 315 crore loan. According to the news report, regulatory permissions are still pending for this acquisition. BluSmart has promised that its ride-hailing business will not be impacted by these structural adjustments.

    Gensol Engineering: Navigating Through Financial Roadblocks

    Given Gensol Engineering’s recent financial failures, the leadership changes occur at a critical juncture. The company’s reorganisation efforts are under much more strain now that two rating agencies have reduced its borrowing status to default. BluSmart has just expanded to Mumbai and now operates in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Delhi-NCR. According to the company, its fleet makes seven trips on average every day and is backed by a network of 50 charging hubs that house more than 6,300 charging stations. Last year, BluSmart launched the ‘BluSmart Assured’ leasing scheme to support its fleet expansion. Through this programme, investors and high-net-worth individuals can lease electric cars straight from the business. The scheme has so far added about 1,000 EVs to BluSmart’s fleet, valued at INR 150 crore.

    Present Financial Outlook

    In an interview with a prominent media outlet, Anmol Jaggi, the founder of Gensol Group and co-founder of BluSmart Mobility, stated that the company presently brings in INR 70 crore each month, or INR 840 crore annually. Out of the company’s total debt of INR 980 crore, as of March 2025, INR 280 crore is its outstanding net debt. Tracxn data indicates that BluSmart’s revenue in FY23 was INR 70.9 crore, up from Rs 8.1 crore in FY22. But over the same time period, net losses also increased, rising from INR 100.4 crore to INR 215.9 crore. Jaggi has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to becoming profitable in the upcoming “6-8 quarters.”