Rahul

Over 15 years of consulting & marketing expertise. Passionate about business growth. Join me for for tech, auto and industry updates!

[Rahul Narain Saxena @rahulsaxena17]

Decode the Business Jargon: EBITDA Explained!

#jgj #finance

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E-Invoicing in India Explained in 60 Seconds!

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@IndiaPostOffice Thanks, I have received the parcel.

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@IndiaPostOffice Consignment Number UI454150154IN was supposed to be delivered at my address today, but no one attempted delivery and I can see the status as "Item Onhold Door Locked-Intimation Served".

Isn't it unethical to update the wrong status? Can you please check.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

@IndiaPostOffice Thank you. Really appreciate.

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See the heart animation when you like this tweet #WWDC23

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The Next Big Thing in India's Logistics: Last-Mile Tech and Automation

--Super Speed and Savings

The logistics industry is changing fast. Machines and computers are now doing jobs quicker and better. One example is Flipkart using robot vehicles (AGVs) to move things around their warehouse. This means faster work, fewer mistakes and lower costs. When companies save money this way, they can pass the savings to us, the customers. This is good for us and for India's economy.

-- New Jobs on the Horizon

Some people worry that machines will take all the jobs. But, new kinds of jobs are also being created. Companies like GreyOrange and Addverb are building warehouse robots. They need skilled people for this. Plus, the money saved from automation could allow companies to grow and create even more jobs.

-- Good News for the Environment

Automation is not just good for business. It's also good for the environment. Robot vehicles can plan routes better, saving fuel and reducing pollution. Also, companies like Mahindra Electric and Tata Motors are using electric vehicles in logistics. This will reduce pollution even further.

-- Smarter Cities

Indian cities, notorious for their traffic congestion, could see a significant transformation due to the integration of advanced logistics technologies. New technologies are making deliveries more efficient and less disruptive. Companies like Amazon and Flipkart are backing these innovations. This could reduce traffic and pollution in our cities.

-- Growth for the Economy

Last-mile tech and automation could really boost India's economy. Companies like Delhivery and Rivigo are already using these technologies. They are not just benefiting from this but also driving growth and innovation in our economy.

In summary, automation in logistics is bringing both new challenges and big opportunities. If managed well, it could make our logistics industry even stronger and help India's economy grow.

#LogisticsAutomation #LastMileTechnology #EconomicGrowth #Sustainability #UrbanMobility

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

D2C in India: Shifting Focus to the Post-Purchase Experience

Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) brands in India are starting to understand that it's not just about making the sale. They're realizing that the journey doesn't end once a customer has made a purchase. Instead, they're seeing the value in ensuring a positive post-purchase experience. This shift in focus is a response to the intensifying competition in the D2C market, prompting brands to invest heavily in tech solutions to streamline their operations.

Creating a great post-purchase experience is just as important as the pre-purchase experience. However, providing comprehensive order tracking, timely deliveries, responsive customer service, and hassle-free returns can be a tall order for emerging brands with limited resources.

D2C brands face several challenges, including:

1. Lack of Unified Solutions: D2C brands often struggle to find a single provider that can handle various types of deliveries and returns, which can be particularly challenging for smaller brands.
2. Limitations of Delivery Companies: While delivery companies excel at transportation, they often lack comprehensive visibility throughout the entire delivery process.
3. High Costs for Small Parcel Delivery: Many D2C brands end up paying premium prices for delivery services from major providers. Without tech-enabled solutions, these brands could be spending an extra 15% annually.

To tackle these challenges, D2C brands can turn to technology. Data science and analytics can be used for intelligent management of warehouse operations and last-mile deliveries. AI-based solutions can help select the most suitable courier partner, allowing brands to optimize logistics costs without sacrificing quality. Advanced order tracking can help predict and mitigate the risk of returned orders.

As the D2C market continues to evolve, it's becoming increasingly crucial for brands to embrace trends like hyper-personalization, tailoring products to meet individual customer preferences. This approach can help brands forge stronger connections with their customers and make their offerings more appealing.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

Your Success Story Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint - Here's Why!

Greetings, my friends! Today, I have a story to share - a tale of grit, persistence, and unwavering resolve. This is the story of Ratan Tata.

Despite his wealthy background, success didn't just land in his lap. Ratan Tata embarked on his career right at the ground level, working hard in the gritty heart of Tata Steel. He didn't leapfrog to the top of Tata Sons overnight. It was a long, hard-earned journey, akin to a marathon rather than a fleeting sprint.

