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  • Britannia Marketing Strategy, Product Mix, Pricing Strategy & Best Selling Products

    Britannia Industries Limited is an Indian food firm formed in Kolkata in 1892 with a small investment of Rs. 295 and is now headquartered in Mumbai. The firm is most known for its many brands of biscuits, but it also sells a wide range of packaged foods, dairy products, and bread to suit a variety of lifestyles.

    It produces everyday food products such as Marie Gold, NutriChoice, Milk Bikis, Good Day, and Tiger, and is one of India’s most trusted brands. Not only in metropolitan areas but also in rural areas, this brand has become a household name.

    It spends some of the country’s most prominent digital marketing expenses to maintain its significant presence in the Indian market.

    Britannia has a market capitalization of INR 1.30 trillion (June 2024); its dairy business generates about 4-5% of total revenue, which generated INR 600 crore in FY23 and has a distribution network of 100,000+ outlets; and its bread vertical is the largest in the organized bread market, with an annual income of INR 450 crores.

    Annual Growth Rate of Net Sales Value of Britannia Industries Limited From FY 2016 to FY 2024
    Annual Growth Rate of Net Sales Value of Britannia Industries Limited From FY 2016 to FY 2024

    Let’s look at the different marketing strategies of Britannia, pricing, product, advertising, and more in detail.

    Britannia Marketing Strategy
    Britannia Product Strategy
    Britannia Pricing Strategy
    Britannia Place Strategy
    Britannia Promotion and Advertising Strategy
    Britannia Segmentation Targeting and Positioning (STP)
    Britannia Major Marketing Campaigns

    Britannia Marketing Strategy

    Britannia has primarily concentrated on the creation of new products and the promotion of nutrition and wellness. Taste, food, and life experiences are closely linked in Britannia’s marketing and social media efforts. Britannia has also used celebrities like Salman Khan and Deepika Padukone to promote its different marketing campaigns. In the baking, biscuits, and dairy industries, it has effectively occupied a significant market share. The brand has relied only on traditional celebrity marketing, ignoring the power of Influencer Campaigning, which may significantly influence social media networks.

    The corporation competes in the market based on an extensive distribution network, cost-effectiveness per unit, production facilities close to markets, new goods, skilled personnel, and a wide range of products.

    Let’s understand the Britannia Marketing Mix in detail in the section below.

    Britannia Marketing Mix | Marketing Strategy of Britannia
    Marketing Mix of Britannia | Marketing Strategy of Britannia

    Britannia Product Strategy

    Product Category Description
    Biscuits – Main product category, major revenue contributor
    – Includes Britannia Tiger, Britannia Good Day, Britannia Nice Time, Britannia Treat, Britannia 50-50, Little Hearts, Bourbon, Britannia Marie
    – Various flavors for different consumer preferences
    Bread and Bakery Products – Long-standing history of production
    – Includes various types of bread and fruit bread
    – Other bakery products available
    Dairy Products – Expanded into the dairy segment
    – Includes cheese, butter, ghee, and curd
    – Produced through partnerships with dairy firms
    Cakes and Rusks – Variety of cakes and rusks offered
    – Caters to different tastes and occasions
    Nutri Choice Range of Products – Targeted at health-conscious consumers
    – Offers healthier biscuit options under the Nutri Choice brand
    Britannia Products List | Marketing Strategy of Britannia
    Product Mix Britannia | Marketing Strategy of Britannia

    Britannia produces a wide range of biscuits and dairy items. Britannia’s product strategy comprises mostly cakes, dairy, biscuits, bread, and rusk in its marketing mix.

    Britannia Marie Gold, Britannia Nutrichoice, Britannia Little Hearts, Britannia Pure Magic, and more famous brands are among Britannia’s product list. The most well-known product is Britannia Tiger biscuits. Tiger cookies are also sold in countries such as Australia, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Thanks to cooperative agreements with dairy firms, Britannia can now make and sell butter, ghee, curd, and cheese. Its products are primarily aimed towards India’s middle class, which makes up most of the population. The Britannia products and its price list can be found on its website.


    Britannia Industries History | Founder | Business Model
    Britannia is a trusted food brand. Read the success story of Britannia company. Know about its business model, history, owner & company profile.


    Britannia Pricing Strategy

    Britannia Family Pack Products
    Britannia Family Pack Products

    Food production is a highly competitive sector. Competition is at the heart of Britannia’s marketing strategy and price strategy.

    Also, because the significant sector is price-sensitive middle-class individuals, Britannia is forced to compete on price. Britannia strives to bundle its products, which lowers the cost of its products. This is notably evident in their items made for family packs. The pricing strategy of Britannia allows businesses to make more money from customers who are prepared to pay more for healthier products and perks. Britannia’s prices are comparable to those of its competitors, mainly Parle’s, and they are practically identical.

    Britannia Place Strategy

    Britannia employs an extensive distribution network following the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) model, strategically appointing distributors to ensure its products are widely available across various markets. Britannia distribution channel follows the FMCG model, ensuring wide product availability through urban retail stores, rural networks, and modern trade partners. The company boasts a strong presence in urban areas and is actively working to enhance its reach in rural regions, addressing the unique challenges of distribution in these areas. Britannia effectively utilizes modern trade channels, partnering with major retail chains such as Big Bazaar and D Mart to maintain a prominent presence in high-traffic retail environments. Britannia has also expanded its market share internationally through strategic foreign deals and joint ventures, including collaborations with companies like Peek Frean in the UK and acquisitions such as Parry’s, enhancing its global reach.

    Britannia Promotion and Advertising Strategy

    Britannia employs various strategies in its promotional marketing mix, including television commercials, print advertisements, and billboards. Britannia has negotiated deals with celebrities to market its brand. However, the deals have varied depending on the product. The sports industry accounts for a more significant portion of its promotional operations. Cricket bats with the Britannia emblem, which international players approve, are an essential advertising tool. Britannia also markets its product as “vital for excellent health,” which appeals to consumers who are more concerned about the nutritional content of what they eat.


    Britannia Business Model | How does Britannia makes money?
    Britannia is one of the oldest companies in India best known for its biscuit products like Good Day, Marie etc. Here’s an insight into its business model.


    Britannia Segmentation Targeting and Positioning (STP)

    Segmentation

    Segmentation aids in comprehending the many types of clients present in the community and the characteristics linked with each category.

    Kids, adults, and youth are the three groups of demographic segmentation. There are Treat fruit rolls and Tiger biscuits in the Kids category, while in the Adult category, there are Good Day and Cream Crackers. Youth biscuits include Little Hearts and Cream Biscuits.

