Now Loading

Month: April 2025

Technology

Ather Energy’s IPO: Big Boost for Employees as ESOPs Expected to Unlock ₹530 Cr

Observenow Desk April 25, 2025

Bengaluru-based electric scooter manufacturer Ather Energy is set to launch its initial public offering (IPO) on April 28, 2025, aiming to raise ₹2,981 crore. A notable aspect of this IPO is the potential wealth creation of approximately ₹530 crore for over 1,300 employees through the company’s Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP).​

According to Ather’s red herring prospectus, the company has allocated around 16.5 million shares under its ESOP scheme. At the upper end of the IPO price band, set between ₹304 and ₹321 per share, the total value of these ESOPs could reach ₹530 crore. Employees will have a one-year lock-in period post-listing before they can liquidate their shares.​

The IPO comprises a fresh issue of ₹2,626 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of ₹354.76 crore. Prominent investors such as Tiger Global and GIC are expected to realize significant returns, with Tiger Global poised for an 8.3x return on its investment. Hero MotoCorp, holding a 40% stake in Ather, will not participate in the OFS.

Ather plans to utilize the proceeds from the IPO to expand its manufacturing facilities, invest in research and development, repay debts, and enhance its retail network. The company’s flagship products, the Ather 450 and the recently launched Rizta, have contributed to a 28% increase in revenue to ₹1,578.9 crore in the first nine months of FY25, while losses narrowed to ₹577.9 crore

The IPO is scheduled to close on April 30, with the listing anticipated on May 6, 2025.

Tags: Ather Energyinitial public offering

Related posts

Cybersecurity

Google’s Gemini AI Hits 350 Million Users Amid Antitrust Scrutiny

Observenow Desk

Google’s AI chatbot, Gemini, has rapidly expanded to over 350 million users worldwide as of March 2025, marking a significant milestone in the company’s AI endeavors. This growth, however, coincides with intensified antitrust scrutiny from U.S. regulators concerned about Google’s dominance in the search and AI markets.​

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated a landmark antitrust trial against Google, accusing the tech giant of leveraging its dominance in online search and artificial intelligence to maintain and expand its monopoly. The DOJ seeks stringent remedies, including the possible sale of Google’s Chrome browser and the end of exclusive agreements with device manufacturers that set Google as the default search engine.

Prosecutors have highlighted a lucrative, undisclosed agreement between Google and Samsung for integrating Google’s Gemini AI app on Samsung devices. Internal documents suggest that Google considered more restrictive distribution agreements requiring partners to preinstall Gemini alongside Search and Chrome.

Despite Gemini’s impressive user growth, it still trails behind competitors like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Meta’s AI, which reportedly have monthly active users of approximately 600 million and 500 million, respectively. 

As the antitrust trial unfolds, the outcome could significantly impact Google’s operations and the broader AI landscape. The court’s decision may lead to structural changes within Google and set precedents for how tech giants integrate AI into their ecosystems.​ 

Tags: ChatGPTGeminiGoogle

Related posts

Technology

Tech Mahindra Q4 Net Profit Soars 77% to ₹1,167 Crore; Declares ₹30 Dividend

Observenow Desk April 24, 2025

After a challenging start to FY25, Tech Mahindra has delivered a strong Q4 comeback, reporting a 77% jump in consolidated net profit to ₹1,167 crore. The company’s turnaround was fueled by large deal wins, tighter operational controls, and renewed focus on next-gen technologies.

Revenue for the quarter stood at ₹13,384 crore — a 4% year-on-year rise. While the top-line growth remained modest, the operating margin surged to 11.4%, helped by internal cost optimization and higher productivity across its delivery centers.

The company announced a final dividend of ₹30 per share, marking its continued commitment to shareholder returns even as it pushes for long-term reinvention.

Big Bets Pay Off

Under the leadership of CEO Mohit Joshi, who took over in 2023, Tech Mahindra has shifted its attention toward AI-led transformation, enterprise cloud, and telecom modernization — areas that are now beginning to pay off. The company won deals worth $2.7 billion this quarter, a 42% jump compared to last year.

“We’re building for the long run. Our focus on building leadership across AI and industry platforms is showing results, and we’re excited about the momentum we’re carrying into the new fiscal,” Joshi said in a statement.

Workforce and Strategy

While Tech Mahindra saw a modest decline in headcount this quarter (down 1,757 employees), the company says it is restructuring to invest more in niche talent — particularly in AI, cybersecurity, and cloud migration. Total headcount now stands at around 1.49 lakh, and hiring is expected to remain selective and skills-focused in FY26.

What’s Next?

