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  • Swiggy and Amazon Are Negotiating an ECommerce Partnership on Instamart

    In a possible deal involving its rapid commerce division under Instamart, Amazon India has reportedly approached Swiggy, which is preparing for an IPO, according to three people familiar with the situation. This news follows closely on the back of Swiggy’s secretly submitting draft documents with Sebi for an initial public offering (IPO) of INR 10,414 crore ($1.25 billion), one of the biggest for a modern digital company.

    According to one of the sources mentioned earlier, “Amazon has swooped in with interest to either pick up a stake in the ongoing pre-IPO placement or a buyout proposal for Instamart… but there are multiple roadblocks at the moment.”

    According to reports, there is currently no formal offer in place, and for the talks to progress further, the Seattle headquarters of Amazon will need to act quickly. According to these sources, the current offer structure is so complex that the preliminary conversations may not result in a transaction.

    How Swiggy Is Placing Its Pricing Cards for This Deal?

    Zomato, Swiggy’s main competitor, has a market valuation of about INR 1.9 lakh crore, therefore the former is probably going to undercut its rival by a significant margin. The fast food delivery services Swiggy and Zomato do not have their valuation. But in April, Goldman Sachs estimated that Zomato’s rapid commerce unit, Blinkit, was worth $13 billion.

    The US eCommerce giant’s Indian division has reportedly been developing its rapid commerce program for months, which may explain why Amazon is interested in Swiggy’s Instamart. Since Amazon does not provide this service in any of its worldwide markets, they stated that launching a distinct sector for fast deliveries would necessitate global clearance.

    To lower its shareholding of longtime backer Prosus, Swiggy has been selling secondary holdings in the private market for about $9 billion. This tech investor, who is South African and Dutch, now has 33% of the company and is reducing its holdings to less than 26% to avoid being considered a promoter when Swiggy goes public. Additionally, last week, the meal delivery service announced a $65 million ESOP buyback, providing liquidity to workers.

    Why Similar Deals With Other Companies Didn’t Go Through?

    It has been reported by several different media outlets that Flipkart attempted to get into a similar agreement with Swiggy; but, due to a mismatch in valuation between the two companies, no announcement was made. Swiggy had approached high-net-worth people and businesses such as WhiteOak, Motilal Oswal, Orchid Asia, Malabar, and Enam Group to sell its secondary stakes.

    Business research firms 1Lattice and Datum Intelligence believe that the value of India’s eCommerce business increased by 18-20% in the first half of 2024, with food sales increasing by more than 38% due mostly to a dramatic surge in fast commerce. Quick commerce currently accounts for over 40% of all online grocery sales. Most notably, the top three saw a 230% increase in category growth from 2021 to 2023.


    Swiggy’s Strategic Merger: Instamart and InsanelyGood Align Ahead of IPO Launch
    Swiggy has strategically merged InsanelyGood with its Instamart grocery delivery service, marking a significant move before its anticipated Initial Public Offer (IPO).


  • How to Empower Impactful Digital Transformations at Your Business

    For a start-up operating in today’s hyper-competitive business world, digital transformation can no longer be considered an optional approach. Rather, it has become an absolute prerequisite for survival, growth, and ultimate success. With companies the world over seeking to trim fat wherever possible and achieve more with fewer resources, it’s clear that tech-led optimization is the way forward for burgeoning enterprises.

    By embracing digital transformation and implementing cutting-edge technologies into every facet of their operations, start-ups can streamline processes, improve resource efficiency, and deliver value to consumers like never before. However, enacting successful digital transformations is no facile task, as is evidenced by the fact that as much as 70% of transformations end in failure. The key, then, lies in how companies approach digital transformation as their pathway to success.

    Here, we will discuss some key components of an effective digital transformation strategy and highlight how they can help power your company to new realms of prosperity.

    Implement Digital Adoption Platforms

    When seeking to implement new technologies at your business, employee resistance and tool abandonment present some of the biggest potential obstacles to success. Cutting-edge software tools often have a wide array of features and steep learning curves, which can make it difficult for users to get to grips with them. Digital adoption platforms (DAPs), however, present a comprehensive solution to the issue of software onboarding.

    Digital adoption platforms facilitate the seamless adoption of new software technologies by providing a more intuitive onboarding experience for employees. Advanced DAPs like WalkMe, for instance, do this by overlaying on other software tools to offer contextual guidance as well as tutorials that support users in real time as they learn new technologies. This ensures that employees not only understand how to use software tools that are disposal but also how to maximize their potential for maximum effectiveness.

    By truncating learning curves and reducing resistance, DAPs facilitate successful digital transformations that drive both productivity and efficiency.

    Harness the Power of the Cloud 

    When businesses achieve initial success, they routinely find that they need to expand their operations in order to deliver greater value to customers and support growth in the long term. This in itself necessitates digital transformation, as IT infrastructure must be scaled up in order to facilitate new processes and workflows. It also poses significant challenges, as expanding traditional architecture can be highly time-consuming and costly. However, cloud computing services, such as those offered by providers like AWS, present an elegant solution.

    Since it doesn’t require investments in physical infrastructure or management, cloud infrastructure is significantly more flexible than the traditional alternative. By leveraging cloud computing, your business can allocate resources dynamically, and scale up or down based on demand. This empowers greater elasticity in operations so that your business can adapt on the fly and meet evolving needs.

    By leveraging cloud computing, you can establish a robust and dynamic infrastructure that supports seamless digital transformations later on, including the implementation of technologies like machine learning. This will empower your business to reach its objectives with greater consistency and velocity.

    Embrace Data-driven Decision-making

    A key challenge in digital transformation is decision-making. It stands to reason, after all, that in order to gain true benefit from transformations, you need to make the right changes, and this is where data analytics comes into play.

    The major advantage of data analytics is that it gives you the ability to gain a comprehensive view of your business’s performance. By collecting and analyzing large volumes of data, you can identify trends and correlations that may not be evident otherwise. This can empower you to identify areas for improvement so that you can implement digital transformations to reduce inefficiencies and consistently achieve marginal gains.

    By leveraging data analytics and promoting a data-driven culture at your business, you can uncover optimization opportunities and make more informed decisions regarding how to capitalize on them. In this way, you can ensure that you are enacting the right transformations at the right time to achieve maximum impact. 

    The pursuit of optimization-driven success 

    Digital transformation is essential to achieve continued growth and success as a modern business, but it’s also a challenging endeavor to attempt. In order to avoid the pitfalls of digital transformation, the key is to take a comprehensive and multifaceted approach that establishes a seamless and repeatable framework for intelligent adoption and implementation of the latest technologies. 

    By leveraging digital adoption platforms, cloud computing, and data analytics to your advantage, you can streamline onboarding, enhance scalability, and improve decision-making to ensure that digital transformation initiatives are both successful and impactful.