Throughout this marathon, he experienced the highs and lows, put in the sweat and effort, and learned the nuts and bolts of the business world. Each step was a new lesson, each mile a progression closer to becoming a leader.

When he assumed leadership of the company in 1991, it wasn't all plain sailing. He faced headwinds, criticism, and a myriad of challenges. But did he seek an easy shortcut? No. He kept his eyes on the horizon and continued his marathon.

During this journey, he encountered roadblocks, he stumbled, but he always picked himself up. Under his guidance, Tata Motors acquired Jaguar Land Rover, Tata Tea brought Tetley on board, and Tata Steel take over Corus. These monumental strides propelled the company onto the global stage.

By the time he retired in 2012, Tata Group was making over 40 times more money, and the profits were over 50 times more. This journey of over twenty years wasn't a result of a quick run but a long marathon.

So, dear friends, remember, your journey to success isn't about running fast; it's about keeping going. It's about keeping your pace, even if it feels slow. Success is not about getting to the finish line quickly; it's about finishing the marathon and enjoying each step.

In the end, it's not about who finishes first, but who keeps going, who falls, gets up, and keeps pushing. That's the real winner.

Let's promise to see our own journeys as marathons, not quick runs. Let's be okay with the problems, enjoy the journey, and most importantly - keep running! Your finish line is waiting for you.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

Air India's OTP Stumbles: A Shakeup in Aviation Punctuality Rankings

Air India's punctuality record took a hit recently, dropping from being the second most punctual among major airlines in April to the second least punctual in May, as per data from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA). The airline's on-time performance (OTP) fell from 91.63% in April to 83.27% in May.

On the other hand, Tata group's other airlines, AirAsia India and Vistara, managed to enhance their OTPs during the same period.

SpiceJet, which has consistently been at the lower end of the OTP charts for several months, experienced a further decline in its punctuality. The MoCA data revealed that SpiceJet's OTPs were 72.84% in April and 66.91% in May. Additionally, the budget airline reduced its flight schedule by about 10% in May compared to April, according to data from aviation analytics firm Cirum.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

Indian Startups See 15% MoM Funding Boost in May 2023: Sector-wise and Geographical Analysis

The total capital raised by Indian startups increased 15% month-on-month (MoM) to $1 billion in May 2023, up from $900 million in April 2023, according to data from Inc42. The number of deals also surged 31% to 80 in May 2023 from 61 in April 2023.

The sectors that attracted the most investment were enterprise tech, ecommerce, and fintech, which together accounted for 66% of the total funding raised in May. However, despite the MoM increase, the total funding raised by Indian startups fell 37.5% in May 2023 from $1.6 billion in May 2022.

Two significant funding deals in May 2023 were Builder. ai, which raised $250 million, and fintech giant PhonePe, which secured $100 million as part of its ongoing $1 billion funding round. Home appliance startup Atomberg’s $86 million funding round was among the other major investment deals during the month. The top ten deals accounted for over $710 million (71%) of funding in May 2023.

In terms of geographic distribution, Bengaluru accounted for the largest share of the funding amount at $265 million in May 2023, with Delhi NCR close behind at $230 million. Both cities saw 18 transactions each.

Despite the positive MoM trend, the year-on-year (YoY) situation remains challenging. Seed stage funding fell 60% YoY to $80 million in May 2023, and late-stage funding declined 34% YoY to $543 million during the month. However, seed and bridge stage funding numbers bounced back strongly in May after a slow April, showing signs of recovery.

The question remains whether this positive momentum can sustain in the future, especially given the erratic funding climate.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

India's major telecom companies, Reliance Jio, Vodafone Idea, and Bharti Airtel, have recently shared differing opinions with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on how to allocate spectrum for satellite communication services.

Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea are advocating for the allocation of this spectrum through an auction process. They believe that auctions are the fairest and most transparent way to assign spectrum, giving service providers the freedom to choose their technology, be it terrestrial, satellite, or something else.

On the other hand, Bharti Airtel is against the idea of auctioning off satellite spectrum. Airtel's argument is that such an auction would put Indian operators at a disadvantage compared to their global counterparts, who only need to pay an administrative fee for the necessary resources in other international markets. Airtel fears that auctioning the satellite spectrum and creating exclusivity could create competition barriers and potentially hinder the growth of India's emerging space ecosystem.

