Month: September 2023

–          Doubles FY’23 revenue to Rs. 295 Cr., targets profitability and positive EBITDA in FY’25

Defying industry trends, LEAD, India's largest School Edtech company, has achieved remarkable growth in FY’23, clocking Rs. 410 Cr. ARR and booking a revenue of Rs 295 Cr. during the fiscal.  With strong unit economics and scale, LEAD has reduced its cash burn by 60-70% versus last year and is on the path to achieve profitability and become EBITDA positive in FY’25. 

Early in 2023, LEAD entered the high-fee school segment via the strategic acquisition of Pearson’s local K-12 learning business in India.  Later in July 2023, LEAD announced its entry into the low-fee school segment in India, propelling a new era of educational excellence in Bharat. LEAD's strong performance positions it as the frontrunner in the Indian School Edtech industry, demonstrating its ability to drive profitable growth and improve learning outcomes across 25 mn students in 60,000 schools by 2028.

Sumeet Mehta, CEO and Co-Founder, LEAD, said, “We have kept our heads down and focused on transforming schools with our integrated solutions.  Improving learning outcomes in schools has led to a 2X growth versus last year.  And with increasing scale, we are on track towards profitability. This reinforces our belief that technology, when used to empower teachers and schools, can have a transformative impact on education.  And now we have a solution for every school in this country.”

School Edtech in India represents a key opportunity to shape the country’s future educational outcomes.  Recent analysis of India’s School Edtech sector indicates that schools across segments are poised for rapid transformation and digitization, underpinned by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 guidelines that mandate multimodal teaching-learning in schools; rising data penetration; and accelerated digital adoption due to Covid.

LEAD's profitable growth, reduced cash burn, and clear roadmap to profitability position it as an industry leader, driving a revolution in education across India’s small towns. The company's unwavering commitment to financial excellence and strategic growth paves the way for a transformative shift in Indian School Edtech. 

SBI General Insurance, one of India’s leading general insurers, today announced the launch of ‘Super Health Insurance’ a comprehensive health insurance product. The productis designed to ensure that customers have an extensive health care policy that meets all health care needs and enables them to alleviate the financial burden associated with hospitalization and medical expenses.

The policy provides anextensive range of coverages, which includes 27 standard coverages and 7 optional coverages.There are 4plans under the product which offers wide range of sum insured options ranging from Rs. 3 Lacs to Rs. 2 crores, and the policy tenure can be opted from one to three years.This product is designed to cater to a broad spectrum of customers, including individuals from all income groups, from lower income to NRIs.

Mr. Anand Pejawar, Whole-time Director, SBI General Insurance, said, “At SBI General, we have been committed to provide our customers, access to quality healthcare through our comprehensive health insurance solutions. In-line with this mission, we have accelerated our focus bybuilding a dedicated health vertical which not only offers unique need-based health products but also services the claims with in-house model. As a part of this accelerated focus, we are glad to launch Super Health Insurance, a health insurance product with best-in-class coverages & features.Under ‘Super Health Insurance’, our endeavour is to offer the “ReInsure Benefit” i.e. refill of Sum Insured,for an unlimited number of times in various forms from 1^st Claim itself.”

“Besides these, this flagship health insurance product also has some new-agefeatures like, wellness cover that includes‘Walk Healthy Benefit’ feature which allows customers to accrue health benefits by achieving a goal of steps on a dedicatedapp and thereby receive a reduction of up to 30% on their renewal premium”, he added.

 

Some of the exclusive covers of Super Health:

·         ReInsure Benefit – Refill of sum insured unlimited times during the policy tenure which is activated with the first payable claim itselfincase one is short of coverage for related/unrelated illnesses/injuries

·         Health Multiplier feature which will enable the Sum Insured for listed serious illnesses to be increased by a3(three) times* multiplier

·         Enhanced Cumulative Bonus (ECB) – This will be applied by 50% of the Base Sum Insured of immediate preceding Policy Year in respect of each claim freePolicy Year.

