Asianet Newsable

Gen Z Buys More, Trades Less: New Data Challenges the Stereotype

Indrakshi Samanta — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 20:04:43 +0530

For ten years the story about young investors has been the same one. They chase meme stocks, they buy crypto, they treat the market like a casino. The evidence behind it was always thin. It came from what they held and from surveys asking how much risk they would take, not from how often they actually bought and sold. Nobody could count that, because a young person's stocks, options and crypto usually sat with three different firms behind three different logins.

Put all three behind one login and you can count. The result does not flatter the stereotype. Gen Z accounts trading perpetual futures on traditional assets averaged 13 trades a month in early August, according to Binance Research. Millennials averaged 17, Gen X 16.5, and Baby Boomers 19.

The generation everyone calls the speculators is the one trading least.

The Stereotype Is a Behavioral Claim, and Behavior Leaves Records

The case against this cohort has almost always been built from portfolio composition. Holding digital assets, or holding volatile equities, gets treated as proof of a speculative mindset, and the conclusion follows without anyone checking the next step. Composition describes what an investor bought. It says little about what they did afterward.

Those two questions collapsed into one for a practical reason: equities, derivatives and digital assets lived at different firms under different regulators, so watching the same person across all three was rarely possible. The first cross-product measurements point toward holding rather than trading.

Binance Research found 76% of Gen Z tokenized-equity accounts were net accumulators in August 2026, ahead of Millennials at 67%. The pattern carries across products: 77% accumulated in direct equities against 74% for Gen X and 68% for Baby Boomers, and 60% did so in traditional-finance perpetuals.

"Our data shows that 76% of Gen Z tokenized-equity accounts are net accumulators, the highest share of any cohort we serve," says Eowyn Chen, Interim CMO at Binance. "Now that they have access, they're not just trading. They're building positions and holding for the long term."

A net-buying majority on a derivatives book carries less weight than it first sounds, since the average net flow ratio there sits under 1% of gross volume. Conceding that is what makes the direct-equity reading worth attention, where the Gen Z net flow ratio reached 26.5% and average net inflow ran to $1,898 per account.

Turnover Is the Number Nobody Self-Reports

Risk tolerance is self-assessed. Sentiment is arguable. Trade count is a fact about an account, and it comes closer than anything else in retail investing to an objective behavioral measure. It is also where a speculative reputation should be most visible, since churn is what people usually mean by the label.

Young investors are also arriving earlier. Charles Schwab's Modern Wealth Survey puts the average age at 19 for Gen Z, against 25 for Millennials and 35 for Baby Boomers, and the World Economic Forum finds roughly a third started in university or early adulthood, about double the Millennial rate at the same stage. Early entry normally predicts high turnover. Here the order flow runs the other way.

Alongside those 13 monthly trades in perpetual futures, the Gen Z median sits at four, roughly one a week, and in direct equities the cohort averages eight monthly trades against 10 for Millennials.

Tokenized shares are slower still. "In bStocks, Gen Z averages just three trades a month, the lowest of any cohort, with a clear tendency to accumulate," Chen says. "They may be coming in through crypto, but they're approaching traditional assets with a longer-term investment mindset."

The tail matters more than the average. Only 14% of Gen Z perpetuals accounts fall into the high-frequency bucket against 18% for Millennials and 18% for Gen X as well as 16% for Baby Boomers. The visible, highly active minority that shapes public perception of young traders is proportionally smaller inside this cohort than inside the generations above it, which makes this a claim about sampling rather than character.

Where the New Money Actually Goes

Net buying gives direction and turnover gives pace. Neither settles what kind of investor someone is. Destination comes closer, because an allocator concentrates in pooled, diversified instruments and then leaves them alone, and a trader rarely does.

Independent retirement data points the same way. Fidelity reports 95% of Gen Z contributions to individual retirement accounts in the third quarter of 2025 went into Roth accounts, against 75% for Millennials, and Vanguard finds 47% of Gen Z workers on track to be ready for retirement, ahead of Millennials at 42%.

The same profile shows up in how new capital gets routed on the platform. Unleveraged ETF funds took 18.5% of Gen Z net equity inflow in June and 21.9% in July while the single-stock share fell from 77.0% to 74.2%.

On volume the shift is sharper, moving from 14.6% in June to 21.4% in July and 25.0% in the first days of August against 9.5% for Millennials over that same window.

July showed how allocations changed as Gen Z’s net equity inflows slowed. Total Gen Z net equity deployment fell 17.4% that month, but net inflow to unleveraged ETFs slipped only 2.0%, against a 20.4% drop in single stocks and a 28.5% decline in leveraged products. Gen Z was the only cohort whose ETF holder base grew, up 2.9% against declines of 4.5% and 5.9% above it, and its ETF buyers traded least of anyone, at 7.9 times against 10.3 for Millennials. "Even so, the early pattern of more ETF and less single stock usage, runs counter to a pure speculation thesis," Binance Research notes.

Two months of order flow in a rising market does not establish a trend, and the direct-equity product only reached scale in June 2026. This is also the generation that posted the lowest score of any cohort on the TIAA Institute-GFLEC personal finance index, at 38%.

Measured, Not Assumed

The argument over how this generation invests has run for a decade on survey data and anecdote. The useful development is subtler than a winner: the question became measurable, through order flow rather than questionnaires. Whether the pattern survives a market that stops rising is what the coming quarters will answer.

Top 5 Best Instagram Growth Sites Compared: Boost Your Insta Followers, Views and Likes Today

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 14:58:58 +0530

Starting a new Instagram account is exciting, but it can feel rough to see your follower count at zero. Many creators and small channel owners look for quick ways to build initial social proof. People consider the alternative of purchasing followers to kickstart their numbers.

But taking a blind risk can lead to problems for your account. A smart creator is a risk-aware one. That means choosing platforms that keep your privacy safe, don’t ask for sensitive information, and give out numbers slowly. Below is a look at five of the most popular sites that sell Instagram followers, based on their features, safety, and support models.

SocialWick

SocialWick is a popular choice for creators who want a smooth, simple process. You can also choose how many followers you want, allowing you to customize the package size to your needs.

Trail out Free Instagram Likes!

The site pays close attention to account safety. We do not ask you to give us your account password or any private sign-in information. Just give us your public Instagram handle. It’s a good choice for quick updates, with orders being processed quickly after checkout. Looking for a fast and clean setup? You can check SocialWick Instagram Views options to see how their platform handles profile growth.

SocialGreg

SocialGreg is a systematic approach to account growth. It doesn’t drop thousands of followers on you in one sudden spike but instead spreads delivery out over a set period.

Test them Free Instagram Likes!

The slow pace helps to make your profile activity look balanced and natural to casual visitors. Slow growth helps to protect your account from sudden platform flags. If you have questions about when your order will arrive, their customer support team is ready to assist. Check out SocialGreg Instagram Views growth to see how a steady delivery schedule benefits regular posting schedules.

Subscriberz

Subscriberz has a variety of instagram promotion packages for accounts in all phases. Whether you need a small push of a few hundred followers or a bigger package to launch a main project, they have matching plans.

Ordering is a transparent process, and you can track your order status in real time. They stress user discretion and keep your profile boosts under wraps. Their easy-to-use dashboard makes it simple for even beginners to pick a plan without being bogged down with technical steps.

Mixx

Mixx is for creators who want simple plans and visual feedback. On the user-friendly website, there are transparent prices with no hidden recurring subscription fees.

Free Instagram Followers
Free Instagram Likes
Free Instagram Views

Processing the order starts right away after your request is confirmed. They have entry-level packages that allow you to test their service with a low financial commitment. If you’re a daily user who likes transparent costs and quick order tracking, Mixx is a good choice.

LikesBoom

LikesBoom is a good starter option for first-timers looking for basic follower packages. It offers easy top-up services for personal profiles.

It works for small pushes, but the delivery options and support features are more rudimentary than established platforms. It’s a standard backup option if you want to test out small starter orders before moving onto the big plans.

Important Things To Know Before Buying Followers

To safeguard your personal account, always perform these basic safety checks before placing an order on any website:

No Password Needed: Safe platforms require just your public profile link or username. Do not share your email login information or account password.
Steady Delivery Speed: Followers delivered in a steady stream over time look much more natural than a sudden burst of thousands of profiles in a minute.
Transparent Customer Support: Seek platforms that offer transparent contact options or live chat to ensure prompt resolution of order delays.
Upfront Pricing: Don't use services that hide the recurring subscription fee. A good platform will show you the total cost before checkout.

Organic Reach: Smart Ways to Keep It

You can buy insta followers to get a nice kickstart to your profile boost, but it’s the actual content that keeps people watching. Here are some simple habits you can try out on your personal account:

Grab Viewers Fast: Capture attention in the first 3 seconds of your posted video clips or slides.
Maintain Quality: Use bright lighting and clear audio so your posts are easy and fun to watch.
Short Caption: Use simple words and ask friendly questions to get your friends to comment.
Regular Posting: Maintain a consistent upload schedule so your audience knows when to expect new posts.

