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  • Why Motorola Failed: A Comprehensive Analysis

    Motorola, once a pioneering force in the mobile phone industry, has experienced a significant decline in recent years. The company that introduced the world to the mobile phone has struggled to maintain its relevance and market share. In this article, we will explore the key reasons behind Motorola’s downfall, analyzing the various factors that contributed to its failure. From missed opportunities to strategic errors, we shall dive into the challenges faced by Motorola and the lessons that can be learned from its downfall. This isn’t your ordinary tale of success and failure, but an ode to the constant need for change, irrespective of the dominance or the potential. Read along!

    The Rise of Motorola
    Missed Opportunities and Strategic Errors
    Lack of Innovation and Management Issues
    The Arrival of the iPhone and Changing Market Dynamics
    Motorola’s Efforts to Revive and Google’s Acquisition

    The Rise of Motorola

    Motorola’s journey began in 1928 as Galvin Manufacturing Corporation, specialising in radio technology. Over the years, the company made several groundbreaking innovations, including the first walkie-talkies for military use, in-car radio telephones, and pagers. Motorola’s expertise extended beyond communication devices, with contributions to semiconductors, microprocessors, televisions, and barcode scanners.

    In the mobile phone industry, Motorola was at the forefront of innovation. In 197j3, the company introduced the world’s first functioning cellular mobile phone. They continued to push boundaries, releasing iconic devices such as the DynaTAC 8000 in 1984, the MicroTAC in 1989, and the StarTAC in 1996. These products showcased Motorola’s ability to create sleek and technologically advanced mobile phones.

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    Missed Opportunities and Strategic Errors

    • Motorola didn’t Move to 3G: Despite its early successes, Motorola began to falter as it failed to adapt to changing market trends and consumer demands. One of the key reasons behind Motorola’s decline was its failure to embrace the shift towards 3G technology. While the company’s biggest customers, the US wireless carriers, were hesitant about 3G, Motorola listened to their immediate needs instead of considering the desires of their customers.
    • Motorola’s Struggle with Software Advancements: Another factor that hindered Motorola’s success was its inability to keep up with software advancements in the mobile phone industry. As the mid-2000s saw software driving the market, Motorola’s clunky interface and inconsistent operating systems left consumers unsatisfied. Competitors like Apple and Blackberry capitalized on this weakness, offering more user-friendly interfaces and secure communication solutions.
    • Motorola’s Misguided Product Strategy: Motorola also made strategic errors in its product offerings. While competitors like Nokia and Blackberry were focusing on developing smartphones, Motorola continued to prioritize feature phones. The company’s reluctance to invest in security and its failure to recognize the growing importance of smartphones ultimately cost them market share.
    • Slow Adoption of Android Phones: Android quickly became a game-changer in the mobile industry, with many people preferring it over older operating systems. Unfortunately, Motorola was slow to adopt Android, and by the time they did, it was too late. This delay also contributed to the brand’s decline.

    Lack of Innovation and Management Issues

    • Motorola’s Innovation Shortfall in the Mobile Phone Industry: Innovation is crucial in the fast-paced mobile phone industry, and Motorola struggled to keep up. The company’s lack of new and exciting products led to a decline in consumer interest. While competitors like Apple were revolutionizing the market with devices like the iPhone, Motorola’s offerings failed to generate the same level of excitement and innovation.
    • Leadership Problems and Strategic Mistakes: Poor management decisions exacerbated Motorola’s challenges. The company experienced frequent leadership changes, disrupting strategic planning and decision-making processes. The lack of cohesive planning between Motorola’s handset and network technology divisions led to conflicting directions and missed opportunities for synergy.
    • Brand Stagnation: Motorola struggled to redefine its strong brand legacy, particularly the success of iconic devices like the Razr. Instead of capitalizing on its historical success, the company faced difficulties in redefining its image and aligning with the changing preferences of modern consumers.
    • Ecosystem Gap: Motorola missed key opportunities in software and ecosystem development. While successful smartphone brands focus on creating a seamless software experience and a loyal customer ecosystem, Motorola struggled to build one, limiting long-term user engagement.

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    The Arrival of the iPhone and Changing Market Dynamics

    The launch of the iPhone in 2007 marked a turning point in the mobile phone industry. Apple’s revolutionary device redefined the concept of a mobile phone, transforming it into a pocket computer. The iPhone’s sleek design, user-friendly interface, and app ecosystem captured the market’s attention and set a new standard for smartphones.

    Motorola’s inability to compete with the iPhone and its failure to keep pace with changing market dynamics further eroded its market share. The company’s products, such as the Motorola Q, fell short compared to the competition. Motorola’s smartphones lacked the seamless integration of hardware and software that made the iPhone so successful.

    Net sales of Motorola Solutions worldwide from 2015 to 2022

    Motorola’s Efforts to Revive and Google’s Acquisition

    Realizing the need for a strategic shift, Motorola refocused its efforts on producing Android phones in 2009. The launch of the Droid phone range in partnership with US telco Verizon proved successful, with Droid sales surpassing those of the iPhone in the US. This caught the attention of Google, who saw an opportunity to acquire Motorola and gain control over the manufacturing of its own devices.

    In 2011, Motorola split into two separate entities: Motorola Mobility, which focused on consumer devices and mobile handsets, and Motorola Solutions. Google acquired Motorola Mobility for $12.5 billion, recognizing its potential as a manufacturing company and a valuable source of patents. Under Google’s ownership, Motorola released the Moto range of smartphones, which received positive reviews.

    However, Motorola’s market share continued to decline, prompting Google to sell the company to Lenovo for $3 billion in 2014. Lenovo aimed to gain a foothold in the US market through the acquisition of an established brand. Despite subsequent attempts to revive the brand, including the release of the new Razr, Motorola’s market presence remained limited.

    Motorola Market Share

    Lessons Learned and Conclusion

    The downfall of Motorola offers valuable lessons for companies operating in the fast-paced and competitive mobile phone industry. First and foremost, innovation is essential to stay relevant and capture consumer interest. Motorola’s failure to adapt to changing market trends and its focus on outdated technology hindered its ability to compete with more innovative rivals. Furthermore, strategic decisions and management issues played a significant role in the company’s decline. The lack of cohesive planning, frequent leadership changes, and poor decision-making processes disrupted the company’s ability to respond effectively to consumers.

    Motorola’s story serves as a cautionary tale for companies that fail to adapt, innovate, and prioritize the evolving needs of consumers. The mobile phone industry is constantly evolving, and only those who can keep up with the rapid pace of change can thrive. As an end note, Motorola’s fall from grace is a stark reminder of the importance of staying ahead of the curve and continuously innovating in a dynamic industry. While the brand may no longer exist, its legacy as a pioneer in the mobile phone industry will not be forgotten. On the positive side, under the umbrella of Lenovo – Motorola is revamping its positioning for the greater good, but still, there is a long way to go!

