Corporate Trends
Unlisted firms climb up CSR spend list
Unlisted companies in India spent nearly as much on corporate social responsibility (CSR) as listed firms in 2022-23, reflecting improved profitability and compliance. They accounted for 49.2% of total CSR expenditure, up from 40.4% in 2019-20. This shift highlights the growing importance of CSR among unlisted companies.
Esop culture making India Inc top execs richer
Top executives at major Indian companies saw their wealth increase by over ₹10,300 crore due to successful employee stock options. Firms like L&T, Infosys, and ICICI Bank used Esops to reward and retain talent amid rising poaching. This trend reflects the growing importance of stock-linked incentives in compensation packages.
Presence of women directors in active companies grew three-fold in last 10 years: Nirmala Sitharaman
Women are also rising on the corporate ladder and in the startup and financial technology space, about 18 per cent of 111 unicorns (valued at USD 1 billion) are led by women in India, Nirmala Sitharaman said.
Anant Ambani’s Vantara Foundation reaches out to Namibia to prevent wildlife loss amid drought
The Vantara Foundation, led by Anant Ambani, has offered aid to Namibia amidst a severe drought threatening wildlife. Known for its animal welfare efforts, Vantara proposes providing lifelong care or temporary refuge to prevent culling. This initiative aims to collaborate with Namibian authorities to explore humane alternatives and protect endangered species.
Online-versus-offline battle brews as festive season begins
India's retail industry faces a growing divide between online and offline sales, with e-commerce platforms offering heavy discounts during the festive season. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has raised concerns about predatory pricing affecting small retailers. Offline retailers are seeking transparency and a level playing field from manufacturers.
NCLAT declines to change Finolex's AGM outcome, ousting Deepak Chhabria
The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal has upheld the shareholders' decision against Deepak Chhabria's reappointment to Finolex Cables' board. The tribunal also validated the 2019 EGM of Orbit Electricals, amending its Articles of Association. The Supreme Court later intervened, leading to a fine for Chhabria and an order for a fresh hearing.
Vedanta Resources' Sanjeev Gemawat joins Essar Group as group general counsel and head of legal
Sanjeev Gemawat, currently group general counsel at Vedanta Group, will join Essar Group as the group general counsel and head of legal. With a career spanning over three decades, Gemawat has held significant positions in various companies including DLF Ltd and Dalmia Bharat Group. He is also co-chairperson of ASSOCHAM's National Council for Corporate Affairs.
Tata Sons board may see new faces soon
Tata Sons is considering new board appointments with Bhaskar Bhat retiring and Ralf Speth stepping down soon. Bhaskar Bhat may remain in an advisory role until the Air India-Vistara merger. The board will also review new management appointments as several executives have retired or exited. Tata Sons saw a 57% profit increase in FY24.
Festive Season Outlook: India braces for potential discounts as consumer demand remains tepid
As India enters the festive season with Onam, companies are uncertain whether this will revive consumption, with demand remaining subdued among low-to-mid income consumers. Higher discounts and promotional offers are expected, especially as industries like automobiles and electronics aim to clear unsold inventory and boost sales during this crucial period.
Swedish firm URBS ties up with Bootes to bring investment, tech to India
Swedish system integrator URBS and Bootes have teamed up to bring Nordic investment and technology to India's infrastructure and real estate projects. The collaboration aims to accelerate decarbonisation with green financing and advanced technologies. Both companies will execute projects worth over Rs 1,000 crore in the coming years.
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CRIF appoints Sachin Seth as regional managing director, India and South Asia
Italy-based CRIF S.p.A. has appointed Sachin Seth as the regional managing director for India and South Asia. Seth, who has extensive experience in fintech and digital transformation, will focus on accelerating growth and expanding the solutions portfolio in the region. He will report to Marco Benvenuto, senior advisor at CRIF Group.
View: In India, some mergers and acquisitions are more equal than others. Just look at ICICI Securities case
ICICI Bank plans to acquire its securities affiliate, prompting criticism from some shareholders unhappy with the buyout terms. Questions arise over the Securities and Exchange Board of India's approval process, as it waived rules meant to protect minority investors. The merger is currently contested via class-action and higher court lawsuits.
PM Modi's 4 big promises to India Inc: 'Hamare Vaade Ke Saath Aapka Vaada…'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on the significant changes in Indians' lives over the past few years, stating, "We have been able to bring a big change in the lives of Indians." He highlighted the key reforms implemented, emphasising that the mantra of "Reform, perform, and transform" has guided their efforts. Modi stressed that these reforms have been central to improving the quality of life and driving progress in the country.
PM Modi lists pillars for Viksit Bharat: Foster learning, food, energy & tourism sectors for world
ET World Leaders Forum 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised India’s economic progress, stating, "India is writing a unique success story today." He highlighted the positive impact of recent reforms, noting that "India has profiled better than expectations" and has "outperformed its peers and beat expectations." Modi emphasised that the country's economic achievements are a testament to the effectiveness of its policies and reforms.
PM Modi at ET WLF 2024: In India’s growth lies the world’s prosperity | Full Speech
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at the ET World Leaders Forum, focusing on India's contributions to the Global South. During his address, Modi outlined the significant support India has provided to African nations and its efforts to advocate for the Global South during its G20 presidency.
ETWLF 2024 | India sign of hope in a turbulent neighbourhood under PM Modi: Satyan Gajwani
‘Prime Minister Narendra Modi has led the country in most trying times for he has the eye for opportunity in challenges’. Satyan Gajwani, VC, Times Internet, Board Director, The Times of India, underlines PM’s qualities of leadership in his Welcome Address at the World Leaders Forum.