  • Reliance and Shein Form Partnership to Introduce Rapid Fashion in India

    After a year of reportedly forging a strategic partnership, Reliance Retail Ventures is planning to launch the Chinese fast-fashion brand Shein in India in the coming weeks. Reliance Retail reportedly owns and operates physical stores as well as an app where users may purchase products of Shein.

    India banned Shein from selling its products on its own app in 2020 as part of a larger crackdown on Chinese applications in response to rising border concerns between the two nations; this move comes four years later. Manish Chopra, a former director at Meta (Facebook), is reportedly going to be hired by Reliance Retail to head up Shein’s operations in India.

    How the Reliance-Shein Partnership will work?

    The business is also setting up boutique studios in specific European towns to track Western fast fashion trends and immediately ship them to India. Officials from Reliance Retail said that a separate company will run the operations, and that Shein would not be investing in the company in any way. One of them said, “Shein is expected to be paid a licence fee as a share of the profit of the Indian company, and any payment to Shein will only be made out of profits of the Indian company.”

    Indians’ Shopping Habit

    Although a large portion of the population in India has access to smartphones and the internet, the data show that this does not translate to much when it comes to purchasing clothing. Only 4% of Indians prefer to purchase online entirely, according to a survey by Localcircles (a community social media platform). The remaining 47% prefer to shop in stores. About 40% of people like a combination of the two, and the majority prefer the “touch, feel, and try” approach.

    On the contrary, the convenience of online returns and the prevalence of sales were major factors in people preferring to shop online. Immediate gratification and hassle-free exchanges and refunds are two further advantages.

    How Shein has an advantage with this partnership?

    Because of its physical stores and online marketplace, Shein might be able to meet the needs of all sorts of Indian customers. Also, in the year ending in March, the fast fashion industry in India had a growth of about 30%. According to Redseer (a market research firm), this is five times larger than the overall fashion segment.

    Top worldwide garment manufacturers and retailers saw a 40-60% increase in sales from FY22 to FY23, according to media reports. These brands and shops include Zara, Uniqlo, Pepe jeans, Levi’s, and many more. This exemplifies the increasing demand for fashion products in India, an opportunity that Reliance may seize by partnering with Shein.

  • With ixigo’s Support, Fresh Bus Closes Series A at INR 43.6 CR

    The outstation electric bus service provider Fresh Bus, with headquarters in Bengaluru, received a Series A investment round of INR 43.6 crore, or around $5.3 million. The third fundraising round, led by Saama Capital, was backed by ixigo, a market peer.

    The corporate board has approved a special resolution to raise INR 43.68 crore by issuing 2 equity shares and 63,825 Series A Compulsory Convertible Preference Shares, with an issue price of INR 6,845 each. This calculated action has provided Fresh Bus with the much-required funding for its ambitious development and growth objectives.

    Investments in the Fresh Bus platform’s innovation from prominent figures like Kunal Shah (Founder and CEO of CRED), Sudarshan Venu (CEO of TVS Motors), and Deepak Garg (CEO and founder of Rivigo) helped the company secure INR 7.5 crore in its second round funding last year.

    How Is It Planning to Utilize Freshly Raised Funds?

    Fresh Bus’s performance reflects a growing need for eco-friendly, convenient transportation options in India. A battery-powered electric engine powers the Fresh Bus, reflecting the growing concern for the environment among the locals. And with this, the firm is supposedly better positioned for future expansion.

    The geological change for Fresh Bus would be brought about by the Series A finance of INR 43.6 crore. With the support of ixigo and other investors, the company is well-positioned to scale up and try to change the way people see bus travel in India. Fresh Bus will benefit from ixigo’s strategic investment in the form of a larger user base and access to technical knowledge. Significant expansion for Fresh Bus is on the horizon as a result of this.

    How Company Is Preparing to Tackle the Ongoing Challenges?

    Fresh Bus’s concept of concentrating on providing customers with an exceptional traveling experience through the utilization of electric buses is unique, even if it faces intense competition in the online bus aggregation and operation market from companies like IntrCity SmartBus, ZingBus, and gogoBus. Modern travelers demand this kind of service, and Fresh Bus provides it with amenities like personal charging stations and real-time air-quality monitoring.

    Here, the fact that Fresh Bus has received funding from ixigo—an early player in the Indian travel platform—is indicative of the opportunity and promise that the company offers.

    About Fresh Bus

    Fresh Bus, established in 2021 by Sudhakar Reddy Chirra, is a contemporary bus service that is specifically engineered to ensure the safety and convenience of its customers. To ensure the highest quality of service, its fleet of buses is equipped with technology that can be monitored in real-time around the clock.


    Ixigo Success Story – Business Model | Revenue | Funding | Owner
    Ixigo is India’s leading online & mobile travel search + planning website. Read More about Ixigo company profile, revenue, owner/founder, business model, funding, acquisitions, competitors


  • Celebrities With Expensively Insured Body Parts

    It’s no secret that when it comes to celebrities, controversy often follows them wherever they go. From bizarre obsessions to strange habits, these A-listers are no strangers to making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Some of them have even gone to great lengths to pamper their pets, like buying mansions for their furry friends or indulging their children in candy-filled rooms. And if that wasn’t enough, some have even claimed to have ghost-dictating machines in their homes! But it’s not just their unusual habits that make headlines.

    In these times where appearance and talent are inextricably linked to success, it’s no surprise that celebrities go to great lengths to protect their most valuable assets – their bodies. While the concept of insuring body parts may seem bizarre to the average person, it’s a strategic move for those whose livelihoods depend on their physical attributes. From vocal cords that produce chart-topping hits to legs that grace magazine covers, these celebrities have taken out hefty insurance policies to safeguard their most prized possessions.

    In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most expensive insured body parts by celebrities and explore the reasons behind these massive price tags. So, let’s get started!

    The Rationale Behind The Same

    The reasoning behind this peculiar practice is quite straightforward. A career-altering injury could potentially cost a celebrity millions in lost revenue, endorsement deals, and future earnings. Through insurance of their most valuable body parts, they’re essentially creating a financial safety net should the unthinkable occur. It’s a calculated risk management strategy that allows them to pursue their passions without the constant fear of a life-altering setback.

    The OGs of Body Part Insurance

    While the practice may seem like a modern-day phenomenon, the concept of insuring body parts has been around for decades. In the 1920s, silent film clown Ben Turpin famously insured his cross-eyed gaze, fearing that if his eyes were to become uncrossed, his career would be over. This set the stage for a trend that would continue to gain traction in the years to come.

    List of Celebrities With the Most Expensive Body Part Insurance

    The Iconic Voices That Demand Protection

    Legs That Stand The Weight Of A Thousand Campaigns

    That Smile Is Worth Millions

    Insuring The Hands Because They Matter

    Tresses Insurance Is A Thing Too?

    Insuring The Body Parts – Glamour Thing?