·         Claims Shield Benefit will help with payments towards non-medical expenses(commonly known as consumables) during the hospitalization

·         Annual health check-up from Day 1^#

·         Outpatient (OPD) cover^# (including diagnostics and pharmacy expenses)

·         Supporting a medical treatment abroad cover^# (for listed 16 major illness)

*Multiplier of 3 times for Sum Insured 15 Lacs and Above and Multiplier of 2 times for Sum Insured between 3 Lacs to 10 Lacs

^#Applicable for Platinum and Platinum Infinite plans

For Complete details on Product, please read policy document carefully.

• Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death and disease in India, ranking second in the world.
• Improved access to lung cancer screening critical to saving lives in India and across Asia.

 

As per a new consensus by 19 experts across Asia, published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology, it has been found that the use of a low dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan can significantly reduce the number of deaths caused due to lung cancer. Asia bears the greatest burden from the world’s most common form of lung cancer, and experts note that deaths caused by the disease could be reduced by ensuring earlier diagnosis through improved screening access and changes to how people are screened.¹

Among their recommendations, which were shared at the World Conference on Lung Cancer being held in Singapore this week, experts urge a shift from traditionally used chest X-rays to a more advanced procedure known as LDCT,¹ which uses a computer with low dose X-rays to generate a series of pictures and can help to detect lung abnormalities, including tumours.² 

Lung cancer is the fourth most common cancer and among the top 5 cancers leading to death in India. Each year, over 72,000 cases are diagnosed in India alone. In a proof-of-concept pilot study in smokers conducted at a tertiary centre, lung nodules were found in 335 (93%) smokers.³ Lung cancer accounts for 5.9% of all incidences of cancer and 8.1% of all cancer-related deaths.⁴

The consensus is the result of extensive discussion among experts from Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, backed by the Lung Ambition Alliance (LAA), a non-profit collaboration between the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC), the Global Lung Cancer Coalition (GLCC), AstraZeneca, and Guardant Health. The experts also called for improvements to the incorporation of smoking cessation programmes alongside lung cancer screening programmes.¹

In most parts of Asia, LDCT is still not implemented in routine lung cancer screening programs due to challenges such as perceived cost, reimbursement, lack of infrastructure and trained staff, reluctance of eligible high-risk individuals, as well as absence of well-defined guidelines.^1 ‘

 

Dr. Anil Kukreja, Vice President, Medical Regulatory Affair, said “Empowering lives and defeating lung cancer in India hinges on one crucial element which is early detection. The implementation of risk prediction models and AI-supportive modalities to boost the efficacy of screening and follow-up with LDCT was another recommendation by the experts to overcome the lack of access challenges. In India, implementing LDCT is a challenge, but we are leveraging AI for screening, and it can be a modality which will help in early diagnosis.

 

Currently with our partners like Qure.ai, we are improving access and their technology is already implemented in few states. By enhancing access to lung screening programs and establishing standardized protocols, we stand resolute in the fight against lung cancer, leaving a profound and lasting impact on integrated lung healthcare. At AstraZeneca, we are always working towards saving more lives from lung cancer through timely intervention.”

 

Artificial intelligence (AI) based algorithms have demonstrated increased accuracy in predicting the risk of Lung Cancer among patients with an incidental pulmonary nodule on chest radiographs.⁵ Qure.ai, a leading artificial intelligence solutions provider for imaging technologies, has deployed AI-enabled chest imaging solutions that can detect nodules and flag the malignancy risk of the nodule using their proprietary lung nodule malignancy score (LNMS) based on the nodule characteristics.

Prashant Warier, Co-founder and CEO of Qure.ai opined, “We are looking forward to seeing more such discourses shaping up new paradigms of clinical care when it comes to defeating lung cancer. By harnessing the power of AI and advanced imaging, we aim to transform how incidental pulmonary nodules are identified and categorized, enabling clinicians to discern high or low risk of lung cancer swiftly.”