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    FAQs

    Why did Motorola fail?

    Motorola failed because of innovation challenges, leadership issues, software lag, and product strategy errors.

    Is Motorola still in business?

    Motorola is based in Merchandise Mart, Chicago, Illinois, and is owned by the Chinese tech company Lenovo.

    Motorola company is from which country?

    Motorola is an American brand company.

    Why are Motorola phones so bad?

    Motorola focused on quantity rather than quality. Some of the main reasons for the poor quality of its phones are low-quality displays, weak processors, and poor software.

    What happened to Motorola company?

    It was acquired by Google in 2012 and later sold to Lenovo in 2014.

    What are the reasons for Motorola failure?

    Motorola’s failure can be attributed to failure to innovate, inconsistent branding, missed software opportunities, and inability to adapt to market trends. The company struggled to redefine itself, failed to build a strong ecosystem, and couldn’t keep pace with competitors like Apple and Samsung.

    Why Motorola failed in India?

    Motorola went out of business due to lack of innovation, inconsistent product launches, and failure to adapt to local market needs. The brand couldn’t compete with affordable, feature-rich smartphones from rivals like Xiaomi and Samsung, leading to a decline in market share.

    Is Motorola a good brand?

    Motorola is a reliable brand offering solid budget and mid-range smartphones with clean software and good value for money. However, it faces tough competition from other brands.

  • The Economic Impact: How IPL Is Shaping BCCI’s Finances

    Since its start, the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), an idea of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has captivated spectators. The value of the Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the world’s most popular sports competitions, increased by nearly 28 percent to a staggering $10.7 billion in 2023, up from $8.4 billion the previous year. According to a press release from Brand Finance, the top brand valuation consultant in the world, the overall brand value of the IPL system has increased by 433% since its introduction in 2008. A company is considered a decacorn if its valuation is greater than $10 billion.

    Based on these numbers, it’s easy to see that the Indian Premier League is more than simply a cricket event for the BCCI; it’s a yearly moneymaker that helps turn the board into one of the wealthiest in the world. The fact that hardly a single nation plays a single tournament, bilateral series, test, or one-day international series during the two months that the IPL is running is evidence enough of the tournament’s thunderous influence.

    Talking about the economics of the tournament and how it has been finically fueling the board over the years, it’s true that the League has increased tourism in India. Travelers from all over the globe go to India for the Indian Premier League season because of the event, which captivates cricket fans everywhere. Fans from around the world flock to India to see the matches in person, boosting the country’s tourist industry as they reserve plane tickets, hotels, and taxis. Fans are encouraged to explore other locations, partake in local experiences, and visit tourist attractions as the IPL matches are scattered throughout several cities inside India. Hotel rooms are in high demand during the matches due to the large number of fans, players, and media workers that need to stay somewhere. In sum, the Indian Premier League is a powerful marketing tool for tourism, drawing attention to India as a dynamic cricketing and vacation spot.

    Effects on a Large Scale
    Promotional and Corporate Events

    Effects on a Large Scale

    In terms of macro factors, the KPMG survey emphasized the importance of IPL’s impact on India’s GDP. The study also notes that these months are very busy for hiring, thus there is a significant increase in job opportunities. The need for club-specific cheerleaders, coaches, stadium staff, security, medical teams, etc., is high. It creates a tonne of job openings in all sorts of industries.

    The study also highlighted the positive impact of media exposure on tier-2 cities. Due to the widespread nature of the Indian Premier League cricket matches, they receive extensive media coverage. Thanks to the increased visibility of the IPL in the media, Tier-2 cities are putting more money into their infrastructure and development projects, and they are also seeing an uptick in tourists, which means more money in their pockets.

    More tax contributions meant more money for the government, and more money for the BCCI thanks to the IPL. Taxes totaling around INR 3,500 crore have been paid by BCCI from the 2007–2008 fiscal year. The BCCI did not have to pay taxes because it was a charity until the IPL. Nevertheless, the Income Tax department classified the IPL as a commercial operation following its launch, and the BCCI has been subject to annual taxes totaling INR 350 crore ever since.

    Fantasy Sports Gamers in India
    Fantasy Sports Gamers in India

    In 2023, IPL matches contributed 35% to 50% of the total revenue for fantasy sports platforms. During IPL 2023, the revenue of Indian fantasy sports platforms grew by 24%, reaching $342 million, up from $275 million in the previous year. According to a 2023 report by the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS), the total enterprise value of the fantasy sports industry stands at USD 11.07 billion. Cricket dominates the sector, accounting for 85% of the registered users among all fantasy sports games. Between 2019 and 2023, fantasy gaming apps have experienced an 18% compound annual growth in the number of cash users each year during the IPL seasons.

    Promotional and Corporate Events

    Advertising and sponsorship opportunities are abundantly available through the Indian Premier League. The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a sought-after venue for advertisers to connect with a large demographic and forge lasting connections with consumers because of its devoted fan base and enormous viewership. Additionally, it provides opportunities for brands to become the tournament’s title sponsor. “The (Brand name) Indian Premier League” is one example of an official name that prominently features the brand name of the title sponsor. Any company can become an official sponsor of an Indian Premier League team. All sorts of team gear, including jerseys and helmets, feature the insignia of these sponsors. Advertising and sponsorship opportunities provided by the IPL help generate a lot of money for the league and give firms a great platform to sell themselves.

    Finally, the Indian Premier League is largely responsible for the uptick in the country’s GDP. The IPL has boosted tourism and contributed to economic prosperity in many areas thanks to its capacity to draw in viewers from all over the world. Local economies have been greatly influenced by the league’s capacity to create job opportunities, back small businesses, and encourage the construction of infrastructure. The importance of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in establishing India as a premier cricketing destination and fostering brand loyalty is immeasurable. With its game-changing impact on cricket, the IPL has won over fans all over the globe and grown into a significant contributor to India’s GDP. With the tournament’s current level of success, its impact on the Indian market is only going to grow in the years to come.

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    FAQs

    What is the impact of IPL on Indian economy?

    The IPL has had a significant impact on the Indian economy, boosting sectors like sports, entertainment, tourism, and retail. It generates substantial revenue through sponsorships, media rights, and advertising, while also creating jobs and driving consumer spending. The tournament’s popularity has further fueled growth in related industries, including fantasy sports, merchandise, and hospitality.

    How much does IPL contribute to Indian economy?

