Archive: December 30, 2024

Coworking to Dominate Flex Space Leasing by 2025

Mr Manas Mehrotra, Founder, 315Work Avenue

By Manas Mehrotra, Founder, 315Work Avenue

The coworking industry has become more relevant than ever with the demand surging significantly in the recent times owing to numerous factors. Coworking spaces have emerged as the defining feature of India’s rapidly evolving commercial real estate market, reflecting the broader shift toward work culture, flexibility, collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. The demand has gained greater traction with corporates and MNCs continuing to make a beeline to coworking spaces that have emerged as strong centres of growth.

There continues to be huge traction for flex space from corporates of all sizes as flexible workspace has become a key component in the overall real estate portfolio of corporates to enhance employee productivity, foster collaboration, and optimising operational costs by scaling up or down as per business requirements. The coworking industry also continues to cater to diverse business needs with customized offerings, modern amenities, exclusivity, strategic location, robust technology integration amongst others while fostering a creative and dynamic work culture.

While major metro cities have been the key markets for coworking spaces, there’s a growing demand in tier-2 and tier-3 cities too, making the market more diverse. The rapid expansion of the coworking sector is backed by the consistent increase in inquiries, higher occupancy rates, and the evolving needs of modern professionals. These spaces have emerged as more than just shared offices and have evolved into hubs for entrepreneurship and innovation. As businesses increasingly shift offices from traditional and conventional set ups to coworking spaces, commercial real estate operators will increasingly lease space to flexible operators, and both will grow exponentially and co-exist in a win-win situation.

The coworking sector will also see consolidation, where larger operators may acquire smaller players to expand their footprint. Coworking businesses will also continue to attract investment due to the sector’s scalability and growth potential. While coworking spaces continued to perform well in the recent past, we believe the share of coworking in the overall leasing of flex space is set to grow further and play a pivotal role in 2025 and beyond.

As India’s workforce is becoming increasingly mobile, and coworking spaces are well-positioned to cater to this dynamic shift with niche offerings. The demand for coworking spaces is expected to grow at around 20 per cent over the next two to three years.

Malaysia Global Business Forum to Kickstart 2025 with Roundtable on Corporate Community Involvement in Sports

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 December 2024 – The Malaysia Global Business Forum (MGBF) is set to host its first roundtable of 2025, focusing on the dynamic theme of ‘Corporate Community Involvement in Sports‘. The event will take place on 20 February in Kuala Lumpur, bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders to explore how corporate engagement in sports can deliver significant value for communities and businesses alike.

The roundtable aims to address gaps in the corporate-community ecosystem while showcasing how partnerships, sponsorships, athlete endorsements, donations, and internal company sports programmes can be leveraged to enhance community engagement, communications, stakeholder management, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) objectives.

“The corporate sector has a critical role to play in the future of a country’s sporting success. Every corporate leader should have a positive experience with sports from childhood; that should be the starting point. Then we need to design an experience with the community and the corporations that fulfil their broader objectives. Sport is part of your ESG equation,” said Nordin Abdullah, Founding Chairman of the Malaysia Global Business Forum.

“Corporations have a unique opportunity for to strengthen their reputation and contribute to society by embracing sports as part of their 2025 community and communication strategies. Whether it is through boosting national pride at the next SEA Games or positioning organisations as caring and collaborative entities, this roundtable is an essential platform for meaningful discussions and action,” he added.

The event will feature three engaging panel sessions:

  • Panel 1: ‘Communicating Corporate Community Involvement: Partnership, Sponsorship, or Donation?’
  • Panel 2: ‘Longtail Benefits of Supporting Young Athletes’
  • Panel 3: ‘Designing Medal Counts – The Role of the Corporate Sector in 2, 4 and 8-Year Sports Cycles’

The roundtable will convene prominent voices, including sports organisations, policymakers, former Olympic athletes, community sports non-profits, sports business professionals, and corporate leaders, to foster collaborative solutions and shared visions.

The MGBF will announce the panel speakers on 6 January, followed by the keynote speaker announcement on 13 January. Limited opportunities remain for sponsors and supporters to participate as panellists. Interested parties are encouraged to contact admin@malaysiaglobalbusinessforum.com for further details.

Event Details:
Date: 20 February 2025
Time: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Venue: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Fees: RM88 (Members), RM138 (Non-Members)
Registration: MGBF LinkedIn

This roundtable is a must-attend event for organisations seeking to align their CSR goals with impactful community initiatives through the medium of sports.