    The Business Behind the Bizarre

    The Iconic Voices That Demand Protection

    Mariah Carey’s Multimillion-Dollar Vocal Cords

    Celebrity Name Mariah Carey
    Date of Birth March 27, 1969
    Profession American singer, songwriter, record producer, and actress
    Body Part Insurance Voice and Legs
    Amount $35 million each
    Mariah Carey Insured Her Legs for $1 Billion
    Mariah Carey Insured Her Legs for $1 Billion

    Mariah Carey, an American singer and entertainer from New York, was born on 27 March 1969. Carey has won five Grammy Awards, nineteen World Music Awards, ten American Music Awards, and the famous Billboard Music Award fifteen times.

    Mariah Carey is one of the many celebrities who have insured their body parts for millions of dollars. In 2016, the elusive chanteuse reportedly took out not one but two $35 million insurance policies – one for her legendary vocal cords and another for her statuesque legs. With a career spanning over three decades and a string of chart-topping hits, it’s no wonder Carey wanted to ensure her most valuable assets were protected.

    Bruce Springsteen’s Gritty, Gravelly Tones

    Celebrity Name Bruce Springsteen
    Date of Birth September 23, 1949
    Profession American Singer, Songwriter, and Musician
    Body Parts Insurance Vocal Cords
    Amount $6 million
    Bruce Springsteen Insured his Vocal Cord | Celebrity Insurance Body Parts
    Bruce Springsteen Insured his Vocal Cord | Celebrity Insurance Body Parts

    Bruce Springsteen is a singer, composer, and music director who has been entertaining audiences with his unique blend of rock and folk music for over four decades. He is originally from America. He won a band called “E-street.” He has won 20 Grammy Awards, a Special Tony Award, 1 Academy Award, and 2 Golden Globe Awards.

    The Boss, as he’s affectionately known, reportedly insured his voice for a staggering $6 million with Lloyd’s of London. With a career that has spanned six decades and a distinctive voice that has become a trademark of his sound, it’s easy to see why Springsteen would want to secure his most valuable asset.

    Legs That Stand The Weight Of A Thousand Campaigns

    Heidi Klum’s Million-Dollar Stems

    Celebrity Name Heidi Klum
    Date of Birth June 1, 1973
    Profession German-American Model, Television Host, Producer, Businesswoman
    Body Parts Insurance Legs
    Amount $2.2 million
    Heidi Klum Insured her Legs | Celebrity Insurance Body Parts
    Heidi Klum Insured Her Legs | Celebrity Insurance Body Parts

    Supermodel and television personality Heidi Klum is no stranger to the world of body part insurance. During her time as a spokesperson for Procter & Gamble’s Braun shavers, her legs were insured for a whopping $2.2 million by London’s Phillips De Pury and are one of the most expensive insured legs. However, there was a slight discrepancy in the value of her legs – her left leg was insured for $200,000 less than her right due to a scar she sustained from a glass injury.

    Rihanna’s Award-Winning Gams

    Celebrity Name Rihanna
    Date of Birth February 20, 1988
    Profession Singer and Businesswoman
    Body Parts Insurance Legs
    Amount $1 million
    Rihanna Insured Her Legs | Celebrity Insurance Body Parts
    Rihanna insured her legs | Celebrity Insurance Body Parts

    In 2007, Rihanna won the Venus Breeze “Celebrity Legs of a Goddess” Award, prompting her to insure her enviable pins for a cool $1 million. The Barbadian singer’s decision to protect her legs was a savvy move, considering her status as a fashion icon and the importance of her physical appearance in her line of work.

    David Beckham

    Celebrity Name David Beckham
    Date of Birth May 2, 1975
    Profession Retired Footballer
    Body Parts Insurance Legs, Feet, Toes
    Amount $195 Million
    David Beckham insured his legs| Celebrity insurance body parts
    David Beckham insured his legs | Celebrity insurance body parts

    David Beckham is a retired English professional footballer, also known as soccer in some parts of the world. He was born on May 2, 1975, in London, England, and began his football career at a young age, joining the Manchester United youth team at age 14. He also founded the “David Beckham Football Academy” in London as well as Los Angeles.

    Apart from football, Beckham also became a Goodwill Ambassador with a special focus on UNICEF’s sports for development program. Other than that, Beckham is visible as an actor in a few films. He is also the brand ambassador of many leading brands.

    In his case, it’s his legs that are the most valuable asset. To protect his legs, Beckham reportedly took out an insurance policy worth $70 million. The policy covers any damage to his legs or any other unforeseen circumstances that could prevent him from playing football in the future.

    In addition to his legs, David Beckham has also reportedly insured his whole body for $195 million. This policy covers him for any accidents or injuries that may occur while he’s playing sports, but also while he’s traveling, driving cars, or participating in other activities.

    Christiano Ronaldo

    Celebrity Name Cristiano Ronaldo
    Date of Birth February 5, 1985
    Profession Footballer
    Body Parts Insurance Legs
    Amount $144 Million
    Cristiano Ronaldo insured his legs | Celebrity insurance body parts
    Cristiano Ronaldo insured his legs | Celebrity insurance body parts

    Cristiano Ronaldo, a professional football player from Portugal, is the captain of the Portugal national team. He was born on 5 February 1985, in Madeira, Portugal, and began his football career at a young age, playing for local teams before joining the Sporting CP youth team.

    In 2021, Ronaldo was ranked 3rd among the highest-paid athletes by Forbes Magazine. He has a fashion bouquet named “CR7” in Madeira, Portugal. He also wrote his biography, “Moments” in 2007. There are two documentary film shoots on his life. There is a statue and an international airport which has his name in Madeira, Portugal. He is also the brand ambassador of many leading brands.

    As he is one of the star players of the “Real Madrid” team, he has insured his legs, which are his most valuable asset, for a substantial amount of money. Though the exact amount of the policy is not known, reports suggest that it could be worth anywhere between $100 million and $144 million.

    In addition to his legs, Ronaldo is also rumored to have insured his entire body for $200 million, which would cover him for any accidents or injuries that could occur while he’s playing sports or participating in other activities.

    Taylor Swift

    Celebrity Name Taylor Swift
    Date of Birth December 13, 1989
    Profession American Singer and Composer
    Body Parts Insurance Legs
    Amount $40 Million
    Taylor Swift insured her legs | celebrity insurance body parts
    Taylor Swift insured her legs | Celebrity insurance body parts

    Taylor Swift is an American singer and composer. Most of her songs are from her real-life experiences. She won the prestigious Grammy Award eleven times. She is known as the “youngest musician” to win the Grammy. She won it at the age of 20.

    Other than Grammy, she has also won Emmy Awards, thirty-two American Music Awards, and eight Academy of Country Medal Awards. Besides, she has also won twenty-five Billboard Music awards. Due to this, she became the first female singer to win a Billboard Award so many times.