    ​In 2024, the Indian Premier League (IPL) continued to significantly bolster the Indian economy. The tournament’s brand value surged by 13%, reaching $12 billion compared to the previous year.

    What are the negative impact of IPL on Indian economy?

    While the IPL contributes significantly to the Indian economy, it also has some negative impacts. The heavy commercialization of the tournament can overshadow traditional sports and divert attention from grassroots development. Additionally, the focus on gambling and fantasy sports during IPL seasons raises concerns about addiction and financial risks for some individuals.

  • Zetwerk: How It Is Transforming Manufacturing with Speed, Precision, and Cost Efficiency

    The logistics and supply chain industries have several elements that are linked to each other to ensure a smooth flow of productivity. The supply chain industries are evolving with the use of the right technology and other methods.

    The supply chain industry has always been a complex subject and of keen importance to the efficient operation of an enterprise. One such company called Zetwerk in India is one of the leading providers of end-to-end manufacturing supply chain services to cater to their customers’ needs.

    Let’s discover everything about Zetwerk’s growth over the years: founders, business model, revenue model, funding, valuation, and a lot more.

    Zetwerk Company Profile

    STARTUP NAME ZETWERK
    Headquarters Bangalore, Karnataka, India
    Sector Industrial Machinery Manufacturing
    Founder Vishal Chaudhary, Amrit Acharya, Srinath Ramakkrushnan, and Rahul Sharma
    Founded 2018
    Valuation $3.1 billion (December 2024)
    Website zetwerk.com

    About Zetwerk
    Zetwerk – Industry
    Zetwerk – Founders and Team
    Zetwerk – Startup Story
    Zetwerk – Mission
    Zetwerk – Name and Logo
    Zetwerk – Service
    Zetwerk – Business Model
    Zetwerk – Revenue Model
    Zetwerk – ESOP
    Zetwerk – Challenges Faced
    Zetwerk – Funding and Investors
    Zetwerk – Shareholding
    Zetwerk – Acquisitions
    Zetwerk – Growth
    Zetwerk – Financials
    Zetwerk – Partnership
    Zetwerk – Awards and Achievements
    Zetwerk – Competitors
    Zetwerk – Future Plans

    About Zetwerk

    Zetwerk, based in Bangalore is a supply chain management company that engages in connecting with manufacturers to give customized results. This Bangalore-based company provides end-to-end manufacturing solutions to help customers reduce costs, optimize suppliers, and execute production in a fast-paced manner.

    The company also has partners worldwide who deal in capital goods and consumer goods categories and offer a full spectrum of manufacturing services.

    Zetwerk – Industry

    The Statista analysis indicates that there is significant growth potential for the Machinery and Equipment market. Value added is anticipated to rise at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.68%.

    Furthermore, the projection projects that the market’s output will reach US $60.43 billion in 2024, growing at a predicted CAGR of 2.11% between 2024 and 2028. These numbers highlight an upward trend in value-added and total output, pointing to a bright future for the machinery and equipment industry.

    Zetwerk – Founders and Team

    Srinath Ramakkrushnan, Amrit Acharya (Co-Founder and CEO), Vishal Chaudhary, and Rahul Sharma are the Co-Founders of Zetwerk
    Srinath Ramakkrushnan, Amrit Acharya (Co-Founder and CEO), Vishal Chaudhary, and Rahul Sharma – Zetwerk Founders

    Vishal Chaudhary

    Vishal Chaudhary is the Co-Founder of Zetwerk. He is an alumnus of IIT, Kharagpur in Chemical Engineering. He started his career working as a Project Manager at ITC working as a Lead and then Organisation & Business Engine at RIVIGO.

    Amrit Acharya

    Amrit Acharya is the Co-Founder and CEO of Zetwerk company. Holding a degree in electrical engineering from IIT, Madras. During his career growth, Amrit has been associated with many companies. Before starting Zetwerk, he worked at Robert Bosch, Avaya, ITC, McKinsey & Company, Foundation Capital, and Monsanto Growth Ventures.

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    Srinath Ramakkrushnan

    Srinath Ramakkrushnan is the Co-Founder of Zetwerk. Srinath holds a bachelor’s degree from IIT, Madras in Mechanical Engineering. Before venturing to become the co-founder of Zetwerk, Srinath has been associated with industries. Some of them are General Motors, Acumen Fund, Selco India, Austrian Energy & Environment (Now Acquired by Doosan), ITC Limited, and BlackBuck (Zinka Logistics Solutions Pvt. Ltd.), among others.

    Rahul Sharma

    Rahul Sharma is an alumnus of IIT, Roorkee. Currently, he is one of the founders of Zetwerk. He was also the co-founder of Prepnut, which was a platform to help job seekers prepare for interviews and other exams.

    Rahul Sharma started his career as a Senior Field Engineer at Schlumberger and as a Head at BlackBuck (Zinka Logistics Solutions Pvt. Ltd.).

    The company has employees ranging from 1,000 to 5,000, as per LinkedIn.

    Zetwerk – Startup Story

    In order to transform supply chain management, Acharya and his three IIT classmates, Srinath Ramakkrushnan, Vishal Chaudhary, and Rahul Sharma, created Zetwerk in 2018. Zetwerk is a B2B software company. Within its first month of operation, the company quickly obtained a term sheet for a $1.5 million seed round, indicating early promise.

    But in an unexpected turn of events, Zetwerk changed course in a matter of thirty days, going from a software-centric business model to a B2B marketplace that specialized in supplier sourcing and custom manufacturing. Even though it was a risky move, Acharya was dubious about it because investors like Sequoia and Kae Capital were in the dark about it. When Acharya broke the news to them, he was afraid of their response, but he was relieved because both investors applauded the change.

    Zetwerk’s journey as a dynamic and adaptive participant in the B2B bespoke manufacturing sector began at this crucial juncture, underscoring the rewarding yet unpredictable character of the startup landscape.

    Zetwerk – Mission

    The company’s mission on its website states, “To change the way manufacturing is done.”

    Zetwerk Logo
    Zetwerk Logo

    Zetwerk’s legal name is Zetwerk Manufacturing Businesses Pvt. Ltd.

    Zetwerk – Service

    Zetwerk provides various services, including:

    • Manufacturing Services
    • Zetwerk Managed Inventory
    • Quality Control
    • Managed Supply Chain

    Zetwerk – Business Model

    The core of Zetwerk’s business model is the production of operating systems that maximize productivity, transparency, and efficiency. The organization guarantees a smooth experience by giving clients total control over their projects through simple accessibility and tracking.

    Zetwerk produces anything from clothing to aircraft engines, serving a wide range of sectors. Its production solutions put clarity, quality, and precision first, providing customers with a wide selection of options that are customized to suit exacting requirements at prices comparable to those of an industrial setting.