The Indian Space Association (ISpA), a representative body for the space industry, also voiced concerns about the auctioning of satellite spectrum, arguing that the characteristics of satellite spectrum make it unsuitable for an auction process.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

Tata Group's Groundbreaking $1.6 Billion EV Battery Plant in Gujarat

The Monumental Investment

Tata Group's recent announcement of a mammoth $1.6 billion investment into an avant-garde electric vehicle battery plant stands as a significant stride in their sustainable energy journey. This move not only fortifies their foothold in the EV industry but also marks a momentous shift in the renewable energy sector.

The Power of Partnership

The partnership that underlies this investment aligns Tata Group's vast industrial expertise with their strategic partner's superior battery technology. Together, they envision establishing one of the most extensive and advanced electric vehicle battery plants worldwide.

Tackling Climate Change with Sustainable Transportation

This investment is in harmony with the escalating demand for sustainable transportation alternatives, synergising with global attempts to curtail carbon emissions and counteract climate change.

State-of-the-art Battery Technology

The forthcoming battery plant is set to embody breakthrough battery technology, producing highly efficient and durable batteries that will raise the bar in the industry.

Economic Implications

Beyond its environmental impact, the plant will also infuse a significant stimulus into the economy, generating substantial employment opportunities.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Tata Group's dedication to environmental sustainability shines brightly in this initiative, underlining their effort to mitigate the carbon footprint related to EV manufacturing.

Driving Innovation in the EV Industry

This move positions Tata Group at the vanguard of the electric vehicle industry, fuelling innovation, hastening global adoption, and radically transforming our commuting experience.

A Visionary Investment

Tata Group's forward-thinking investment in the battery plant sets unprecedented benchmarks for performance, sustainability, and efficiency, thus shaping a greener and more sustainable future for electric mobility.

What do I think about this?

I am thoroughly impressed by Tata Group's visionary commitment. Their monumental investment in the EV battery plant not only demonstrates their proactive approach towards a sustainable future but also echoes their steadfast dedication to advancing technology and contributing positively to the economy. Indeed, this venture sets a resounding example for other organisations globally. It is initiatives like these that give us hope and confidence in our collective ability to shape a greener and more sustainable future. Truly, Tata Group is not just building a battery plant, they're energising a new era of electric mobility.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

Indian grooming and personal care startup Bombay Shaving Company (BSC) has raised INR 160 Cr in a Series C funding round. The round was led by hedge fund Malabar Investments, with participation from Patni Advisors, Singularity AMC, and other high-net-worth individuals.

The funding round also included an ESOP buyback and early investor exits worth INR 45 Cr. This comes nearly a year after the company raised $6.1 Mn (INR 45 Cr) in a funding round led by UK-based consumer goods giant Reckitt Benckiser. BSC also counts Colgate Palmolive among its investors.

Launched in 2016, BSC began as a direct-to-consumer men’s shaving and grooming products startup. It has since expanded into diverse hair removal and hair care categories, including a women’s hair removal range. The company currently has a portfolio of over 100 SKUs comprising hair removal products and creams, women razors, wax strips, and other products and accessories.

The newly raised funds will be invested towards the company's content offering and omnichannel distribution breadth. BSC is also planning for an initial public offering in the next 10-12 financial quarters. According to Inc42 Plus, Bombay Shaving Company has the best perception among men’s grooming direct-to-consumer brands in India.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

Aurum PropTech Acquires NestAway: A Strategic Move or a Risky Bet?

Aurum PropTech has acquired the home rental startup NestAway for INR 90 Cr ($10.93 Mn), with an additional INR 30 Cr injection to stabilize the business. This acquisition marks a new chapter for NestAway, which was once valued at $220 Mn in 2019.

NestAway's Journey

Founded in 2015, NestAway has been a key player in the online home rental space, transforming unfurnished houses into fully-furnished apartments for pre-verified tenants. Despite its innovative business model and a strong portfolio of 18,000 properties, the company has faced financial challenges, with a 36.2% decline in revenue and a 44.3% increase in losses in FY22 compared to FY21.

Strategic Move or Risky Bet?

The acquisition by Aurum PropTech raises questions. Is this a strategic move to consolidate its position in the home rental market, or is it a risky bet on a struggling company? The company had previously acquired HelloWorld, a co-living and student living vertical from NestAway, and successfully scaled up its operations within a year. This could suggest a continuation of this strategy.

