Category: Business

  • After last year’s Tariffs, will hyperinflation become the next worldwide concern?

    After last year’s Tariffs, will hyperinflation become the next worldwide concern?

    With the latest war in the Middle East continuing, the resultant oil and gas shock has started to cripple the developing world, with implications that could threaten more than just livelihoods

    New Delhi [India], March 23: Throughout the years, we’ve filled up our tanks or our gas cylinders as soon as we needed one without battling an eyelid. That’s changed in the last two weeks, as people across the developing world now wonder how they’ll travel to work or cook their next meal, given the astronomical price rises or limited supply of petrol and CNG gas available.

    Until February 28, no one cared about geopolitics, and how it could affect literally everyone around them. The US and Israel’s attacks on Iran and the subsequent bombing campaigns engulfing the Middle East is now a global concern, threatening the global economy as we know it.

    The danger of taking a limited resource for granted

    Almost 20% of the world’s supply of oil and natural gas passes through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage most tankers have to pass through before it eventually reaches your petrol pump or kitchen for daily use. With this Strait now effectively blocked, the energy requirements of millions are now in jeopardy. 

    For years, many countries didn’t think twice about its petrol or gas requirements, assuming that its shipments would keep coming as required, just like an unending supply of water. Many of them didn’t even consider keeping buffer stocks that could sponge the price shocks temporarily.

    That costly mistake is showing up now, with never ending lines for petrol at pumps witnessed in Pakistan and Bangladesh and LPG shortages witnessed in India. Governments are now hoping for a ceasefire, or an immediate resumption of supplies as there are signs that the Strait is expected to partially open for shipments to developing countries.

    Even though EV vehicles and induction cooktops have been around for quite some time, this emergency need has made them realise the importance of diversifying their energy needs.

    The real challenge:Hyperinflation

    If 2025 was known for US tariffs, 2026 is now being feared for ‘hyperinflation’ as uncertainty associated with sustained Middle Eastern energy supplies continues to worry everyone from governments, economists, businessmen and your mother’s grocery bills.

    With no end to the war in sight, and with critical oil infrastructure being damaged across the Middle East, fears of a disruption in oil supplies remain a real possibility.

    For millions of people living across the developing world, the near term risks could be higher prices of fuel and gas, even as interest in alternatives are being viewed keenly. The knock on effects on food, logistics and various essential services is already being witnessed,and things could get worse.

    The question remains- how worse, and how much time will it take to get things in order?

    There is renewed hope, but will that hope turn into a ceasefire?

    That’s a question on everyone’s mind.

    PNN Business

  • Dhruv Consultancy Services Wins Rs 3.95 Cr NHAI Contract for DPR Preparation in Uttar Pradesh

    Dhruv Consultancy Services Wins Rs 3.95 Cr NHAI Contract for DPR Preparation in Uttar Pradesh

    Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 23: Dhruv Consultancy Services Limited. (DCSL) (BSE – 541302 | NSE – DHRUV), one of India’s established infrastructure consultancy firms, is pleased to announce that it has received the Letter of Award (LOA) from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for providing Consultancy Services for the preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR).

    The project pertains to the capacity augmentation of the Varanasi–Jaunpur–Sultanpur–Lucknow stretch spanning approximately 44 km in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The contract has been awarded at a value of ₹3.95 Cr (excluding GST).

    Project Overview

    Under this mandate, the company will undertake comprehensive DPR preparation, including technical studies, feasibility assessments, and detailed planning for the capacity augmentation of this key highway corridor in Uttar Pradesh. The total project duration is 7 months.

    This project marks another important addition to the company’s growing DPR consultancy portfolio and strengthens its positioning in the high-value design and engineering segment. It enhances the company’s credentials in handling complex highway infrastructure assignments, deepens its relationship with NHAI, and supports its strategy to expand presence across key geographies. 

    Commenting on the development, Mrs. Tanvi Dandawate Auti, Managing Director, stated, “We are pleased to receive this DPR consultancy assignment from NHAI for an important highway corridor in Uttar Pradesh. This mandate reinforces our expertise in delivering detailed engineering and project preparation services for large-scale infrastructure projects. Our focus will be on delivering a high-quality, data-driven DPR that supports efficient project execution and long-term infrastructure development. We remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of technical excellence and timely delivery.

