Banking on attention: The need for BFSI marketing to engage customers between UPI and Instagram

The financial services sector is at a pivotal juncture as India moves closer to its Digital Bharat vision, with the expectations of a generation of digital natives reshaping legacy institutions. The FINIXX Summit & Awards 2025, which has as its forward-thinking topic "Reimagining BFSI: Powering Digital Bharat Goals," put this change front and center.In order to examine the changing relationship between technology, trust, and consumer engagement in the BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance) industry, a diverse group of marketing experts, digital strategists, and financial innovators convened for the summit.Experts discussed how rapidly changing consumer behavior is upending traditional marketing strategies in a fascinating panel titled "The Next-Gen BFSI Consumer: Understanding & Engaging Digital-First Audiences." They also discussed what it will take to foster trust, loyalty, and meaningful engagement in an increasingly app-first and attention-deficit world. The panel, which was presided over by Teamology Softech and Media Services Vice President of Growth and Strategy Lawrence Suchitha, included marketing directors from top BFSI institutions: VP of Digital Marketing at HDFC Bank, Aashir Allana AVP of Social Media Marketing at Tata Capital, Nikita Dilip Gupta SBI General Insurance's Head of Marketing and CSR, Rathin Lahiri Varun Mundra, Motilal Oswal Financial Services' Head of Media & Innovations Vishal Lohia, Hybrid Associate Director of Sales."The BFSI landscape has decisively moved from branch-first to app-first engagement," said Lawrence Suchitha, who opened the debate. Consumers of today need digital experiences that are quick, simple, and integrated—all while maintaining the transparency and trust that have traditionally characterized our industry. "The next-gen customer has never seen a passbook or stepped inside a branch," said Aashir Allana of HDFC Bank, emphasizing the point. They view the bank as an app rather than a physical establishment.Allana asserts that modern consumers evaluate their banking experiences by comparing them to Netflix, Amazon, and Zepto rather than other banks. "They want Zepto-level speed and Netflix-level personalization." Despite their impatience and impulsivity, they have a strong research bent. They expect the application procedure to take three minutes, but they will spend hours comparing credit cards. He pointed out that because of this behavioral mismatch, marketers must reach users "somewhere between Instagram and a UPI app."  

As Q3 growth jumps 5.7%, Arthur Sadoun praises Publicis' AI-powered pace.

Building on its impressive organic growth of +5.7% for the third quarter of 2025 (Q3'25), Publicis Groupe has increased its prediction for organic growth for the entire year. The quarter's great performance outperformed the first half of 2025's high growth of +5.4%.The business has increased its forecast for organic growth in the full year (FY) 2025 to a new range of +5% to +5.5%. This represents an improvement over the original estimate of +4% to +5%. A number of factors, including consistent client spending (without any significant budget cuts or slowdowns) and growing demand for its AI-powered goods and services, underpin the decision to increase the outlook. Long-term scope development with current clients, a robust business environment for new ventures, and a more advantageous competitive environment are all important growth drivers.Arthur Sadoun, Publicis Groupe's chairman and CEO, "Q3 was yet another excellent quarter, exceeding forecasts, with no slowdown in customer demand.  At Publicis, we are proving that artificial intelligence is not a pipe dream but rather a current reality that is propelling our expansion. We are demonstrating once more how our distinct AI-powered methodology may help us acquire market share and establish ourselves as a Category of One.  We achieved organic growth of +5.7%, which significantly widened the gap with our counterparts by over 700bps2. In addition to not seeing any significant reductions in marketing expenditures, we also witnessed a surge in demand for our AI-powered goods and services. This was evident in our Epsilon-powered Connected advertising initiatives, which had high single-digit growth as a result of our capacity to use AI to link influencers, commerce, and paid advertising. Due to the growing demand for customized content, our AI production platform experienced double-digit growth. Additionally, Publicis Sapient maintained its favorable results for the second consecutive quarter thanks to our capacity to create agentic networks for clients that are looking to de-silo their own businesses.We anticipate that this upward trend will continue throughout Q4. Because of this, we are comfortable raising the higher end of our prediction to +5.5% for our 2025 organic growth guidance. Additionally, we are reporting that our already industry-leading margin has improved to just over 18% throughout the course of the year. With net new billings for the first nine months of the year already surpassing our 2024 total, we are now planning for 2026 because of our unparalleled new business track record. For the seventh consecutive year, we anticipate outperforming the industry the following year. I want to express my gratitude to our teams for their exceptional work in getting us to this point and to our clients for their ongoing trust.  