Conclusion

You can try external growth tools without risking your account with a risk-aware approach. Always prefer trusted services that care about your privacy and handle orders without problems. Combine these starter tools with clean content, post on a regular schedule, and enjoy sharing your favorite moments on Instagram.

Disclaimer - The services mentioned above are intended for entertainment and personal use only. They are not designed for business, professional, or commercial use on Instagram.

Emirates Draw: The Accountant Who Won Every Prize Tier! What Was Behind His $4 Million Win?

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 11:26:57 +0530

Melvin Francis, 26, from Kerala, India, won five of his 11 EASY6 tickets in the same draw.
He is the first in Emirates Draw history to win every prize tier, the $4 million included.
So far, the youngest of the nine grand prize winners.
Still working full time, aiming for his US CPA, and will now fund it himself.

The call that made Melvin F. $4 million richer arrived in the middle of his work break. A colleague sat right beside him, curious about who was on the line. He told her that it was important and left it there.

“If I shouted, everyone would understand that something big has happened. So, I just kept my composure.”

What was hiding behind his calm had never happened before in Emirates Draw. On Friday, 21 August 2026, Melvin bought 11 EASY6 tickets. Five of them won, and together they covered every prize tier in the game. At 26, he is also the youngest of the nine grand prize winners so far. “For the first time in Emirates Draw history, I won five EASY6 tickets across all prize tiers, the same day, including the grand prize!”

Anyone who grew up in an Indian family will understand why he said so little at his desk. Many young Indians, at home and abroad, learn the same values. Respect your parents. Listen to your elders. Finish your education. Stay within what your family and community find acceptable. Most follow it out of love, and few would call it a burden. Yet all of them also hold a private list of hopes that reach beyond the life they are living now.

Melvin’s own path followed that order closely. He was born in Kerala and studied in Bangalore, where he chose accounting because, as he puts it, science was never really his interest. Numbers were another matter. He worked while he studied, so his degree took longer than most. When his first salary arrived, he gave all of it to his father, who carries the responsibility of the whole family, and took back only the minimum. Since then he has earned his US CMA, is completing an online MBA and is working towards his US CPA, all while working full time beside his father managing the family business in the GCC.

His mother’s advice shaped those long working days, and he has an answer for her. “My mother used to always tell me to work hard until 30 and save money for after,” Melvin reflects. “Now, I’m 26, and with the prize money I don’t need to wait until 30.”

The beginning was small. Melvin first found out about Emirates Draw on Instagram, through the interviews of Sriram R., the $27 million MEGA7 winner and Ajay O., the first $4 million EASY6 winner. He bought his first MEGA7 ticket on 14 June 2026, a week after his birthday, and matching four numbers paid him $14, enough to keep him curious. What made him play more was the next set of interviews, “I watched the rest of the grand prize winner interviews.” Ajay’s was still the one he related to directly. He analysed the weekly draws, settled on EASY6 for its ticket price and odds he found appealing, and used the randomiser option to choose the numbers for him. “I would keep tapping the randomiser icon until I was happy with the set of numbers on each ticket.” Two months of weekend play followed.

Then came the day itself. An EASY6 shared prize of $8,333 for matching five numbers appeared in his account first, so when the call came on 26 August from Emirates Draw, he did not think it was a prank. The $4 million followed once the security and identity checks that protect large winners were complete, which is why the account showed only the smaller amount at the start. “Looking back, it makes complete sense,” Melvin says, “and knowing that it was all for the winners’ protection makes me appreciate it more!”

At home, the news went through proper check. His father and sister were the first to hear. His father wanted to review every ticket himself. His sister’s advice was shorter.

“Double check your tickets, ensure the numbers are the same, and the news is real.”

Once the tickets had passed two sets of eyes, the real question was what comes next. Melvin’s first answer has little to do with himself. He wants to help his father expand the family business so he can retire sooner. He sees the prize as a responsibility more than a reward. “Now, with this prize, it’s a different kind of ownership. I would like to ensure I am investing in the right prospects.”

His second answer may surprise people. A prize this size would be a good enough reason for many to put the books down. Melvin has done the opposite. He is still finishing his MBA, still going to work, and with his ambition still aiming for the US CPA, which he can now pay for himself. “I want to earn my US CPA qualification. I can

The 5-Star Effect: How Safety Scores Are Reshaping Used Car Demand

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 14:47:15 +0530

Safety used to sit near the bottom of a used car checklist - somewhere below alloy wheels and a working music system. Not anymore.

Crash test scores now follow a model long after it leaves the showroom, and second-hand buyers quote star ratings in the same breath as service history. The shift shows up clearly in what sells within a week and what sits on a forecourt for a month.

How a Car Actually Earns Its Stars

A star rating isn't a general impression of how solid a car feels. It's the output of a fixed, repeatable test sequence, which is why any pre owned cars buying guide now begins with the crash record of the exact variant on offer.

Under the older Global NCAP protocol, cars faced a high-speed frontal offset crash into a deformable barrier with a significant overlap. Sensors inside adult and child dummies measured head, neck, chest and leg loading.

Assessors then inspected the footwell and A-pillar area and marked the bodyshell as either stable or unstable. Here's the part most buyers miss: an unstable shell caps the score regardless of how well the dummies read. Stars can look fine. The shell verdict is what actually matters.

Why the Numbers Show Up in Resale Prices

Ratings are permanent, public and easy to search. That's what gives them resale power.

They work like a specification rather than a marketing claim, which means a buyer in Pune can verify the same information as a buyer in Delhi and arrive at the same number before negotiating. That transparency is relatively new in the Indian used car space.

A growing number of buyers now filter shortlists by safety score before they even consider colour or fuel type.

One pattern worth noting: strong adult occupant scores arrived in the Indian market earlier than strong child scores. Child protection depends on ISOFIX anchorage quality and correct restraint installation, not just structural strength.

Buyers with young families read the child protection column carefully, and that column explains why two cars with identical adult ratings can move at very different speeds on the used market. The part nobody tells you is how often the child rating is the actual deciding factor in a family purchase, not the headline five-star figure everyone leads with.

Reading a Rating Before Paying the Premium

Most people treat a star rating as a badge worn by an entire model range. That's only half the story.

Ratings apply to a specific build, a specific model year and the safety kit fitted to the tested car. Several older Indian hatchbacks were tested in base trim with two airbags, while facelifts sold two years later shipped with six airbags and a stiffer shell after a platform update. Same name on the bootlid. Different car underneath.

So the sequence matters. Confirm the manufacturing year on the B-pillar sticker, match it against the tested body style, then check whether the variant in front of you carries the same equipment the tested car did.

Buyers going through used Tata Nexon compact SUV guide will find that the pre-facelift years and one from the more recent range both carry strong adult protection scores, but they were assessed under different protocols with different equipment baselines. Paying a facelift premium for an earlier car makes no sense once that distinction is clear.

There's a trade-off worth naming directly. Highly rated models often carry heavier kerb weights and firmer structures, which can mean marginally lower fuel economy and slightly costlier body repairs after a knock. Most buyers accept that exchange without complaint. It should still be a conscious decision, not a surprise at the workshop three months later.

The Checks a Star Rating Cannot Do for You

A crash test measures a new car in factory condition. It says nothing about the specific used car parked in front of you. Nothing.

Airbags fire once. If a car has been in a serious frontal impact, check whether the airbags were replaced or simply the warning light reset. A scan tool reading stored SRS fault codes settles this in minutes, and a seller who resists that check is telling you something.
Seat belt pretensioners deploy alongside airbags and are routinely skipped in cheap repairs. Belts that feel loose or don't lock under a sharp tug deserve real attention, not a mental note.
Structural repairs matter more than fresh paint. Uneven panel gaps, new underbody sealant in odd patches, mismatched weld marks in the boot floor - these suggest work that goes well beyond cosmetics.
Tyres older than five to six years lose grip regardless of tread depth. The four-digit DIN code on the sidewall gives the manufacturing week and year. Check it before driving anywhere.

Top 10 FIU-Registered Crypto Exchanges in India [2026]

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 10:11:29 +0530

The digital asset ecosystem in India has entered a mature, institutional phase. Regulatory oversight by the Financial Intelligence Unit India (FIU-IND) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) is a strict requirement. Investors searching for an FIU-registered crypto exchange in India demand platforms that combine localized banking security, regulatory compliance, and extensive market access.

Whether you are looking for a fully FIU-compliant crypto exchange in India to build your long-term portfolio or a crypto exchange that simplifies daily trading, selecting the right platform determines the safety of your fiat and crypto assets.

The definitive analytical guide below highlights the top 10 platforms in India, showcasing why SunCrypto stands at the very top of the list in 2026.

1. SunCrypto

SunCrypto has firmly established itself as the top FIU-registered crypto exchange in India. Designed specifically for Indian retail investors, traders, and institutional capital, SunCrypto delivers an unmatched balance of absolute legal compliance and user-centric features.