    When it comes to body part insurance, Taylor Swift has reportedly insured her legs for $40 million, $20 million per leg in 2015. Protecting her legs with insurance is a smart business move that ensures she can continue to perform at the highest level without the risk of financial loss if an injury were to occur.

    That Smile Is Worth Millions

    Julia Roberts’ Megawatt Grin

    Celebrity Name Julia Roberts
    Date of Birth October 28, 1967
    Profession American Actress and Producer
    Body Parts Insurance Smile
    Amount $30 million
    Julia Roberts insured her smile | Celebrity insurance body parts
    Julia Roberts insured her smile | Celebrity insurance body parts

    Julia Roberts, one of the celebrities, is an actress and a producer in Hollywood movies. She has won many awards, especially the most prestigious “Academy Award” as an actress.

    However, other than acting, Julia Roberts also gave her time and money to UNICEF. In 1995, she asked UNICEF whether she could come and work for them; she also had done many charitable works throughout her life. In 2000, she narrated a documentary film, “Silent Angels.” The film was about Ree Syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder.

    Julia Roberts’ smile is arguably one of the most recognizable in Hollywood, and it’s no wonder the actress has taken steps to protect it. According to reports, Roberts has insured her famous smile for a staggering $30 million. With a career that has spanned decades and a face that has graced countless magazine covers, it’s a wise investment for America’s Sweetheart.

    America Ferrera’s Insured Pearly Whites

    Celebrity Name America Ferrera
    Date of Birth April 18, 1984
    Profession Actress, Director and Television Producer
    Body Parts Insurance Smile
    Amount $10 million
    America Ferrera insured her smile | Celebrity insurance body parts
    America Ferrera insured her smile | Celebrity insurance body parts

    In 2006, the GlaxoSmithKline brand Aquafresh took out a $10 million insurance policy with Lloyd’s of London on America Ferrera’s smile. The policy was part of a program to raise money for “Smiles for Success,” a nationwide organization that provides free dental care for women transitioning from welfare to work. Ferrera, known for her role in the hit show “Ugly Betty,” was flattered by the gesture, stating, “It’s not something that I ever imagined happening.”

    Gene Simmons

    Celebrity Name Gene Simmons
    Date of Birth August 25, 1949
    Profession Musician, Singer, Songwriter, and Actor
    Body Parts Insurance Tongue
    Amount $1 Million
    Gene Simmons insured his tongue | Celebrity insurance body parts
    Gene Simmons insured his tongue | Celebrity insurance body parts

    Gene Simmons is an Israeli American singer and music director. He is also known as “The Demon”. His birth name was “Chain Witz”. For a better singing career, he changed his name. He had founded a rock band called, “Kiss”.

    There is a city named after him in Texas. In 2012, he received the award of the “Golden God.”

    However, he had insured his tongue for $1 million. His tongue is one of the signatures of his band. So, he decides to insure it.

    Insuring The Hands Because They Matter

    Keith Richards’ Legendary Digits

    Celebrity Name Keith Richards
    Date of Birth December 18, 1943
    Profession English musician, Songwriter, Singer, and Record producer
    Body Parts Insurance Hands
    Amount $1.6 million
    Keith Richards insured his hands | Celebrity insurance body parts
    Keith Richards insured his hands | Celebrity insurance body parts

    As the lead guitarist of the Rolling Stones, Keith Richards knows that his hands are his most valuable assets. That’s why the rock legend took out a $1.6 million policy through Lloyd’s of London to insure his guitar-playing digits. In an interview with Fortune, Richards flashed his hands and said, “These are the business,” demonstrating the importance of protecting the very tools that have helped him create some of the most iconic riffs in music history.

    Jeff Beck’s Culinary Mishap and Costly Remedy

    Celebrity Name Jeff Beck
    Date of Birth June 24, 1944
    Profession English Guitarist
    Body Parts Insurance Fingers
    Amount $1 million
    Jeff Beck insured his fingers| Celebrity insurance body parts
    Jeff Beck insured his fingers| Celebrity insurance body parts

    While Keith Richards took a proactive approach, fellow guitar legend Jeff Beck learned the hard way about the importance of insuring his fingers. In 2009, Beck was involved in a kitchen accident that nearly cost him his career. While cutting carrots for a stew, the knife slipped, chopping off the tip of his left index finger. Thankfully, a trip to the hospital saved his finger and his career, but the incident prompted Beck to insure each of his fingers for a staggering $1 million.

    Tresses Insurance Is A Thing Too?

    Troy Polamalu’s Million-Dollar Mane

    Celebrity Name Troy Polamalu
    Date of Birth April 19, 1981
    Profession American Football Player
    Body Parts Insurance Hair
    Amount $1 million
    Troy Polamalu insured his Hair| Celebrity insurance body parts
    Troy Polamalu insured his Hair| Celebrity insurance body parts

    In the world of sports, it’s not just physical abilities that are insured – sometimes, it’s the very hair on an athlete’s head. Troy Polamalu, the former strong safety for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is famous not just for his prowess on the field but also for his luscious locks. When Polamalu became a spokesperson for Procter & Gamble’s Head & Shoulders shampoo, the company took out a $1 million policy with Lloyd’s of London to insure his iconic mane.

    Insuring The Body Parts – Glamour Thing?

    Dolly Parton’s Iconic Assets

    Celebrity Name Dolly Parton
    Date of Birth January 19, 1946
    Profession American Singer-songwriter, Actress, and Philanthropist
    Body Parts Insurance Breasts
    Amount $600,000
    Dolly Parton insured his Breasts| Celebrity insurance body parts
    Dolly Parton insured her Breasts| Celebrity insurance body parts

    Dolly Parton’s curves are as legendary as her music career, and the country singer took steps to protect her most famous assets – her breasts. Parton reportedly insured her 40DD bust for a whopping $600,000, with each breast valued at $300,000. While the claim has been refuted by the singer herself, it’s proof of the lengths some celebrities will go to safeguard their most valuable physical attributes.

    Holly Madison’s Million-Dollar Bust

    Celebrity Name Holly Madison
    Date of Birth December 23, 1979
    Profession American television personality
    Body Parts Insurance Breast
    Amount $1 million
    Holly Madison insured his Breasts| Celebrity insurance body parts
    Holly Madison insured her Breasts | Celebrity insurance body parts

    Another celebrity who has taken out an insurance policy on her bust is Holly Madison, the former girlfriend of Hugh Hefner and star of the reality show “Holly’s World.” In anticipation of her topless starring role in the Las Vegas show “Peepshow,” Madison took out a $1 million insurance policy on her breasts with Lloyd’s of London. As she explained to People magazine, “If anything happened to my boobs, I’d be out for a few months and I’d probably be out a million dollars, I thought I’d cover my assets.”