FINIXX Summit & Awards 2025: Transforming BFSI for a Bharat empowered by digital technology

The financial services industry is at the forefront of change as India moves closer to realizing its goal of having a digitally inclusive economy. The FINIXX Summit and Awards 2025 returns against this dynamic backdrop with the audacious and forward-thinking subject, "Reimagining BFSI: Powering Digital Bharat Goals." The FINIXX Summit and Awards 2025 will take place in Mumbai tomorrow, October 14.FINIXX Summit 2025, which is set to bring together some of the most prominent voices in banking, financial services, insurance (BFSI), fintech, and marketing in the nation, is expected to be more than just a forum for discussion; it seeks to incite change, foster trust, and establish new standards for how financial brands interact with a rapidly changing customer base.Examining how digitization, human-centric design, trust-building, and integrated marketing tactics are changing the game for financial institutions throughout India is the main goal of the summit. As the underserved, underbanked, and technologically savvy Bharat sector becomes a strategic priority, FINIXX 2025 urgently highlights inclusive and transformative innovation. The summit will examine topics that represent the industry's continuous development through keynote addresses, fireside chats, CXO panels, and real-world case studies. The agenda gives a broad overview of the future, covering topics like figuring out how AI and data are changing engagement and risk assessment, as well as deciphering the next wave of fintech disruption.The comprehensive approach of FINIXX 2025 is what makes it unique. Exposure to cross-functional viewpoints will enable attendees to go with more than just talking points—they will leave with practical frameworks. C-suite executives, marketing strategists, product developers, compliance officers, and digital growth architects who want to remain on top of trends are the target audience for this event.  

CNN-News18 dominates as the leading prime-time English news channel

CNN-News18 has reaffirmed its position as the unrivaled leader in India's English news sector. CNN-News18 reigns supreme in the primetime slot without any rivals, establishing the channel as unparalleled. The most recent BARC data reveals that CNN News18 commanded the prime time slot with a remarkable 64.4% market share, far surpassing its rivals, NDTV at 15.4% and Times The channel’s credibility and its capacity to provide accurate, timely, and impactful journalism that connects with its audience have contributed to this consistent performance. The channel’s robust performance is fueled by its dedication to providing precise information and showcasing elite news figures such as Zakka Jacob, Anand Narasimhan, Rahul Shivshankar, and Shivani Gupta. The channel guarantees thorough coverage of all significant national-interest news through its vast network of reporters nationwide.  

After 15 years, Chandana Agarwal is leaving the Ogilvy Group

Chandana Agarwal has concluded her 15-year tenure with the Ogilvy Group network, stepping down from her leadership role at 82.5 Communications after a distinguished career in brand building and communications spanning over 25 years. Most recently, Agarwal held the position of President – North and East at 82.5 Communications, where she was instrumental in guiding communications and broadening the agency’s regional presence. She previously served as Managing Partner at Ogilvy Advertising in Gurgaon, where she played a key role in business growth by acquiring and retaining clients.She has worked at various top advertising agencies, such as FCB Ulka, McCann Erickson, Dentsu, and JWT. Throughout her tenure at Ogilvy, she collaborated with a remarkable array of brands, including Philips, Pernod Ricard, Voltas, Honda, Coca-Cola, Eicher, Vistara, and Taco Bell. Agarwal was responsible for the establishment and scaling of North operations at 82.5 Communications, which bolstered the company's presence and client relationships in that area. Agarwal's departure signifies the conclusion of a major chapter at Ogilvy as she readies herself to pursue new prospects in the changing marketing and communications landscape.  