 

At Qure.ai, we are committed to redefining healthcare paradigms and enhancing patient outcomes through cutting-edge AI solutions. Our partnership with AstraZeneca is a perfect example of creating such real impact,” he added.

 

According to the consensus, patients with detected screening abnormalities while undergoing routine health screening and persistent exposure to risk factors are recommended to be screened with LDCT annually, while high-risk heavy smokers should do so twice a year.¹

While smoking is the leading risk factor, lung cancer among never-smokers accounts for a substantial proportion of cases.⁶ Studies have shown a higher proportion of non-smoking lung cancer patients in Asia, when compared to Europe and North America.^7-10 In addition, non-smoking lung cancer patients in Asia are more likely to be diagnosed at an earlier age compared with current and former smokers^9,11. India has over 10 crore adult smokers, ranking second in the world.

 

Therefore, the experts agree that it is necessary to support high-risk patients to access screening procedures, irrespective of their smoking status, by considering factors such as genetics and demographics.

 

Although the lung cancer death rate has been steady or decreasing in Western countries,¹² it has been increasing in Asia for the past two decades.¹³ Experts believe the high cancer death rate in low-and middle-income Asian countries can be attributed to several factors, including patients not always being able to access the right treatment for them.¹⁴  Documenting country-specific evidence on risk factors among never-smokers, which include age, family history of lung cancer, history of other cancers, second-hand smoking, and exposure to indoor (cooking and heating fumes) and outdoor air pollution, could also help garner government support in establishing a lung cancer screening program locally, they note.

To overcome these difficulties, the experts recommend improving access to lung screening programmes and subsequent care by having a standardised protocol for follow-up LDCT scans and consideration for integrated lung healthcare, such as a national screening programme.

●        Delhi Public School (DPS) Raj Nagar Extension hosted an education fair in collaboration with MSM Unify to connect students with global educational opportunities

●        Top-tier universities such as St. Thomas University, Mount Allison University, Whitworth University and others had set up student counselling booths

●        Other prominent schools such as Gurukul – The School, Pacific World School, DPS Siddharth Vihar, DPS Sahibabad, and DPSG International also graced the fair

 

Leading study abroad platform MSM Unify and Delhi-NCR’s renowned Delhi Public School (DPS) Raj Nagar Extension recently organised an International University Educational Fair at the school. This collaboration is aimed at empowering aspiring students to explore top-tier international education opportunities. The fair witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and parents alike, providing a unique platform for students to engage directly with representatives from prestigious universities from Canada, USA, UK, Australia, and other countries.

 

Participants enthusiastically explored various academic courses, their schedules, and discussed scholarship and financial aid options. Both students and their parents attended the fair, and some participants benefited from on-the-spot admission evaluations. The event garnered tremendous attention and attendance, ensuring that learners receive exposure to the myriad opportunities that await them on the global education stage.

 

Notable institutions such as St. Thomas University, Mount Allison University, Whitworth University, and other esteemed institutions from major Australian cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide, participated here. They showcased various programmes hosted at their campus and resolved student queries related to courses offered, fee structures, and admission requirements. The event was graced by other prestigious schools including Gurukul – The School, Pacific World School, DPS Siddharth Vihar, DPS Sahibabad, and DPSG International.

 

“Partnering with institutions like Delhi Public School Raj Nagar Extension underscores our commitment at MSM Unify to not just showcase – but to truly bridge the expanse between India's aspiring scholars and the wealth of global academic avenues available. Today's learners stand at the threshold of unprecedented global opportunities. Through events like the International University Educational Fair, we aim to ensure these bright young minds have every resource and connection at their disposal to make informed decisions about their academic future. We're grateful for the unwavering support from our esteemed partner universities, who share our zeal for illuminating the path to higher education for students. As we celebrate the success of this collaboration, it emboldens our dedication to magnifying our reach and impact, fostering even more such enriching engagements across the country,” said Avinav Sharma, Head of Strategy, MSM Unify.