    Zetwerk – Revenue Model

    Zetwerk makes revenue from different resources; some of the prominent ones are:

    • Fabricated Manufacturing Inputs: A sizeable portion of Zetwerk’s income comes from providing major manufacturing setups with constructed parts and infrastructure inputs to assist their production processes.
    • Chain of Supply Services: The business manages the procurement, production, and delivery of manufactured inputs for manufacturing clients, offering complete supply chain solutions.
    • Purchasing Health Care: In order to boost profits, Zetwerk has expanded into the healthcare procurement space by locating and delivering medical components and equipment.
    • Acquisitions in the Apparel Sector: Zetwerk expands its revenue stream by sourcing fabrics, machinery, and components for garment production through its venture into the apparel industry procurement market.

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    Zetwerk – ESOP

    Zetwerk has added fresh employee stock options (ESOPs) worth INR 541 crore (about $64 million) under its ESOP Plan 2018. This is the first ESOP expansion by the Bengaluru-based company this year.

    The board approved changes to Zetwerk’s Employee Stock Option Plan 2018, adding 1.25 crore (12,503,900) new stock options, as per filings with the Registrar of Companies.

    Zetwerk, the B2B marketplace specializing in custom manufacturing, has demonstrated a proactive approach to employee benefits through strategic moves in its Employee Stock Options (ESOPs). As part of its commitment to empowering its employees, the corporation reportedly added Rs 4.77 crore to its pool of stock options as per news report of September 24, 2020. Zetwerk awarded 24 worthy employees 917 stock shares through the ESOP program as part of this initiative.

    But a later event, according to a March 2021 news article, demonstrated the company’s financial stability when it purportedly repurchased $8.3 million worth of ESOPs from both early investors and employees. This action demonstrates Zetwerk’s dedication to thanking its employees and underscores the company’s wise financial choices that benefit both stakeholders and employees.

    Zetwerk – Challenges Faced

    The original idea of Zetwerk, which was founded in December 2018, was to arrange suppliers for businesses. After a seed round in May 2018, the team developed the software over three months. When the device was shown to customers, they gave it positive reviews; still, two major problems surfaced.

    First off, the software sales cycle for Indian clients took more than a year, which caused a delay in the collection of income. Secondly, Zetwerk faced a hurdle as an early-stage startup because it was impossible for them to get orders without being able to travel abroad for international clients like Siemens and GE, where decision-making took place outside of the Indian headquarters.

    In the face of these obstacles, manufacturers kept asking to use Zetwerk’s software to find new suppliers.

    Zetwerk – Funding and Investors

    Zetwerk has raised a total of $873.3 million across 18 funding rounds. Key investors include Lightspeed Venture Partners, Accel, Khosla Ventures, Peak XV Partners, and InnoVen Capital. The funding round in December 2024 valued the company at $3.1 billion, supporting its expansion into renewables, consumer electronics, and aerospace.

    Here are the funding details:

    Date Series Name Funding Amount Investors
    6 March, 2025 Series F $5 million Arc Investments, Oriental Biotech
    12 December, 2024 Series F $70 million Khosla Ventures, Rakesh Gangwal
    March 7, 2024 Venture Round $20 million Rakesh Gangwal
    October 18, 2023 Series F $120 million Avenir Growth Capital
    March 5, 2023 Debt Financing $12 million Edelweiss Financial Services
    December 28, 2021 Series F $210 million Greenoaks
    August 23, 2021 series E $150 million Avenir Growth Capital, IIFL Asset Management Limited, D1 Capital Partners
    February 23, 2021 series D $120 million Greenoaks Capital, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Sequoia Capital India
    February 7, 2020 series C $21 million Greenoaks Capital, Accel, Kae Capital
    January 29, 2020 Debt financing $2.2 million Innoven capital
    December 11, 2019 series B $32 million Lightspeed Venture Partners, Greenoaks Capital, Sequoia Capital
    March 27, 2019 series A $9 million Accel, Sequoia Capital India, Kae Capital

    Zetwerk – Shareholding

    Zetwerk’s shareholding pattern as of January 2025, sourced from Tracxn:

    Zetwerk Shareholders Percentage
    Srinath Ramakkrushnan 7.8%
    Amrit Acharya 7.0%
    Rahul Sharma 0.4%
    Vishal Chaudhary 0.4%
    Khosla Ventures 1.0%
    Baillie Gifford 0.7%
    The Chinkerpoo Family Trust 0.3%
    Greenoaks 21.7%
    Sequoia Capital 13.4%
    Accel 8.8%
    D1 Capital Partners Master 5.7%
    Lightspeed Venture Partners 11.3%
    Kae Capital 4.0%
    Avenir Growth Capital 5.4%
    Kalysta Capital 1.2%
    Steadview 0.9%
    Footpath Ventures 0.8%
    Wheelhouse Ventures 0.7%
    IIFL Asset Management 0.8%
    Aroa Venture Partners <0.1%
    QED Innovation Labs <0.1%
    ScaleX Partners <0.1%
    ACORN 0.2%
    Aex <0.1%
    Acorn Heavy Industries 0.4%
    Angel 0.6%
    Other People 1.5%
    ESOP Pool 4.5%
    Other Investors 0.4%
    Total 100.0%
    Zetwerk Shareholding
    Zetwerk Shareholding

    Zetwerk – Acquisitions

    Zetwerk has acquired four companies to date.

    Here are the details:

    Company Name Date Amount
    Unimacts November 30, 2022 $39 million
    Pinaka Aerospace Solutions July 4, 2022 –
    Sharp Tanks June 30, 2022 –
    Wardha fabrication June 30, 2022 –

    Zetwerk – Growth

    Zetwerk, some of the growth highlights are:

    • It has reduced lead times by 50% as of February 2024.
    • It has manufactured more than 9 million parts as of February 2024.
    • It has over 1800+ active customers as of February 2024.
    • It has been delivered to 20+ countries as of February 2024.

    Zetwerk – Financials

    Zetwerk has shown significant revenue growth over the past few years, but its losses have widened due to increasing expenses. Below is a detailed breakdown of its financial performance from FY24 to FY20.

    Particulars FY24 FY23 FY22
    Revenue INR 14,596.8 crore INR 11,595.9 crore INR 5,061.8 crore
    Expenses INR 15,090.0 crore INR 11,706.2 crore INR 5,145.5 crore
    Profit/Loss INR -919.2 crore INR -101.6 crore INR -59.8 crore
    Zetwerk Financials FY24
    Zetwerk Financials FY24

    Zetwerk’s revenue increased by 26% YoY from INR 11,595.9 crore in FY23 to INR 14,596.8 crore in FY24, but losses widened from INR 101.6 crore to INR 919.2 crore, mainly due to rising expenses.