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  • IBL Finance Ltd has secured a Credit Rating from Acuité Ratings and Research Limited

    IBL Finance Ltd has secured a Credit Rating from Acuité Ratings and Research Limited

    Surat (Gujarat) [India], March 21: IBL Finance Ltd (NSE – IBLFL) a fintech-driven Non-Banking Financial Company has secured a LONG-TERM INVESTMENT GRADE rating of BBB- (Triple B Minus) with a Stable Outlook by the rating agency Acuité Ratings & Research Limited.

    This achievement reflects the Company’s strong governance standards, prudent risk management practices, sound financial discipline, and robust compliance framework. The rating reinforces our credibility within the financial ecosystem and marks an important milestone in strengthening our market position and long-term growth strategy. With this rating, IBL Finance Limited is well-positioned to access capital at competitive rates, accelerate strategic investments, and further strengthen its leadership in the fintech-enabled lending space.

    Key Strengths

    1. Healthy Capital Structure

    IBL Finance Limited maintains a strong capital position supported by a healthy net worth and comfortable capital adequacy levels. The Company has a net worth of ₹ 59.90 Crore as on September 30, 2025. IBLFL is listed on the NSE Emerge and successfully raised ₹ 33.40 Crore through its IPO in January 2024, strengthening its capital base to support future growth.

    The Company’s gearing remained comfortable at 0.62x as on September 30, 2025, indicating adequate headroom for further borrowings. Additionally, the Company maintains a strong Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of 57.27% as on September 30, 2025, significantly above regulatory requirements.

    Post IPO, the promoters and the promoters group continue to hold approximately 63% shareholding, reflecting continued promoter commitment, while the remaining shareholding is held by public investors.

    • Strong and Diversified Debt Resource Mix

    The company has a well-diversified resource mix for debt raising. As of September 2025, approximately 21% of the total borrowings are raised through NCDs, while around 79% are sourced from Financial Institutions (FIs). Going forward, the company intends to further diversify its borrowing profile by raising funds through multiple channels, including NCDs, loans from FIs, and bank borrowings, with the objective of optimizing borrowing costs and maintaining a well-structured debt resource mix.

    • Stable Asset Quality

    The Company is engaged in Financial Institution (FI) lending and personal loans, with FI lending forming the core of its portfolio. As of September 30, 2025, approximately 90% of the Company’s AUM comprised FI lending to NBFCs (Secured), while the remaining portfolio consisted of personal loans.

    As of September 30, 2025, the Company reported Gross NPA (GNPA) of 2.71% and Net NPA (NNPA) of 2.44%, indicating stable asset quality, compared to GNPA of 2.54% and NNPA of 1.99% as on March 31, 2025.

    • Strategic Allocation of Lending Across Product Segments

    The company has diversified its lending portfolio across multiple product segments through financing to Financial Institutions (FIs). As on September 2025, the portfolio (end use wise) is well distributed with 39.14% in Personal Loans, 15.65% in Business Loans (secured & unsecured), 12.00% in Vehicle Loans, 10.31% in Consumer Loans, 9.86% in Loan Against Property (LAP), 7.88% in Microfinance (MFI), and 5.16% in Gold Loan.

    Financial Performance

    Over the past few years, the Company has demonstrated strong and consistent financial growth with clear year-wise improvements across all key parameters. The Net Worth has increased significantly from ₹20.67 crore in FY 2022–23 to ₹59.90 crore as of September 2025, reflecting a robust growth of 190%. Similarly, Assets Under Management (AUM) have expanded sharply from ₹14.61 crore in FY 2022–23 to ₹94.13 crore in September 2025, marking an impressive growth of 544%, indicating strong business expansion and customer acquisition. On the profitability front, Profit Before Tax (PBT) has improved from ₹2.86 crore in FY 2022–23 to ₹2.99 crore in FY 2024–25, while Profit After Tax (PAT) has remained healthy, growing from ₹2.05 crore in FY 2022–23 to ₹2.36 crore in FY 2024–25, and standing at ₹1.24 crore for the half year ended FY 2025–26. In terms of asset quality, the Company has shown notable improvement with Gross NPA reducing from 5.19% in FY 2022–23 to 2.71% in September 2025, and Net NPA declining from 3.94% to 2.44% over the same period. Overall, the year-wise performance reflects a well-balanced growth strategy supported by improving profitability and strengthening asset quality.

    About IBL Finance Limited

    IBL Finance Limited (IBLFL), established in 2017, represents a new generation of financial services innovation in India. As a fintech-driven Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and listed on the NSE Emerge platform, stand at the intersection of traditional financial expertise and cutting-edge digital technology.