As per Kevin Vaz, broadcasting alone accounts for 40% of the Indian M&E industry.

Today, Kevin Vaz, Chairman of FICCI’s Media & Entertainment Committee, inaugurated the 25th edition of FICCI FRAMES, marking a crucial milestone for India’s media and entertainment sector. He called for a reimagining of growth, recalibration of regulation, and reaffirmation of India’s global storytelling ambitions. Vaz stated, while speaking to a full auditorium of industry leaders, policymakers, creators, and changemakers, “This goes beyond being an anniversary — it is a time for reflection, refocusing, and rising.” The event, themed RISE Together (Reimagine, Innovate, Strengthen, Empower), commemorates FRAMES' 25 years as a platform for policy dialogue, business exchange, and cultural diplomacy.A voyage from acknowledgment to self-reinvention Vaz, while reminiscing about the inception of FRAMES in 2001, underscored the pivotal moment when the Indian government granted industry status to the media and entertainment (M&E) sector. This decision opened the door for capital influxes, institutional investments, and a professional approach throughout the value chain. Vaz noted, “We’ve come a long way — from the rise of satellite TV and cable to the boom in OTT, VFX, and immersive tech,” acknowledging the contributions of stalwarts like Yash Chopra, Karan Johar, and Uday Shankar, who have guided the FICCI M&E Committee over the years. “Their legacy continues through our endeavors to expand the creative economy in India.”Television and Digital: An Indian AND Story Vaz challenged global assumptions about disruption by asserting that India is a rare “AND” market, where television and digital platforms are not rivals but co-existing engines of growth. “Pay TV, Free TV, and Connected TV are growing in tandem with digital. This dual-track growth is contributing to the overall expansion of the M&E pie, rather than dividing it,” he noted.Sports, Streaming Services, and the Emergence of Regional Narratives The sports ecosystem in India, particularly in cricket, kabaddi, and esports, is experiencing unmatched momentum. This growth is being fueled by digital platforms that enhance reach through interactive, multilingual, and immersive content. In the realm of film, regional cinema and Indian OTT are driving India’s soft power on the global stage. Vaz stated, “Our narratives, spanning from RRR to The Elephant Whisperers, are clinching Oscars, dominating box office sales, and capturing hearts.” Cross-border collaborations are being fueled by co-production treaties and a revitalized NFDC.  

Tamannaah Bhatia: The hidden element for preparing hits

In Indian cinema, music videos and songs greatly enhance a project’s value. However, the presence of a talented performer significantly boosts its attractiveness, often serving as a key factor in why audiences buy tickets and flock to theaters to ‘experience’ the performance. Tamannaah Bhatia has established herself over the past few years as a ‘performer’ whose dance flair and impeccable expressions have made her synonymous with energetic dance numbers that go viral. She has become a go-to option for dynamic songs, with even acclaimed directors placing their bets on her!After the creators of Thamma revealed the song "Tum Mere Na Huye," audiences believe that Tamannaah Bhatia could have done justice to the dance number. This is the topic of their discussion:„Tamannaah ist besser als Rashmika“, schrieb ein Nutzer, während ein anderer verfasste: „Nur Tamannaah kann solche Tanzbewegungen machen…missen Tamannaah.“ A user commented, “Why does everyone want to be Tamannaah from Aaj Ki Raat?” and another commented, “Tamannaah would have done justice to this song.” A fan conveyed, “Her expressions are missing. “Check out Tamannaah’s expressions and then compare them to this dull girl,” while another commented, “Rashmika is fine, but nobody can surpass Tamannaah.”Tamannaah Bhatia has garnered accolades from her fans for every song she has been part of, including the legendary Aaj Ki Raat (over 962 million views on YouTube), Kaavaalaa (over 365 million views), Achacho (over 454 million views), Ghafoor (over 28 million views), among others. This affirms her role as the focal point that injects vitality into every scene.Netizens are not easily influenced, but they certainly acknowledge genuine effort - and it seems Tamannaah has demonstrated that no one does it quite like her! Years of consistent effort and a determination to infuse her style into dance sequences have rightfully awarded Tamannaah Bhatia the title of an all-rounder performer who draws crowds to the cinema!  