MGBF was established to empower stakeholders at the intersection of international and Malaysian business. Through government relations, business intelligence, advocacy, media engagement, market research, networking, advisory and business matching, MGBF will continue to explore threats and opportunities with industry leaders and policy makers to ensure that Malaysia becomes a leader in the context of Asia.

For more information, visit www.MalaysiaGlobalBusinessForum.com.
Hashtag: #MalaysiaGlobalBusinessForum

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Malaysia Global Business Forum to Kickstart 2025 with Roundtable on Corporate Community Involvement in Sports

UTIs in Men: A Rising Health Concern

Dr. Bhuvanesh N. Aradhya

Authored by Dr. Bhuvanesh N. Aradhya, Consultant Urology & Transplant Surgeon, HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubli
Men’s health encompasses a wide range of physical and mental challenges that can impact well-being, especially as they age. While conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and prostate health often dominate discussions, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are emerging as a growing concern among men. Although traditionally associated with women, UTIs in men are becoming increasingly common due to factors such as an aging population, rising cases of diabetes, and prostate-related issues. Despite their potential to lead to serious complications if untreated, UTIs often remain underdiagnosed and overlooked, highlighting the need for greater awareness and timely intervention. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures is essential to addressing this growing health concern among men.

What are UTIs?
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are infections that occur in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. They are most commonly caused by bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli, which typically reside in the intestines and can enter the urinary tract.

What are the Causes of UTIs in Men?
UTIs in men are typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, leading to infection in the urethra, bladder, or kidneys. Certain risk factors make men more susceptible, including an enlarged prostate that can obstruct urine flow, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive, kidney stones that can block the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection, and prolonged use of urinary catheters can introduce bacteria into the urinary system. Additionally, high blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight infections.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and conditions like urethritis or prostatitis can also mimic UTI symptoms, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis.

What are the Symptoms of UTIs?
Common symptoms of UTIs in men include:
• A frequent and urgent need to urinate
• Burning or pain during urination
• Cloudy, foul-smelling, or bloody urine
• Pain in the lower abdomen or back
• Fever or chills, indicating a more severe infection
If these symptoms occur, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly to prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys or bloodstream.

Treatment and Management
UTIs in men are typically treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. The choice of medication and duration of treatment depends on the severity of the infection and any underlying conditions. Drinking plenty of water can help flush bacteria from the urinary tract, and over-the-counter pain relievers may alleviate discomfort.
In cases where UTIs are linked to structural issues like an enlarged prostate or kidney stones, addressing the underlying condition is necessary to prevent recurrence.

Prevention Tips
Preventing UTIs requires maintaining good urinary health. Some practical tips include:
• Staying hydrated to promote regular urination and flush out bacteria
• Practicing good hygiene, especially after sexual activity
• Managing chronic conditions like diabetes to strengthen overall immunity
• Avoiding excessive use of urinary catheters whenever possible

Conclusion
While UTIs in men are less common than in women, they are a significant health concern that should not be ignored. Prompt treatment, coupled with preventive measures, can reduce the risk of infection and its complications. By staying informed and proactive, men can protect their urinary health and maintain a better quality of life.

How Hong Kong offers top talents their next big break

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 December 2024 – Snooker superstars Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump are among the latest high-profile talents to become Hong Kong residents under the city’s Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS), which facilitates top quality professionals from various fields to live and work in Hong Kong.

Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan in action at the 2024 Hong Kong Snooker All-Star Challenge.
Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan in action at the 2024 Hong Kong Snooker All-Star Challenge.

Seven-time world champion O’Sullivan and current world No.1 Trump, both frequent visitors to the city, are looking forward to spending more time in Hong Kong and embarking on a new phase of their careers.

“I am here because I enjoy the city; I love everything about Hong Kong – the food, the people, and the buildings. It is inspiring for me to be here,” said Trump, who announced his successful QMAS application last week (December 24). “For me, I really enjoy the energy in Hong Kong, so I love to be around people and I love to see people thriving and go about their business.”

O’Sullivan was delighted to announce his residency under the scheme on October 31. “Your food, your culture, it’s just a great place to live; a great place to be,” he said. “If you’re going to live your life and you want to have a good life, you should come to Hong Kong.”

O’Sullivan and Trump will compete in front of their new “home” crowd during the World Grand Prix at the soon-to-open Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) in March 2025.