Despite global macro uncertainty, analysts say the Q4 numbers show that Tech Mahindra is regaining competitiveness in a tight IT market. The company is expected to ramp up its focus on GenAI-based enterprise solutions, especially after launching in-house accelerators and co-innovation labs with hyperscalers like Microsoft Azure and AWS.

On the bourses, the stock closed 0.5% higher at ₹1,446.60 after the results — reflecting investor optimism.

Tags: GenAITech Mahindra

Related posts

BFSI

India’s BFSI Sector Sees 50x Growth in Two Decades, NBFCs and Fintechs Reshape Financial Landscape​

Observenow Desk

India’s Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI) sector has grown more than 50 times over the last two decades, with its total market capitalization soaring from ₹1.8 trillion in 2005 to over ₹91 trillion in 2025, according to recent industry data. This explosive growth reflects not just the expansion of traditional banking, but a significant reshaping of the financial ecosystem itself.

Once dominated almost entirely by banks, the sector has seen a notable shift in structure. The share of banks in the total BFSI market cap has fallen from 85% in 2005 to about 57% in 2025. This shift is largely attributed to the rise of Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and a booming fintech sector, both of which have disrupted conventional financial models by leveraging digital technology and user-first approaches.

The fintech sector, which had negligible presence prior to 2015, now commands a combined market cap of over ₹12 trillion, including listed and unlisted firms. These companies, offering everything from digital wallets to instant loans, have captured significant market share across urban and rural segments alike.

NBFCs have also continued to expand, particularly in consumer lending. According to a report by ICRA, NBFC credit growth is expected to moderate to 13–15% in FY25 and FY26, down from 17% in the previous two years. Even so, retail loans make up nearly 58% of NBFC portfolios as of December 2024, underlining the sector’s deep reach into household finance.

Despite structural changes, the BFSI sector remains central to India’s capital markets. Its contribution to Nifty 50 index earnings has risen sharply, from 16% in FY10 to 33% in FY24. Analysts attribute this growth to improved asset quality, increased demand for credit, and reduced provisioning burdens post-pandemic.

As India’s financial landscape continues to evolve, experts believe the interplay between banks, NBFCs, and fintechs will define the sector’s next chapter. With digital technology and innovation driving competition, the BFSI space is set for further transformation in the coming years.

Tags: BFSI sectorNBFCs

Related posts

Trending

India Responds Firmly After Pahalgam Attack: Diplomacy Cut, Military on Alert

Observenow Desk

In the wake of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including tourists, India has taken decisive actions to address the security concerns and respond to the incident.​

Attack Overview

On April 22, 2025, militants opened fire on tourists in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, resulting in 26 fatalities and numerous injuries. The attack was claimed by a group identifying itself as “Kashmir Resistance,” which Indian authorities allege is linked to Pakistan-based militant organizations. 

Diplomatic Measures

In response to the attack, India has undertaken several diplomatic measures aimed at addressing cross-border terrorism:​

  • Indus Waters Treaty Suspension: India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a longstanding agreement with Pakistan, citing the need for Islamabad to take concrete actions against terror groups operating from its territory.
  • Reduction of Diplomatic Staff: The Indian government has reduced the strength of the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi from 55 to 30 personnel and has expelled Pakistani military attachés. ​
  • Closure of Border Crossing: The Wagah-Attari border crossing, a key point of land connectivity between India and Pakistan, has been closed indefinitely.
  • Visa Revocations: All visas issued to Pakistani nationals under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme have been revoked, and holders have been given 48 hours to leave the country.

Security and Military Posture

India’s security apparatus has been placed on high alert, with increased vigilance along coastal regions and key urban centers. The Indian Army has intensified operations in Jammu and Kashmir to apprehend those responsible for the attack. Investigation and Accountability

Kashmir Police have identified three individuals suspected of involvement in the attack, two of whom are believed to be Pakistani nationals. Authorities have released their sketches and announced rewards for information leading to their capture. International Reactions

The international community has largely condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with India. Countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Russia, and Saudi Arabia have denounced the violence and extended condolences to the victims’ families.

Tags: Jammu and KashmirPahalgam Attack

Related posts

Technology

Databricks Bets Big on India: $250 Million Pledged to Power AI and Data Innovation

Observenow Desk

US-based data and AI powerhouse Databricks has announced a major expansion plan in India, pledging an investment of over $250 million over the next three years. The move signals the company’s intent to make India a key hub for innovation, talent development, and global AI product delivery.

As part of the plan, Databricks has opened a new R&D center in Bengaluru, which will serve as a core engine for developing advanced AI and data technologies. The company also revealed its intention to grow its India workforce by more than 50%, with over 750 new hires expected by year-end.