    Zetwerk Revenue:

    Zetwerk’s revenue from operations saw a significant rise, driven by increased product/service sales.

    Revenue Breakdown FY24 FY23
    Revenue from operations INR 14,435.7 crore INR 11,448.7 crore
    Other income INR 161.0 crore INR 147.3 crore
    Total Revenue INR 14,596.8 crore INR 11,595.9 crore

    Revenue from operations increased by 26%, growing from INR 11,448.7 crore in FY23 to INR 14,435.7 crore in FY24, supported by higher sales.

    Zetwerk Profit/Loss:

    The company’s losses have deepened significantly over the past year.

    Profit/Loss Breakdown FY24 FY23
    Profit before tax INR -865.1 crore INR -110.2 crore
    Tax Expense INR 54.1 crore INR -8.6 crore
    Profit/Loss INR -919.2 crore -INR 101.6 crore

    Losses jumped nearly 9x, from INR 101.6 crore in FY23 to INR 919.2 crore in FY24, driven by rising expenses and exceptional costs.

    Zetwerk Expenses:

    Expenses surged, particularly in materials, employee costs, and other operational expenses.

    Expense Breakdown FY24 FY23
    Cost of materials consumed INR 3,949.3 crore INR 3,189.2 crore
    Purchases of stock-in-trade INR 9,431.0 crore INR 7,424.3 crore
    Employee benefit expense INR 461.3 crore INR 352.1 crore
    Finance costs INR 449.2 crore INR 297.4 crore
    Amortization & Depreciation INR 192.3 crore INR 36.0 crore
    Other expenses INR 820.4 crore INR 375.2 crore
    Total Expenses INR 15,090.0 crore INR 11,706.2 crore

    Total expenses rose by 29%, from INR 11,706.2 crore in FY23 to INR 15,090 crore in FY24, mainly due to higher raw material and financing costs.

    Quick Summary:

    • Revenue Growth: 26% increase YoY, driven by strong operations.
    • Rising Losses: Losses widened nearly 9x due to increased spending.
    • Higher Expenses: Major cost increases in raw materials, employee benefits, and financing costs.
    • Financial Challenges: The company may need to optimize costs and explore funding strategies to improve profitability.

    Zetwerk – Partnership

    Zetwerk, IPO-bound company, partnered with LONGI (the worldwide leader in solar technology) in July 2023 and has also partnered with other companies like:

    • Tata Steel
    • Sterling and Wilson
    • Flipkart

    Zetwerk – Awards and Achievements

    Zetwerk has achieved several achievements and earned numerous awards. Among the notable ones are:

    • The company has bagged an order of Rs 126 crore from L&T for the bullet train project in April 2022.
    • In the year 2022, the company won the prestigious Mint StartupIcon Award in the infrastructure and logistics category.
    • Zetwerk won the 2022 Startup Leader of the Year Award.

    Zetwerk – Competitors

    The company has some competitors; they are as follows:

    • Arconic Lafayette
    • Bloom Procurement Services
    • wherEX
    • Teegara
    • Indiamart
    • Moglix
    • Udaan
    • Industrybuying
    • Chizel
    • Infra.Market

    Zetwerk – Future Plans

    Zetwerk aims to launch an IPO in the next 12 to 18 months, as stated by co-founder and CEO Amrit Acharya.

    Zetwerk started talks with JP Morgan for its IPO and is now planning to raise $1 billion through the public offering. Reports say the startup is working with investment bankers to prepare for its Mumbai listing next year.

    In November 2024 Zetwerk also announced plans to invest INR 500 crore over the next two years to expand its renewables manufacturing capacity.

    Zetwerk unveiled a visionary strategy allocating Rs 1,000 crore to bolster its production of consumer electronics. Rahul Sharma, a co-founder, disclosed the company’s intention to actively pursue government partnerships, diversify into new markets, and extend its manufacturing operations outside of the northern region.

    Zetwerk’s dedication to significant expansion and market presence in the dynamic consumer electronics industry is reflected in this strategic endeavor.

    FAQs

    Who is the Zetwerk founder?

    Vishal Chaudhary, Amrit Acharya, Srinath Ramakkrushnan, and Rahul Sharma are the Zetwerk founders.

    What is Zetwerk?

    Zetwerk is a B2B e-commerce platform that connects manufacturers with buyers, focusing on industries like automotive, energy, and engineering. It simplifies sourcing and supply chain processes for large-scale production.

    Is Zetwerk unicorn?

    Yes, Zetwerk entered the unicorn club in 2021.

    What does Zetwerk do?

    Zetwerk provides end-to-end supply chain solutions to companies.

    What is Zetwerk revenue?

    Zetwerk revenue from operations increased by 26%, growing from INR 11,448.7 crore in FY23 to INR 14,435.7 crore in FY24, supported by higher sales.

    What is Zetwerk valuation?

    Zetwerk valuation as of December 2024 is $3.1 billion.

    What is Zetwerk business model?

    Zetwerk is a B2B manufacturing marketplace. It connects businesses with manufacturing suppliers for custom parts, industrial goods, and machinery. The platform helps companies outsource production, manage procurement, and streamline supply chains. Zetwerk earns revenue through commissions on transactions and value-added services like quality control and logistics.

    What is Zetwerk funding?

    Zetwerk has raised a total of $873.3 million across 18 funding rounds. Key investors include Lightspeed Venture Partners, Accel, Khosla Ventures, Peak XV Partners, and InnoVen Capital.

  • Challenges and Opportunities in the Kids’ Personal Care Industry

    This article has been contributed by Prasanna Vasanadu, Parent Educator and Founder, Tikitoro.

    The kid’s personal care industry has witnessed significant growth over the past few years, driven by rising awareness about child hygiene and demand for safer, natural organic and age-appropriate products. Understanding these factors is crucial to building a sustainable and successful brand.

    Key Challenges: 

    1. To Deliver Best Quality Products Without Compromises 

    Parents are highly cautious about ingredients and safety. The two biggest problems facing the kid’s personal care industry are meeting strict quality standards and guaranteeing product safety. When it comes to the ingredients used in the kids’ products, parents are extremely careful and alert.

    Kids’ personal care products must adhere to stringent regulations set by regulatory agencies like the FDA. The ingredients used and the levels need to be according to the European Union and BIS, based on which FDA will approve the product. Make sure the products are Cruelty-free, Non-comedogenic, Dermatologically Tested, Paediatrician verified & Endocrine Disruptor free. 