Jayesh Sali discusses MagickHome's marketing lessons on regional affinity and design innovation in Focus South.

Focus South, Adgully's new column, highlights southern Indian voices that are influencing marketing, customer interaction, and brand innovation in the future. Jayesh Sali, Senior General Manager & Marketing Head, MagickHome, is featured in this edition. He offers insights on design innovation, regional expansion, holiday initiatives, and the brand's future vision.Sali notes that the most important element propelling MagickHome's growth in 2025 has been design innovation. Design is timeless and remains at the forefront of consumer demand in a market where aesthetics and lifestyle are highly valued. Our USP is design innovation supported by worldwide quality standards, which our consumers have found to be very appealing. Once satisfied, they encourage recommendations, which furthers our expansion. Because finishes and materials are what make designs come to life, we also never stop inventing in these areas," he says.MagickHome has been paying particular attention to the distinct consumer tastes in places like Chennai, Coimbatore, and Bangalore as South India develops into a key market. Southern consumers exhibit a clear preference for vivid colors, traditional accents, and substantial use of wood in their interior design, even though they are just as discriminating and cost-conscious as any other group. Southern homes are vibrant and rich in history, from solid wood furniture and wall décor to handicrafts and carvings.Sali points out that balancing MagickHome's worldwide identity with local affinities is necessary to customize retail experiences in the area. Our goal is to create a brand that embodies both local affinities and global identity. Therefore, we make an effort to incorporate southern-relevant design trends, festivals, and cultural events into our ads, activations, and direct communications. We have developed genuine relationships and solid client recommendations thanks to this strategy," he says.MagickHome's "Season of Magic" promotion, which aims to promote culture, family, and the delight of homes coming to life, has begun as India approaches the holiday season. Sali views festivals as more than just decorations and lights; they are about memories being made. "We aim to collaborate with our clients to tell enduring stories. "Homes that really come alive during this unique time of year right up until the New Year is the spirit of our new campaign," he explains.  

GST rate reductions spark festive optimism across sectors; Auto and Consumer Durables are at the forefront

During the 56th GST Council meeting, the government streamlined Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates into two main categories: 5% and 18%. A demerit rate of 40% was introduced for certain categories, and important relief measures were announced. This action occurs at a critical moment. As households are burdened by layoffs, inflationary pressures, and muted consumer sentiment, the GST cuts are anticipated to provide relief for disposable income and enhance confidence just before the festive season. This could signify a revival of consumer demand and retail growth that businesses have been needing.As India enters its high-octane festive season, which traditionally drives growth in the retail, FMCG, consumer durables, and e-commerce sectors, businesses and consumers are closely monitoring the GST rate cuts across select categories. As inflationary pressures persist and discretionary spending is strained for India’s middle class, these reductions are strategically timed to enhance consumption, revive sentiment, and stimulate economic momentum in the crucial October–December quarter. Nevertheless, economists warn that although cuts to GST may provide short-term relief and a psychological boost for spending, structural limitations such as stagnant wages, high household debt, and rising fuel prices could mitigate the benefits. In a consumption-driven economy like India, where nearly 60% of GDP is derived from domestic spending, even slight improvements in consumer confidence during the festive season – from Navratri to New Year – are anticipated to have significant impacts on quarterly growth figures.With brands launching promotions and retailers boosting their inventory and marketing strategies, everyone will be watching to see how this GST adjustment unfolds in practice and whether it can provide more than mere symbolic joy during the country’s most crucial shopping season. To comprehend the possible effects of the extensive GST rationalisation on consumer sentiment, industry dynamics, and festive expenditure, Adgully consulted a diverse range of industry leaders. They expressed their approval of these reforms and conveyed optimism for a prosperous festive season.  