    Targeting

    Following segmentation, targeting is how the organization chooses which consumer categories it wants to serve.

    Britannia has spent the last 100 years focusing on the next generation of children and the elderly through a variety of goods. The Britannia Tiger is low-cost and aimed at low-income individuals, whilst the Britannia Marie Gold is aimed at families. Treat fruit rolls are intended for use by youngsters on rare occasions.

    Positioning

    Positioning is the final phase of the process. After determining the client it wants to target, the corporation selects what sort of messaging or attitude to take while selling the product.

    Britannia has persuaded moms to buy Tiger biscuits for their children, Little Hearts as a snack for teenagers, and Good Day as a daily cookie that brings joy to everyone’s life.

    Britannia’s Social Media Strategy

    In today’s digital world, being active on social media is very important for any brand. Britannia uses social media effectively to connect with people, share its message, and achieve its communication goals.


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    Britannia Major Marketing Campaigns

    Bourbon Campaign

    Britannia Bourbon Campaign

    The business has launched a new ad for Bourbon, one of its most popular products.

    The brand concentrated on friendship in this campaign. It related it to people whose lives revolve around their friends, creating a movement centered around completing joyful moments with closest friends.

    Britannia World Cup Campaign

    Britannia Ad Campaign

    Cricket fever has long been prevalent in India. As a result, Britannia saw this cultural connection as a vast potential and developed the “Britannia Khao World Cup Jar” campaign. This promotion combines two of India’s most powerful industries: food and cricket. Whoever bought a Britannia product with the Britannia Khao World Cup Jao promo SMS the promo code and the consumer would get a guaranteed reward for every 100 runs in the World Cup.

    Britannia Good Day Campaign

    The brand conducted a campaign with Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone. She advised people to focus on the objective and pursue the genuine deal, with the tagline “Khushiyon ki zidd Karo” being the simple translation. In plain English, this message stated that every day would be a good day if one stayed happy and pursued happiness.


    Amul Marketing Strategy: Branding, Advertising, Pricing & Promotion Strategies That Made It a Household Name
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    Conclusion

    By offering a trustworthy basis and high-quality products, Brittania has effectively created and generated trust among consumers. Brittania’s marketing strategy is focused on the product, with the firm emphasizing flavor and nutrition.

    To attract more customers, Britannia’s marketing strategy and approach must adapt to the current market trends.

    FAQs

    How many Britannia plants are there in India?

    There are 15 Britannia factories/plants in India.

    Who is the owner of Britannia Industries?

    Wadia Group is the parent organization of Britannia Industry.

    What are Britannia Industries products?

    Britannia is one of the oldest existing food processing brands in India. Some of its products include:

    • Biscuits
    • Bread
    • Cakes
    • Rusk
    • Dairy products- Cheese, Beverages, Milk and Yoghurt

    How does Britannia generate revenue?

    Britannia generates revenue from its two business segments that includes:

    • Bakery Products
    • Dairy Products

    It makes 90-95% of its revenue from the biscuits and bakery segment. Dairy products generate 4-5% of its total revenue.

  • Top CRM Tools & Customer Relationship Management Tools for Startups and Businesses in 2025

    Customers are an important aspect of any business, and it’s a crucial task to maintain a good customer relationship. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is a system or software that helps businesses manage and analyze customer interactions and data throughout the customer lifecycle. The goal of CRM is to improve business relationships with customers, help in customer retention, and drive sales growth.

    CRM tools are used to store and manage customer data, track customer interactions and interactions, and provide actionable insights to help businesses improve their customer relationships. This can include information about customers’ past purchases, their preferences and behaviors, and any interactions with customer service representatives.

    CRM tools can also include tools for automating and streamlining business processes, such as sales forecasting, marketing campaigns, and lead management. By using a CRM system, businesses can more effectively target and personalize their marketing efforts, as well as improve their customer service and support. As CRM is an essential part of any business, here are the top Customer Relationship Management tools for businesses.

    5 Best CRM software

    The Best Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Tools for Businesses:

    Here is the list of top CRM software tools to fulfill various business needs in 2025:

    S.No CRM Software Key Features Pricing
    1 Zoho CRM Software Lead management, workflow automation, AI-driven insights Starts at ₹800/user/month
    2 Hubspot CRM Free CRM, marketing automation, email tracking Free plan; Paid starts at $20/user/month
    3 Salesforce CRM Highly customizable, AI (Einstein), sales forecasting Starts at $25/user/month
    4 Pipedrive Sales pipeline visualization, automation, reporting Starts at $14.90/user/month
    5 Creatio CRM Low-code customization, sales + marketing + service automation Custom pricing (on request)
    6 Freshsales Built-in phone & email, AI insights, workflow automation Free plan; Paid starts at ₹999/user/month
    7 vCITA Appointment scheduling, invoicing, client management Starts at $29/month
    8 EngageBay All-in-one CRM, email marketing, helpdesk Free plan; Paid starts at $12.74/user/month
    9 Zendesk Customer support, ticketing, omnichannel engagement Starts at $19/agent/month
    10 Apptivo IT financial management, cost transparency, budgeting Custom pricing (enterprise)

    Zoho CRM Software

    Rating 4/5
    Mobile Access Android and iOS
    Free Trial 30 Days
    Zoho Customer Relationship Management Tools
    Zoho Customer Relationship Management Tools

    Zoho CRM is a cloud-based Customer Relationship Management tool, known for empowering organizations with a complete customer relationship lifecycle management solution. It is workable for both small and large businesses. It also comes with a free trial version. This CRM tool is extremely customizable, and smoothly runs with all other apps. The other app features include lead generation and qualification, pipeline analysis, competitive analysis, a single database, offers parent-child relationships between customer accounts and their subsidiaries, creating forms with no coding, uploading forms live instantly, etc.

    Pricing Details of Zoho CRM:

    There is a free edition and four paid plans, i.e, Standard, Professional, Enterprise, and Ultimate.

    Standard Rs.800/month, billed annually
    Professional Rs.1,400/month, billed annually
    Enterprise Rs.2,400/month, billed annually
    Ultimate Rs.2,600/month, billed annually

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    Hubspot CRM

    Rating 4.4/5
    Mobile Access Android and iOS
    Free Trial 14 Days
    Zoho CRM Tool
    Hubspot CRM Tool

    Hubspot CRM was the winner of the Expert Choice award in 2018, due to its top-class CRM services. It is built as a platform that allows the sales team to get started quickly without making much of changes in their existing workflow.