    The Headquartered in Surat, Gujarat—one of India’s most dynamic business hubs—IBL Finance has established itself as a trusted financial partner for diverse customer segments. Our comprehensive product portfolio serves individuals seeking personal financial solutions and NBFCs looking for institutional funding partnerships. This diversified approach ensures that company remain resilient across market cycles while delivering consistent value to their stakeholders.

    Since commencing operations in 2018, IBL Finance has achieved remarkable milestones: disbursing over ₹350+ crores in loans and serving 1.86+ lakh customers across India. This track record demonstrates company ability to scale operations efficiently while maintaining asset quality and customer satisfaction. Company’s pan-India presence ensures that it can serve customers wherever they operate, from metropolitan cities to tier-2 and tier-3 towns.

    Disclaimer:Certain statements in this document that are not historical facts are forward looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties like government actions, local, political, or economic developments, technological risks, and many other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the relevant forward-looking statements. IBL Finance Ltd. will not be in any way responsible for any action taken based on such statements and undertakes no obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

  • Beyond Policy: Closing India’s Credit Gap for Women Entrepreneurs

    Beyond Policy: Closing India’s Credit Gap for Women Entrepreneurs

    New Delhi [India], March 21: India’s entrepreneurial landscape is changing rapidly. More women today are launching businesses, leading MSMEs, investing in property, and building long-term financial assets than ever before. Their participation is not only reshaping households and industries but also strengthening India’s broader economic momentum.

    Policy support for this shift has steadily grown over the past decade. Initiatives such as the Women Entrepreneurship Platform by NITI Aayog, Stand-Up India, and targeted MSME credit schemes signal a clear national direction — women must be central contributors to economic expansion.

    Yet, despite this supportive policy ecosystem, access to structured and timely credit remains a practical challenge for many women entrepreneurs and professionals.

    The difficulty often lies not in the lack of capability or ambition, but in navigating a lending environment that can feel fragmented. Eligibility frameworks vary across lenders, documentation expectations differ, and approval timelines are not always predictable. For borrowers seeking to expand businesses, raise capital against property, or formalise growing enterprises, these complexities can slow down important financial decisions.

    A woman entrepreneur with stable cash flows and strong repayment capacity may still spend considerable time identifying the lender best suited to her financial profile. In several cases, viable borrowers approach multiple institutions before finding the right structure or approval framework.

    The issue, therefore, is rarely creditworthiness.
     More often, it is clarity and alignment within the credit process.

    “Women entrepreneurs in India are building serious businesses and creating real economic value, The opportunity today lies in making access to credit more transparent and efficient. When borrowers can clearly understand which lenders are aligned with their profile, the process becomes faster and far more productive.” says Nitin Khandelwal, Founder & CEO, OneNDF.

    As women increasingly participate in asset ownership and enterprise creation, the demand for structured capital is becoming more visible. Borrowing today is driven by clear objectives — expanding MSMEs, acquiring residential or commercial property, investing in professional ventures, or strengthening long-term financial security.

    What the ecosystem increasingly requires is greater transparency in how borrowers connect with lenders.

    Platforms that bring together lender networks, eligibility insights, and structured advisory can help simplify this journey. By enabling borrowers to evaluate options across multiple banks and NBFCs in a more organised manner, the credit process becomes less about trial-and-error and more about informed decision-making.

    In this evolving ecosystem, OneNDF is working to bring greater clarity to the borrowing process by helping borrowers understand lender expectations and identify institutions aligned with their financial profile.

    Such efforts are particularly relevant at a time when India’s economic growth increasingly depends on broader access to institutional finance.

    As more women build businesses and financial assets, enabling efficient credit access becomes more than a question of inclusion — it becomes an economic priority. Simplifying the pathway between borrowers and lenders ensures that capital flows where it is most productive.

    When that happens, businesses scale faster, assets are created with greater confidence, and the overall economy becomes stronger.

    In the coming years, the real measure of progress will not only be how many women enter entrepreneurship, but also how effectively the financial system supports their growth.

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  • ABS Marine Services Takes Delivery of Offshore Support Vessel “HADES” Strengthens Vessel Ownership Portfolio; Enhances Offshore Capabilities

    ABS Marine Services Takes Delivery of Offshore Support Vessel “HADES” Strengthens Vessel Ownership Portfolio; Enhances Offshore Capabilities

    Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 21: ABS Marine Services Limited (NSE: ABSMARINE), one of the leading maritime companies offering comprehensive services in Ship Management, Vessel Ownership, Marine and Port Services, has successfully taken delivery of a 2009-built Offshore Support Vessel (OSV) “HADES” from the international market.