World No.1 Judd Trump during the 2024 Hong Kong Snooker All-Star Challenge.
World No.1 Judd Trump during the 2024 Hong Kong Snooker All-Star Challenge.

It will be one of the first major sports events at KTSP, a state-of-the-art 28-hectare venue, which is set to transform Hong Kong’s sports and entertainment landscape.

Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Chris Sun, hailed the effectiveness of the QMAS.

“We hope to achieve more success, because we truly believe in the attraction of Hong Kong. Be it our tax system, our natural beauty, the convenience, the great food and all the great things here in Hong Kong,” Sun said.

Hong Kong Talent Engage is a one-stop platform to attract and assist top professionals and people with valuable skills and experience to live and work in Hong Kong and enhance the city’s economic competitiveness. QMAS is one of several talent attraction schemes to attract highly skilled or talented persons globally to Hong Kong.
Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #snooker #talent #HKTalentEngage





The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

How Hong Kong offers top talents their next big break

“Ice City” welcomes influx of foreign

HARBIN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 December 2024 – Braving the biting cold, tourists are flocking to the snow-covered St. Sophia Cathedral, a century-old Byzantine building in Harbin, capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, with many stopping to pose for photos.

An aerial drone photo shows a view of the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Dec. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei)
An aerial drone photo shows a view of the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Dec. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei)

Harbin, often called the “Ice City,” has become one of China’s most popular winter travel destinations, drawing visitors worldwide. This year, it has seen a new wave of international tourists, with travelers eager to experience the city’s historical and winter wonders.

For Nadia Jovita Injilia Riso, a tourist from Indonesia, visiting the St. Sophia Cathedral was like a long-cherished dream coming true. It was amazing to see such a beautiful Western-style building in China, with people dressed as princes and princesses, which felt like traveling through a time tunnel, she said.

Strolling along Central Street, Harbin’s landmark pedestrian area, Riso enjoyed the melodies of a harpist playing from a balcony. She also took the opportunity to savor the local ice cream.

“Harbin is famous for its winter tourism and ice sports, but my trip here has been full of unexpected surprises. The melodies, the food and the welcoming locals have left an unforgettable impression,” she said.

Riso noted that she has already visited the indoor ice-and-snow facility of the Harbin Ice-Snow World, one of China’s most iconic winter attractions, and would like to try the outdoor Super Ice Slide. “This is a very interesting place because you can make big ice sculptures into very interesting things.”

Last winter, the Harbin Ice-Snow World skyrocketed in popularity on Chinese social media, capturing the country’s growing passion for winter sports and tourism.

It has once again gained massive attraction this winter. This year’s edition of the Harbin Ice-Snow World, the world’s largest ice-and-snow theme park, received 62,000 visitors on the first day of opening .

“Everything is a great experience because Indonesia is a tropical country and we don’t have snow,” Riso said, adding that the Harbin Ice-Snow World is on a friend’s wish list, and she will recommend it to her, as well as other friends.

For Moo Swee Ming, a member of a 16-person tour group from Malaysia, the ice and snow attractions are a must-see.

“For first-time visitors here, it’s a must to experience the icy world of snow and ice. It’s a rare opportunity,” said Moo, adding that what the ice and snow tourism of Heilongjiang attracts them most are the “Snow Town” in the city of Mudanjiang and the ice sculptures on Central Street and in the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin.

With its unique charm, Harbin has already seen growing popularity among “China Travel” goers.

According to the Harbin immigration inspection station, as of Dec. 19, Harbin Taiping International Airport had handled 136,000 inbound and outbound foreign tourists this year, marking an increase of 181 percent year on year.

Foreign tourists purchasing candied hawthorn on a stick.(Xinhua)
Foreign tourists purchasing candied hawthorn on a stick.(Xinhua)

With the implementation of China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy and the upcoming 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games, the city is poised to attract even more international tourists this winter.

Wang Hongxin, director of Harbin’s culture, radio, television and tourism department, said the city is working to enhance the overall tourist experience by improving dining, accommodation, transportation, shopping and entertainment through the latest technologies.

Harbin is creating a series of new attractions and landmarks, offering global tourists a feast of ice-and-snow tourism, Wang added.