    It is very helpful in creating beautiful contact and company profiles, by keeping a neat organization of every detail from the customer’s communication that has a connection with the company. The features include customizing views, website integration, social media, CRM details, email connections, phone integration, deal and task board, etc.

    Pricing Details of HubSpot CRM:

    There is a free edition and four paid plans, i.e, Starter, Basic, Professional, and Enterprise.

    Starter $50/month
    Basic $200/month
    Professional $800/month
    Enterprise $2400/month

    Salesforce CRM

    Rating 4.3/5
    Mobile Access Android and iOS
    Free Trial 14-30 days
    Salesforce CRM Tool
    Salesforce Customer Relationship Tools

    Salesforce CRM is a cloud-based customer relationship management software platform that helps businesses manage and track customer interactions, sales, and marketing efforts.

    The features include account and contact management, lead management, sales forecasting, contact manager, file sharing, campaign influence, calendar, case management, lightning speed solutions, and much more.

    The platform also offers a range of customizable tools for customer service, analytics, and collaboration. Salesforce CRM can be used by businesses of all sizes and industries, and it is available in various subscription plans to meet the needs of different organizations.

    Pricing Details of Salesforce CRM:

    The CRM tool has a Free trial and four paid packages i.e, Lightning Essentials($25/user/month), Lightning Professional ($75/user/month), Lightning Enterprise($150/user/month), and Lightning Unlimited ($300 /user/month).

    Lightning Essentials $25/month
    Lightning Professional $75/month
    Lightning Enterprise $150/month
    Lightning Unlimited $300/month

    What are the different types of CRM?
    What is a Customer Relationship Management System?
    What does a CRM System do?
    Why have a CRM System?
    Do I need a CRM System?
    Types of CRM:
    Operational CRM
    Analytical CRM
    Collaborative CRM What is a Customer Relationship Management System?
    A customer relationship management (CRM) system is an IT te…


    Pipedrive

    Rating 4.2/5
    Mobile Access Android and iOS
    Free Trial 30 days
    Pipedrive CRM Software
    Pipedrive CRM Software and Tools

    Pipedrive is the winner of the Expert’s Choice Award 2018. It is listed under the top customer relationship management (CRM) tools designed to help businesses manage and track their sales and customer interactions.

    The website is built for salespeople and hardcore web app developers. It is a very friendly CRM platform and can be fully mobile-optimized, and can easily integrates its Google Calendar, Google Contacts, and other Google apps.

    It offers a range of features such as lead and opportunity management, pipeline visualization, task and calendar management, goal setting, contact history, and integration with other tools such as email and social media.

    With Pipedrive, users can create and manage deals, track customer interactions, set reminders and deadlines, and analyze sales performance. It also allows users to customize the CRM system to fit their specific business needs and workflow.

    Pricing Details of the Pipedrive CRM Tool:

    This tool offers a 14-day free trial and has three best packages, i.e, Essential($9.90/user/month), Advanced ($19.90/user/month), and Professional ($39.90/user/month) when billed annually.

    Essential $9.90/month
    Advanced $19.90/month
    Professional $39.90/month

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    Top 5 Alternatives for Pipedrive CRM

    Creatio CRM

    Rating 4.6/5
    Mobile Access Android and iOS
    Free Trial 14 days
    Creatio CRM Software Tool
    Creatio CRM Tools for Business Development

    The Creatio CRM tool is known for being an out-of-the-box customer relationship management (CRM) tool that helps streamline company processes, boost employee productivity, and also to organize CRM data. There are several modules available: Marketing Creatio, Sales Creatio, and Service Creatio, where each module has specialized tools for specific departments.

    The features include customer data management, system integration, lead management, time management, sales management tools, communication tools, sales management features, document management compatible with MS Word, knowledge management offline, etc.

    Pricing Details of Creatio CRM Software:

    The tool offers 14 14-day free trial. And, its pricing plan is divided into three sections: Sales (an end-to-end platform to automate sales processes of any type with no-code), Marketing (a ready-to-use platform to automate marketing campaigns and lead management workflows with no-code), and Service Module (an omnichannel platform to automate customer service workflows of any complexity with no-code). Pricing details for each module are given below:

    Sales Module Pricing:

    Team $30/month
    Commerce $35/month
    Enterprise $60/month

    Service Module Pricing:

    Customer Center $45/month
    Service Enterprise $60/month

    Marketing Pricing Module: Custom Plan


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    Freshsales

    Rating 4.6/5
    Mobile Access Android and iOS
    Free Trial 21 days
    Freshsales - CRM software tool
    Freshsales – CRM Management Tools

    Freshsales is the winner of the Great User Experience Award 2017. It is listed as a high-quality CRM software tool that is designed for high-velocity teams to keep track of contacts and also solve their inquiries.

    It offers a wide range of features, including contact details, communication history, and notes about interactions with customers. It also includes a range of sales and marketing tools, such as lead capture forms, email campaigns, and automated workflows to help businesses manage their sales pipelines and nurture leads.

    In addition to its sales and marketing capabilities, Freshsales also offers a range of customer support tools, including a ticketing system and a live chat feature, to help businesses provide timely and efficient support to their customers.

    Overall, Freshsales is a comprehensive CRM platform that can help businesses manage and grow their customer relationships by providing a central hub for storing and organizing customer data and communication, as well as a range of tools to support sales, marketing, and customer support efforts.

    Pricing Details of Freshsales CRM Software:

    The tool offers a free trial for 21 days. Other pricing plans include Growth, Pro, and Enterprise.

    Growth Rs 999/month, billed annually
    Pro Rs 2,799/month, billed annually
    Enterprise Rs 4,999/month, billed annually

    vCITA

    Rating 4.4/5
    Mobile Access Android and iOS
    Free Trial 14 days
    vCITA - top customer relationship management) software
    vCITA – top customer relationship management) software

    vCITA is a customer relationship management (CRM) tool that helps small businesses and freelancers manage their customer interactions and schedule appointments. It is used by professionals such as lawyers, accountants, fitness trainers, photographers, and more. It provides a range of features designed to streamline and automate various aspects of customer management, including appointment scheduling, invoicing, client communication, and task management.

    Overall, vCITA is a comprehensive CRM software that can help small businesses automate their customer management processes.

    Pricing Details of vCITA CRM Software:

    The tool offers a 14-day free trial and has three pricing tools: Essentials ($19/month), Business ($45/month), and Platinum ($75/month).