What's Trending Globally

Asia

News 2344

Australia/New-Zealand

News 42

Canada

News 15

China

News 49

Europe

News 40

France

News 1

Gulf

News 11

India

News 3384

Pakistan

News 20

Russia

News 20

Ukraine

News 0

United Kingdom

News 51

Deepika Padukone serves as Nykaa's 'global face'—primarily for Indian fans

Actress Deepika Padukone was appointed as the global brand ambassador for beauty e-commerce platform Nykaa this week. The new advertisement features Padukone, who is dressed in a stunning golden ensemble, dancing to Mikey McCleary’s 2011 remix of the classic track ‘Hawa Hawai’. She applies makeup and a mist of fragrance as she gets ready for a cozy night in.The ad’s final sales talk—‘Why put on clothes just to go out? “Get dressed up for yourself, because you’re the Nykaa, the lead heroine of your own life” clearly explains why it would resonate with so many women.The campaign is based on a brand plank introduced by Nykaa in 2021, the year it became publicly traded. However, the campaign’s positioning of Padukone as a ‘global icon’—rather than merely a Hindi film star revered in India and among the Indian diaspora—is even more remarkable.Nykaa's campaign press release mentions Padukone multiple times as a 'Global Icon,' yet it curiously lacks any explanation of her global appeal. She is characterized as an entrepreneur, a proponent of mental health advocacy, and a “timeless beauty,” all of which are indisputable. Padukone has invested several years in cultivating a global persona, marked by her presence at the Met Gala in NYC and the Cannes Red Carpet, her role as a Cannes Film Festival jury member in 2022, and her position as a global brand ambassador for Louis Vuitton that year. In 2017, she appeared in a minor role in the Hollywood action movie xXx and is said to be cast in its sequel as well.  

With the evolution of media models, ABC Chairman Karunesh Bajaj emphasizes the need for unified measurement and increased transparency.

With traditional print media regaining some ground and digital media still advancing, the Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC) is at a crucial juncture. Karunesh Bajaj, the newly appointed Chairman, is at the helm and tasked with future-proofing an institution that has long been regarded as the gold standard for circulation metrics. In his discussion with Adgully, Karunesh Bajaj delineates his strategy for bolstering trust, adjusting to hybrid consumption patterns, and reestablishing print media’s premium status within the fragmented advertising landscape.The present aim is to strengthen ABC’s status as the gold standard in circulation measurement. With the growing convergence of traditional and digital media, it is crucial for ABC to maintain accuracy, independence, and credibility in its metrics. Work will carry on to improve audit transparency and bolster industry confidence.For a long time, ABC has established the standard for circulation audits. To remain relevant and up-to-date in the changing media landscape, it is crucial to recognize that advertisers currently evaluate audiences across different platforms. Although print is still our primary focus, we ought to create frameworks that link print verification with additional data sources. These should prioritize metrics that reflect true engagement rather than just impressions or clicks, thus allowing publishers to effectively showcase value in a hybrid environment.Although Print circulation has been our primary concern, we acknowledge the growth of digital. We will investigate how ABC can assist digital measurement without duplicating it, by working together to align with global standards and offering advertisers a consolidated view of audience reach.  