Hashtag: #TheDepartmentofCultureandTourismofHeilongjiangProvince

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

"Ice City" welcomes influx of foreign

2024: Embrace Resilience and Growth, Experts Say

Ashish Sahay, Country Manager & Sales Director – SEA, Wirepas

“As 2024 draws to a close, the IoT and smart metering sectors in India have witnessed significant growth. At Wirepas, we’ve continued to drive innovation with our European RF technology, which aligns with market demand and current deployments in India. Our focus has remained on providing ultra-resilient, and scalable connectivity technology for large-scale, demanding industrial needs, such as smart electricity meters.

During 2024 Wirepas RF technology has become a cornerstone for large-scale IoT deployments, offering seamless connectivity across urban and rural landscapes, while enhancing the performance and cost efficiency of smart metering systems. With over 4 million smart meters currently connected with our technology across multiple Indian states, we are proud to support India’s ambitious Advanced Metering Initiative (AMI), contributing to smarter energy management and driving sustainability across the country.

Looking ahead to 2025, we see tremendous potential for further advancements in IoT applications. India’s continued focus on sustainability and digital transformation is expected to accelerate the smart meter deployments. At Wirepas, we are excited to continue our role in supporting this transition with cutting-edge, reliable, and scalable IoT connectivity solutions.”

Mr. Navkaran Singh Bagga, CEO & Founder, AKVO

“2024 has been a pivotal year for the water sector, reflecting both the escalating urgency of water security and the remarkable resilience of innovative solutions in addressing this global challenge. Across the industry, we have witnessed considerable momentum in designing and deploying technologies that harness atmospheric moisture, reduce reliance on diminishing groundwater reserves, and minimize environmental footprints. Governments and private stakeholders alike have begun acknowledging that ensuring a sustainable water supply is not a luxury but an absolute necessity for thriving communities and economies.

In the year ahead, I anticipate a surge in cross-sector collaborations that will drive greater awareness about alternative water sources and the critical need for holistic water management. By 2025, I believe we will see advancements in atmospheric water generation technology that make systems more compact, cost-effective, and energy-efficient. This evolution will not only bolster water-scarce regions but also help industries adopt innovative water stewardship practices. Additionally, stronger policy frameworks and incentives at both national and global levels are likely to fuel wider adoption, leading to a more concerted approach in protecting our planet’s most precious resource.

At Akvo, we remain committed to our mission of delivering high-quality and sustainable water solutions. Our goal is to continuously refine our technology, forming meaningful partnerships to expand our reach and create a lasting impact. As we close out a year marked by challenges and achievements, I’m confident that 2025 will usher in even more transformative breakthroughs, ultimately bringing us closer to a future where every individual and community has reliable access to clean water.”

Gunjan Malhotra, co-founder, Komaki Electric

“The Indian electric vehicle (EV) industry has witnessed transformative growth this year, especially in the two-wheeler (2W) and three-wheeler (3W) segments. As the year bidding adieu, the electric two and three-wheelers have registered a robust double-digit growth, contributing to the EV industry inching towards the two million-units milestone.
In the first 11 months of the year, electric two-wheelers, entailing electric scooters, motorcycles, and mopeds, made up for 60% of the total 1.80 million units of EV volume of the country between January and November 2024. Along with this, it also projected a robust 85% sales growth on a Y-o-Y basis in the month of October, accounting for sales of 1,39,031 units during the month. Similarly, even electric three-wheelers clocked a 20% surge in sales between January and November 2024, surpassing the 583,597 units sold the previous year, reaching 631,855 units.
Giving impetus to the momentum, the government recently replaced the flagship scheme FAME with PM E-Drive to speed up EV adoption and create a charging ecosystem nationwide, which will encourage cleaner and more sustainable transportation. With such progressive efforts, EVs have steadily become a viable and preferred option for millions. At Komaki, we are proud to have contributed to this momentum, introducing innovative and sustainable mobility solutions that cater to both urban and rural needs.
Looking ahead to 2025, the trajectory for the Indian EV market is promising. We anticipate exponential adoption fuelled by further infrastructure developments, such as expanded charging networks and battery swapping solutions. Additionally, the government’s commitment to achieving a greener future will continue to incentivize both manufacturers and consumers to embrace EVs. 2025 will not just be a year of growth, but a milestone for India’s journey towards clean and green mobility,