    Jennifer Lopez

    Celebrity Name Jennifer Lopez
    Date of Birth July 24, 1969
    Profession American Singer, Actress, Dancer, and Producer
    Body Parts Insurance Buttocks
    Amount $27 Million
    Jennifer Lopez insured her butt | celebrity insurance body parts
    Jennifer Lopez insured her butt | Celebrity insurance body parts

    Jennifer Lopez, also known as J-Lo, is an American singer, actress, dancer, and producer. She was born on July 24, 1969, in New York City and rose to fame in the 1990s as a dancer and actress. She is also known for her successful music career, with hit songs such as “On the Floor” and “Jenny from the Block.”

    She was awarded the Legend Award from the “World Music Award.” She stood out to be the first Latin American Woman to have won the award by billboard for her contribution to music.

    She has insured her famous buttocks for $27 million. Her curvaceous figure has become a defining feature of her brand, and she has even been nicknamed “J-Lo” as a result.


    Top 10 Highest paid Celebrity Endorsement Deals of 2021
    We all know Celebrities charge a handsome amount for endorsing brands. So, let’s look at Top 10 Celebrity endorsements with huge payouts.


    David Lee Roth

    Celebrity Name David Lee Roth
    Date of Birth October 10, 1954
    Profession Musician, Singer, Songwriter, and Actor
    Body Parts Insurance Sperm
    Amount $1 Million
    David Lee Roth insured his sperm | Celebrity insurance body parts
    David Lee Roth insured his sperm | Celebrity insurance body parts

    David Lee Roth is an American singer, composer, and radio personality. He won a band called “Hard Rock.” Initially, he was the main lead of a band called “Van Hallen”. Then, he started his solo singing career. But, after some time, he returns to the band.

    However, in 1980 his band was on high ranking. Hence, to secure the band name, David insured his sperm for $1 Million. So, he couldn’t accidentally impregnate any member.

    Daniel Craig

    Celebrity Name Daniel Craig
    Date of Birth March 2, 1968
    Profession Actor
    Body Parts Insurance Full Body
    Amount $9.5 Million
    Daniel Craig insured his full body | Celebrity insurance body parts
    Daniel Craig insured his full body | Celebrity insurance body parts

    Daniel Craig also known as “James Bond” is an English actor. He is famous for his “James Bond” film series. Craig has also appeared in numerous other films and television shows throughout his career, including “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” “Layer Cake,” and “Knives Out.” He has received many awards and also stood on the nomination list for the British Academy Award.

    Daniel had insured his entire body for $9.5 Million. He had been doing stunts for his film series “James Bond” for so many years. So as for safety, he has done a full-body insurance policy.


    How Wedding Insurance is emerging as a Lucrative Business Model?
    In recent years Wedding insurance has been emerging as a successful business model. Let’s deep dive to understand what is it and why you should get one.


    The Business Behind the Bizarre

    Lloyd’s of London: The Epicenter of Celebrity Body Part Insurance

    When it comes to insuring celebrity body parts, one name stands out above the rest: Lloyd’s of London. The world’s leading market for specialist insurance, Lloyd’s has become the go-to destination for celebrities seeking to protect their most valuable assets. From Mariah Carey’s vocal cords to Keith Richards’ hands, Lloyd’s has penned some of the most peculiar and lucrative policies in the industry.

    The Financial Implications of Body Part Insurance

    While the concept of insuring body parts may seem outrageous to some, it’s a savvy business move for those whose livelihoods depend on their physical attributes. A career-altering injury could potentially cost a celebrity millions in lost revenue, endorsement deals, and future earnings. By taking out an insurance policy, they’re essentially creating a financial safety net that allows them to pursue their passions without the constant fear of a life-altering setback.

    Conclusion

    These celebrities have an ample amount of bank balance. But, there is nothing wrong with insuring their body parts for better safety. As they are public figures, their safety always comes as the priority for the brands they endorse and for people who gave them so much love and appreciation for their work.

    Overall, the trend of celebrities insuring their body parts is likely to continue, as the importance of physical appearance and ability in the entertainment industry shows no signs of slowing down.

    As long as celebrities rely on their physical attributes to earn a living, they’ll seek to protect their most valuable assets – whether it’s a set of vocal cords that produce chart-topping hits, a pair of legs that grace magazine covers, or a smile that sells millions. While the concept may seem bizarre to the average person, for these stars, it’s a calculated risk management strategy that allows them to pursue their passions without the constant fear of a life-altering setback. Liked this content piece? Well, we have more of it at StartupTalky. Do, give us a read and till then – keep thinking and keep talkying!

    FAQs

    Who has the most expensive insured body part?

    Celebrities’ expensively insured “Body Parts” are:

    • Mariah Carey’s legs
    • David Beckham’s legs
    • Cristiano Ronaldo’s legs
    • Julia Roberts’ smile
    • Jennifer Lopez’s butt
    • Taylor Swift’s leg
    • Daniel Craig’s body
    • Bruce Springsteen’s vocal cords
    • Gene Simmons’ tongue
    • David Lee Roth’s sperms
    • Heidi Klum
    • Rihanna
    • America Ferrera
    • Keith Richards
    • Jeff Beck

    Who was the first to insure a body part?

    Ben Turpin – the silent film actor of the 1920s was the first to insure his body parts. He insured his eyes for $25,000.

    Why do insurance companies insure celebrities’ body parts?

    Body parts insurance offers financial cover and protects a celebrity’s body parts. The insurance supplements their livelihood if a body part is damaged, injured, or lost.

    What are some of the most commonly insured body parts among celebrities?

    Among celebrities, the most commonly insured body parts include vocal cords, legs, hands, and fingers. These body parts are typically insured for millions of dollars, as they are essential to the celebrity’s ability to perform and generate income.

    What happens if a celebrity’s insured body part is damaged?

    If a celebrity’s insured body part is damaged, they can file a claim with their insurance company to receive compensation for any financial losses they incur as a result. This can include lost income, medical expenses, and other related costs.

    Are there any restrictions on what body parts can be insured?

    There are typically no restrictions on what body parts can be insured, as long as they have a significant financial value and are essential to the individual’s ability to generate income.

    Which famous musician insured a body part for a whopping $1 million?

    One of the most famous cases is Bruce Springsteen, who insured his voice for $6 million. However, someone who insured a specific body part for around $1 million, would be Dolly Parton, who insured her iconic bust for that amount.

    Who insured their legs for 40 million dollars?

    Taylor Swift insured her legs for $40 million, $20 million for each leg.

  • Mantri Developers’ CSO Kamakshi Mantri Discusses AI, Hybrid Models, and Retail Trends

    In this exclusive interview, StartupTalky connected with Ms. Kamakshi Mantri, Chief Strategy Officer at Mantri Developers Pvt. Ltd. With her expertise in retail, commercial, and hospitality sectors, she shares insights into their innovative approaches to boosting retail business at Mantri Square Mall. She also discusses their use of AI for personalised experiences and future trends in the industry. From the rise of hybrid shopping models to the integration of entertainment hubs, Mantri gives us a glimpse into how malls are evolving to meet changing consumer expectations.