Building India’s AI Workforce

One of the most ambitious parts of Databricks’ India strategy is the launch of the India Data + AI Academy. The program is designed to train over 500,000 people in the next three years across data science, machine learning, and modern analytics platforms. The initiative will cater to a wide audience — from enterprise customers and partners to students and tech professionals.

Customers and Momentum

Databricks is already powering AI and analytics for major Indian enterprises including HDFC Bank, Zepto, Swiggy, TVS Motors, and Freshworks. With this new investment, the company aims to deepen its relationships with Indian businesses while building new capabilities locally.

“India is a key market for us,” said Ed Lenta, SVP for Asia Pacific and Japan at Databricks. “There’s exceptional talent here, and our goal is to contribute to India’s tech ecosystem while creating world-class AI solutions from this region.”

A Broader Industry Shift

The announcement comes at a time when global technology giants are increasingly looking to India — not just as a cost-effective engineering base, but as a strategic center for innovation and AI excellence. With a vast pool of digital talent, growing enterprise demand, and a thriving startup scene, India is fast becoming one of the most important markets in the global AI race.

Databricks’ investment underlines this shift and adds momentum to India’s aspirations of becoming a global AI hub.

Tags: Data InnovationDatabricks

Related posts

B2B Marketeer

Pro-Business Reforms Catalyse India’s GCC Growth

Vineet Dhawan April 23, 2025

Housing over 1,700 of the world’s Global Capacity Centres (GCCs), India generates more than $60 billion in revenue every year. These numbers are expected to rise to 2200 GCCs with a revenue north of $100 billion every year by 2030. This means that India will actively employ 2.8 million people in GCCs by 2030. This uptick is all thanks to the economic growth of India, driven by its vast IT infrastructure, skilled talent pool, strategic investments in technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing and automation and the need to become a digital-first economy.

It is not surprising that India is a favoured destination for enterprises worldwide owing to our pro-business policies, tax benefits for Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and financial incentives for such businesses. Companies seeking up to 50% lower operational costs are setting up GCCs in Tier-2 and Tier-3 Indian cities. There is no dearth of skilled talent in Indian cities outside of Bengaluru and Hyderabad, known for their tech-savvy recruits. India’s English-speaking workforce in IT and STEM is found all over the country in every state.

GCCs used to be centres for core IT services before, however, the demand is much more diverse today. AI, cybersecurity, automation, implementation, HR services, infrastructure management, design, marketing and more such fields are soon becoming part of the GCC apparatus.

While real-world job skills used to be a challenge before, initiatives have been taken to bridge the gap between industry and academia. Collaborations with industry giants and strategic partnerships with universities to drive skilling initiatives have become commonplace today. The aim of creating a future- ready workforce that can meet the demands of ever-changing job roles is in full steam. Furthermore, GCCs have also begun in-house upskilling programmes to ensure that employees are up to date with global digital trends.

Expanding digital literacy in India has led to enhanced employment opportunities for the skilled and dynamic youth. The ripple effect this creates with employment through vendor partnerships and support services is also noteworthy. Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities have benefited most from the digitalisation of India, creating more regional hubs and offering more opportunities to the local talent pool within their states.

GCCs in India contribute to 1% of the nation’s GDP. The 2025 Union Budget clearly shows a larger scope for GCCs in India, eyeing the business of a large chunk of the Global 2000 firms in the coming years. The road ahead for India with regard to GCCs is quite straightforward. India needs to heavily invest in education and upskilling for its employable youth while also creating an environment that is business-friendly. Incentivising infrastructure development, regulatory compliance, data security and innovation can make India a human resource superpower like no other.

India has an exciting opportunity to retain its best talent and create more gainful employment while climbing the global technological ladder. Global Capacity Centres in India are driving India’s growth and leading innovative thought leadership within. The Indian government can fuel this growth further by simplifying business processes and prioritising technological innovation. India’s growth story is something we all want to witness in the upcoming decade, and GCCs will play a crucial part in that.

Author: Vineet Dhawan, Founder & CEO, Digital Convergence Technologies (DCT)

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of ObserveNow Media. The author is solely responsible for ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and validity of the information presented, encouraging readers to independently verify and seek professional advice if needed.

Tags: Digital Convergence TechnologiesGCC GrowthVineet Dhawan

Related posts

Technology

Airtel Expands AI Spam Detection to International Calls, Adds Support for 10 Indian Languages

Observenow Desk

Bharti Airtel has taken a major leap in its fight against spam by extending its AI-based detection system to cover international calls and messages. In a move aimed at empowering users across India, the system now also offers alerts in 10 regional languages—Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu, Punjabi, and Urdu.