    2. Always Keep Products Available For Customers Without Stock Out 

    Ensuring steady product availability without stockouts is one of the industry’s most important opportunities. To satisfy consumer needs, brands must have a strong supply chain and inventory management system. Frequent stockouts can harm a brand’s reputation and customer confidence, particularly in vital categories like children’s hygiene, skincare, and haircare goods.

    Brands may improve customer loyalty and maintain product availability by utilising demand forecasts, streamlining manufacturing schedules, and forming alliances with dependable suppliers. 

    3. Creating Awareness 

    The kid’s personal care market is growing quickly and provides a variety of products to meet the specific skincare, hair care and hygiene requirements of kids. Brands have a great chance to gain trust and loyalty in this market by teaching parents the importance of selecting products that meet the unique needs of various age groups.

    Encouraging parents to use age-appropriate products is one of the major issues facing the kid’s industry. Unaware that these formulas would not satisfy the evolving needs of kids’ skin and hair, many parents nevertheless use baby products on their growing kids. Since products made especially for kids and teens offer the ideal blend of gentle care and forced benefits, it’s imperative to raise awareness about the significance of switching products from infants to age-appropriate products. 

    4. Right Product to Right Customers 

    The market for kids’ personal care products is expanding significantly as parents become more aware of the items they use for their kids. But this expansion also presents difficulties, parents expect high-quality and natural items and they are more informed and pay attention to ingredients in products.

    Because of the increased need for sustainability and transparency, brands need to be careful while creating the products and making sure that each ingredient is non-toxic, allergen-free, eco-friendly and suits a range of skin and hair types. And it should be easily accessible to the customers.

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    Opportunities: 

    1. Rising Demand for Natural & Safe Products for Kids:

    Nowadays parents know that kids’ skin is different and they also need products which are specially designed for their skin. There is a huge opportunity due to consumers’ increasing desire for natural and safe products for kids. By providing certified, chemical-free formulations that appeal to parents who are health-conscious, brands can capitalize on this trend.

    2. Innovative Product Range: 

    Brands may reach niche markets and boost sales by diversifying their product ranges. As we all know kids’ skin is different from adult skin, kids have sensitive skin. They need the products which work well for them. Also, everyone is aware of the harm of sun rays on the skin so kids also need sunscreen, brands can also launch sunscreen for kids to protect from sun damage.

    3. Online Advertising and Online Shopping:

    With the growth of digital platforms, marketers may now connect with parents directly through e-commerce, influencers, partnerships, and social media. Customer loyalty can be increased through subscription models and tailored online buying experiences. 

    4. Community Development and Educational Content: 

    Through workshops, exhibitions and blogs, brands may produce informative information regarding kid’s skincare and hygiene. Creating a network of involved parents online increases trust and brand loyalty. 

    5. Initiatives and Sustainability: 

    Brands can be positioned as socially conscious and draw in eco-conscious customers by creating eco-friendly packaging, utilising biodegradable materials and contributing to environmental issues. In an effort to encourage both environmental and health responsibility, brands are also teaching parents the value of selecting sustainable personal care products for their kids.

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  • How to Measure Influencer Marketing ROI: Beyond Likes & Shares

    This article has been contributed by Himanshu Arora, Founder & CEO, Creators Network & BookYourCreator.

    Let’s be honest: Brands have been getting influencer marketing all wrong. They’ll pour money into campaigns, watch the engagement skyrocket, and then… what?

    A report full of likes, shares, and reach numbers. A viral video that got a million views but zero recall.

    Then, they sit in a boardroom, scratching their heads:

    Did this work? Did it make people remember our brand? Did it sell anything?

    If your influencer marketing success is still measured by vanity metrics, you’re missing the point. It’s time to measure what matters.

    Engagement Is Overrated. Influence Is Not.

    A post with 500,000 likes doesn’t mean 500,000 people cared. A video with 1M views doesn’t mean 1M people remember the brand.

    Real influence isn’t about getting seen. It’s about being remembered. If your campaign isn’t driving awareness, trust, and action, you didn’t invest in influencer marketing—you just paid for entertainment.

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    So, How Do You Measure Influencer Marketing ROI?

    1. Are People Even Remembering Your Brand? (Brand Recall & Awareness)

    Think of influencer marketing as a great movie. If you watched something and can’t recall the brand behind it, it didn’t do its job.

    So, let’s measure that.

    • Google Search Trends: If people were curious enough to Google your brand after the campaign, it’s working.
    • Direct Website Traffic: Did more people visit your site organically during and after the campaign? That’s a real impact.
    • Social Listening: Are people talking about your brand without being asked to? If yes, that’s influence. If not, it’s just content consumption.

    Real-World Example:

    A skincare brand partners with a beauty creator. They don’t include a direct “buy now” link—just storytelling.

    One week later:

    • Google searches for the brand increased by 30%.
    • Direct website visits double.
    • People start tweeting: “Has anyone tried this? Looks interesting.”

    No hard selling. No direct CTA. Just influences doing its job.

    2. Trust > Engagement. But How Do You Measure Trust?

    People don’t buy because an influencer told them to. They buy because they trust the recommendation.

    How do you track that?

    • Polls & Surveys – Ask people directly: “Would you try this?” If the majority say yes, you’re winning.
    • Comments That Show Intent – Are people asking, “Where can I get this?” or just dropping heart emojis?
    • Conversation Longevity – Is the product being discussed even after the campaign ends? If so, it left an impact.

    Imagine a fitness brand running a campaign with two influencers.

    • Influencer A gets 20,000 likes, but all the comments are “🔥🔥🔥.”
    • Influencer B gets 5,000 likes, but the comments are:
      • Is this vegan?
      • How much protein per scoop?
      • Where can I buy it?

    One of them created conversation. The other just created content.

    Guess which one drove more sales.

    3. The Metric That Pays: Conversions & Revenue

    If influencer marketing isn’t contributing to revenue, it’s just an expensive experiment.

    Here’s how to track conversions the right way:

    1. UTM Links & Google Analytics: Every influencer gets a unique, trackable link. No guessing. You know exactly who drove what traffic.
    2. Attribution Modeling: Some customers won’t buy instantly. They’ll see the influencer’s post, remember it, and buy it weeks later. Multi-touch attribution tracks that journey.
    3. Affiliate Codes & First-Touch Data: If 20% of a brand’s monthly sales came from influencer-linked customers, that’s influence at work.

    Smaller but engaged beats bigger but passive—every time.

    The Future of Influencer Marketing ROI

    Most brands are stuck in 2018 influencer marketing. They look at followers, engagement, and reach. They should be looking at trust, conversations, and conversions.