    Essentials $19/month, billed annually
    Business $45/month, billed annually
    Platinum $75/month, billed annually

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    EngageBay

    Rating 4.6/5
    Mobile Access Android and iOS
    Free Trial For 15 Users
    EngageBay- CRM platform
    EngageBay- Best CRM for Startups

    EngageBay is a customer relationship management (CRM) platform that helps businesses manage and organize their customer interactions and data by integrating sales, marketing, and service activities in one place. Its primary purpose is to generate leads and get loyal supporters. The features include sales and marketing automation. contact management, Facebook Ads, analytics, ticket management, email marketing, social media management, live chats, lead generation and nurturing, customer service and support, and analytics and reporting.

    Introduction to EngageBay CRM platform

    Pricing Details of EngageBay CRM Software:

    EngageBay offers a free trial and three paid plans: a basic, growth, and a Pro plan.

    Basic $11.95/month, billed annually
    Growth $45.99/month, billed annually
    Pro $73.59/month, billed annually

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    Zendesk

    Rating 4.3/5
    Mobile Access Android and iOS
    Free Trial 14 Days
    Zendesk - CRM platform
    Zendesk – CRM platform

    Zendesk is a customer service-focused CRM designed to make customer support simple and efficient. It offers an advanced ticketing system with automated routing and SLAs, self-service portals where customers can find answers on their own, and AI-powered bots that handle routine queries. Businesses can also use their analytics and customizable dashboards to track performance and gain insights. Plus, Zendesk integrates easily with popular tools like Salesforce, Shopify, and Slack, making it a complete solution for customer support and sales automation.

    Pricing of Zendesk CRM Software:

    Suite Team $19/agent/month, billed annually
    Suite Growth $55/agent/month, billed annually
    Suite Pro $115/agent/month, billed annually

    Apptivo

    Rating 4.4/5
    Mobile Access Web-based (Cloud)
    Free Trial Not Available
    Apptio - CRM platform
    Apptio – CRM platform

    Apptio may not be as well-known as Zoho or Salesforce, but it works just as well and offers users plenty of flexibility at a lower price. It brought together useful apps like Office 365, G Suite, Dropbox, and PayPal in one place, making it easier to manage everything. A free version was available for up to 3 users, while paid plans started from just $8 a month. People could use Apptivo on Mac, Windows, mobile phones, or directly on the web, and 24/7 online support was also provided to help whenever needed.

    Pricing of Apptivo CRM Software

    Plan Pricing
    Costing Essentials ~$80,040/year for managing up to $25M in IT spend
    Costing Standard ~$110,040/year for managing up to $25M in IT spend

    Conclusion

    Choosing the right CRM software can make a huge difference in how efficiently your business manages customer relationships, sales, and support. Each tool has its strengths; some excel in automation, others in customization or affordability. By understanding your business needs, team size, and budget, you can pick a CRM that not only organizes your customer data but also drives growth, improves customer satisfaction, and saves time. Investing in the right CRM is a strategic move that invests in the long-term success of your business.

    FAQs

    What is CRM?

    CRM stands for “Customer Relationship Management” and refers to all strategies, techniques, tools, and technologies used by enterprises for developing, retaining, and acquiring customers.

    What are the best customer relationship management (CRM) software platform in 2025?

    The Top-Rated CRM software product for 2025 includes:

    • Zoho CRM
    • Hubspot CRM
    • Salesforce CRM
    • Pipedrive
    • Creatio CRM
    • Freshsales
    • vCITA
    • EngageBay

    How much does a CRM system cost?

    Most CRM tools range from $10 up to hundreds of dollars per user per month. The more expensive plans usually have much more advanced features and increased access to customer support.

    What are the 4 pillars of CRM?

    Workforce, Strategy, Processes and Technology constitute the four pillars of CRM.

    What is a CRM framework?

    The customer relationship management framework is the way in which companies manage their customers.

    Should I consider a free CRM tool?

    If you have a small business with basic customer relationship management needs, a free CRM may be sufficient. However, if you have a larger business with more complex customer relationship management requirements, a paid CRM with more advanced features and support may be a better choice.

    What other tools integrate with CRM software?

    There are a wide variety of tools that can integrate with CRM software to enhance its functionality and enable businesses to more effectively manage their customer relationships. Some examples of tools that commonly integrate with CRM software include marketing automation, project management, social media, email marketing, financial tools, customer service, and support tools.

  • Daily Indian Funding Roundup & Key News – 20 August 2025: Mithila Foods Raises ₹1.5Cr, Motilal Oswal Ups Paytm Stake & More

    India’s startup ecosystem continues to witness strong investor interest, with fresh seed rounds announced across FMCG and biotech. Alongside funding activity, the broader business landscape saw major developments from a mutual fund deepening its stake in Paytm, to fintech lender Kissht filing for an INR 1,000 crore IPO, and Karnataka passing a landmark welfare bill for gig workers. Here’s your quick roundup of the top funding deals and key business news in India today.

    Daily Indian Funding Roundup – 20 August 2025

    Company Amount Round / Type Lead investor(s)
    Mithila Foods ₹1.5 crore Seed AJVC (Aviral Bhatnagar)
    PeelON $1 million Seed growX Ventures

    Mithila Foods raises INR 1.5 crore seed from AJVC

    FMCG startup Mithila Foods, based in Dumka, Jharkhand, has secured INR 1.5 crore in a seed round from AJVC, the investment firm founded by Aviral Bhatnagar. The company plans to use the funds to strengthen distribution, streamline its supply chain, and scale its Bihar-origin product portfolio, which includes sattu and makhana.

    PeelON secures $1 million seed led by growX Ventures

    Bio-tech startup PeelON, which develops compostable packaging solutions, has raised $1 million in seed funding. The round was led by growX Ventures, with participation from Boston Venture Group and Clean Energy Venture Group. Headquartered in Visakhapatnam, the company will channel the funds towards R&D, production, and expanding its commercial presence in both India and the United States.

    Key Business News for 20 August 2025

    Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund Raises Stake in Paytm Parent to 5.15%

    Motilal Oswal Mutual Fund has increased its holding in One97 Communications Ltd (the parent company of Paytm), acquiring an additional 26.31 lakh shares across more than 20 of its schemes, including the Nifty Midcap Fund and ELSS Tax Saver Fund. This raised its stake by 0.41 percentage points, pushing the total to 5.15 %. Following the disclosure, Paytm’s share price climbed to a 52-week high of INR 1,238, reflecting renewed investor confidence amid the company’s recent Q1 FY26 turnaround.