Exclusively available for Airtel users on Android devices, the upgraded tool automatically identifies spam in real time, flagging suspicious calls and messages based on patterns such as frequency and behavioral data—without requiring users to opt in or configure settings.

Since its debut in September 2024, Airtel’s AI engine has already flagged over 27.5 billion spam calls, resulting in a 16% drop in spam volume for users. The latest enhancement follows a surge in international spam activity, which has climbed by 12% in the past six months, prompting Airtel to expand its AI coverage to cross-border threats.

Siddharth Sharma, Bharti Airtel’s Director of Marketing and CEO of Connected Homes, noted, “Our customers spoke, and we listened. We’ve added support for more Indian languages and broadened our detection to safeguard users from spam originating overseas. This ensures a safer, more inclusive experience for our diverse user base.”

Looking ahead, Airtel aims to evolve its AI systems further, staying one step ahead of scammers while continuing to provide seamless protection for millions of customers.

Tags: AI Spam DetectionBharti Airtel

Related posts

Exclusive

Jammu & Kashmir’s Ramban Cut Off After Flash Floods

Observenow Desk

In a devastating turn of events, the Ramban district of Jammu & Kashmir has been severely impacted by flash floods and landslides triggered by relentless torrential rains. The calamity has resulted in the loss of at least three lives, including two children, and has left over 500 individuals stranded or displaced. ​

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), a critical artery connecting the region, has suffered extensive damage, with sections washed away at multiple locations. Landslides and mudslides have rendered the highway impassable, effectively isolating the Kashmir Valley and disrupting the supply chain of essential commodities.

Rescue operations are underway, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Indian Army, and local police working tirelessly to evacuate affected residents. Despite their efforts, continuous rainfall and challenging terrain have hampered progress. ​

The district administration has ordered the closure of all educational institutions and advised residents to remain indoors. Emergency shelters have been established to accommodate those displaced by the floods.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and assured that relief measures are being prioritized. He emphasized the need for immediate restoration of essential services and infrastructure.

As the region grapples with the aftermath, the focus remains on rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Authorities are urging citizens to stay alert and adhere to safety advisories as the situation continues to evolve.

Tags: Jammu & KashmirOmar Abdullah

Related posts

BFSI

From Digital Dexterity to Leadership Labs: How Mahindra Finance is Shaping Tomorrow’s BFSI Talent

Observenow Desk

As the BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance) industry evolves at a breakneck pace, Mahindra Finance is making bold moves to future-proof its workforce. With a sector increasingly influenced by digital disruption, regulatory changes, and shifting customer expectations, the company is betting on a structured, skill-first strategy led by Chief Human Resources Officer Manish Sinha.

At the heart of this transformation is a four-pronged approach: building functional expertise, enhancing managerial capabilities, fostering digital dexterity, and grooming future-ready leaders.

1. Functional Expertise for Today’s Roles

To ensure frontline and mid-level staff are aligned with evolving customer needs and compliance mandates, Mahindra Finance is heavily investing in upskilling. “Programs tailored for sales, collections, and regulatory compliance help our teams remain effective, compliant, and focused on customer centricity,” says Sinha.

2. Managerial Capability for Inclusive Leadership

For emerging managers, the company offers curated learning journeys emphasizing inclusion, empathy, and people-first thinking. These programs aim to prepare professionals to lead diverse teams and navigate complex organizational dynamics.

3. Digital Dexterity Across Hierarchies

Recognizing that digital literacy is no longer optional, Mahindra Finance has implemented a blended learning model. It includes in-person masterclasses and self-paced modules to embed a tech-forward mindset across the organization. “We focus on technologies that are reshaping BFSI—from automation to AI—and help our workforce adapt,” Sinha adds.

4. Building Future Leaders, Not Just Managers

To prepare for succession and sustained leadership, the firm runs a pyramid-structured leadership development program. Targeted at high-potential employees across levels, it features immersive business strategy modules, study missions to non-competing companies, and mentoring by industry veterans.

This ecosystem of continuous learning is designed not only to build internal capability but also to boost retention. According to McKinsey, BFSI firms that invest in capability-building are 2.5 times more likely to outperform their peers in employee satisfaction and innovation readiness.

Mahindra Finance’s forward-looking HR framework echoes a broader trend across India’s BFSI sector, which is expected to create over 1.6 million new jobs by 2030, largely driven by digital banking, fintech collaborations, and expanding financial inclusion initiatives (Assocham-KPMG report, 2023).

As Sinha sums it up: “We’re not just preparing employees for the next job—they’re being prepared for the next decade.”

Tags: Digital DexterityMahindra Finance

Related posts

Upcoming Conferences