As a pioneer in crypto compliance, SunCrypto addresses every localized need of Indian crypto enthusiasts:

●Direct INR Bank Transfers and UPI Services: SunCrypto features seamless Indian Rupee (INR) deposit and withdrawal mechanisms linked directly with premier Indian banks and Instant Payment Services (IMPS), NEFT, RTGS, and UPI services.

●Institutional Security & Verification: Operating as an exemplary FIU complaint crypto exchange in India, SunCrypto integrates mandatory liveness-detection Video KYC and penny-drop bank verification to eliminate fraud.

●Largest Altcoin Selection: Users can trade over 600+ digital assets in both INR and USDT pairs, making it the most versatile crypto exchange in India for diverse portfolios.

●Automated Tax Compliance: SunCrypto seamlessly handles the mandatory 1% Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) on trades, saving users from tax reporting complexities.

●24/7 Local Human Support: Unlike automated offshore apps, SunCrypto offers 24/7 customer support in both English and Hindi, securing its status as the most trustworthy Indian crypto exchange.

By prioritizing capital security, vast token availability, and direct regulatory compliance, SunCrypto remains the most important crypto exchange in India.

2. CoinDCX

CoinDCX holds its place as a recognized FIU-complaint crypto exchange in India. It caters to both beginner traders and professional market participants who require margin tools and educational resources.

●Regulatory Standpoint: Operates as a compliant platform with continuous Proof of Reserve reporting.

●Offerings: Spot, margin, and futures trading options alongside structured learning platforms.

●Comparison: While robust, CoinDCX offers fewer early-stage altcoin listings compared to SunCrypto, making it less favorable for investors hunting early market opportunities.

3. CoinSwitch

CoinSwitch is a retail-focused crypto exchange that prioritizes simplicity. It functions as an aggregator app for individuals who prefer a straightforward mobile interface.

●Regulatory Standpoint: Registered with FIU-IND with integrated KYC protocols.

●Offerings: One-click buying and selling for top-tier coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana.

●Comparison: Its simplified interface lacks the deep order books, advanced charting, and broad asset diversity found on an FIU-compliant crypto exchange in India like SunCrypto.

4. WazirX

As a veteran player, WazirX continues to operate as another crypto exchange in India. It caters to users who prefer community-based trading and peer-to-peer liquidity networks.

●Regulatory Standpoint: Maintains compliance under the PMLA framework for user identification.

●Offerings: Spot order books and high-volume USDT markets.

●Comparison: Onboarding and fiat processing speeds have lagged behind SunCrypto’s instant INR infrastructure.

5. ZebPay

ZebPay remains a historical brand operating as an FIU-registered crypto exchange in India. It primarily caters to long-term "buy and hold" investors focusing on major market-cap cryptocurrencies.

●Regulatory Standpoint: Fully compliant with domestic identity verification guidelines.

●Offerings: Institutional-grade custody and conservative trading options.

●Comparison: Higher fee structures and a restricted coin listing make it less versatile than SunCrypto for dynamic traders.

6. Mudrex

Mudrex has emerged as an complaint crypto exchange tailored for automated investing and thematic portfolios.

●Regulatory Standpoint: Fully registered under RPFAS Technologies with FIU-IND, operating under strict PMLA parameters.

●Offerings: Features automated "Coin Sets" (basket trading) alongside spot and futures products.

●Comparison: While excellent for passive index investors, SunCrypto provides far superior direct INR altcoin liquidity for active day traders.

7. Delta Exchange India

Delta Exchange operates as a specialized crypto exchange tailored specifically for derivatives and options traders.

●Regulatory Standpoint: FIU-compliant platform offering localized taxation tracking for derivative contracts.

●Offerings: Crypto futures, options, and algorithmic API integration.

●Comparison: High complexity for average retail users; lacks the intuitive spot trading ecosystem present on a crypto exchange like SunCrypto.

8. Giottus

Giottus is another established FIU-registered crypto exchange with a strong user base in Southern India, focusing on multi-language accessibility.

●Regulatory Standpoint: Fully compliant with FIU mandates, offering localized INR gateways.

●Offerings: Staking rewards, SIP features, and multilingual customer support.

●Comparison: Lower overall market depth and token selection compared to SunCrypto’s 250+ listed digital assets.

9. Unocoin

As one of India's earliest bitcoin platforms, Unocoin continues its operation as an FIU-registered crypto exchange in India.

●Regulatory Standpoint: Adheres strictly to FIU-IND regulatory reporting and KYC guidelines.

●Offerings: Systematic Investment Plans (SIP) for Bitcoin and basic spot trading.

●Comparison: Limited interface modernization and lower transaction speeds make it less dynamic than SunCrypto.

10. Bitbns

Bitbns is an Indian crypto exchange that caters to retail users seeking fixed-income crypto products and broad token listings.

●Regulatory Standpoint: Compliant with Indian AML laws and statutory 1% TDS automation.

●Offerings: Margin trading, fixed deposits (FIP), and pooled liquidity options.

●Comparison: Customer support response times and INR withdrawal pipelines are significantly slower than SunCrypto's 24/7 localized human desk.

Feature Comparison Matrix

Exchange	FIU-IND Registered	Instant INR Banking	Asset Variety	Primary Focus

SunCrypto	Yes	Fastest / Direct	600+ Pairs	Good for beginners to pro traders for Crypto Futures Trading, Crypto SIP, Staking, OTC desk trading,
CoinDCX	Yes	Available	150+	Professional Spot & Margin
CoinSwitch	Yes	Available	100+	Simplified Retail Buying
WazirX	Yes	P2P / Select	100+	P2P & Spot Order Books
ZebPay	Yes	Limited	80+	Conservative HODLing
Mudrex	Yes	Available	650+	Automated Baskets (Coin Sets)
Delta Exchange	Yes	Available	50+	Crypto Futures & Options
Giottus	Yes	Available	100+	Multilingual Regional Trading
Unocoin	Yes	Limited	50+	Legacy BTC SIPs
Bitbns	Yes	Variable	150+	Fixed Income & Margin

Why must we use an FIU complaint crypto exchange in India?

Trading on an unregistered or non-compliant exchange creates severe legal, financial, and tax risks for Indian investors. Choosing a recognized FIU-registered crypto exchange in India protects your portfolio in several vital ways:

1.Bank Account Protection: Transacting on an FIU-compliant exchange eliminates the threat of sudden bank account freezes caused by suspicious peer-to-peer (P2P) transfers.

2.Seamless Tax Reporting: A top Indian crypto exchange like SunCrypto automatically handles 1% TDS deductions, ensuring your tax filings with the IT Department remain error-free.

3.Legal Redressal: Capital held on a compliant platform is backed by strict KYC and AML audit trails, offering legal recourse in cases of unauthorized access.

Conclusion

While multiple platforms offer regulatory compliance, SunCrypto easily remains the single best FIU-registered crypto exchange in India. Its direct banking connectivity, automated tax handling, superior altcoin catalog, and dedicated local support make it the gold standard for every Indian crypto investor.

If you are looking for an FIU-compliant crypto exchange in India that safeguards your funds while providing maximum trading opportunities, SunCrypto is the ultimate choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does it mean for a crypto exchange to be FIU-registered in India?

An FIU-registered crypto exchange is a Virtual Digital Asset (VDA) platform formally registered as a "Reporting Entity" with the Financial Intelligence Unit - India (FIU-IND) under the Ministry of Finance. These exchanges must comply with strict Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) rules. This requires platforms to enforce mandatory Video KYC, verify user bank accounts, track transaction audit trails, and automatically deduct the statutory 1% Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) under Section 194S.

2. Is trading on an FIU-compliant exchange legally required in India?

While trading crypto itself is legal in India, using an FIU-registered exchange like SunCrypto is highly recommended to stay compliant with local financial regulations. Non-registered or offshore exchanges operate outside the PMLA framework, putting users at risk of having their linked Indian bank accounts frozen, facing IT Department tax notices due to unrecorded TDS, or losing access to funds if offshore domain URLs are blocked by regulatory authorities.

3. Why is SunCrypto considered the top FIU-registered crypto exchange in India?

SunCrypto leads the market by combining complete regulatory compliance with unmatched retail features. Key advantages include:

●Direct Banking Integrations: Ultra-fast, direct INR deposits and instant withdrawals.

●Vast Selection: Access to over 600+ tradeable altcoins and tokens directly paired with INR.

●Automated Tax Compliance: Seamless 1% TDS automation and direct integration with tax filing tools (like KoinX) for Schedule VDA filings.

●Dedicated Customer Support: 24/7 localized human customer service in both Hindi and English.

How Advanced Endoscopic Techniques Are Redefining Recovery after Spine Surgery

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 17:11:09 +0530

Dr. Yogesh K. Pithwa, (Senior Spine Surgeon & Founder/ Chief Surgeon Sattvik Spine & Scoliosis Center)

The next-generation endoscopic spine surgery techniques are transforming patient recovery. In contrast to traditional open spine operations, full-endoscopic procedures use tiny incisions and a camera-equipped tube to remove disc herniations or decompress nerves. Recent studies show that patients undergoing endoscopic decompression experience dramatically less blood loss, shorter hospital stays and faster return to normal activities, while achieving clinical outcomes comparable to open surgery. For example, one meta-analysis of over 1,000 patients found endoscopic discectomy had significantly greater patient satisfaction, far lower blood loss and a shorter hospital stay on average than open discectomy. These advances are particularly welcome in India, where demand is rising for “keyhole” spine surgery that can get working-age patients back on their feet in weeks, not months.