    StartupTalky: How are you planning to increase malls’ retail business?

    Ms. Mantri: At Mantri Malls, we have always valued our partnerships with retailers and work to support them through various initiatives, some of which include providing them with marketing support, hosting joint promotional events, and offering incentives to encourage innovative retail concepts.

    We also introduced “Shop & Earn”, and give out assured gifts to every shopper, something which very few malls do at their own cost. This encourages the shopper to spend more, as the more you spend, the better gifts you qualify for as per the slabs. By fostering a collaborative environment, we aim to help our retail partners succeed and, in turn, boost the overall retail business at the mall.

    StartupTalky: How are AI and data analytics helping the retail industry to grow?

    Ms. Mantri: We have around 300+ brands associated with us across our 3 retail properties, and we are leveraging advanced technology and data analytics to understand customer preferences and tailor our offerings accordingly. By analysing shopping patterns and customer feedback, we can curate a more personalized shopping experience.

    AI is transforming our marketing strategies by enabling more effective targeting and engagement. Through AI analytics, we can gain deeper insights into customer behaviour and preferences, allowing us to create more impactful marketing campaigns. AI also helps in drafting marketing collaterals – such as newsletters, emailers, creative ideas, etc. We have invested in advanced analytics to better understand our customers and optimize our offerings to meet their needs.


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    Ms. Mantri: The biggest trend that has been seen since COVID-19 is most of the new brands now launch online first, and if they have a successful run, then they expand to opening physical stores. Previously, the trend was reversed. This trend has helped us as mall management in leasing, as when someone approaches us, we can offer space to those who are doing well in the online market as it is a calculated risk for them since they would have already acquired a good target market.

    We have brands who have chosen to open their first offline stores with us, such as DaMENSCH, and others such as The Souled Store, Mamaearth, Sugar, etc. who are having a successful run in the offline industry, after having proven their following online. Our footfall and their target market help us achieve the goal which is a win-win situation for both.

    The second trend is the F&B category and entertainment now claims a bigger share as a category in every mall – for a mall to provide an improved experience along with shopping. Malls are no longer seen as just “shopping centres” but also as entertainment hubs.

    Keeping in line with this strategy, we welcomed our first nightclub & also one of Bengaluru’s largest, Sunburn Union at Mantri Avenue, spread over 30,000 sq ft. which is also Bengaluru’s first sunburn club. It received a roaring response from partygoers and youngsters alike.

    We also welcomed Awesome Place, spread over 11,000 sq ft at Mantri Square, where toddlers and children can have fun with secured assistance and guidance. We are committed to creating immersive environments that combine entertainment, dining, and interactive activities. This trend will continue to shape the retail estate industry as malls evolve into social and lifestyle hubs.

    As consumer preferences evolve, flexibility and adaptability in retail spaces will be crucial. We expect to see more modular and multifunctional spaces that can quickly adapt to changing trends and tenant needs. We are committed to creating dynamic spaces that can accommodate pop-up stores, seasonal events, and new retail concepts, ensuring we stay relevant and attractive to both retailers and customers.

    Sustainability is becoming a key focus for the retail estate industry. In the coming years, we foresee a growing emphasis on eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient building designs, waste reduction, and sustainable sourcing. We are dedicated to implementing green initiatives that not only reduce our environmental footprint but also appeal to the environmentally conscious consumer.

    StartupTalky: What tools and platforms do you find helpful for increasing footfall and execution processes?

    Increasing footfall can be achieved through events, concerts, workshops, and classes. However, to stay competitive in the industry, leveraging tools and platforms is essential. Influencer marketing, offer promotions, loyalty programs, online presence, social media engagement, etc are the best and most helpful strategies to increase or rather bring maximum footfall.

    StartupTalky: How do you strategise marketing efforts across the retail sectors at Mantri Developers, considering their unique challenges?

    Identify the consumer, based on the customer surveys to understand the customers’ needs and the retailers’ wants. We bridge the gap in understanding what the current footfall wants in shopping and vice versa, by bringing in brands that will help in the increase of the footfall of the mall.

    We are constantly conducting CSI (Customer Survey Index) & RSI (Retailer Survey Index) at ground levels to understand what is working and what is not. We believe in fostering strong connections with our community by organising community events – such as yoga/fitness workshops, concerts, dance classes, interactive programmes, movie launches by celebrities, etc.

    StartupTalky: What opportunities do you see for growth and innovation in the near future in the retail sector?

    From a retail point of view, the Hybrid model is the next big thing – which makes the most of combining online & offline shopping. A lot of apps have tried it and we are yet to see who would emerge as the market leader. Quick commerce such as Swiggy Instamart has launched Malls as a part of their app in the quick delivery feature which is another exciting development.

    StartupTalky: How do you measure the success of your strategic initiatives, and what key performance indicators (KPIs) or metrics do you use to track the progress of your strategic goals?

    We have identified a few KPIs to measure the performance of our malls. First is Footfall, which indicates how many people are visiting the mall. Second, the leasing rates – the higher the rate goes the more the demand for the space, which signifies that retailers want to do business in your mall. Third, Trading Density – which is the sales per sqft a brand is clocking in, how many low performers are there, and what support can be given to improve them. And final and most important is the customer & retailer survey index (CSI & RSI) to understand what our shoppers & retailers feel about our services, and what initiatives are working vs what should be discontinued.


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  • How Can You Get Quick Short-Term Loans in India?

    This article has been contributed by Manish Aggarwal, Founder & CEO, E-Revbay Private Limited.

    In the rapidly evolving financial landscape, short-term loans have become a vital resource for individuals and small businesses to address immediate financial needs.

    Short-term loans are essential for both personal use and small businesses in India. With an emerging middle class of over 400 million, short-term loans will play a pivotal role in personal finance.

    A 2021 survey indicates that 90% of adults in India now have access to a financial or savings account, highlighting the vast distribution potential of short-term loans in Tier 2, 3, and 4 towns. Easy access to short-term capital will remain crucial to our economy’s growth.

    Understanding Short-Term Loans?

    Short-term loans are loans designed to provide quick funds to borrowers, typically with a repayment period of less than one year. These loans are characterized by the following:

    • Repayment Period: Less than eighteen months.
    • Loan Amount: Ranges from a few thousand to 10 lakh rupees.
    • Rate of Interest: Typically ranges from 11% to 24% per annum, based on the borrower’s credit profile.

    Why Short-Term Loans?

    Short-term loans typically fulfil an immediate need for funds, which could arise from:

    • Unforeseen Expenses: Providing quick funds for unplanned and unavoidable expenses.
    • Meeting Emergency Expenses: Typically used for funding medical emergencies or emergencies arising from unexpected damages.
    • Bridging Temporary Cash Flow Gaps: For both individuals and small businesses to maintain liquidity.
    • Financing Short-Term Business Needs: This may take the form of inventory purchases or working capital requirements.