    Kissht Files DRHP to Raise INR 1,000 Crore via Fresh Issue

    Fintech lender Kissht (operated by OnEMI Technology Solutions) has submitted its DRHP (Draft Red Herring Prospectus) to SEBI for an initial public offer, aiming to raise INR 1,000 crore through a fresh issue. Existing investors—including Vertex Ventures, Ventureast, Endiya Partners, AION Advisory, and Ammar Sdn Bhd—are planning to sell approximately 8.8 million shares via an offer-for-sale.

    Of the proceeds, INR 750 crore will be infused into its NBFC subsidiary Si Creva Capital, with the remaining INR 250 crore earmarked for general corporate purposes. The company is also exploring a pre-IPO placement of up to ₹200 crore, which could reduce the size of the public issue.

    Karnataka Assembly Passes Platform-Based Gig Workers Welfare Bill

    The Karnataka Legislative Assembly has passed the Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Bill, 2025, replacing an earlier ordinance. The legislation mandates that gig-aggregator platforms must provide social security, occupational health, and safety benefits to gig workers.

    Key provisions include:

    • Establishment of a Gig Workers Welfare Board to manage a Gig Workers Welfare Fund.
    • Aggregators may collect a 1% to 5% welfare fee from customers per transaction to finance the fund.
    • Mandatory registration of both gig workers and aggregators with the Board.
    • A structured dispute resolution mechanism and safeguards to prevent unjust terminations.
      The bill is viewed as a significant stride toward regulating India’s rapidly expanding gig economy, projected to reach 23.5 million workers by 2029-30.

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  • Karnataka Assembly Passes Gig Workers’ Welfare Bill to Boost Social Security for Platform Employees

    According to reports, the Karnataka legislative assembly passed a bill that will open the door for the establishment of a gig worker welfare fund. The Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Bill, 2025, seeks to create a welfare board and safeguard workers’ rights, according to news agency PTI.

    Additionally, it imposes new duties on aggregators concerning the safety, occupational health, and social security of their employees. According to reports, state labour minister Santosh Lad stated during his speech in the parliament that the bill suggests a welfare cost of 1% to 5% for every transaction, which will be subtracted from the worker’s compensation. The cost will fluctuate depending on the type of aggregator.

    Welfare Fund and Aggregator Contributions

    These revenues will be combined to create the welfare fund, which will also receive gifts, donations, transfers, and grants-in-aid from the state government. A welfare fee of 1% to 5% of a gig worker’s compensation will be collected, Lad added. This cannot be applied universally because e-commerce and the operations of Swiggy and Zomato are not the same.

    They are various business types. Therefore, 1-5% will not be applied uniformly to all. “While establishing the regulations, we shall debate and make a decision,” Lad added further. According to the report, the bill will also require gig workers to register with the planned welfare board and provide for openness in dispute settlement procedures.

    Rights and Protections for Gig Workers

    The Hindu claims that the board will also decide on worker safety measures, health card issuance, and other social security matters. Furthermore, the bill allegedly places the responsibility for offering gig workers stable incomes and decent working conditions on app-based platforms. According to PTI, Lad cited the Bill and stated that a gig worker cannot be fired without giving 14 days’ notice and a written justification.

    Background and Ordinance History

    This comes four months after intentions to create a gig worker welfare board were revealed by the Karnataka chief minister’s office. The Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Ordinance, 2025, was subsequently issued by the state government in May.

    Since the issue was deemed “urgent” since neither chamber of the state legislature was in session, Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot introduced and approved the ordinance. It is important to remember that the state administration published a draft of the same measure last year, which included provisions for income and social security as well as other advantages.

    Quick
    Shots

    •Funded by a 1–5% welfare fee on each
    transaction.

    •Contributions vary by business type
    (e-commerce, food delivery, etc.).

    •Additional funding through donations,
    transfers, and state govt grants.

    •Ensure worker safety, occupational
    health, and social security.

  • Apple to Boost iPhone 17 Manufacturing in India to Strengthen Local Production

    According to reports, Cupertino-based tech giant Apple intends to increase manufacturing of its iPhone 17 at all five of its Indian factories, including the two that were just added.

    According to a Bloomberg story, the business is expanding its iPhone production in India in an effort to reduce its reliance on China and diversify its manufacturing supply chain.

    All four of the iPhone 17 variants would be manufactured in India, according to the Bloomberg report, with production being expanded at Foxconn’s locations close to the Bengaluru airport as well as Tata Electronics’ facilities in Hosur and Tamil Nadu.

    Why Apple is Reducing Reliance on China?

    Apple made the decision to outsource the majority of iPhone production from China in late April of this year. Additionally, the corporation made the decision to move all iPhone assembly from the US to India by 2026. China’s hostility against the US earlier this year, when it raised its tariffs on US goods, prompted the decision.

    China reacted with a 125% tax on the US during the trade war after the US imposed 145% tariffs on China. Following this, Apple began removing China from its supply chain for iPhone manufacturing in order to safeguard itself from geopolitical unrest. Last year, Apple began producing the iPhone 15 in India, producing between 30 and 40 million handsets a year. Up until this year, Tata Electronics, Foxconn, and Pegatron, Apple’s contract manufacturers, accounted for 25% of the company’s manufacturing in India.

    Challenges in Shifting Production

    Although the company has worked relentlessly to move its manufacturing out of China, they have not had an easy time of it. When Apple decided to move its manufacturing base outside of China, it encountered challenges.

    For example, in April, Chinese officials prohibited one of Apple’s suppliers from exporting equipment to India, which was necessary for testing the iPhone 17’s trial manufacturing there. A few months later, however, Foxconn brought back 300 Chinese engineers who were thought to be crucial to the new iPhone 17’s testing in India.

    Apple’s Growth and Performance in India

    During the April-June earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook stated that the company has had double-digit growth in India across its sales of iPhones, Macs, and services, in addition to increasing its manufacturing in the area.

    In addition, it intends to open four new locations later this year in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, and Noida in order to increase its retail presence in the area.

    The iPhone 16 family was a major factor in Apple’s 13.4% revenue increase from worldwide iPhone sales to $44.6 billion in the June quarter. In addition, the business’s total sales for the quarter increased by 10% to $94 billion.

    Quick
    Shots

    •Manufacturing across all five Indian
    plants, including new units.

    •Foxconn’s Bengaluru hub & Tata
    Electronics’ Hosur, Tamil Nadu plants to lead production.

    •Decision driven by US-China trade war
    tariffs (145% by US, 125% by China).

    •Apple reducing dependence on China to
    secure supply chain.