Advance Endoscopic Techniques:

Endoscopic spine surgery encompasses several approaches. In transformational endoscopic discectomy, the surgeon accesses the disc space through the foramen (back of the spine) to remove herniated disc tissue. An interlaminar approach (through the small space between vertebrae) may be used for central or L5–S1 herniation. Biportal endoscopic techniques use two small portals (one for the camera, one for instruments) to expand access and versatility. Endoscopic tools (high-definition cameras, lasers, drills) allow precise removal of disc fragments, bone spurs or thickened ligaments. These methods address lumbar and cervical disc herniations, foraminal stenosis and select cases of central canal stenosis or cervical radiculopathy. (Extensive deformities or multi-level instability may still require fusion with open surgery.) Multiple trials and meta-analyses show endoscopic techniques achieve outcomes equivalent to open surgery for lumbar stenosis, herniations and cervical radiculopathy. In India, a growing number of specialized centers (including Sattvik Spine) have invested in training and equipment to offer these high-precision procedures.

Evidence-based Recovery Benefits

Studies consistently report faster recovery after endoscopic spine surgery. Because only millimeter-scale incisions are made and muscle tissue is largely spared, patients have less immediate postoperative pain and require less analgesia (though formal pain scores were not always published, surgeons observe a gentler recovery). Operative blood loss is markedly reduced (one meta-analysis found an average of 124 mL less blood loss in endoscopic discectomy). Most strikingly, hospital stays are much shorter: instead of 3–7 days typical for open lumbar surgery, many endoscopic cases are done as outpatient or overnight stays. In practice, most patients go home within 24 hours after endoscopic spine surgery, often walking that same day. Study confirms these resource benefits: compared to open laminectomy, endoscopic decompression had significantly shorter length of stay and nearly all endoscopic patients went directly home.

These shorter stays translate into faster return to work and activities. Prior analyses have shown that minimally invasive spine surgeries (including endoscopic and tubular techniques) enable earlier return to work than traditional open operations. In real-world practice, many patients resume desk jobs within 1–2 weeks of an uncomplicated endoscopic discectomy (compared to 4–6 weeks for open surgery). Even labor-intensive jobs are typically restarted in a few months rather than half a year.

Patient Section And Limits

Endoscopic surgery is not appropriate for every case. Ideal candidates have localized pathology (e.g. a contained disc herniation, foraminal or lateral recess stenosis) that can be addressed through a small portal.

Not suitable: very large central stenosis, major spinal deformity (scoliosis/kyphosis), or multi-level instability generally still require open or fusion surgery. Because of the steep learning curve, surgeons with special endoscopic training should perform these procedures. Early in their experience, surgeons must choose simple cases; the learning curve may require 50–100 cases before outcomes are consistently excellent. In inexperienced hands, complication rates can be higher: one review noted overall reported complications range up to ~20% (including dural tears, nerve injury or reoperation). Thus, careful patient selection and strict indications are essential. Other limitations include need for specialized equipment and imaging (real-time X-ray or navigation), and the fact that some fusion procedures are still in development for full-endoscopic approaches.

About the Author

Dr. Yogesh K. Pithwa is a Senior Spine Surgeon and Founder of Sattvik Spine & Scoliosis Center, Bengaluru, specialising in the comprehensive management of spinal disorders. With expertise in advanced and minimally invasive spine procedures, he focuses on evidence-based treatment, appropriate patient selection and preserving spinal function while helping patients achieve a safe and effective recovery. His clinical interests include endoscopic spine surgery, minimally invasive spine surgery, spinal deformities, scoliosis, degenerative spine conditions and complex spinal disorders.

Sattvik Spine & Endoscopic Centre

472 ,new no. 25, 45th Cross Rd, 8th Block, Jayanagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560082

Ph: +91 80420 68257, +91 82960 82122

Website: sattvikspine.com/

Before Investing in a Mutual Fund, What Should You Actually Check Beyond Past Returns?

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:45:38 +0530

Past returns offer useful information about a mutual fund, but they do not provide the complete picture. Before investing, individuals may review factors such as the scheme's investment objective, portfolio composition, risk level, expense ratio, exit load, and investment strategy. The investment route and account requirements may also vary depending on how the mutual fund is purchased. Reviewing these factors alongside historical performance may help investors understand a scheme's structure, costs, and risks before deciding how it fits their investment approach.

What Should You Check Before Investing in a Mutual Fund?

Looking beyond historical returns may help investors understand different aspects of a mutual fund before investing. The following factors may be considered during the review.

Investment Objective

Start by checking the scheme's investment objective. It indicates the type of securities and market segments the fund focuses on.

For example, an equity mutual fund may invest primarily in shares, while a debt fund may invest in fixed-income securities. Hybrid funds may combine different asset classes based on their stated strategy.

The objective may help investors understand what the fund is designed to invest in and whether it matches their intended investment approach.

Portfolio Composition

The portfolio shows where the scheme's assets are invested. Investors may review the underlying companies, sectors, securities, and asset allocation, depending on the type of fund.

For equity funds, the largest holdings and sector exposure may provide useful information about concentration. For debt funds, investors may examine the types and credit quality of securities held. For example, when reviewing a Kotak mutual fund, investors may examine its latest portfolio to understand which companies, sectors, or securities have significant exposure within the scheme.

Risk Level

Mutual funds are subject to market-related risks, and the level of risk may differ between schemes. Investors may check the scheme's Riskometer and understand the risks associated with its underlying investments.

A fund investing mainly in equities may experience price fluctuations linked to the stock market. Debt funds may have interest-rate, credit, and liquidity-related risks, depending on their portfolio.

Expense Ratio

The expense ratio represents the expenses charged by a mutual fund scheme for managing its portfolio. These expenses affect the scheme's returns over time.

Investors comparing funds with similar objectives may therefore review their expense ratios along with other relevant factors. A lower expense ratio alone does not determine whether a scheme is suitable for a particular investor.

Fund Manager and Investment Strategy

The fund manager and investment strategy may provide additional context about how the portfolio is managed.

Investors may review the scheme's stated approach, such as whether it focuses on large companies, a particular sector, specific types of debt securities, or a combination of asset classes.

The fund manager's tenure with the scheme may also be reviewed, particularly when assessing how long the current management approach has been in place.

Portfolio Concentration

A fund may hold several securities, but its investments may still be concentrated in a limited number of companies or sectors.

Checking the weight of the largest holdings and sector allocations may help investors understand this concentration. A portfolio with significant exposure to a particular company or sector may respond differently to changes affecting that area.

Exit Load

Some mutual fund schemes charge an exit load when investors redeem units within a specified period. The applicable amount and conditions vary between schemes.

Investors may therefore check the exit-load structure before investing, particularly if they may need access to the money within a shorter period.

How to Invest in a Mutual Fund?

The basic steps may include:

Complete KYC requirements - Investors generally need to complete the applicable Know Your Customer (KYC) process before investing in mutual funds.
Choose an investment route - Investors may invest directly through a mutual fund company or use an online investment platform. The account requirements may differ between these routes.
Select a mutual fund scheme - Review the scheme's investment objective, portfolio, risk level, expense ratio, exit load, and other relevant details before selecting a fund.
Choose the investment method - Investors may choose between a lump-sum investment and a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP), depending on the available options and their investment approach. For certain investment routes, such as ETFs, opening a Demat account online may also be required before placing the investment.
Enter the investment amount - For a lump-sum investment, enter the amount to be invested. For an SIP, select the contribution amount and applicable frequency.
Complete the transaction - Follow the applicable payment and transaction process to place the mutual fund investment request.
Review the investment periodically - Investors may review the scheme, portfolio, investment objective, and personal financial circumstances periodically. Changes may be considered when relevant to the investment plan.

Conclusion

Reviewing a mutual fund involves more than examining past returns. Investors may also consider the scheme's objective, portfolio composition, risk level, expense ratio, investment strategy, concentration, exit load, and intended investment horizon. Historical performance may provide useful context, but it remains only one part of the overall review. Checking recent scheme documents and disclosures may help investors understand the investment before committing funds. Online platforms such as 5paisa provide access to mutual funds and related investment tools through their digital platform, which may support investors in managing their investments.

Why Gold Loan Demand Is Surging Across India - And What Record Gold Rates Have to Do

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 17:30:20 +0530

Something has changed in how Indian households think about the jewellery in the locker.

India's organised gold loan book has grown close to fourfold in five years, reaching roughly ₹18.6 lakh crore by March 2026. That is not a fashion or a sign of distress. It is a fairly rational response to two things happening at once: gold is worth more than it has ever been, and the rules around lending against it got clearer.