Inside Triumph’s quiet revolution: Bhavin Devpuria discusses redefining lingerie marketing for a New India

For a long time, the lingerie marketing sector in India has been ruled by utility-first messaging, but Triumph International is changing that paradigm — one emotion at a time. Triumph is aiming its efforts at the hearts and habits of a younger, digital-native demographic, from the groundbreaking “I Feel Nothing” campaign — which turns the idea of comfort on its head by honoring the strength of feeling nothing at all — to influencer-driven stories that emphasize authenticity rather than aspiration. Devpuria’s vision integrates cultural subtleties with global brand values, establishing Triumph as not only a heritage label but also a modern influence in India’s rapidly changing lingerie market.In this dialogue with Adgully, Bhavin Devpuria, who heads marketing for Triumph International (India and Sri Lanka), discusses how Triumph is appealing to Gen Z and millennial customers, the importance of exclusive brand outlets in their retail strategy, and the evolution of influencer marketing into a realm where emotional connection and trust are paramount. From Diwali to wedding season, Devpuria highlights how Triumph is making a difference where it counts: in the everyday lives of real women. What was the main understanding that informed the “I Feel Nothing” campaign, and how does it distinguish Triumph within the context of India’s developing lingerie market? What was the evolution of the creative process for this campaign, from concept to execution?The key understanding is that genuine comfort in lingerie gives women the empowerment to live freely and with confidence, so much so that they can "forget" they are wearing it. This places Triumph in a unique position by emphasizing the feeling and experience over the product alone, transforming it from a dependable staple into a modern, stylish brand that instills confidence in India's market.Our marketing tone has been adjusted to be more modern and relatable, centering on "a feeling – the freedom to move, to live, to truly be yourself." This encompasses funny short films and digital material that highlight relatable situations, advancing past conventional product characteristics to underscore how our lingerie improves daily experiences for younger consumers.  

Sonu Sood promises support for the family of the late Avijot Singh.

Sonu Sood, actor and philanthropist, recently visited flood-affected areas in Punjab to assist families in crisis. He is now grieving the loss of Avijot, a young boy he met just days earlier during his relief efforts. The child and his family had received a promise from the actor that he would support them, making sure that the child’s treatment persisted in spite of the floods’ destructive effects.Sadly, Avijot has died, leaving parents and loved ones in grief. Sonu Sood shared an emotional note on social media, stating, “Avijot, since the day I met you, your strength has inspired me. Today I bid farewell, but I’ll always be there for your family???? Rest in peace, little angel ???? His message reflects both his sorrow and his commitment to supporting Avijot's family through this devastating loss.For numerous individuals, Sonu’s connection with Avijot epitomizes kindness and humanity. During catastrophic events, his presence has transcended the role of a mere source of relief; he has provided dignity, empathy, and a personal connection. Even after Avijot’s passing, Sonu Sood remains a steadfast source of strength, reminding us that true heroes are defined not only by their actions but also by the love and responsibility they bear for others.  

Katrina Kaif-Vicky Kaushal’s baby might share birthday week with THIS star kid turned actor; due date deets inside

Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal are undoubtedly one of the most adored star couples of the country. Fans love them and can’t seem to get enough of their love story. In fact, in 2021 when they got married at the Six Senses Resort, Fort Barwara in Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan, it felt like a personal win for many. So when it was reported that Katrina and Vicky might begin a brand new chapter in their happily ever after this year, netizens were ecstatic! A week ago, rumours surfaced suggesting that Vicky and Katrina are expecting their first child. Well, Kat’s possible due date has now been revealed by a source. Last week it was reported that Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif might welcome their baby in either October or November. However, there was no clarity because the couple have not confirmed the news of their rumoured pregnancy yet. Now, according to a new report shared by Bollywood Hungama, Katrina is apparently in her third trimester and the baby is expected to be delivered in late October. A source was quoted saying, “She is the third trimester of her pregnancy. The delivery is expected next month before October 15 and October 30. The actress and her hubby, Vicky Kaushal, prefer to keep it under wraps and probably want to announce about it after the birth of the baby.”This means that Katrina and Vicky’s baby could share a birthday week with another fellow star kid turned actor — Ananya Panday.For the uninitiated, Chunky Panday’s daughter and Ahaan Panday’s cousin sister Ananya Panday will turn 27 years old on October 30 this year. Imagine if Ananya and Katrina-Vicky's baby turn out to be birthday twins! But let’s patiently wait for Katrina and Vicky to share the good news, if there even is one. On the work front, Vicky is currently busy gearing up for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War, alongside Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor.  