  • AT&T Orders Manager Relocations Amid Restructuring, Warns of Layoffs

    AT&T CEO John Stankey is enforcing a market-based mentality by combining help-desk centres and requiring managers to relocate to six hubs or risk losing their jobs. As part of a massive workplace reorganisation, AT&T is forcing more of its managers to transfer or face severance.

    CEO John Stankey’s Push for a Market-Based Culture

    This decision highlights the telecom giant’s strict culture reset under CEO John Stankey. The corporation is reducing 22 internal help-desk locations to just six regional hubs, according to Business Insider. These units’ managers have been given two weeks to make a decision about leaving the company with severance pay or moving.

    On the other hand, unionised employees will be permitted to stay in their current locations, although in various customer service support positions. The modifications, which mostly impact workers who support other AT&T employees, are part of a larger approach Stankey has been following since 2023: centralising operations, reducing legacy expenses, and putting efficiency first.

    A representative for the corporation acknowledged that fewer stores are being opened, but they did not provide a specific number and insisted that the action had nothing to do with Stankey’s recent email to employees.

    AT&T Moving Towards Market Based Culture

    In a direct internal memo earlier this month, Stankey informed staff that AT&T was implementing a “market-based culture” that necessitated greater in-office cooperation. He claimed that tenure-based security and workplace loyalty were outmoded ideas in the missive, which Business Insider was the first to report.

    Six Hub Cities: Where Managers Must Relocate

    An internal poll that revealed a decline in employee engagement prompted the note. Managers told Business Insider they think the memo sped up the timeline, despite AT&T’s insistence that the help-desk consolidation is distinct. Things that used to take years are now being completed in a matter of weeks. The plan requires managers to move to one of six cities: Miami, Orlando, Richardson, Texas; Atlanta; Mesa, Arizona; or Tulsa, Oklahoma.

    Impact on Employees: Relocation vs Severance

    Workers claim they feel torn between leaving their jobs and uprooting households. A number of employees also revealed that department heads had been assigned the responsibility of creating “action plans” to resolve issues brought up in the most recent employee survey.

    Layoffs and Workforce Reduction at AT&T

    The most recent relocation wave is a component of a larger trend. Around 60,000 managers will be redistributed to just nine metro areas, down from 300, according to AT&T’s 2023 announcement. Stankey informed Bloomberg at the time that choices on the relocation of roughly 9,000 employees will be made.

    According to internal data, about half of the 318 managers who were told to relocate in one division under Chief Technology Officer Jeremy Legg declined and quit. As a result, the headcount of the entire company has been declining. AT&T started 2025 with about 141,000 employees, compared to over 160,000 in the beginning of 2023. In contrast, rivals T-Mobile and Verizon reported about 70,000 and 99,000 workers, respectively.

    AI Integration: $3 Billion Cost-Cutting Plan

    Another key component of the company’s strategy is AI. Stankey stated during a January earnings call that AT&T anticipates integrating AI into operations to save $3 billion in operating expenses. AT&T Technology Services is now feeding trouble tickets into its generative AI systems, which can already suggest improvements and even create the code to put them into action, Legg stated at the KeyBanc conference. Although there is still human control, automation is growing quickly.

    Quick
    Shots

    •Managers told to relocate to six hubs
    or accept severance packages.

    •Push for a “market-based culture”
    with centralised operations and reduced costs, CEO John Stankey’s Strategy.

    •Internal support centres cut from 22
    to 6 regional hubs.

    •Two-week deadline to decide; many
    facing relocation vs. job loss dilemma.

  • How to Get Paid to Review Products: A Beginner’s Guide to Earning from Amazon & Flipkart Reviews

    In today’s digital world, your honest review could be worth more than you realize. Whether it’s your new phone, go-to headphones, or that must-have kitchen gadget, writing genuine reviews can turn into a real income stream!” Nowadays, many creators are getting paid for Amazon reviews or earning from Flipkart product review opportunities in India.

    Customer reviews are very important for Amazon and Flipkart to establish trust, guide shoppers, and enhance their product offerings. From affiliate commissions and brand collaborations to receiving free products in exchange for honest feedback, there’s a growing demand for authentic reviewers who can create detailed, engaging, and trustworthy content. 

    This article breaks down the accurate steps, proven strategies, and pitfalls to avoid if you want to turn product reviewing into a legitimate side hustle or even a full-time gig.

    India’s E-Commerce Boom and Why It Matters for Reviewers?
    6 Ways to Earn Money by Reviewing Products 
    5 Steps to Succeed as a Paid Product Reviewer
    How to Write Reviews That Help You Earn from Amazon & Flipkart Paid Review Opportunities?
    3 Common Mistakes to Avoid in Amazon and Flipkart Paid Reviews

    India’s E-Commerce Boom and Why It Matters for Reviewers?

    If you have ever bought something online, you have probably scrolled through reviews before hitting the “Buy Now” button. That’s because we live in what’s often called a trust economy, where personal experiences, even from strangers, carry serious weight.

    Over the last few years, platforms like Amazon and Flipkart have transformed the way people shop. Thanks to affordable smartphones, cheaper data plans, and the widespread adoption of digital payments, millions of first-time online shoppers are now purchasing goods every month.

    There is a sweet spot here for reviewers:

    • More products hit the market faster than ever.
    • More shoppers are actively searching for transparent, real-world feedback.
    • More chances to carve out your niche and become the go-to voice in your category.

    6 Ways to Earn Money by Reviewing Products 

    6 Ways to Earn Money by Reviewing Products
    6 Ways to Earn Money by Reviewing Products

    Amazon Vine Program in India

    The Amazon Vine Program is an invitation-only initiative where top reviewers get free products from Amazon sellers in exchange for detailed feedback. You need a proven track record of writing helpful, high-quality reviews with photos or videos to qualify.

    Pros

    • Access to high-value products for free.
    • Builds your reviewer credibility on Amazon.

    Cons

    • No direct cash payments.
    • Obligated to review every item, even ones you may not be excited about.

    Flipkart Review Opportunities

     Flipkart occasionally offers product testing and review initiatives, often tied to product launches. You’ll typically sign up via their community or marketing campaigns, sometimes in partnership with brands. Once approved, you will receive the product and will need to post your review on Flipkart’s platform or your social channels.

    Affiliate Marketing with Amazon Associates & Flipkart Affiliate

    Joining Amazon Associates or Flipkart Affiliate marketing allows you to earn cash for every sale generated through your review links.