Two Forces Behind the 2026 Surge

Every rally makes the same jewellery worth more. A rising gold price lifts borrowing capacity without anyone buying a single extra gram. The chain pledged two years ago supports a materially larger advance today. Families are using that headroom for stock purchases, crop inputs, school fees and hospital bills — and getting the ornaments back afterwards, which is the part that matters most to them.

The LTV ceiling moved. From April 2026, RBI replaced the flat 75% loan-to-value cap with tiers. Loans up to ₹2.5 lakh can now go to 85%, loans between ₹2.5 lakh and ₹5 lakh to 80%, and anything above ₹5 lakh stays at 75%. The effect is concentrated exactly where most borrowing happens — small tickets, where an extra ten percentage points is the difference between covering the requirement and falling short.

Even now, only around 8% of the gold held in Indian homes is pledged with organised lenders. Most of it is still idle.

What Makes a Secured Loan Structurally Different

Gold loans and unsecured loans are not competing products. They answer different questions, and the differences come from the structure rather than from one being superior.

Feature	Unsecured Personal Loan	Secured Gold Loan
Collateral	None	Ornaments up to 1 kg, or bank-minted 22K coins up to 50 g, per borrower
Role of credit score	Central to approval and pricing	Not usually the deciding factor, though repayment is still reported to bureaus
Disbursement	Typically two to five working days	Same day in most cases, once valuation and paperwork are done
Pricing basis	Priced against borrower risk alone	Priced against collateral the lender holds, which is why rates sit differently

Because a pledged ornament sits with the lender, the risk profile is different, and the gold loan interest rate reflects that. It also means the loan can move quickly, since there is far less about the borrower left to verify. What it cannot do is help someone who has nothing to pledge — which is precisely where unsecured credit does its job.

Getting the Sums Right Before Pledging

Watch the rate, but know how it is applied. Tracking the gold rate today gives a sense of the ballpark. The figure a lender actually uses is the lower of the 30-day average or the previous day's close, published by IBJA or a SEBI-regulated exchange, so a one-day spike will not move the sanction.

Model the repayment before you commit. A gold loan calculator converts weight, purity and current rates into an eligible amount and a projected interest outgo. Muthoot Finance publishes its scheme details and a calculator on its website, and its Loan@Home service allows the process to start without a branch visit — helpful for comparing structures before deciding anything.

Pick a repayment structure that matches the income, not the calendar. Regular EMIs, monthly interest servicing, or a bullet repayment at the end are all standard. One rule worth knowing: RBI caps bullet repayment consumption loans at 12 months, though they can be renewed. A trader with seasonal receipts and a salaried borrower should not be choosing the same structure.

Where Care Is Still Needed

Borrow the requirement, not the eligibility. A high valuation makes a large sanction possible. That is not a reason to take it. Interest accrues on what is drawn.

Treat interest dates seriously. Missed payments attract penal charges, and prolonged default can eventually lead to auction — a long process with several exits, but one best avoided entirely.

Get the paperwork before handing anything over. A Key Fact Statement setting out the full cost, and a receipt listing gross weight, net weight and assessed purity, should both be in hand before the ornaments leave the counter.

Choosing Where to Pledge

The lender matters more here than in almost any other kind of borrowing, because what is at stake is not only money.

Muthoot Finance is regulated by RBI and sits in its upper layer of NBFCs, the tier held to the strictest standards. Pledged ornaments are insured at no cost to the borrower and kept in tamper-proof packaging inside branch strongrooms under round-the-clock surveillance. Repayment runs through any branch or online via the iMuthoot app and Webpay, part-payments are accepted, and prepaying carries no penalty. On closure, RBI requires the jewellery back within seven working days, with ₹5,000 per day payable to the borrower if the lender causes the delay.

Before Applying

Gold that has been sitting untouched for a decade is worth considerably more now than when it was bought, and the framework around lending against it is tighter than it has ever been. Both of those things favour the borrower.

The sensible sequence has not changed. Check the current benchmark, confirm which LTV tier applies, run the repayment through a calculator, choose the structure that fits the income, and read the receipt before signing. Done in that order, a short-term gap gets covered and the jewellery comes home.

How to Choose Life Insurance When Your Family Depends on Your Income

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 10:22:01 +0530

When your family depends on your income, choosing life insurance becomes more than a question of whether you have a policy. You need to know whether that policy can support the financial responsibilities you currently handle if your income is no longer available.

Rent or home loan EMIs, household expenses, children's education and support for ageing parents can all continue even when an earning member is no longer there. The right life insurance starts by understanding those responsibilities and choosing cover around them.

Begin with the People Who Depend on You

Start with a simple question: who relies on your income today?

It could be your spouse and children, parents who depend on you financially, or all of them. Then look at what your earnings currently pay for each month.

Include regular household expenses, school fees, loan repayments, insurance premiums and other essential costs. This shows you how much of the family's financial life depends directly on your income.

It also helps you avoid choosing life cover based only on your salary or on what someone else has purchased.

Work Out How Much Cover Your Family Needs

There is no single life insurance amount that works for every family.

Your cover should take into account your outstanding liabilities, regular family expenses and important future goals. If you have children, this can include the money you want available for their education. If you have a home loan, consider the outstanding amount your family would still need to manage.

Then look at what is already available. Existing life insurance, savings, investments and other reliable household income can reduce the gap that needs to be covered.

The aim is to arrive at an amount based on your family's actual finances rather than relying only on a fixed multiple of annual income.

Decide What You Need the Policy to Do

Different life insurance plans serve different purposes.

If your main requirement is financial protection for people who depend on your earnings, a pure-term insurance policy is designed specifically to provide life cover for a chosen period.

Other life insurance products can combine cover with savings or market-linked investment features. These may suit different financial objectives, but the protection component still needs to be checked against your family's requirement.

Start with the need first. Once you know how much protection you require, you can decide whether you want pure life cover or additional features within the policy.

Choose a Policy Term That Matches Your Responsibilities

The amount of cover matters, but so does how long it last.

Think about when your biggest financial responsibilities are likely to reduce. Your home loan may have another fifteen years left. Your children may need financial support until they complete higher education. Your parents may continue depending on you for longer.

Choose a policy term that covers the period during which your income plays an important role in supporting these responsibilities.

Simply choosing the longest term available is not always necessary. The objective is to match the cover period to your financial commitments.

Add Your Loans to the Calculation

A major loan can significantly change how much life insurance your family needs.

If you have a home loan, ask whether your family could continue the repayments without your income. If paying off the loan would consume savings meant for everyday expenses or future goals, include the outstanding liability when estimating your cover.

The same principle applies to other large debts that would continue to affect your family.

As loans reduce over time, review your overall insurance requirement again.

Do Not Depend Only on Insurance from Your Employer

Employer-provided life cover is a useful benefit, but it should be looked at alongside your family's complete requirement.

Check the actual amount of cover available through your workplace. Then ask whether it would be enough to meet outstanding liabilities and support your dependants for the required period.

Employer cover is also linked to that employment arrangement. If you change jobs, the benefits available through the previous employer do not automatically become your personal life insurance cover.

An individual policy gives you protection that is independent of a particular employer.

Pick a Premium You Can Maintain

The right cover also needs to fit comfortably within your finances.

Compare premiums for the cover amount and policy term you need, but do not make the decision on price alone. Premiums can vary based on factors such as age, health, smoking or tobacco use, sum assured and policy duration.

A lower premium is useful only when the policy itself meets your requirements.

Look at the benefits, exclusions, premium-payment period and policy conditions alongside the price before making the final comparison.

Be Accurate About Your Health and Lifestyle

When applying for life insurance, provide complete and accurate information about your health, medical history, occupation and lifestyle wherever the insurer asks for it.

Do not leave out a medical condition or tobacco use simply because you think it could increase the premium.

The insurer uses these details to assess your application and determine the terms on which the cover is offered. Accurate disclosure also keeps the policy based on the correct information from the beginning.

Choose Riders for a Clear Reason

Life insurance policies can offer riders that provide additional benefits for specified events, such as accidental death, disability or certain critical illnesses.

Do not add every rider simply because it is available.

Look at what the rider covers, what it excludes and how much additional premium it requires. Add it when it addresses a protection need that is relevant to your situation.

Keep the Policy Current as Your Family Changes

The life insurance you need today may not be the amount you need ten years from now.

Marriage, the birth of a child, a home loan, higher income or taking responsibility for parents can increase your financial commitments. Later, loan repayment, growing savings or children becoming financially independent can change them again.

Review your cover whenever these major changes happen.

Also keep your nominee details and contact information updated, and make sure your family knows that the policy exists and where its details are stored.

Choose Life Insurance Around Your Family

When your family depends on your income, life insurance should reflect the financial role that income plays.

Start with your dependants and liabilities. Account for future goals and the assets you already have. Then choose the amount and duration of cover that fills the gap.

The best life insurance plans in India are not necessarily the ones with the most features or the lowest premium. The right plan is one that provides enough financial protection for the responsibilities your income supports today and in the years ahead.