Rainstorms in Kolkata cause four fatalities and flooding; metro services are disrupted, and airlines issue travel advisories | Weather updates

Kolkata and the neighboring areas have seen heavy rainfall, resulting in traffic gridlock in some parts and some sites submerged in knee-deep water. The rain that started overnight persisted, and more rain is expected, according to the weather service. After severe waterlogging, four persons died from electrocution. The Blue Line's metro services were also disrupted, and two airlines issued travel advisories due to inclement weather.Water invading homes and residential complexes has caused disruptions to people's daily lives in Kolkata as a result of the recent rainfall. This occurs as the city gets ready for Durga Puja's lavish celebrations. Following 200 mm of rainfall in North Kolkata and 180 mm in South Kolkata, widespread waterlogging was observed in both the city's northern and southern regions.According to PTI, four individuals perished from electrocution amid the city's severe waterlogging. In addition to an unnamed individual in Gariahat, the deceased were identified as Mumtaz Bibi (70) of Ekbalpur, Pranatosh Kundu (62) of Netaji Nagar, and Firoz Ali Khan (50) of Beniapukur.Significant waterlogging was observed in the midsection of the Blue Line (Dakshineswar–Shahid Khudiram) following heavy rainfall, specifically between Mahanayak Uttam Kumar and Rabindra Sarobar stations. As a result, services were immediately suspended on this stretch, according to news agency PTI. According to a Metro Railway Kolkata spokeswoman, the decision to suspend service between Shahid Khudiram and Maidan stations was made for the sake of public safety because safe travel is still of utmost importance.He stated, "Truncated services are being run between Dakshineswar and Maidan stations," and that regular services should soon return. Metro Railway police and employees have arrived on the scene to handle the situation, and water is currently being pumped out.  

Kay Beauty's Space NK debut is a significant milestone.

The UK saw a huge response to Kay Beauty's worldwide debut across a number of SKUs, and the brand naturally ranked first in Space NK Online Search Terms. The newest passion in the UK beauty world has just emerged. Co-founded by actor and icon Katrina Kaif and Nykaa, India's premier beauty and lifestyle destination, Kay Beauty, India's most popular and biggest celebrity beauty brand, made its eagerly awaited UK debut on September 3rd, exclusively at Space NK stores and online at spacenk.com.The debut of the brand has been greeted with remarkable fervor. The enthusiasm and anticipation around its debut in the UK market were highlighted by the fact that, within days of launch, "Kay Beauty" became the most popular phrase and "Kay" became the fourth most-searched term naturally on the Space NK website. Kay Beauty has already outperformed its predicted estimates by double digits, demonstrating that early sales success has exceeded expectations. With an average of 3.4 units per purchase, the brand is also winning over consumers at the basket level. Hydra Creme Lipstick is the best-selling product in the lip category, which is proving to be particularly noteworthy. It ranks 10th. Eleven of its sixteen gorgeous tones are in great demand, which reflects a fantastic response from customers. The Kajal Eyeliner Duo, Matte Liquid Lipstick, Hydrating Foundation, Matte Drama Bullet Lipstick, and EyeKanvas Discover Eyeshadow Palettes are other high-performing items.Kay Beauty was established in 2019 as a result of Katrina Kaif and Nykaa's goal to establish a brand that honors the transformational potential of beauty, promoting self-expression and enabling individuals to feel secure in their individuality. Based on the three fundamental tenets of diversity, care, and performance, Kay Beauty offers the UK a fresh, varied voice in beauty. With a concept of inclusivity, innovation, and modern Indian beauty on the international scene, Nykaa has expanded from India to the GCC and now to the UK thanks to its extensive category expertise, omnichannel reach, and shown capacity to build homegrown businesses.  