Kunal Sethi, CEO, The Detailing Mafia

“2024 as a year performed fairly well for the car detailing industry. With car enthusiasts opting for professional car services and products, the sector experienced gradual growth during the year. At the same time, there were various factors that contributed to the rising preference for professional car detailing services. The customers are continuously in search of high-end detailing and premium services such as ceramic coating, PPF, graphene-based solutions, etc., for their cars to prolong the longevity of their vehicles. In the pursuit, the sector has been gaining a lot of traction across the year. With the year coming to an end, the sector saw some major progress with the integration of sustainable practices in the form of biodegradable products and waterless car washing.
Looking at the performance of the industry in 2024, it is expected that the momentum will continue even in the upcoming year, with car owners prioritizing high-end car maintenance more than ever before”.
Himanshu Arya, Founder & CEO, Luxury Cart

“India’s pre-owned luxury car market is set to accelerate and is projected to grow at 16.30% CAGR by 2032. With consumers becoming increasingly value-conscious, pre-owned luxury vehicles offer an attractive combination of premium features, performance, and significant cost savings. Likewise, the year witnessed a surging preference for pre-owned luxury vehicles in the first quarter of 2024 clocking a growth of 14% Y-o-Y basis. Moreover, with the Indian luxury car market experiencing remarkable growth in the year, it has been invariably giving impetus to the pre-owned luxury car market as well.
Along similar lines, the surge in demand for hybrid and electric luxury vehicles is becoming a trend as India’s EV infrastructure improves and environmental consciousness grows, models from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi are likely to dominate pre-owned luxury car searches. Advanced technology features like AI-enabled systems, autonomous driving capabilities, and connected infotainment solutions will also become essential criteria for buyers.”

Mr. Konark Trivedi, Founder and CEO, Frog Cellsat Ltd.

“The year 2024 has been transformative for India’s telecom sector, marked by significant policy initiatives and remarkable achievements that have strengthened the national digital infrastructure. Key initiatives such as the Telecom PLI Scheme and the BharatNet project have played a central role in expanding broadband access, boosting local manufacturing, and fostering over 22,000 job creation; positioning India as a global manufacturing hub.

The Telecommunication Bill 2024 was a milestone in modernizing regulations, addressing issues like spam calls and ensuring consumer protection. Similarly, the accelerated rollout of 5G, supported by programs like GatiShakti, tackled deployment challenges through coordinated efforts between the government and private players. A focus on energy-efficient networks and infrastructure sharing also helped manage rising operational costs, ensuring growth remained sustainable.

Looking ahead to 2025, the sector must build on these achievements by fostering innovation in areas like public-private partnership, facilitating R&D and promoting penetration of better connectivity in lesser connected areas. Ensuring data security and stringent policies to avoid surpassing any regulation should also be the key focus to ensure privacy rights of the patrons.”

Satyendra Prasad Narala, Managing Director, Regency Ceramics Ltd

“The increased housing demand, along with a growing middle-class segment seeking to buy or build homes, has significantly boosted the demand for ceramic tiles in 2024. While we have faced challenges in exports due to logistics costs, the domestic market, which accounts for 64% of our industry’s revenue, remains resilient with strong real estate demand. Leading ceramic manufacturers are also focused on expanding their presence in Tier-II and Tier-III cities, driven by infrastructure development, urbanization, and rising end-user consumption. These factors will further strengthen the Indian ceramics sector, positioning it for long-term growth and global competitiveness in 2025 and beyond. The integration of technology with sustainable practices will shape the future of ceramics industry, reinforcing the sector as an important part of building materials sector which is a cornerstone of India’s economic growth.”

Mr. Satish Shukla, Co-Founder of Addverb

“Automation capabilities across industries have witnessed remarkable growth in 2024 because of wonderful developments around emerging technologies. The convergence of advanced robotics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence has made robots more cooperative, flexible, and perceptive, enabling seamless human-robot collaboration even in the most challenging of environments. These have allowed more advanced sensors and AI-enabled vision systems to facilitate robots’ ability for performing advanced tasks without a hitch. For instance, Cobots are already changing industrial production by having significantly improved safety and efficiency in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. Also, growing attention to R&D in material and sensor technologies nurtures further innovation within the industry. They foster increased adoption of automation by companies and help boost productivity, thus bringing down costs of operations. In the forward-looking paradigm toward 2025, it will be important to note that robotics and automation will continue to be tools that dictate the way forward. These technologies shall drive forth a different era of innovation, bringing forth the possibilities of human-robot collaboration. At Addverb, we are proud to be the harbinger of this change, with solutions defining the next generation of industrial automation and pave the way for more efficiency and a more sustainable world.”