    Here’s what smart brands will start doing:

    • AI-driven analytics – Predict which creators will drive actual revenue, not just reach.
    • Long-term influencer investments – Stop paying for one-off promotions. Start building brand advocates.
    • Impact-based KPIs – Measure influence, not just impressions.

    Final Thought: Influence > Attention

    Measuring influencer marketing isn’t about “How many saw this?”

    It’s about:

    • Did people consider buying?
    • Did it drive real action?
    • Did we create long-term trust?

    Because in the end, real influence isn’t measured in likes. It’s measured in impact.

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  • Pune will Host the Construction of India’s First Trump World Center

    With the INR 1,700 crore investment in Trump World Center Pune, a 1.6 million square foot office complex, the Trump Organisation is entering the Indian commercial real estate market. Tribeca Developers will work with Kundan Spaces to create the project, which has an estimated sales potential of INR 2,500 crore. The 27-storey commercial tower, which would be the Trump Organisation’s first office building in India and second endeavour in Pune, will be situated on a 4.3-acre area in the Koregaon Park annexe of Pune. The business previously collaborated with Panchshil Realty on a high-end residential Trump Tower project in the city.

    Centre’s Attractions

    Features of Trump World Center
    Pune

    There are two office towers: one for large, leasable workplaces and
    the other for strata sales, which are smaller office spaces.

    A street of luxury shops featuring luxury brands.

    The first Trump Club in India, which provides upscale dining,
    entertainment, and business networking opportunities.

    For office workers, amenities include childcare centres, hair salons,
    auditoriums, fitness centres, sports facilities, spas, dining options, and
    supermarkets.

    Speaking about the project, Tribeca Developers’ founder, Kalpesh Mehta, said the company is spending INR 1,700 crore on the commercial project in Pune, with a 50/50 revenue-sharing arrangement with our partner. Debt, equity, and sales revenues are being used to finance the project. Small office spaces between 5,000 and 7,000 square feet are the focus of Tribeca Developers’ direct sales strategy; the remainder of the spaces will be leased. The property will also have retail areas, though not in the shape of a mall. Instead, these will have food and beverage shops to meet the needs of business tenants.

    India to Witness More Trump-Branded Projects in Coming Years

    Three more upscale residential developments in North and South India are planned by Tribeca Developers, which currently has four Trump Tower residential projects in India (Mumbai, Pune, Gurugram, and Kolkata). These new projects will cost between INR 6,000 and INR 7,000 crore in total. Although no official announcements have been made yet, Mehta also alluded to potential future forays into residential and hospitality projects under the Trump brand. “India has embraced the Trump brand with remarkable enthusiasm,” said Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organisation, who expressed excitement about the growth. The brand is developing its first commercial venture in India following the success of its residential partnerships.

    In keeping with the traditions of Trump buildings around the world, Trump World Center Pune will establish a new bar for excellence. There are now four Trump Tower developments in India, totalling 3.5 million square feet, located in Mumbai, Pune, Gurugram, and Kolkata. India will soon overtake the US as the country with the most Trump-branded properties, with more releases anticipated. High-net-worth individuals (HNIs), non-resident Indians (NRIs), and Bollywood celebrities are among the purchasers of the ultra-luxury homes in the Gurugram and Kolkata Trump Towers, which are expected to be completed in 2025.

  • WLDD Acquires Sneaker Brand 7-10, Expands into D2C Market

    In a strategic move to diversify its portfolio, Bengaluru-based meme marketing company Wubba Lubba Dub Dub (WLDD) has acquired a majority stake in the direct-to-consumer (D2C) sneaker brand 7-10. This acquisition aligns with WLDD’s ambition to evolve into a comprehensive media tech company, offering deeper insights into brand building and operations.

    Acquisition Details

    WLDD has secured over a 70% stake in 7-10 through an all-cash transaction. Consequently, 7-10 will now function as a subsidiary under the WLDD umbrella.

    The Growing Sneaker Market in India

    The acquisition of 7-10 comes at a time when India’s sneaker market is booming. According to market research, revenue in the Indian sneaker market is projected to reach approximately $37.25 million by 2025, with an expected annual growth rate of 6.97% from 2025 to 2029.

    This growth is mainly driven by rising disposable incomes, increasing fashion consciousness, and the growing popularity of streetwear culture. Global giants like Nike and Adidas have long dominated the space, but homegrown brands are gaining traction by offering affordable yet stylish alternatives. The direct-to-consumer (D2C) model has allowed brands like 7-10 to build a strong online presence, connect directly with customers, and bypass traditional retail markups.

    Why a Media Tech Firm is Investing in Sneakers

    WLDD, known for its expertise in meme marketing and influencer-driven content, has previously helped brands build their digital presence. By acquiring 7-10, WLDD is taking a hands-on approach to understanding the challenges and nuances of running a D2C business firsthand. This move allows them to experiment with marketing strategies, consumer engagement, and product positioning in real time.

    This is not the first time WLDD has expanded beyond media. It previously acquired ScoopWhoop, a digital media platform. The company’s broader vision is to evolve into a new-age media tech entity that not only markets brands but owns and operates them.

    About 7-10

    Established in 2021 by Shibani Bhagat, 7-10 is a Mumbai-based sneaker design house that prides itself on being entirely homegrown. The brand offers high-fashion designs combined with superior quality and affordability. Their product range includes unique high-top, low-top, and chunky sneaker designs, catering to both men and women. Additionally, 7-10 provides customisation options for its sneakers, allowing customers to personalise their footwear.

    About WLDD

    Founded in 2018 by Arihant Jain, Jaidev Kesti, and Vivekanand Kilari, WLDD is a digital marketing platform. The company specialises in enhancing brands’ social media presence through meme marketing, short-form video content, and influencer collaborations.

  • Vodafone Idea Currently in Discussions with Musk’s Starlink

    Following a spike in its share price, telecom giant Vodafone Idea Ltd. clarified on 19 March its ongoing talks with satellite communication providers, including Starlink. Following media speculations of a possible partnership, the corporation said that these talks are part of its regular business plan to improve service quality and broaden its telecom services. Vi  informed the exchanges that the brand is in exploratory discussions with Starlink and other Satcom providers.

    The Ongoing Developments of Vodafone Idea

    On March 19, the company’s shares enjoyed notable increases, closing at INR 7.45 per share, up roughly 5%. Vodafone Idea provided the clarification after the exchanges asked the business for one in response to the story and its potential impact on the increase in the share price. The business added that the share price might have been impacted by its announcement of the launch of its 5G services in Mumbai. In an exchange filing, it had said that, supported by its investment in next-generation infrastructure and competitive spectrum ownership, its 5G services would be accessible in the city starting from 19 March.