Effective October 1, Nissan appoints Max Messina as the AMIEO region's chairperson.

In support of the Re:Nissan recovery plan, Nissan today announced changes to its leadership in the AMIEO area (Africa, Middle East, India, Europe, and Oceania). Massimiliano (Max) Messina assumed complete command of operations over three continents, 140 countries, five plants, 13,000 people, and 26 models on sale when he was appointed Chairperson of the Nissan AMIEO area on October 1, 2025.Messina, 54, joined Nissan in 2022 and has a wealth of international experience in financial and operations roles in the automotive, retail, and industrial manufacturing sectors. She is presently the Vice Chairperson and Senior Vice President, Chief financial, Administration, and Strategy, Nissan AMIEO. His hiring will provide regional continuity, line with global goals, and sustain solid alliances with companies like Renault and Mitsubishi. The hiring follows the successful introduction of models including Patrol and Magnite in the Middle East and Africa, and comes as Nissan is ready to introduce four new electric cars to Europe.Victorino (Vito) Esnaola will take over as Senior Vice President, Finance & IT for the AMIEO region as Messina assumes his new position. Esnaola, 52, joined Nissan in 2015 as Finance Director for NMISA (Spain). In 2019, he was promoted to Finance Vice President for Europe, and in 2024, he assumed his current position as Finance Divisional General Manager, which is worldwide. He will answer directly to Messina in his new position as Senior Vice President.By fiscal 2026, the company hopes to achieve a return to profitability and positive free cash flow in the automotive sector as part of the Re:Nissan recovery plan. There have already been decisive steps taken to help achieve this objective.  

Flipkart Black capitalizes on holiday spending by offering highly customized premium incentives.

A leader in establishing India's e-commerce scene, Flipkart just unveiled Flipkart Black, a premium subscription service created to meet the changing needs of the country's pickiest online shoppers. Rahat Patel, Vice President, Loyalty at Flipkart, discussed the fundamental ideas behind Flipkart Black, its unique selling points, strategic alliances, and how the program is set up to increase consumer value both during and outside of the holiday season in an exclusive interview with Adgully.Patel claims that Flipkart Black's origins may be traced back to the company's ongoing efforts to pay close attention to consumer demands. With millions of members, Flipkart Plus, an earned loyalty program, is still thriving. However, research showed a clear divide among high-end digital natives.These are consumers who rely on the internet for everything from communication to content to travel to purchasing. They desire seamless integration of living experiences. They are willing to pay for advantages that go beyond transactional benefits because they are subscription-savvy and preference-driven, Patel said. This realization prompted the development of Flipkart Black, a program centered not only on shopping but also on routine use cases like travel, entertainment, speedy transactions, and first-rate customer support. Flipkart Black's strategic multi-year cooperation with YouTube Premium is one of its distinguishing characteristics.Flipkart Black's strategic multi-year cooperation with YouTube Premium is one of its distinguishing characteristics. "We wanted a 'privilege without pause' experience," Patel explained. Because it seamlessly supports music, video, and lifestyle content, YouTube Premium is a perfect fit. Customers don't need coupons or additional processes to become YouTube Premium users; they can just sign up for Black.By incorporating Cleartrip, Flipkart also took advantage of group synergies. One of the main complaints from customers is addressed by travel benefits like free cancellations. Plans are disrupted by emergencies. For Black people, privilege equates to adaptability. Free cancellations became an important value as a result, according to Patel. Although subscription models are not brand-new, Patel highlighted Flipkart Black's modern, lifestyle-focused approach. Quick Commerce Advantage: "We are the only program that offers SuperCoins in quick commerce a 5% always-on benefit." "Members earn and redeem 50 coins each time on an average ₹1,000 basket—a clear, tangible value," he said.