What I think about this?

While the acquisition presents potential opportunities for market consolidation and growth, it also comes with significant risks due to NestAway's financial health. The success of this acquisition will largely depend on Aurum PropTech's ability to turn around NestAway's financial performance and restore its growth trajectory. The coming months will be crucial in determining the outcome of this move.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

Bhavish Aggarwal, the founder of Ola Cabs and Ola Electric, has incorporated a new company named Krutrim Si Designs Private Limited, according to a filing with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). The company, incorporated in April, is expected to operate in the artificial intelligence (AI) space. Krishnamurthy Venugopala Tenneti, who is also a director in Aggarwal’s other companies, is the only other director of Krutrim Si Designs.

The company is said to have received a funding commitment from Matrix Partners, an early backer of Ola. This news comes a week after it was reported that Ola Electric raised $300 million from an undisclosed sovereign fund company.

However, it's worth noting that Aggarwal has a mixed track record with his ventures. For example, Ola Cabs ventured into the quick commerce segment through Ola Dash but shut it down last year. It also launched Ola Cars, a used car selling marketplace, which was shut only eight months after its launch. Ola also ventured into the food delivery business with the acquisition of FoodPanda, but it failed to deliver the expected numbers and wound up its Indian operations after laying off employees. Therefore, it remains to be seen if his new venture through Krutrim Si Designs will be successful.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

����️ Fantastic news for Indian MotoGP fans - the first-ever global motorcycling event is coming to the Buddh International Circuit, Greater Noida from September 22-24, 2023, thanks to FairStreet Sports and a strategic partnership with BookMyShow.

This landmark event signifies a significant milestone for motorsports in India. By hosting a premier global MotoGP event, India marks its arrival on the world stage of motorsport, positioning itself as a key player in this thrilling arena. The partnership with BookMyShow also indicates the rising demand and growing fan base for such sporting events in India.

For Indian super-sport fans, this means an unprecedented opportunity to witness world-class racing action live. With BookMyShow's involvement, we can anticipate a seamless ticketing experience, along with exclusive offers that will surely enhance the overall experience. This event is not just a race; it's a pivotal moment for Indian motorsport, reflecting its growth and global recognition.

Registration for tickets is now open - a momentous step for Indian motorsport. Get ready, fans, for an adrenaline-fuelled experience like never before!

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

Royal Enfield sales rise 22 per cent in May at 77,461 units.

Here are my thoughts and analysis on how RE was able to achieve this feat:

--The Sales Boost

Royal Enfield's impressive sales growth illustrates its enduring market appeal and ability to thrive in a competitive landscape.

--Factors Contributing to Growth

Fresh product portfolio, strategic marketing, economic improvement, and a loyal customer base are likely contributors to Royal Enfield's sales growth.

--Global Market Presence

Beyond its domestic market, Royal Enfield has a formidable presence in international markets, including the United States and Europe. This global reach and focus might have contributed to its recent sales growth.

Royal Enfield's significant global presence underpins its sales growth and showcases the brand's wide-ranging appeal.

Royal Enfield's significant sales boost signals its sustained popularity and robust market performance, attributable to its innovation, strategic marketing, and customer-centric approach. This performance lays a strong foundation for its continued future success.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

Apple's strategic investment and retail expansion in India have paid off, breaking sales records and redefining customer service norms.

Moreover, Apple is contributing significantly to India's growth story through job creation, skills development, and local iPhone assembly.

This is an excellent example of a global tech giant successfully integrating and growing in a diverse market like India.

[Rahul @TechInsiderNow]

Lights, Camera, SAP! Your Friday Spotlight Fix is Here:

For 10 consecutive years, SAP has emerged as a leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Warehouse Management Systems!🏆

What's the secret behind this success? Let's break it down:
1. SAP's warehouse management system, SAP EWM, handles a wide range of tasks - everything from managing inventories to handling labor.
2. SAP EWM uses advanced technologies, making warehouses run smoothly.
3. It teams up with SAP Warehouse Robotics and SAP Warehouse Insights, improving how tasks are managed.

SAP EWM also works well with SAP Transportation Management and SAP Business Network for Logistics, giving everyone a clear view of what's going on.

This 10-year streak shows SAP's ongoing commitment to leading the industry and consistently improving.