    Example earning calculation: Let’s say you review a coffee machine priced at INR 5,000 with a 5% affiliate commission rate. Each sale through your link nets you INR 250. If 40 readers purchase in a month, that’s INR 10,000 earned, just from one review.

    Building Social Proof and a Review Portfolio

    When pitching to brands, proof of your influence is your strongest asset. Keep a portfolio that includes:

    • Screenshots of high-performing posts.
    • Positive audience comments.
    • Testimonials from brands you’ve worked with.

    This section now follows collaborations naturally because it explains what helps you land those collaborations in the first place.

    Once you have an engaged audience, brands may pay you to review or feature their products. You can also take the proactive route by emailing brands with a crisp pitch and a media kit showing your audience size, engagement rates, and past review samples. 

    Creating Review Content on Social Media & YouTube

    With your credibility established, you can expand your reach through platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Popular formats include unboxings, side-by-side comparisons, and real-world usage clips.

    Monetization options:


    How to Get Paid to Test Websites and Apps: Complete Guide
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    5 Steps to Succeed as a Paid Product Reviewer

    Pick a Niche You Care About

     Don’t chase what’s trending just because it’s popular. Stick to products you already use or are genuinely curious about; it’s easier to stay consistent and sound authentic.

    Build Your Review Presence

     Set up an Amazon profile, a dedicated Instagram account, or even a personal blog. Having one “home base” where all your reviews live helps people find your work and builds credibility.

    Write Reviews People Trust

     Mix personal experience with facts. If there’s a flaw, mention it. You can also suggest how you worked around it, too. The majority of reviews are either positive or harsh, which makes balanced reviews stand out.

    Learn the Basics of SEO

     Search engines will be more likely to show your reviews if you do a little keyword research. Think about what someone might type into Google if they were looking for your review.

    Network with Brands & PR Teams

     Reach out to smaller companies first; they’re more likely to collaborate. Over time, those connections can lead to bigger brand partnerships.

    How to Write Reviews That Help You Earn from Amazon & Flipkart Paid Review Opportunities?

    Be Honest: Share the Good and the Bad

    Don’t just sing praises or tear something apart. A fair review with both pros and cons feels more believable and earns long-term trust.

    Talk from Personal Experience

     Share how you used the product, what problem it solved, or even what annoyed you about it. Real stories connect with readers better than generic descriptions.

    Show, Don’t Just Tell

    Use clear photos or short videos to let people see the product in action. Unboxing shots, side-by-side comparisons, or “before and after” examples can boost credibility.

    Keep It Conversational

     Write like you’re talking to a friend over coffee, not like you’re reading from a sales brochure. People can spot a forced sales pitch a mile away.


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    3 Common Mistakes to Avoid in Amazon and Flipkart Paid Reviews

    Falling for Fake Review or Paid Review Scams 

    • Accepting payment to post biased, positive reviews can get your account banned and damage your credibility.
    •  Many platforms actively track and penalize such behavior, sometimes even pursuing legal action.
    •  Once your trust is broken, it’s nearly impossible to win back your audience’s confidence.

    Copy-Pasting Other People’s Reviews 

    • Duplicate content offers no real value, hurts SEO, and makes you look untrustworthy.
    •  Readers can easily spot when the tone doesn’t match your usual writing style.
    •  Search engines may also rank your content lower or remove it entirely.

    Making Overpromising or Misleading Claims 

    • Avoid exaggerating features or results. If you can’t back it up with proof, don’t say it.
    • This can lead to customer dissatisfaction and negative feedback on your credibility.
    • Always focus on real-world performance rather than marketing hype.

    Conclusion

    Reviewing products on Amazon or Flipkart in India can lead to much larger income streams. Each review you write not only helps shoppers make informed decisions but also builds your credibility, portfolio, and audience.

    Over time, that trust can open doors to high-value collaborations, recurring brand deals, and even your niche authority site where you review, compare, and recommend products on your terms. Some reviewers branch into consulting for brands, launching digital products like review templates, or hosting paid workshops on content creation.

    The formula is simple: stay consistent, remain transparent, and keep your personality in every post. Treat each review as a building block for your brand, and you’ll find that the opportunities grow far beyond the platforms you started on. Your voice doesn’t just have value; it has the power to become your business.


    25 Ways to Make Money Online in 2025
    Looking for ways on how to make money online? This guide will help you to find the best ways to earn money online along with your 9 to 5 job.


    FAQs

    Can you really earn money by writing Amazon and Flipkart reviews in India?

    Yes, you can earn money through affiliate commissions, brand collaborations, review programs like Amazon Vine, and Flipkart product testing opportunities.

    What niche is best for product reviewing in India?

    Tech gadgets, kitchen appliances, beauty products, fitness gear, and home essentials are popular niches.

    How do I get brand collaborations for reviews?

    Build a portfolio with screenshots of successful posts, audience engagement, and testimonials.

    How do I write product reviews that rank on Google?

    Focus on SEO basics: use relevant keywords, add pros and cons, include personal experiences, and add images or videos.

  • Kissht Files IPO for ₹1,000 CR Fresh Shares: High Potential or a Risky Bet for You?

    Kissht is a fintech company; if you have never heard of it before, it gives digital loans via its app to salaried and self-employed members. The company runs under Onemi Technology Solutions and is financially backed by Temasek Holdings (a prominent investment fund owned by Singapore’s government). Kissht wants to raise funds through an IPO (Initial Public Offering). It filed papers for about ₹1,000 crore worth of new shares and 88.8 lakh shares via Offer for Sale (OFS). The company saw an 18.6% (March 2025) dip in its profits. Should that mean you shouldn’t invest? Or does the company have any strategic plans to up their revenue game? Know more.

    IPO Size and Details

    The company aims to raise ₹1,000 crore through new shares, with the funds going directly to the company.

    Additionally, about 88.8 lakh shares are being offered for sale (OFS). This indicates that early investors want to sell their shares and make a partial exit.

    Who Owns Kissht Right Now?

    Promoters (53.67%)

    • 53.67% rests in the hands of promoters, two prime names are Ranvir Singh & Krishnan Vishwanathan, holding about 30.89% combined.
    • Other classified promoters hold the remaining 22.78.

    Investors (46.33%)

    Some popular investors who will sell their shares include

    • Temasek (via Vertex)
    • Sistema PJSFC (Russia)
    • Endiya Trust
    • VenturEast
    • AION Advisory Services

    Any Pre-IPO Placement?

    Notably, the company plans to raise about ₹200 crore through a “pre-IPO placement.” If you’re unfamiliar, it means the company will sell some shares to private investors before going public. If that happens, the ₹1,000 crore will be reduced by that amount.