The Oil Executive Building a Solar Farm Bigger Than London

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 10:41:58 +0530

Anant Ambani works in oil. His big bet is on sunshine.

Reliance Industries controls the world's largest oil-refining complex. But Anant Ambani, who is leading the clean-energy business, wants to focus on something different from what has been already established.

Anant Ambani is executive director of Reliance Industries. And since 2022, he has been working on new-energy businesses like solar power, batteries and green hydrogen.

His main goal is to achieve Net-zero carbon by 2035.

He summed up his whole idea and put it under one line at Reliance's annual meeting in June 2026:

"The world built its old energy on Middle Eastern oil. Now, the world will build its new energy on Indian sunshine."

The sunshine looks like this in actual numbers.

A solar project in Kutch is bigger than London and it can power 3% of India

A bigger part of Reliance’s clean-energy plans are happening in Kutch, Gujarat.

The Reliance's renewable-energy hub expands over 550,000 acres. This is almost 2,200 square kilometres bigger than London's 1,572.

The objective is to achieve more than 40 billion units of electricity a year. It is almost 3% of all the power India uses, and all of this happening from one site, the power site of Kutch.

The site just doesn't sleep at all because massive batteries store the power and provide needed power supply after the sunset. Kutch is one single piece of a bigger goal, the goal of producing 100 gigawatts (GW) of clean power by 2030.

That power can potentially reduce about 29 million tonnes of CO2 a year, the amount is equivalent of what 6.8 million cars would produce.

There is a reason why this matters for the planet. According to the data provided by Central Electricity Authority, India’s electricity grid released around 0.727 tonnes of CO2 for every 1,000 units of electricity in 2023-24.

If 40 billion units of electricity were to be produced through renewable sources and displaced equivalent grid electricity, you get 29 million tonnes of CO2 avoided each year.

Imagine your car in the driveway now imagine 6.8 million cars. That's how many cars it takes to put out that much CO2 in a year.

Another important aspect of this change is that 29 million tonnes is about three-quarters of Reliance's own reported emissions. One project could minimize most of them.

Our estimate, based on the published output target and official grid data.

The plan is beyond solar panels

Anant is not only just building power plants. He's building the machines that make them. The manufacturing procedure is taking place at a 5,000-acre green-energy complex in Jamnagar.

What he's building	How big	Where it stands
Solar panel factory	20 GW of panels a year	Nearly 1 GW made so far, including India's first certified heterojunction (HJT) panels, a newer type that wears out more slowly
Battery factory	40 GWh, growing to 120 GWh	First phase due in 2026
Green hydrogen and green chemicals	3 million tonnes of capacity	10-year goal. A $3 billion green ammonia deal with Samsung C&T is already signed
The whole green-energy complex	₹75,000 crore (about $10 billion)	Announced in 2021

The impact of this project is not just limited to carbon, the project is estimated to create around 200,000 jobs.

Vantara's 10 million trees could soak up as much as 52,000 tonnes of CO2 a year

The clean-energy plans are only one part of Anant’s bigger environmental work.

Anant founded Vantara, which covers almost 3,500 acres near Jamnagar. More than almost 10 million trees are there.

It is situated inside a dense forest belt. Reports say that this greenery has greatly impacted the environment of this area. Cooled down the temperature, and brought better rainfall.

So how much carbon can those trees pull out of the air? Nobody has published an official figure. So we ran one.

The UN's Food and Agriculture Organization says young tropical forests take away 3.2 to 10 tonnes of carbon per hectare each year and Vantara covers about 1,416 hectares.

If we do the math then the figure is around 17,000 to 52,000 tonnes of CO2 a year vanished out by Vantara alone

Our estimate, based on FAO rates and US EPA car data.

The world is noticing: a global award, a top Reliance role and a UK professorship

• In December 2025, Anant earned his Global Humanitarian Award for leadership in conservation from. He's the youngest person, and the first from Asia to win it. Past winners include names like John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton.

• In May 2025, he became an executive director of Reliance Industries.

• He also has a Professorship of Practice in Sustainability at Newcastle University in the UK.

Anant speaks about his mission

"Conservation and sustainability need to become the next great movement. one that goes beyond nations, generations and differences."

What lies ahead

The next nine years will show how far the sunshine plan can go.

• 2026: the first phase of the battery factory.

• 2030: 100 GW of clean power.

• 2035: net-zero carbon for Reliance.

Anant Ambani works for the company behind the world's largest oil refinery. He's using that position to build one of the biggest clean-energy projects on Earth.

The old energy came from oil. If he succeeds in these marks, the new energy will come from Indian sunshine. And millions of tonnes of carbon will never reach the sky resulting in a better future.

What Factors Should You Consider Before Choosing a Hair Regrowth Treatment?

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 15:01:01 +0530

Choosing a hair regrowth treatment feels overwhelming for most people -and understandably so. The market is flooded with shampoos, serums, supplements, and clinical procedures, each claiming to be the answer. But hair loss is rarely a one-size-fits-all problem, and picking the wrong treatment doesn't just waste money -it can delay real progress or even make things worse.

Before you commit to anything, there are a few important things worth thinking through carefully.

Understand Why You're Losing Hair First

This is the step most people skip, and it's the most important one. Hair loss has many different causes -hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, stress, scalp conditions, genetics, thyroid issues, or even aggressive styling habits. Each of these responds to different treatments.

For example, hair loss driven by iron deficiency won't improve with a topical solution. And hair loss caused by a scalp condition like seborrheic dermatitis needs to be treated at the scalp level before any regrowth treatment will work. Getting a proper diagnosis -through a dermatologist or a trichologist -gives you a starting point that actually makes sense.

If you're self-diagnosing based on a quiz or a quick Google search, you might be treating the wrong thing entirely.

How Long Has the Hair Loss Been Happening?

Duration matters more than most people realize. Early-stage hair loss tends to respond better to treatment than hair loss that has been progressing for years. When hair follicles have been dormant or miniaturized for a long time, some of them may no longer be active -which means even effective treatments may not be able to revive them.

This doesn't mean long-standing hair loss is untreatable. But it does mean your expectations and your treatment plan need to be calibrated accordingly. The earlier you act, the more options you have.

What Does the Evidence Actually Say?

Not all hair regrowth treatments are backed by solid clinical evidence. Some ingredients and methods have been studied extensively. Others are based on anecdotal reports or limited research. It's worth asking -before you spend money on something -whether there is real clinical data supporting it.

Minoxidil, for instance, is one of the most studied topical treatments for hair loss and has shown consistent results in people with androgenetic alopecia. It works by increasing blood flow to hair follicles and extending the growth phase of the hair cycle. It isn't a cure, but the evidence behind it is well-established. Understanding what a treatment does mechanically -not just what it promises -helps you make a smarter decision.

Are You Thinking About Side Effects and Long-Term Use?

Some hair regrowth treatments require ongoing use to maintain results. If you stop, the hair loss may return. That's not a flaw in the treatment necessarily -it's just how some of these interventions work. But it's important information to have before you start.

Side effects also vary significantly. Certain medications can affect hormonal balance or cause systemic effects. Topical treatments might cause scalp irritation in some people. Before starting anything, especially a medication or a clinical procedure, knowing the risk profile helps you make an informed choice rather than a reactive one.

Ask whether the treatment is meant for short-term or lifelong use
Check if it's suitable for your specific type of hair loss
Understand whether results are reversible if you stop
Look into any known interactions with existing health conditions or medications

Is the Treatment Addressing Root Causes or Just Symptoms?

A lot of treatments focus on surface-level results -making hair look thicker or reducing shedding temporarily -without addressing why the hair loss started in the first place. For someone with hormonal hair loss, for instance, a topical product alone may not be enough.

Brands like Traya minoxidil combine scientifically backed topical solutions with internal support -addressing deficiencies, lifestyle factors, and scalp health together rather than treating hair loss as a single-variable problem. This kind of layered approach tends to produce more sustainable results.

Final Thoughts

Hair regrowth is possible for many people, but the path there looks different depending on what's causing the loss, how long it's been happening, and how well the treatment matches the actual problem. Before choosing anything, slow down and ask the right questions. The best treatment isn't the most popular one or the most expensive one -it's the one that fits your specific situation. Understanding your hair loss first is always the smarter starting point.

Top Payroll Software with Automated Salary Processing for HR Leaders

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 18:07:22 +0530

Payroll errors rarely make headlines, but they destroy trust instantly. A missed reimbursement, a wrong tax deduction, a delayed payment- any one of these can unsettle a workforce within hours. It is precisely why HR leaders across India are walking away from manual spreadsheets and moving to platforms built for automated, error-free salary processing.

Modern HR software does far more than crunch numbers. It reconciles attendance, calculates statutory deductions, manages exceptions, and disburses salaries on time, month after month, without demanding manual verification of every line item.