 

Ms Pallavi Upadhyaya, Principal, DPS Raj Nagar Extension, expressed her delight, stating, “Education gives strength to conquer the future with learnings and knowledge and events like the International University Educational Fair opens doors to a world of boundless possibilities. We are honored to have hosted this event which facilitated connections between eager learners and esteemed institutions. We are committed to nurturing such enlightening initiatives that empower our youth to become leaders of our society and nation.”

 

The success of the International University Educational Fair showcased DPS Raj Nagar Extension’s dedication to foster global learning experiences. The school looks forward to hosting similar events in the future, continuing to pave the way for the younger generation’s academic and personal growth.

 

 

 

~This September, get ready for a musical nostalgia trip at ShareChat Music Carnival~

 

Are you prepared to embark on an immersive musical journey and share the melodies of your heart with the world? It's time to join in the grand celebration of the year at ShareChat's Music Carnival! ShareChat, India's leading multilingual social media platform, is gearing up to deliver an exhilarating musical extravaganza #ShareChatMusicCarnival. During this carnival, users will have the opportunity to relive popular music trends on ShareChat in the top ten languages.

 

This week-long festivity dedicated to music and creativity is scheduled to kick off from September 8th to September 15th. The Carnival will dive into chart-toppers, iconic albums, and enchanting musical performances across the app's top ten languages, including Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, and Telugu. With an astounding array of more than 100 of the year's popular music tags, users are in for an unparalleled celebration of their musical interests. Additionally, users can rekindle their fondness for cherished songs, albums, and musical performances in their chosen languages through captivating chatroom sessions focusing on themes such as '90s tunes and romantic melodies.' Furthermore, users will have the opportunity to delve into a fresh MV (Music Video) category featuring 6-7 templates, empowering them to craft their own music videos and express their passion for music in a creative manner.

 

Talking about the campaign, Shashank Shekhar, Senior Director, Content Strategy and Operations, ShareChat & Moj said, “Music remains to be a powerful force that connects people across cultures and generations, and with #ShareChatMusicCarnival we want to celebrate music, creativity, and community together on our platform. The campaign is a celebration of the multifaceted nature of music by giving the new generation a glimpse into old classics, by bringing all romantic music lovers together, by giving our community a stage to perform their favorite melodies in their own language on ShareChat chatrooms and much more.”

 

So, brace yourselves for an exciting musical journey with your favorite tunes, right at your fingertips!

 

• The incredible moto g54 5G is India’s first phone with an in-built 12GB RAM and 256 GB storage at an effective price of just Rs. 17,499*.This is also the first smartphone in India with the segment’s most powerful MediaTek™ Dimensity 7020 octa-core processor.
• The device from India’s best 5G smartphone brand also boasts superfast 5G performance with support for 14 5G bands, 3 Carrier Aggregation, and support for VoNRensuring the most advanced 5G coverage and speeds
• The device is also available in an 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage Variant starting at an effective price of just Rs. 14.499*.
• The moto g54 5Gis equipped with the segment’s first 50MP Shake free camera with OIS technology and also features a segment’s leading massive 6000 mAH battery.
• The product will go on sale starting 13th September, 12PM on Flipkart, Motorola.in and leading retail stores.
• Consumers can avail Rs. 1,500 instant discounton ICICI Bank credit cards or an additional Rs. 1,500 off on the exchange of their old device. Plus, additional benefits worth Rs. 5,000 from Reliance Jio.

 

Motorola, India’s best 5G smartphone brand, today disrupted the 5G smartphone market with the launch of moto g54 5G -India’s most powerful 5G smartphone in its segment. The moto g84 breaks all norms in the sub-20K segment by bringing a massivebuilt-in 12GB RAM+256GB 5GStorage, India’s first and most powerful MediaTek™ Dimensity 7020 octa-core processor, segment leading 6,000 mAh battery at just Rs. 18,999 (Rs.17,499 with offers) and an 8GB + 128GB variant with segment’s first 50MP shake free camera at just Rs. 15,999 (Rs.14,499 with offers)

 

The moto g54 5G comes with the segment’s most powerful MediaTek™ Dimensity 7020 octa-core processor, launched for the first time in India on moto g54 5G. This incredible processor delivers ultra-fast performance not just for while gaming and multi-tasking but also comes with enhanced camera ISPs and AI capabilities for a superior camera performance, and a 6nm architecture for efficient battery optimization. Coupled with the support of 14 5G bands with 3 Carrier Aggregation, and support for VoNRalong with thepowerful MediaTek™ Dimensity 7020 processor– the moto g54 5G delivers the best 5G performance in its segment.