Vivek Banka, Co-Founder, GoalTeller

“The recently announced changes in RIA regulations have been a step in the right direction by SEBI to ease rules for genuine advisors coupled with limitations on influencers association with SEBI registered entities have surely added a ray of hope to the entire advisor community and also will go a long way in protecting the right of investors. I hope 2025 SEBI will act further to curb the unbridled run some of the influencers have had without any questioning which will level the playing field and most importantly ensure that euphoric messaging in social media about stocks and other exotic investments are curbed. This will greatly help in avoiding investment bubbles.”

Prashasta Seth – CEO, Prudent Investment Managers LLP-

“The Indian capital market has seen significant growth over the past five years. Demat accounts grew 4.4x (179 million), NSE active accounts rose 4.9x (49 million), unique mutual fund investors increased 2.4x (50 million), and monthly SIPs expanded 3.2x (INR 253 billion) from FY20 to October 2024.
During this period, the Indian alternative investment industry has outpaced the broader market, with a current size of USD 400 billion, consisting of SEBI-registered AIFs (USD 130 billion) and other funds (USD 270 billion). The industry is expected to grow over five-fold, reaching USD 2 trillion in the next decade.
A key shift in the Indian market has been the decoupling from global trends, with local investors—including pension funds, mutual funds, alternative investment managers, and retail & HNI investors—taking a more dominant role. This trend is expected to strengthen, driven by a demographic dividend, with over 100 million people joining the workforce and 100 million households entering the middle class in the coming years.
In recent years, the growth of the Indian alternative investment industry has been fueled by deeper market sophistication. This includes individual fund managers launching their own firms, global players introducing strategies tailored for India, and SEBI accommodating new investment structures. As investors become more knowledgeable and financially capable, they are willing to take on greater risks, further propelling industry growth. With Indian markets still lagging behind global counterparts, this gap is expected to close in the coming years, supporting continued growth.”

Blaupunkt SBW100 Pro Plus : Superior Sound, Timeless Design

Hyderabad 30th December : As the industry leader in soundbars, Blaupunkt announces the launch of its newest SBW100 Pro+, a soundbar that promises to completely transform your audio experience. The SBW100 Pro+ is the greatest choice for home entertainment enthusiasts due to its superior sound and unparalleled features, which include cutting-edge technology wrapped in an elegant design and expertly constructed craftsmanship.

Speakers

The SBW100 PRO+ from Blaupunkt is an ideal soundbar for true movie fans, audiophiles, and tech heads, even in a crowded market teeming with premium offerings. Here is what makes the soundbar a real game-changer:

Magnificent sound with perfection

The SBW100 Pro+ enhances the acoustic experience with two high-definition premium drivers and a powerful woofer that form perfectly balanced sound of 100 watts. From sharp dialogues and subtle musical hues to more powerful special effects, this soundbar can give every detail unmatched clarity of sound.

Sound modes designed for diverse listening

With a built-in equaliser that has three different sound modes, the SBW100 Pro+ very creatively suits all your audio preferences:

  • Movies Mode improves special effects and speech to create a more immersive movie experience.
  • Music Mode offers rich tones and powerful bass.
  • News Mode provides crystal-clear clarity for spoken content.

A timeless and incredibly refined design

Blaupunkt has a design philosophy that emphasises sophistication and a timeless nature. With an edgeless shape, a high-grade grill, and a classic appearance, the SBW100 Pro+ complements any décor. This soundbar was developed using experience as well as audience input. It is designed to make an impression on all.

Varied connectivity options

Whether it’s HDMI-ARC for superior audio-visuals, Bluetooth for wireless streaming, or additional devices connected using USB and AUX ports, the SBW100 Pro+ soundbar has great compatibility with all your devices. This versatility enables your TV, phone, tablet, or any audio device to connect effortlessly with the SBW100 Pro+ soundbar.

User-Centred Mechanisms

A full-function remote control provides complete control from any location in the room. The side control panel has a high-end feel that guarantees smooth navigation. It reflects German precision in a detailed way. Like most devices, it uses a full-function remote to offer “captain’s chair controls,” which means that all features will be controllable at any point in the room. For hands-on users, the intuitively designed side panel ensures effortless operation. Even the button feedback on this unit is first-rate, proof of how a well-thought-out design can truly enhance the experience.

The SBW100 Pro+ is now available for purchase at leading retail outlets and online platforms. Experience the Blaupunkt difference today.