    The acquisition marks a strategic addition to the Company’s owned fleet and aligns with its ongoing efforts to strengthen its offshore service capabilities. The vessel, with a gross tonnage of approximately 1,737 tons, was contracted for purchase during Q4 FY26 and is now officially inducted into operations.

    Acquisition Highlights

    • Vessel Name: HADES

    • Type: Offshore Support Vessel (OSV)

    • Year Built: 2009

    • Gross Tonnage: ~1,737 Tons

    • Source: International Market

    • Strategic Purpose: Fleet expansion and offshore service enhancement 

    Strategic Impact

    The acquisition of Offshore Support Vessel “HADES” marks a strategic addition to ABS Marine’s owned fleet and strengthens its offshore service capabilities. This expansion is expected to enhance the Company’s operational efficiency by reducing reliance on third-party vessels and improving margin profile, while enabling participation in higher-value offshore assignments. The addition also provides greater control over service delivery and supports long-term revenue visibility through asset-backed operations. Overall, it positions the Company to capitalize on the growing demand in offshore and marine infrastructure segments, further reinforcing its competitive standing in the maritime sector.

    Comment on Financial Performance Captain P.B. Narayanan, Managing Director of ABS Marine Limited said, “The acquisition of Offshore Support Vessel ‘HADES’ marks another important step in our journey of expanding our owned fleet and strengthening our offshore capabilities. This addition enhances our ability to cater to evolving client requirements across offshore and marine services. We remain committed to building a robust asset base that supports sustainable growth and reinforces our position in the maritime sector.

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  • NIS Management Subsidiary Secures CCTV and OFC Restoration Project

    NIS Management Subsidiary Secures CCTV and OFC Restoration Project

    Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], March 21: NIS Management Limited, (BSE – 544495), One of leading integrated services platforms, specialising in security, facility management, electronic security, and skill development, has announced its subsidiary, NIS Facility Management Services Private Limited, has received a Letter of Intent from West Bengal Electronics Industry Development Corporation Limited for restoration of CCTV cameras under the “CCTV Project and OFC Backbone Project in NKGSCCL” covering the entire New Town area.

    The scope of work includes restoration of CCTV cameras through Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) laying along with installation of related accessories, ensuring seamless surveillance coverage and robust network connectivity across the region. The project is aimed at strengthening the existing urban surveillance infrastructure, improving monitoring capabilities, and supporting smart city initiatives in New Town. The total value of the contract stands at ₹56.01 Lakhs (inclusive of all applicable taxes).

    With increasing focus on urban safety, smart city development, and digitisation of public infrastructure, electronic security and CCTV-based projects are witnessing strong demand from government bodies and municipal authorities. Such projects typically offer better margin profiles compared to traditional facility management services, driven by higher technical intensity, integration capabilities, and value-added service components. This positions the Company favourably to enhance its service mix and improve overall profitability over the medium term.

    Commenting on the Development Mr. Debajit Choudhury Chairman & Managing Director, of NIS Management Limited said, “We view this as a testament to the dedication and expertise of our subsidiary’s team, and we are encouraged by the opportunity to collaborate with the West Bengal Electronics Industry Development Corporation Limited on this project. We believe continued stakeholder support will play an important role in successfully executing such initiatives.

    This order further strengthens the Company’s electronic security capabilities while reinforcing its growing presence in government-led urban infrastructure and smart surveillance projects, and aligns with its strategy to scale higher-value, technology-driven service offerings.”

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  • Dosti Realty launches 56-storey residential tower ‘Dosti 604’ in Wagle Estate

    Dosti Realty launches 56-storey residential tower ‘Dosti 604’ in Wagle Estate

    Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 21: Dosti Realty Ltd. has announced the launch of Dosti 604, a landmark residential development designed to reflect the evolving character of Wagle Estate and its emergence as a mixed-use urban hub. Spread across approximately 2.5 acresDosti 604 rises as one of the tallest residential towers in Wagle Estate, with 56 habitable floors reaching nearly 170 metres. The tower is designed by acclaimed architect Hafeez Contractor and features three residential wings supported by seven podium levels.

    Positioned within Thane’s expanding commercial ecosystem, the project has been envisioned as a contemporary residential address offering panoramic views of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, while integrating modern architectural design with lifestyle-focused planning. The arrival experience begins with a landscaped entry deck that incorporates sculpture installations, seating zones, a skating rink, a cricket pitch and a Miyawaki forest designed to introduce pockets of greenery within the urban setting.