 

This device allows uninterrupted usage owing to its segment’s leading massive 6000 mAH battery with power for days even on mid to heavy usage. It also fuels up quickly with the superfast speed of TurboPower™ 33Wcharger, keeping the moto g54 5G going for hours on minutes of charge.

 

The moto g54 5G also comes equipped with an advanced 50 MP camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) technology,ensuring completely shake-free videos and pictures. This feature makesevery picture and video sharper, brighter, and freefrom blur. Additionally, it has Quad Pixel technology which captures incredible low-light pictures in any condition. The secondary 8MP autofocus camera comes with an 118° ultra wide-angle lens, fitting 4x more of the scene than a standard lens. Further the 8MP sensor alsodoubles up as aMacro Vision and depth sensor for capturing Instagram worthy moments up-close and professional looking portraits.this incredible camera system also comes with various advanced software features, such as slow motion, hyper-lapse, auto smile capture, shot optimization, and much more.On the front, the device features a 16 MP selfie camera.

.

 

The moto g54 5G also offers incredible entertainment thanks to its 6.5” FHD+ display with adaptive refresh rate from 30 to 120Hz, bringing users’ favorite games to life with smooth, and fluid views. This immersive viewing experience is further enhanced by two large stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos®and Moto Spatial Sound,that output high-quality audio with improved bass, clean vocals, and enhanced spatial sense even at higher volumes. Plus, the users get greater depth, clarity, and detail when listening to music, watching films, or playing games. The moto g54 5G also has extremely narrow bezels, making it virtually borderless.

 

The moto g54 5G looks sleek and feels premium, as a result of its stylish 3D Acrylic Glass (PMMA)finish that feels great to hold and flaunt. Not only does the device look premium and classy, it is also light at just 192gms considering that it hosts a massive 6,000mAh battery. The g54 5G is also water-repellant with an IP52 rating, keeping it safe from spills and splashes.

 

The moto g54 5G is available instunning shades of – Midnight Blue, Pearl Blue, and Mint Green, each representing its unique style.

 

Following the tradition, the moto g54 5G comes with a near-stock Android 13 experience and also comes with various stand-out experiences, like ThinkShield for Mobile which offers business grade security along with Moto Secure, which hosts all your phone's vital security and privacy features.The Family Space applicationis designed to establish a secure area on the phone dedicated to children's learning and play. Plus, Through My UX, users can personalize the smartphone to achieve a unique and distinct appearance. Noteworthy features also encompass the timeless Moto Gestures, including Quick Capture, Fast Torch, Swipe to Split, and Gametime.

 

This smartphone will also be available in an 8GB RAM + 12GB Storage variant. Both variants support storage expansion up to 1TB using a microSD card.

 

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Prashant Mani, Executive Director – Motorola Asia Pacific, said, “The moto g54 5G is a true embodiment of our commitment towards providing Indianconsumers with the most advanced5G devices at the most disruptive price points, staying true to our vision of democratizing technology. The moto g54 5G is a product that has been designed specifically for the Indian market andis loaded with the segment’s best performance, 5G connectivity, camera, and entertainment experience plus the most advanced software features with a super stylish form factor.With this launch, we go beyond everything that exists in the Indian market today,and empower individuals to explore, connect, and thrive like never before.”

 

Availability:

moto g54 5G will be available in three beautiful colours: Mint Green, Pearl Blue, and Midnight Blue, featuring a 3D Acrylic glass (PMMA) finish. It comes with built-in 12GB RAM + 256GB storage, and is also available in an 8GB RAM + 128GB storage option.