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    What Makes Short-Term Loans a Viable Option?

    Short-term loans stand out as a practical solution for addressing immediate financial needs due to their:

    • Accessibility: These loans are typically disbursed quickly, often within 24-48 hours, providing immediate financial relief.
    • Economic Flexibility: Helps individuals manage unexpected expenses without significant financial strain.
    • Business Support: Enables small businesses to maintain operations during cash flow shortages or unexpected expenditures.
    • Credit Building: Timely repayments can help borrowers build or improve their credit scores.
    • Economic Impact: Contributes to overall economic stability by providing financial support during economic downturns or personal financial crises.
    • Inclusivity: Available through various channels, including traditional banks, NBFCs, and online platforms, making them accessible to many borrowers across urban and rural areas.

    What Types of Short-Term Loans Are Available?

    Understanding the different types of short-term loans can help borrowers make informed decisions about their financial requirements. 

    More popular short-term loan options include:

    Payday Loans

    Payday loans are designed for individuals who need quick cash and are waiting for their next paycheck. They are an advance on your salary, which you can use to cover immediate expenses. Your next payday must repay these loans.

    Personal Loans

    Personal loans are granted based on income, employment status, and credit history. They require minimal paperwork and are approved and disbursed quickly. Personal loans can be used for various purposes, such as urgent home repairs, medical emergencies, wedding expenses, travel, and shopping.

    Loans Against Gold

    Gold loans involve mortgaging your gold to secure the loan amount. To secure this loan, you are required to use your gold as collateral. These loans offer the flexibility to repay the principal amount at the end of the loan tenure.

    Car Title Loans

    If the car is owned outright by the borrower, they can use it as collateral to obtain a Car Title Loan. These loans typically let you borrow 25 to 50 percent of the car’s market value and often come with high APRs and short repayment periods. Delayed payments can increase interest charges, making the loan more expensive.

    Bank Overdrafts

    Bank overdrafts provide temporary coverage when your account lacks sufficient funds. Although this option comes with high interest rates, it serves as a short-term solution to cover immediate expenses. Similarly, instalment loans involve regular, frequent payments over time until the principal and interest are fully repaid.

    Lines of Credit

    Unsecured and secured personal lines of credit allow access to funds on an as-needed basis. Borrowers can withdraw up to a preset credit limit, which replenishes as payments are made. Interest is only charged on the amount borrowed. Once the draw period ends, the remaining balance is converted to an installment loan with a set repayment period.

    Online or Installment Loans

    Short-term loans can also be obtained entirely online. The entire process is digital, from application to approval, and funds are often wired to the borrower’s bank account within minutes of approval.

    Invoice Financing

    Popular among small businesses, true to its name, businesses can use their accounts receivables (unpaid invoices) as collateral to obtain a loan. The lender advances money based on the value of the outstanding invoices and charges interest for the duration that the invoices remain unpaid. Once an invoice is paid, the lender deducts the interest charges and returns the remaining balance to the borrower.

    Short-term loans come in various forms, each designed to meet different financial needs. Understanding these options and choosing the best solution for your immediate monetary requirements can be challenging.


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    FinTech Coming to the Rescue

    Given the number of options available today and the presence of numerous financial advisors, borrowers may feel unsure if they are getting the best deal; this is where fintech comes to the rescue; tools are now available to help even the most uninitiated understand their options. For those who are well-versed, these tools make the evaluation quick and error-free. Let us look at some of the tools in the market that help customers find the easiest ways to raise funds for short-term or long-term needs and are gaining traction:

    • Car Par Loan (CPL): Enables customers to apply for auto loans for new or used cars. CPL calculates the car’s current value and determines the eligible loan amount in just 10 seconds.
    • My Loan Bhai (MLB): An algorithm-based virtual loan agent that automatically decodes a customer’s credit profile to recommend best-match, high viability for approval personal loans, home loans, loan balance transfer, loan consolidation, and other funding solutions.

    Once you have determined the best loan option for you, let’s examine how to get it.

    How Can One Obtain a Short-Term Loan?

    The process of obtaining a short-term loan involves several steps:

    1. Application
    • Fill out application forms.
    • Provide necessary documentation (ID, proof of income, etc.).
    • Apply.
    1. Approval
    • Undergo a credit check and information verification.
    • Receive approval decision.
    1. Disbursement
    • The loan amount is disbursed to the borrower’s account.
    • Typically, it occurs within a few days of approval.

    Required Documents

    To apply for a short-term loan, borrowers need to provide various documents, including:

    • Personal Identification: Aadhar card, PAN card, Passport.
    • Proof of Income: Salary slips, 3-6 month Bank Statements, Income Tax Returns.
    • Address Proof: Utility bills, Rental agreements, Property tax receipts.
    • Additional Documents: As required by the lender’s policies, such as employment verification or business registration documents.

    How to Apply for a Short-Term Loan

    Borrowers can apply for short-term loans through multiple channels:

    1. Online or App-Based Application
    • Apply through lender websites or apps.
    • Fill out the form and upload it along with the required documents.
    • Apply online.
    1. In-Person Application
    • Visit bank branches or lending institutions.
    • Fill out physical forms and provide the necessary documentation.
    • Apply in person.
    1. Through Financial Advisors/Agents
    • Consult with financial advisors or brokers.
    • Receive assistance in finding suitable loan options.
    • The advisor applies on your behalf.

    Eligibility Criteria

    The eligibility criteria for short-term loans typically include:

    • Age: Minimum age of 21 years; maximum age varies between 60-65 years.
    • Income: Minimum monthly income ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000, depending on the lender and loan amount.
    • Credit Score: A good credit score, typically 650 or above, affects eligibility and interest rates.
    • Employment Status: Stable employment with a minimum of 6 months to 1 year at the current job. Self-employed individuals must have a reliable source of income.0

    Conclusion

    Short-term loans are indispensable tools that provide quick financial relief to individuals and businesses alike. They support economic flexibility, help maintain business operations, and contribute to credit building and economic stability. 

    With the convenience of multiple application channels and tailored products like CPL and MLB, short-term loans are more decipherable and accessible than ever. 

    Whether for immediate personal needs or business support, short-term loans offer a valuable financial solution that can help bridge gaps and address urgent expenses.


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  • Revolutionizing Business Processes with AI-Powered Tools: Practical Use Cases and Strategies

    The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence is transforming industries by automating complex processes, enhancing operational efficiency, and driving innovative solutions. In sectors ranging from fintech to e-commerce, AI-powered platforms are redefining how businesses engage with users and optimize their internal workflows. Successful implementation requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic vision, and a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, especially when operating in sensitive industries like finance and logistics.