    Starlink from Elon Musk could change internet and mobile data, making the Indian telecom market a two-horse race between Jio and Airtel while Vi tries to catch its breath. Vi trails behind, still in the 5G rollout phase, while the two titans are currently at the forefront of the market with their strong 4G and 5G offers. A whole new level of competitiveness is brought about by Musk’s Starlink, especially in isolated and rural locations where Vi would have thought there was room for growth. Even in places where Vi has historically held sway, Jio and Airtel can now provide ultra-fast connectivity thanks to Starlink’s satellite-based internet, which does away with the requirement for substantial physical infrastructure.

    Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, two of India’s top telecom providers, have partnered with Elon Musk’s Starlink to offer satellite internet services in the nation. The goal of these collaborations is to improve internet connectivity, particularly in isolated and underdeveloped areas. By sending signals from its constellation of satellites to user terminals—consumer hardware like a router or antenna—on the ground, Starlink offers internet connectivity. These terminals, which resemble little dishes, provide mobile internet access by connecting to a Wi-Fi router. This technology is probably going to play a significant role in closing the digital divide in India. A sizable section of India’s population lives in rural areas with little or no access to the internet. Telemedicine, e-commerce, and online education can all be facilitated using Starlink. Additionally, this can foster economic growth and empower rural communities. In addition, Starlink can offer dependable internet connection in isolated locations where installing fibre optic lines is difficult or impossible, such as mountains and forests.

  • India Follows Trump in Imposing Tariffs to Combat World’s Steel Excess

    Only a week after President Donald Trump imposed levies on all US imports, India is set to join the global wave of steel protectionism by announcing plans for broad trade tariffs. As several countries erect barriers to stave against an influx of metal, especially from billion-ton manufacturer China, the world steel market is in turmoil. In a statement released on 18 March, the Indian Commerce Ministry suggested imposing interim “safeguard” taxes of 12% on a variety of steel items. According to the ministry’s statement, safeguard measures are employed when there is a surge of unanticipated, unfavourable imports that harm the domestic industry permanently or threaten to do so.

    Why India has Opted for this Move?

    Along with nations from Asia, Europe, and Latin America, India, the second-largest steel producer in the world, is requesting tariff relief. Trump’s 25% tariffs threaten to drive metal to other markets, and China’s property crisis has caused its steel exports to soar, adding to a global excess at a time when demand is weak. The preliminary ruling, which came after an examination by the nation’s trade commission, states that the planned taxes on Indian imports will be in effect for 200 days. Following a public hearing and 30 days of consultation, a final decision will be made. Despite output reductions, China continues to generate far more steel than it needs domestically, and exports reached a nine-year high in 2024. India also mentioned the effects of various trade restrictions throughout the world, as well as the slowing demand and the expansion of steel capacity in Asia more generally. According to the ministry, there are urgent situations in which failing to apply for temporary safeguards could result in harm that would be challenging to undo. According to government figures, China’s completed steel imports increased by 80% to 1.6 million tonnes in the first seven months of 2024.

    In the notification, the Federal Trade Ministry’s Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) stated that the authority believes a 12% provisional safeguard duty will be suitable to eradicate the substantial harm and threat it poses to domestic industry. According to the notice, the DGTR has also requested feedback on its conclusions within 30 days, after which an oral hearing will be held before a final judgement is made.

    Ongoing Scenario of India’s Steel Sector

    India’s steel production has increased significantly over the last ten years, but it still only accounted for 15% of China’s output last year. In order to support the nation’s industrialisation and urbanisation, its producers have ambitious long-term expansion goals. The large group of steelmakers who had requested the investigation through the Indian Steel Association will feel some relief if the duty is enforced. The government had been asked by a number of producers to impose a four-year safeguard duty.

  • Cisco and NVIDIA Collaborate to Deliver Secure AI Infrastructure

    Cisco and Nvidia have teamed up to provide organisations with secure AI infrastructure, allowing them to set up data centres for AI workloads on a large scale. On March 18, Cisco and NVIDIA revealed an AI factory design that prioritises security. The firms have acted quickly to provide validated reference architectures, building on the broader alliance announced last month with this collaboration with NVIDIA. The firms are working together with NVIDIA to create the Cisco Secure AI Factory, which will significantly streamline the deployment, management, and security of AI infrastructure for businesses of all sizes. According to Cisco CEO and Chair Chuck Robbins, AI can open up revolutionary business potential. Networking and security must be integrated in order to do this. The reliable, cutting-edge solutions from Cisco and NVIDIA enable our clients to easily and safely realise AI’s full potential. NVIDIA founder and CEO Jensen Huang went on to say that AI factories are revolutionising every sector and that security needs to be integrated into every layer to safeguard infrastructure, data, and apps. NVIDIA and Cisco are working together to develop the secure AI blueprint, which will provide businesses with the framework they need to scale AI with confidence and protect their most important assets.

    The Cisco Secure AI Factory and its Operations

    The Cisco Secure AI Factory with NVIDIA is based on the collaboration between Cisco and NVIDIA on the NVIDIA Spectrum-XTM Ethernet networking architecture. Cisco is incorporating security solutions such as Cisco AI Defence to safeguard the creation, implementation, and use of AI models and applications, and Cisco Hypershield to safeguard AI workloads. Cisco and NVIDIA will work together to give clients the freedom to create infrastructure that meets their unique AI requirements without compromising security or ease of use.

    AI factories have to deal with fresh, intricate security issues. The recently released Cisco State of AI Security study highlights significant advancements from a quickly changing AI security ecosystem by analysing over 700 pieces of legislation and dozens of attack vectors unique to AI. Businesses will be more flexible, scale more quickly, and generate commercial value more quickly if they proactively address their AI infrastructure and security issues at the same time. It is anticipated that Cisco Secure AI Factory with NVIDIA would expand on the two organisations’ distinct capacity to provide full-stack technological solutions and adaptable AI networking by utilising the anticipated combined architecture.

    What this New Collaboration will Offer?

    By combining their distinct perspectives on the AI infrastructure requirements of their clients, Cisco and NVIDIA are able to provide flexible deployment options in addition to validated reference architectures. The Secure AI Factory will offer enterprise clients high-performance, scalable AI infrastructure that integrates security at every step of the customer journey. According to Patrick Moorhead, founder, CEO, and chief analyst of Moor Insights & Strategy, companies in today’s dynamic market require end-to-end solutions that tackle their most critical problems rather than merely technology. Together, Cisco and NVIDIA will provide integrated solutions that, in my opinion, will spur innovation, make deployment easier, and optimise processes. Combining the two could be an “easy button” for AI infrastructure, even though AI itself is difficult. They could enable businesses to expedite digital transformation and more confidently accomplish their strategic goals by making AI infrastructure easier to acquire and administer.