    Where Will Kissht Invest This Money?

    About ₹750 crore, the company will invest in its lending subsidiary, Si Creva Capital Services. It’s a middle-layer NBFC that offers unsecured personal loans to salaried and self-employed individuals.

    The purpose of this investment is to increase Si Creva’s capital, enabling more loans and expansion. The remaining 750 will go into general corporate purposes, such as office expansions, salaries, maintenance, etc.

    Which Merchant Bankers Are Handling the IPO?

    • JM Financial
    • HSBC Securities & Capital Markets (India)
    • Nuvama Wealth Management
    • SBI Capital Markets
    • Centrum Capital

    Kissht’s Financial Outlook in the Recent Past

    • The company was founded in 2016 and holds a loanbook of 19 lakh active customers.
    • Currently, the company’s AUM (Assets Under Management) is ₹4,086.6 crore as of March 2025, up from ₹2,604.2 crore in FY24.
    • Its loan disbursements declined by 46.8% to ₹9,857.8 crore in March 2025. Profit decreased by 18.6% to ₹160.6 crore in March 2025.
    • Additionally, its revenue from operations dropped 20.1% to ₹1,337.5 crore.

    Why an Investment Caution Might Be Wise?

    The drop in profits (18% compared to FY24), increased competition in the fintech space, and macro risks aren’t that promising for secure-type investors. However, Kissht’s scalability, tech edge, and institutional backing can appeal to risk-tolerant investors.

  • PNB Strengthens Digital Security with Migration to New ‘bank.in’ Domain

    On 19 August, Punjab National Bank said that it has chosen the domain name bank.in and that, instead of using the current www.pnb.co.in, its website will now be www.pnb.bank.in.

    PNB Strengthens Digital Security

    “In accordance with the RBI circular on ‘Migration to ‘.bank.in’ Domain’ dated April 22, 2025, and with the assistance of the Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT), which is the sole registrar for this domain, the bank has successfully moved its corporate website to the ‘.bank.in’ domain (https://pnb.bank.in),” the bank said in a statement. It further stated that this is a major turning point in the digital transformation of the Indian banking industry.

    PNB Becomes First Public Sector Bank to Move to ‘.bank.in’

    With the recent change, PNB has reaffirmed its dedication to providing its clients with safe and secure digital banking by being the first public sector bank in India to move its corporate website to the secure “.bank.in” domain. Only banks are allowed to use the “.bank.in” domain, which offers better protections against fraud, fortifies the cyber security architecture, and boosts public trust in online banking.

    Why RBI Introduced the ‘.bank.in’ Domain?

    PNB took this action in response to the RBI’s statement that rising rates of digital payment fraud are a serious concern in its development and regulatory policies following the monetary policy committee meeting on February 7 of this year. The RBI is launching the “bank.in” special domain for Indian banks in an effort to counteract this.

    Benefits of the ‘.bank.in’ Domain for Customers

    By streamlining safe financial services and lowering cybersecurity risks and criminal activities like phishing, this programme seeks to increase public confidence in online banking and payment systems.

    Role of IDRBT as the Exclusive Registrar

    The sole registrar will be the Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT). The real registration process will start in April 2025. Bank-specific instructions will be released separately. According to the RBI, other non-bank organisations in the financial industry will eventually have their own domain, “fin.in”.

    Quick
    Shots

    •Move in line with RBI’s April 22,
    2025 circular on migration to “.bank.in” domains.

    •PNB becomes the first public sector
    bank in India to adopt the “.bank.in” domain.

    •Exclusive to banks, preventing misuse
    by fraudulent sites.

    •Rising cases of digital payment
    frauds flagged in RBI’s Feb 7 MPC meeting prompted the move.

    •Strengthened cyber security
    framework.

  • SEBI Plans Relaxation of Minimum Shareholding Rules to Boost Market Expansion

    In a consultation paper published on August 18, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) suggested expanding the flexibility of minimum public shareholding (MPS) and minimum public offer (MPO) for businesses looking to list with the goal of “simplifying fundraising by issuers in India”.

    Key Highlights from SEBI’s Consultation Paper

     In the paper, SEBI suggested raising the MPO for businesses that are getting close to listing, increasing the MPS after listing, and extending the timeframes to accomplish the latter.

    Post-issue market capitalisation (m-cap) threshold buckets should be changed to INR 4,000 crore to INR 50,000 crore, INR 50,000 crore to INR 1 lakh crore, INR 100,000 crore to INR 5 lakh crore, and above INR 5 lakh crore, according to the document. It is currently at INR 1 lakh crore, INR 4,000 crore, and much beyond INR 1 lakh crore. Additionally, SEBI has extended the deadline for MPS compliance.

    Proposed Changes in Minimum Public Shareholding (MPS) Rules

    According to SEBI, it is suggested that the current three-year period for meeting the MPS threshold of 25% be extended to five years from the date of listing for issuers having a post-issue market capitalisation of more than INR 50,000 crore but less than or equal to INR 100,000 crore.

    Five years was suggested as the time frame to reach 15% ownership, while ten years was suggested as the time frame to reach 25% post-listing MPS. The capital market regulators also asked for public input on lowering the MPO for buckets from INR 50,000 crore to INR 1 lakh crore.

    According to the Securities Contract Regulations Rules (SCRR), SEBI also stated in the paper that issuers with a post-issue market capitalisation of more than INR 100,000 crore are required to guarantee MPO of INR 5,000 crore and at least 5% of the post-issue share capital. They are also required to increase their public shareholding to at least 10% within two years of the date of listing and then to a minimum of 25% within five years.

    Impact on Large-Cap IPOs in India

    According to SEBI, it might be challenging for big issuers to dilute a sizable shareholding through an IPO since the market might not buy back the shares sold and might deter subsequent listings.

    Additionally, it stated that “requiring a significant dilution of equity to satisfy the MPS requirements right after the IPO may result in an excess of shares in the market, impacting share prices irrespective of the firm’s financial stability.”

    Industry experts feel that this is a welcome proposal for very large market cap companies, as it will reduce requirements to seek ad hoc or one-time SEBI relaxations.

    Quick
    Shots

    •Large-cap issuers (INR 50,000 Cr – IN
    1 Lakh Cr) to get 5 years to reach 25% MPS.

    •15% in 5 years, 25% in 10 years (for
    mega-cap issuers).

    •Encourages more big-ticket listings
    in India.

    •Reduces need for case-by-case SEBI
    exemptions.