    Nan Wu has established himself as a leader at the intersection of AI and product management, delivering transformative solutions across multiple industries. As Vice President of Product Management at Avant Navigation Group (ANG), he planned the development of an AI-powered investment platform that scaled to serve 300,000 users, generating $8 million in projected revenue within 12 months. His ability to design and execute AI-driven strategies demonstrated business growth but also positioned the platform as a competitive player in the fintech space.

    Wu founded Otakrab Inc., where he delivered AI-driven solutions and consulting strategies for process automation, helping businesses refine their operations and improve decision-making. His tenure as Senior Product Manager at Alibaba Group saw him implement AI-powered navigation features that supported over 40 million daily active users while reducing operational inefficiencies by 70%.

    One of the defining aspects of Wu’s work is his focus on delivering outcomes through AI innovation. At Avant Navigation Group, he overcame significant regulatory hurdles by collaborating with compliance bodies to integrate AI solutions while maintaining strict adherence to financial regulations. This ensured that the platform operated seamlessly in a heavily regulated fintech environment while providing users with reliable and accurate investment insights. At Alibaba Group, he tackled localization challenges for AI navigation systems, enabling accurate route calculations across diverse regions and improving navigation accuracy by 5%. His work at Grab Holdings Inc. further exemplifies his commitment to efficiency, where he developed AI-powered navigation solutions that reduced user deviation rates and enhanced logistics operations.

    With an approach rooted in developing scalable, he believes in user-centric solutions while fostering cross-functional collaboration. One of his most crucial projects, the PromptNerd app, reflects this ethos. This AI-powered web application enhances productivity by optimizing user-generated prompts, allowing users to craft more effective AI instructions. The prototype, which faced initial challenges in creating an intuitive design, now serves as a foundation for improving task execution and user engagement. His contributions also extend to academic discourse, with several papers in the pipeline exploring the implications of AI on product management and prompt engineering.

    Looking ahead, Wu envisions a future where AI-driven tools focus on hyper-personalization, adapting dynamically to individual user behaviors and preferences. He emphasizes the importance of starting with clear problem definitions and scalable prototypes while advocating for collaboration with cross-functional teams and regulatory bodies. This holistic approach, coupled with his ability to navigate complex challenges, has enabled him to deliver AI innovations that not only drive business success but also address broader societal needs. His work continues to shape the evolving landscape of AI-powered solutions, setting new benchmarks for operational efficiency and technological excellence.


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  • Kunal Bahl and Rohit Bansal Exit Urban Company with 200x Return on Investment

    According to media reports as of July 19, 2024, Kunal Bahl and Rohit Bansal, now running Titan Capital and co-founders of Snapdeal, received an incredible 200 times return on their investment before exiting the Urban Company platform.

    After investing INR 57 lakh in 2015, Bansal and Bahl finally got their money back from the seed cheque they wrote a decade ago. The reports state that the proceeds from this investment amounted to INR 111 crore after their withdrawal.

    Titan Capital has stated that they want to reinvest 100% of Urban Company’s profits in their next group of entrepreneurs. Through their investment vehicle Titan Capital, the Snapdeal founders have provided seed funding to over 200 new businesses.

    In his LinkedIn post, Bahl stated, We have mixed feelings about exiting the business as an investor, but do so with only the best wishes for the company to continue to go from strength to strength, which I am 100% certain it will.

    Who is the New Player Joining the Urban Company?

    Dharna Capital, a subsidiary of Vy Capital, purchased the partners’ shares in the Gurguram-based company for $50 million in a secondary transaction. Dharana Capital’s founder and managing partner Vamsi Duvvuri will be joining the board of directors of Urban Company as a non-executive director.

    As a component of their secondary transaction, a few workers had also sold their stock options.

    What is the Current Financial Status of Urban Company?

    According to Bahl, the company is anticipated to achieve profitability in FY25, after recording a profit before taxes and revenue of INR 282-283 crore for the April-June quarter of this year.

    Revenue from operations increased 45% year over year to INR 637 crore in FY23. Compared to FY22, when it lost INR 514 crore, it lost just INR 308 crore this year.

    The firm has not yet submitted its financial accounts for the fiscal year ending in March 2024.

    About Urban Company

    Technology-based Urban Company provides in-home services. Haircuts, massage therapy, painting, repairing, and other beauty services are all part of this package. According to their website, the organisation employs more than 45,000 skilled workers who provide their services in 103 cities across four nations. The company was founded in 2014 by Varun Khaitan, Raghav Chandra, and Abhiraj Bhal.

    About Titan Capital

    The company’s website indicates that it has recently invested in 91Trucks, consumer brand Boba Bhai, and software service Simplismart, among other companies. Popular firms that have been featured in Titan Capital’s portfolio include Giva Jewellery, RazorPay, and Ola Cabs. The twenty-plus industries that the firm claims to have invested in include consumer tech, B2B service, fintech, and many more.


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  • Google to Lower Maps Platform Fees for Indian Developers Starting August 1

    With the introduction of a new country-specific price structure, Google is making it easier to build location-based solutions by cutting the pricing of the Google Maps Platform for developers in India by as much as 70% starting from 1st August 2024.

    The IT giant is teaming up with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to provide developers working on ONDC with exclusive discounts for a limited time. According to the company, this will lead to a steep discount of up to 90% on certain Google Maps Platform APIs that power e-commerce and related use cases.

    Accepting Payments in INR

    Google has started taking payments in Indian Rupees (INR), as announced at its developer event Google I/O Connect Bengaluru on 17 July 2024. The previous system used US dollars for payments made by clients in India.

    With this price cut, the Google Maps Platform will be more affordable for developers in the country, according to Google. This will allow them to build location-based solutions more easily.

    However, these announcements correspond with Ola head Bhavish Aggarwal’s public encouragement of developers to use Ola Maps for their mapping needs, giving a free one-year subscription.

    Accessible Solely to Clients Located in India

    Google has announced that its new pricing structure will be exclusive to consumers in India who are billed in India and experience the bulk of their usage in the nation. Customers who do not fulfil these requirements will not be eligible for the discounted price structure, as it will be monitored to ensure eligibility.

    Starting from 1 August 2024, all new customers headquartered in India will be allowed to pay in INR. Existing customers have the option to continue being charged in US dollars or switch to INR.

    Google Maps Platform and Google Cloud can be used by developers with a single billing account, according to the announcement.

    New Pricing Dynamics for Google Maps Platform and ONDC Integration

    According to the announcement, developers working on ONDC projects will have access to exclusive prices on select APIs through Google Maps Platform partners. All four nodes in the ONDC network—gateway, seller, buyer, and technical service provider—will be able to take advantage of the discounted pricing.

    As an illustration, the current pricing for the Geocoding API on the Google Maps Platform is $5.00 per 1,000 requests for the first 100,000 monthly requests. After August 1, however, clients in India will be charged $1.50 per 1,000 requests for the first 5,000,000 monthly requests for geocoding.


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