PMQ annual design festival cultivates talents for the design industry deTour 2024

design festival successfully concludes Continuing to condense creative forces in the coming year

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 December 2024 – Since 2014, deTour, presented by PMQ and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK), has become Hong Kong’s annual design festival, gathering numerous local and international design talents to showcase their creativity and vision to local audiences and tourists. It also offers an opportunity for interdisciplinary collaborations among designers, allowing them to transform their wonderful ideas into practical design practices that promote Hong Kong design power.

PMQ annual design festival cultivates talents for the design industry deTour 2024
PMQ annual design festival cultivates talents for the design industry deTour 2024

deTour 2024 concluded successfully at PMQ, lasting for 17 days. It brought together 17 installations and exhibitions created by local and international co-creators, over 40 workshops, 13 Creative Voice sessions, and more than 100 guided tours, and the new family-friendly creative programme “deTour Kids”, showcased the inner value of design from the outside in, delving deep into the profound meanings behind design connections. The event drew numerous design enthusiasts, students, families, and the general public, creating a vibrant atmosphere where participants were inspired by the whole experience. This platform fostered a shared space for exchanging design ideas, injecting fresh vitality into the local design community!

This year’s design festival is full of design highlights. For instance, renowned Hong Kong graphic designer Sandy Choi showcases his work ” Being Transferred”, featuring 33 items that hold special meaning to him, alongside corresponding Instagram posts. Sandy participated in deTour for the first time, expressing his excitement in sharing his possessions, memories, and experiences with the public, finding the experience to be very refreshing! Moreover, deTour collaborated with four overseas co-creators this year, presenting a series of design works with international perspectives and unique styles. This includes Art-tech duo based in Seoul Kimchi and Chips’ “REWORLD Type 2”, Korean designer Yoojin Chung’s “Capturing Qi (氣)”, Moon Seop Seo’s “Passage to the Lake”, and Japanese designer Naonori Yago’s “Imitative Behavior: In the Footsteps of My Daughters”. Yago mentioned that participating in deTour 2024 was the most interesting experience of the year for him. deTour integrates different cultural design philosophies, offering the audience a cross-cultural design feast.

PMQ x deTour design festival
The Next Ten Years: Inspiring Potential, Cultivating Talents
As an iconic design landmark in Hong Kong, PMQ provides a hub for local creative entrepreneurs and designers for connection and resource-sharing. In the past ten years, many local and overseas design talents have emerged in deTour and showcased their ideas to local and international audiences through experimental works, exploring new possibilities for their career paths and developing into experienced designers.

deTour design festival has played a significant role in elevating design literacy across various industries, inspiring innovative ideas, cultivating talents, and increasing public engagement in creative exhibitions. PMQ invites more talented and passionate designers to participate in future deTour design festivals, showcasing creativity, sharing ideas, and engaging with fellow designers to collectively build a vibrant and creative design community. Together, let’s inject new energy and inspiration into Hong Kong’s design industry.

Hashtag: #PMQ #deTour2024

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About deTour – design festival

deTour is an annual design festival showcasing creative designs and concepts. Organised by PMQ and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the event offers a wide range of programmes that bring together designers and creative communities from Hong Kong and abroad.

deTour serves as a unique platform for inspiring people through the latest in creative expression and cutting-edge design. It also fosters exchanges between up-and-coming talents and seasoned professionals.

About PMQ

Located in the heart of Hong Kong’s SoHo district, PMQ is the landmark of creative and design industries housing over 100 Hong Kong emerging designers. In 2014, PMQ was revitalised and transformed into a creative hub with a variety of design studios showcasing a wide array of design products including fashion and accessories, gifts & premium, homeware, and small furniture as well as other lifestyle goods and creative products. PMQ has now become an interactive platform for supporting up-and-coming creative talents and fostering a community of patrons and lovers of creativity, design, and heritage. It is also one of the popular venues in town for international design, arts, and cultural events from Hong Kong and around the world.

About Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency

The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) established in June 2024, formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK), is a dedicated office set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative industries with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. Its strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and cross-genre collaboration, promoting the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries under the industry-oriented principle, and promoting Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community to implement Hong Kong’s positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange under the National 14th Five-Year Plan.

Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.