PeopleStrong

Built for large-scale workforces, PeopleStrong’s AI-driven platform pulls the entire employee lifecycle, from recruitment to offboarding, into a single system. The Payroll and Workforce Management suite is where it earns particular attention: an embedded AI assistant called Jinie handles routine queries on the spot, taking the pressure off service desks before it accumulates. Underneath that, the platform runs zero-touch salary processing, automatic compliance with Indian statutory requirements, such as PF, ESI, TDS, and audit-ready workflows throughout. Self-service portals and predictive workforce analytics sit alongside these, giving HR leaders a clearer operational picture without the administrative drag that tends to follow complexity at scale.

ADP Workforce Now

ADP has been synonymous with payroll accuracy for decades, and that reputation holds up in its enterprise platform. Salary calculations, tax filings and compliance updates are handled with a level of precision that large, multinational organisations tend to prioritise above almost anything else. Where ADP genuinely stands out is in cross-border payroll consistency, useful for enterprises managing employees across several countries under one unified system. The cost and implementation timeline, however, generally place it out of reach for smaller or mid-sized companies.

greytHR

Simplicity is the whole pitch with greytHR, and it delivers on that promise. Salary runs are automated end to end, statutory filings are built in, and the interface does not demand extensive training before HR teams can use it confidently. Smaller enterprises tend to gravitate towards greytHR for exactly this reason, though the platform has steadily expanded its capabilities to accommodate larger, more complex organisations as well.

Zoho Payroll

Zoho Payroll sits naturally alongside Zoho People and Zoho Books for businesses already working within the Zoho ecosystem. Salary computation, payslip generation and statutory compliance are all automated, and the integration across Zoho's finance and HR tools removes a good deal of duplicate data entry. It suits organisations with moderate payroll complexity rather than those juggling intricate multi-entity structures, but within that scope, it performs reliably.

Keka

Keka has gained a reputation for having loyal followers among quickly growing Indian firms due to the payroll module, which supports complex payroll systems and does all this without involving many manual processes. The system brings out the errors before finalising the payroll run, which minimises the situation where errors have to be corrected in the payroll in the last minute, and this would consume almost the whole afternoon.

RazorpayX Payroll

RazorpayX Payroll is based on a unique approach, which is linked to the banking infrastructure where salary payouts are immediately withdrawn once the process is cleared and approved. As such, RazorpayX Payroll is extremely efficient in terms of processing salaries and ensuring that compliance-related filings are managed seamlessly and promptly. As a result, businesses with smaller or medium-sized staff prefer it due to the combination of the two critical attributes that include disbursal speed and statutory accuracy.

SAP SuccessFactors Payroll

Large enterprises carrying layered organisational structures and heavy compliance obligations tend to gravitate towards SAP SuccessFactors. Its payroll engine is deeply configurable, capable of handling complex pay structures, multiple currencies, and country-specific statutory rules within a single system. That configurability has a cost: longer implementation timelines and a steeper learning curve. It suits organisations with dedicated HR technology teams far better than it suits lean HR departments.

HROne

HROne brings payroll together with broader HR functions, attendance, performance, recruitment, and its salary processing module is built to reduce manual touchpoints at each stage. Compliance with Indian statutory regulations is embedded directly into the workflow rather than bolted on, and the platform's configurability means HR teams can adjust rules as organisational policies shift, without raising a support ticket every time.

What Actually Matters When Choosing One

The feature lists may make all the payroll platforms appear alike, but it is the distinctions that arise when implementing the solution and in the third month of operation, not during the sales presentation, that distinguish one platform from another.

Is there a good way for the software to cope with statutory changes without requiring manual adjustments every time the rules change? How well does the platform integrate with the attendance and leave management systems already used by your organisation?

Automated salary processing is not about removing HR from the equation entirely. It is about removing the repetitive, error-prone parts of the job so that HR leaders can spend time on decisions that actually require judgement, rather than double-checking whether a tax slab was applied correctly. The platforms above each solve this problem differently, and the best payroll software usually depends less on brand reputation and more on how closely a system's design matches an organisation's actual payroll complexity.

For enterprises weighing compliance depth against ease of use, a short pilot run, processing one department's payroll for a month before committing organisation-wide, tends to reveal far more than any product brochure ever will.

Russia Introduces AI Referee Support System for Federal Competitions

Indrakshi Samanta — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 19:47:10 +0530

From September 10 to 13, the Magnit Russian Weightlifting Championships will feature an AI-powered referee support system. The technology is not being introduced as a one-off test: following the Russian Championships, the system will continue to be used by the Russian Weightlifting Federation (RWF) as part of its competition process.

The innovative solution was developed by researchers from Sberbank as part of the Sber AI team. The system analyzes athletes’ attempts using video footage and provides referees with additional materials to review disputed situations.

The Russian Weightlifting Federation has become the first sports federation in Russia to integrate an AI system directly into judging at federal-level competitions. By adopting the technology, the RWF is taking a pioneering role and setting a new benchmark for the use of AI in Russian sport.

Using computer vision, the system identifies key points on an athlete’s body, creates a digital skeleton, tracks movement and calculates performance parameters. The analysis takes into account the individual engagement and fixation of the shoulder, elbow and knee joints.

AI helps formalize criteria that have traditionally been assessed visually by referees, including limb positioning, movement trajectory, stability of the final position and specific indicators of technical violations.

In the event of a disputed attempt, the jury receives the video footage, key frames and analytical results. The system works in a way comparable to VAR in football: AI does not replace referees or make the final decision. Instead, it provides additional objective data to support the review of a disputed episode.

“The introduction of an AI-powered referee support system is an important step in the development of sport. Our goal is to make the competition process even more transparent, modern and understandable.

At the same time, it is important that artificial intelligence does not replace the professional judgment of the refereeing panel. It serves as an additional tool that allows referees to quickly access relevant data, carefully review disputed situations and improve the quality of their decisions.

For us, this is not a one-off technology experiment, but the beginning of a systematic effort. We are grateful to our colleagues at Sber for this joint project and are confident that its further development will help establish new standards for judging — first at competitions in Russia and, in the future, on the international stage.”

— Dmitry Khomyakov, Secretary General of the Russian Weightlifting Federation

“It is fundamentally important for us that artificial intelligence in sport is already moving beyond laboratories and pilot projects. We are not simply developing and testing promising solutions — we are deploying them at federal-level competitions, where they deliver real value.

We thank the Russian Weightlifting Federation for its trust and partnership. Today, we are pioneers in this field together. Our next goal is to further develop the technology and, in the future, bring it to international competitions, including the Olympic Games.

Only through close cooperation with the professional sports community can technologies like this reach their full potential.”

— Maxim Eryomenko, Vice President and Director of the Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Technology Development Department, Sberbank

The Russian Championships will serve as the starting point for the technology’s further integration into the competition process. The Sberbank development team will continue to improve the innovative system in cooperation with the Russian Weightlifting Federation and sports experts, expanding the capabilities of modern AI technologies to support refereeing.

Travel Insurance Mistakes That Can Complicate a Claim

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 14:14:01 +0530

A travel insurance claim can become harder when simple policy requirements are missed. Small oversights, such as giving incomplete details, losing receipts or contacting the insurer late, may create extra questions during assessment.

Understanding the claim process before travelling can help you respond confidently if something goes wrong. The key is to know what your policy expects, keep records and follow the required steps from the moment an incident happens until the claim is submitted.

Buying a Policy Based Only on Premium

Price is only one part of a travel insurance decision. A lower premium may seem appealing, but the policy still needs to match your destination, trip duration, planned activities and other travel requirements. When you buy travel insurance, take time to understand what the policy offers and the conditions attached to its benefits.

Compare benefits that are relevant to your trip.
Read conditions before making the purchase.
Check whether the policy suits your travel plans.

Providing Incorrect or Incomplete Information

Insurance applications and claim forms depend on accurate details. Leaving out information or entering something incorrectly can lead to questions when the claim is reviewed. This deserves extra attention with travel insurance for senior citizens, where age, medical information and trip details should be stated correctly wherever the policy asks for them.

Review all information before submitting it.
Answer health and travel questions accurately.
Correct errors as soon as you notice them.
Keep copies of submitted information for reference.

Ignoring Policy Exclusions and Conditions

A policy explains not only the benefits available but also the circumstances and conditions attached to them. Reading these parts before travel helps you understand how to use the policy properly. It can also prevent assumptions about situations that may require specific documents, notifications or precautions.

Read the policy wording, not only the summary.
Note conditions linked to relevant benefits.
Check requirements for planned activities.
Ask the insurer for clarification when wording is unclear.

Delaying Contact with the Insurance Provider

Quick communication can make the next steps easier after a travel incident. Some situations may require prompt notification, particularly where medical assistance, baggage issues or other travel disruptions are involved. Contacting the insurer or assistance provider early can help you understand what information to collect and what process to follow.

Keep assistance contact details accessible during the trip.
Share the incident details clearly.
Note any claim or reference number provided.
Follow the instructions given for further action.

Failing to Keep Medical Bills and Other Documents

Documents help show what happened and what expenses were connected with the incident. Depending on the claim, these may include medical records, bills, receipts, travel documents, reports or other supporting papers. Losing them can make it harder to provide the information requested during assessment.

Keep original bills and receipts where required.
Save digital copies as a record.
Retain medical reports and prescriptions.
Store travel tickets and confirmations safely.