 

The moto g54 5G will be available on Flipkart, Motorola.in and leading retail stores starting 13^th September, 12PM onwards.

 

Pricing & Launch Offers:

12GB + 256GB Variant: Launch Price: Rs. 18,999

Effective Price: Rs. 17,499 including bank OR exchange offers

 

8GB + 128GB Variant: Launch Price: Rs. 15,999

Effective Price: Rs. 14,499 including bank OR exchange offers

 

Affordability Offers:

–          Flat Rs. 1500 Instant Discount on ICICI Bank Credit Cards

–          OR

–          Rs. 1500 additional value on Exchange of an old device on Flipkart

 

Effective Price with Offers:

Rs. 17,499 (12GB + 256GB Variant)

Rs. 14,499(8GB + 128GB Variant)

 

To know more about the product visit:

https://www.flipkart.com/motorola-g54-comingsoon-iu833d-ije93l-store

https://www.flipkart.com/g54-5g/p/itmc5db12ebf3198?pid=MOBGQFX88DJDTHYG

Operator Offers:

Total Benefits worth Rs. 5000 from Reliance Jio (Applicable on pre-paid plan of: Rs. 399)

– Cashback worth Rs. 2000

– Partner coupons worth Rs. 3000

 

To know more about the offer: https://www.jio.com/en-in/jio-motorola-g54-offer-2023

Keppel and DBS Bank (DBS) today announced that they have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly scale up sustainable urbanisation and digitalisation solutions in Asia, with a focus on India given DBS’ increasing presence in one of the world’s fastest growing economies. The collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of energy optimisation and sustainable solutions across energy intensive segments including healthcare, hospitality, as well as commercial and industrial real estate. 

 

The commitment is in line with the spirit of the recently concluded Business 20 (B20) dialogue in New Delhi, which focused on enabling Responsible, Accelerated, Innovative, Sustainable and Equitable (RAISE) businesses to drive sustainable economic growth and development.

 

India is among DBS’ six core markets, and one of the bank’s top three markets for sustainable finance. The country’s rapid rate of urbanisation is expected to have a key impact on its energy usage and global energy trends[1].

 

To help meet growing demand for sustainable urban solutions, businesses can access Keppel’s suite of Energy-as-a-Service solutions including high-efficiency cooling, sustainable energy and storage, distributed solar photovoltaic systems, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, in addition to spatial programming and workplace solutions that improve building performance and uplift asset value. DBS will offer financing solutions to help clients overcome potential cost barriers associated with the implementation of such technologies.

 

In addition, the MOU involves offering digitalisation solutions to DBS’ corporate customers. Through Keppel’s subsidiary, M1, the collaboration will explore ways to enhance and support the digitalisation journey of businesses in Singapore. The partnership also includes an e-waste recycling initiative through AsiaPac, a subsidiary of M1, where DBS customers can trade in laptops.

 

Mr Loh Chin Hua, CEO of Keppel Corporation, said, “As a global asset manager with deep operating capabilities across infrastructure, real estate and connectivity, Keppel is pleased to partner DBS to address some of the most pressing needs faced by companies in Asia. The MOU provides a platform for Keppel and DBS to deepen collaboration and develop solutions to help companies be more sustainable, digitalised and ultimately, more competitive in an increasingly complex operating environment.”

 

Mr Piyush Gupta, CEO of DBS Bank, said: “Businesses are keenly aware of the vital role they play in achieving a net-zero future. To decarbonise at scale, companies need the know-how, as well as access to sustainable solutions and financing. DBS is committed to helping our clients transition to a low-carbon future. By building strong partnerships with leaders like Keppel, we can simplify the journey for clients by providing a suite of solutions, coupled with the appropriate financing, to drive collective action for sustainability.” 

The above developments are not expected to have a material impact on the net tangible assets or earnings per share of Keppel Corporation Limited for the current financial year.