PMQ annual design festival cultivates talents for the design industry deTour 2024

CREDAI-MCHI to Unveil India’s First Quick Real Estate Mall

Mumbai, December 30, 2024 : CREDAI-MCHI, the apex body representing real estate developers in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), is set to redefine home buying with the launch of India’s first-ever Quick Real Estate Mall at the upcoming 32nd CREDAI-MCHI Property and Home Finance Expo. Scheduled from January 17 to 19, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre, the event will introduce a groundbreaking approach to home buying, tailored to empower women and streamline the purchasing process.

This year’s expo will place a strong emphasis on Pink Sunday, a dedicated initiative focused on empowering women homebuyers through the MCHI STREE Awas Yojana. This program underscores CREDAI-MCHI’s commitment to making homeownership more inclusive and accessible for women, aligning with its vision of fostering transparency, trust, and empowerment in the real estate sector. By addressing the unique needs of women in the home-buying journey, the initiative ensures a supportive and welcoming environment for aspiring homeowners.

Speaking about this transformative initiative, Mr. Dominic Romell, President of CREDAI-MCHI, emphasized, “The Quick Real Estate Mall is a reflection of our vision to transform the real estate sector with innovation and customer-centric solutions. By streamlining the home-buying process and introducing unique features, we are making homeownership more accessible, especially for first-time buyers. This is not just an event; it is the beginning of a new era in Indian real estate.”

He added, “This expo is designed to provide an unparalleled experience to buyers. From the Friday Ambassadors Connect, which will see the participation of over 5,000 channel partners, to the Super Saturday Sale offering exclusive deals, we have planned engaging initiatives to benefit everyone involved.”

Nikunj Sanghvi, Chairperson of the Expo and Treasurer of CREDAI-MCHI, remarked, “We are thrilled to present this groundbreaking initiative to redefine how people experience real estate. With dedicated efforts like Pink Sunday and the Quick Real Estate Mall, we aim to address the evolving demands of homebuyers while empowering women to take confident steps towards homeownership. This expo will set a new benchmark in creating an accessible and inclusive home-buying ecosystem.”

The Quick Real Estate Mall is poised to revolutionize the home-buying experience by enabling prospective buyers to book their dream homes and secure loan approvals within just ten minutes. This innovative concept addresses the growing demand for convenience and efficiency, streamlining the entire process and setting a new standard in the industry. With this initiative, CREDAI-MCHI aims to enhance accessibility for first-time buyers and create a seamless experience for all participants.

The three-day event will also host prestigious awards ceremonies, including the Golden Pillars Awards and Spaciux Awards for Architects, celebrating excellence and innovation in the real estate sector. These initiatives aim to create an engaging platform for developers, financial institutions, and homebuyers to connect, collaborate, and explore new opportunities.

Year Ender: Home loan industry in the fiscal year 2024-2025

According to Pushpamitra Das, Founder & Director, JUSTO, disbursements in India exhibited a modest growth of 9.2% in FY 2024 on the back of 18.2% growth in FY 2023. Public Sector Banks (PSBs) maintained a dominant position, holding 43% of the market value and 40% of active loans, while the private sector accounts for 23% of the market value and 34.5% of active loans. Housing Finance Companies (HFCs) contribute 22.5% to the market value and 19.4% to active loans. Foreign institutions represent a minimal 0.2% market value and 0.6% active loans, whereas the Others category has 11.3% market value and 5.5% active loans.

Pushpamitra Das
In FY24, there was an increase in the average home loan amount across all lenders. Public Sector Banks (PSBs) reported an 11% year-on-year growth, with the average loan amount rising to ₹28 lakhs. Private Banks recorded a 7% increase, with the average loan amount reaching ₹42 lakhs, according to CRIF High Mark.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) maintained the repo rate at 6.5% throughout 2024. In December 2024, the RBI reduced the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) by 50 basis points to 4%, a move expected to enhance liquidity and potentially lower home loan interest rates.
The 2024-2025 Union Budget introduced measures aimed at transforming the real estate sector, particularly in affordable housing, taxation, and infrastructure development, which are expected to influence the home loan industry positively. Analysts predict that home loan borrowers may experience relief in 2025, with expected interest rate cuts ranging from 50 to 100 basis points, contingent on economic indicators such as GDP growth and inflation.

In summary, the home loan industry in India during FY 2024-2025 experienced a slowdown in growth, influenced by monetary policies and market dynamics. However, with anticipated interest rate cuts and supportive government initiatives, the sector is poised for a potential rebound in the coming years.