    The development features more than 25 lifestyle amenities distributed across multiple levels of the tower. The podium leisure deck brings together a wide range of recreational and wellness facilities including lap and infinity-edge swimming pools, a kids’ pool, jacuzzi, party lawn and alfresco deck. Indoor lifestyle spaces include a health club, fitness centre, business centre, conference rooms and a banquet hall, reflecting the needs of modern urban professionals who increasingly blend work, leisure and social interaction within their residential environments.

    At the upper levels, an elevated sky deck offers panoramic leisure experiences with amenities such as a sky gym, sunset lounge, stargazing corner, yoga lawn, outdoor cinema lounge, meditation pods and viewing decks overlooking the surrounding cityscape. The rooftop also features a pickleball court, among the highest in India, adding a distinctive sporting highlight to the skyline experience.

    Strategically located within Wagle Estate, the project benefits from proximity to major arterial roads including LBS Marg, the Eastern Express Highway and Ghodbunder Road, while remaining approximately ten minutes from Thane railway station. Connectivity is expected to strengthen further with the upcoming Mumbai Metro Line 4 and the proposed Thane Ring Metro, with a station planned near Wagle Circle, just a minute from the development.

    Commenting on the launch, Mr Deepak Goradia, Chairman and Managing Director, Dosti Realty, said: “Mumbai’s biggest real estate transformations rarely happen overnight. Areas like Lower Parel, Bandra-Kurla Complex, and Powai evolved from mills, marshland, and overlooked suburbs into thriving urban hubs following a familiar pattern where jobs arrive first, infrastructure follows, and homes come later. Today, Wagle Estate appears to be at a similar turning point, transforming from an industrial zone into a growing business district and driving rising demand for homes close to workplaces.

    Dosti Realty has often been at the forefront of such transformations from Dosti Acres at Antop Hill, to Dosti Planet North in Shil–Thane, Dosti West County in Balkum, and Dosti Greater Thane in Kalher pioneering residential communities in emerging micro-markets that later evolved into sought-after neighbourhoods.”

    Mr Anuj Goradia, Director, Dosti Realty, added, “Mumbai’s urban growth has always followed a recognisable pattern where commercial activity drives residential demand in the surrounding areas. Wagle Estate is currently undergoing one of the most significant transitions within Thane’s urban landscape. With Dosti 604, our objective is to introduce a residential address that complements this evolution by offering connectivity, thoughtful design and a lifestyle environment suited to the needs of today’s urban professionals.”

    Sustainability has also been integrated into the project’s planning, with environmentally conscious features including solar-powered common areas, rainwater harvesting systems, groundwater recharge mechanisms and efficient waste management infrastructure. Landscaped open spaces and shaded walkways have been incorporated within the master plan to enhance everyday living while supporting eco-sensitive urban development. With its proximity to major corporate parks, reputed educational institutions, healthcare facilities and retail destinations, Dosti 604 aims to address the growing demand for premium residential options within Thane’s expanding business district.

    As Wagle Estate continues its evolution into a dynamic mixed-use neighbourhood often referred to as the “BKC of Thane”, developments such as Dosti 604 reflect the broader shift towards integrated urban living where work, connectivity and lifestyle coexist within a single ecosystem.

    With this launch, Dosti Realty continues its long-standing approach of identifying emerging micro-markets and shaping them through thoughtfully planned residential developments. As Wagle Estate’s transformation gathers pace, Dosti 604 marks another step in the developer’s vision of creating future-ready communities that combine connectivity, design excellence and long-term value within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

    MahaRERA No. PR1330002502719

    https://maharera.maharashtra.gov.in

    About Dosti Realty

    For over four decades, Dosti Realty has been a symbol of trust and excellence in real estate, transforming both locations and lives. Driven by a deep understanding of evolving customer needs, we have delivered 17 mn. sq. ft. across 143+ properties, shaping over 23,500 residences into homes where families thrive. Guided by our ethos, ‘Friends for Life’, we focus on thoughtful design, timeless architecture, and a seamless home-buying experience from regular construction updates to exceptional post-possession support. Through years of listening, learning, and innovating to meet the aspirations of homebuyers, we build more than just structures; we create spaces that foster connection, harmony, and a true sense of belonging. With over 21 mn sq. ft. of upcoming developments across Mumbai Metropolitan Region and Pune, including residences, schools, commercial spaces, retail, and IT parks, we remain committed to trust, transparency, quality, and timely delivery, building brighter futures and nurturing communities for generations to come.

    Visit: www.dostirealty.com

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