Not Getting Required Approval for Treatment

Certain policies may require prior authorisation for particular treatment arrangements or cashless assistance, although emergencies may be handled differently under the policy terms. Starting treatment without checking the applicable process can create avoidable uncertainty later. Where circumstances allow, contact the insurer or assistance team before proceeding.

Check whether authorisation is required.
Explain the medical situation clearly.
Keep written confirmation when approval is provided.
Follow emergency instructions stated in the policy.

Waiting Too Long to File the Claim

Claim submission requirements can include a stated time frame or a request to provide documents without unnecessary delay. Waiting too long may mean records become harder to obtain or details are forgotten. Submitting the claim promptly also gives you more time to respond if information is requested.

Check the claim submission requirements in your policy.
Start gathering documents soon after the incident.
Record dates and communication.
Explain any unavoidable delay when submitting the claim.

Submitting an Incomplete or Incorrect Claim Form

A claim form should give the insurer a clear and consistent account of the incident. Missing fields, incorrect dates or documents that do not match the information provided can result in further queries. Taking a few minutes to review the form carefully can reduce unnecessary back-and-forth.

Complete every relevant section of the form.
Match dates and details with supporting documents.
Attach the requested records in an organised manner.
Keep a copy of the complete submission.

Conclusion

Travel insurance can be more useful when you understand how to use it before a problem occurs. Reading the policy, sharing accurate information, contacting the insurer promptly and keeping supporting documents can make the claim process easier to follow. It is equally important to respect any approval and submission requirements stated in the policy. Since claim assessment depends on the policy terms and the circumstances of each case, careful preparation can help you present complete information and avoid preventable complications.

Born in the Yoga Capital: How Rishikesh Shaped Anand Mehrotra and Sattva Yoga Academy

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 10:15:16 +0530

Rishikesh, the pilgrimage town where the Ganga leaves the Himalayan foothills, is widely called the "yoga capital of the world". Anand Mehrotra was born and raised there, and the school he founded, Sattva Yoga Academy, sits in the hills near the town. He is a teacher whose personal history and institution share the same landscape.

How a Town Became a Capital

Rishikesh lies on the banks of the Ganges in Uttarakhand, and its temples and ashrams make it one of India's major spiritual centres, according to Outlook Traveller. The magazine adds a useful caution: the town is often called the "birthplace of yoga", though verifiable sources for that claim are hard to find. What is better documented is the 1968 visit by The Beatles to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram, which brought the town worldwide attention and, in Outlook's account, changed Western attitudes toward Indian spirituality.

Today the town hosts an annual International Yoga Festival, held in the first week of March according to Wikipedia's account of Rishikesh, and its title as yoga capital is as much a product of global attention as of local tradition.

Beyond the Studio

Visitors find a town organised around the river as much as around yoga. Outlook Traveller describes Parmarth Niketan's daily programme of yoga, meditation and satsang, capped by the Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunset, and notes that Rishikesh is also a hotspot for adventure sports such as river rafting and bungee jumping. Wikipedia adds that the city is vegetarian-only and alcohol-free. The result is an unusual mix of pilgrimage, practice and tourism, and one in which a school must decide what kind of experience it wants to offer.

A Native Teacher

Against that backdrop, Mehrotra's biography reads differently from that of the many teachers who arrived in Rishikesh from elsewhere. His Academy biography describes him as born and raised in the city, and his presenter profile for the International Yoga Festival says he was mentored by his guru from childhood and, as a young man, travelled across India studying Vedic and Tantric teachings. He has taught in the United States, Australia and Europe, and has himself presented at the Rishikesh festival.

A School in the Hills

Sattva Yoga Academy teaches within what it calls the Himalayan Yog-Vedantic tradition. Outlook Traveller's 2025 round-up of Rishikesh retreats lists the Academy among places to consider, noting its roots in Vedanta and Tantric traditions and describing shorter stays — a Panchakarma detox package and a kirtan retreat — for visitors who are not training as teachers. The Academy's residential partner, Sattva Retreat, sits roughly 30 minutes from the town centre, as DNA India's feature on the retreat explains.

Rooted in More Than Practice

Mehrotra's connection to the town extends beyond teaching. Khushi Charitable Society, which he founded in 2002, funds tuition-free schooling and vocational training for local families. The Sattva Collection, a lifestyle brand co-founded by Academy teacher Annemarie, is described on its website as created in Rishikesh and providing employment to local artisans. For a teacher whose institution draws students from abroad, those local ties are part of how the school describes its relationship to the place with the intention to create pieces of art which are genuinely inspired by the magnificence of our existence.

That mix is also why independent coverage matters. A school's own description of itself is one source; a travel magazine's round-up, and a festival's presenter page are others. Taken together, they let a prospective student check a school's claims against more than its marketing.

Choosing a School in a Crowded Town

Rishikesh offers a wide range of options, from Parmarth Niketan, which Outlook Traveller describes as the town's biggest ashram with 1,000 rooms, to small residential schools. For a prospective student the town supplies the setting; the school's method and teachers decide the experience. The Academy's own answer is a curriculum that treats asana, pranayama, meditation, mantra, kriya and philosophy as one integrated practice, as laid out in Republic World's look inside the teacher training.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Rishikesh called the yoga capital of the world?

Rishikesh is a pilgrimage town on the Ganges in Uttarakhand with many ashrams and yoga schools. It gained worldwide attention after The Beatles visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram in 1968, and it hosts an annual International Yoga Festival each March.

Where was Anand Mehrotra born?

Anand Mehrotra, founder of Sattva Yoga Academy, was born and raised in Rishikesh, India, according to his Academy biography.

Where is Sattva Yoga Academy?

Sattva Yoga Academy is a yoga school near Rishikesh in the Himalayan foothills of Uttarakhand, India, founded by Anand Mehrotra.

When is the International Yoga Festival in Rishikesh?

The festival is held annually in Rishikesh, in early March according to widely cited accounts. Dates for each year should be confirmed with the organisers.

Best investment options for beginners: Where should you start?

Asianet Newsable English — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 16:43:25 +0530

Beginning your investment journey can appear too confusing. There are bank deposits, mutual funds, government-backed schemes, gold and several other investment options to factor in. Each works in a different manner, so zeroing in on one simply because someone else is using it might not be the correct approach.

Ask yourself a few questions first. Why am I making an investment? When will I require the funds? How much can I make investment on a regular basis? And how comfortable am I with seeing the investment value move up and down?

Once you have these answers, striking comparative analysis among the distinct investment options becomes much easier. Here are some common choices beginners must factor in.

1. Begin with a Fixed Deposit (FD) if you want simplicity

For someone new to investing, an FD can be one of the easiest products to understand. You make a deposit of lump sum amount with a bank for a particular period and earn interest as per the applicable rate and terms.

There is no need to track the market movement every day. You get to know the interest rate when you book the deposit, although the final return is based on the tenure and applicable tax.

FDs can be useful when your priority is to preserve money and keep the investment process simple. However, the interest constituent earned might be taxable and inflation may minimise the purchasing power of your money over time.

So, do not look just at the interest rate. Think about what the money will be worth when you actually require it.

2. Consider mutual funds for long-term goals

If you are investing with the motive of attaining a longer-term goal and can accept market-associated fluctuations, mutual funds are another option which you can explore.

A mutual fund pools money from a number of investors and invests it as per the fund's stated objective. Based on the scheme, the funds might be invested in equities, bonds, money-market instruments or a combination of assets.

For beginners, a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) can make investing manageable. In place of investing a huge amount at once, you invest a fixed amount at periodic intervals.

However, do not assume that every mutual fund works the same way. Equity-oriented funds can fluctuate considerably over the short term, while debt-linked funds have a different risk as well as return profile.

Before investing, check the fund's objective, asset allocation, costs and risk level. Your investment horizon matters as well.

3. Look at PPF for long-term saving

The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is another option that many long-term investors consider. It is a government-backed savings scheme with a long investment horizon.

PPF has a 15-year initial tenure, with provisions for extension. It can therefore suit people who are comfortable keeping money invested for a longer period.

The interest rate is set by the government and is subject to periodic revision. However, this isn't an option for money you may need next year. The long tenure means you need to be comfortable with keeping the money invested for the required period, subject to applicable withdrawal rules.

If you're building a retirement corpus or another long-term financial goal, PPF can be one of the options worth comparing.

4. Gold can be part of a diversified portfolio

Gold has traditionally been an important asset for Indian households. But buying gold as an investment is different from buying jewellery simply because you like it.

If you're considering gold, don't base the decision only on the jewellery price you see at a store. Gold prices change regularly, and the final cost of jewellery can also include making charges and applicable taxes.

For example, if you're searching for the today gold rate in Hyderabad, check whether the quoted rate is for 22K or 24K gold and whether it is shown per gram. The rate can vary depending on purity and the source providing the quote.

There are also investment routes such as gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) and other gold-linked products, depending on availability and suitability.

Gold doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing decision. If you want exposure to gold, consider how it fits alongside your other investments rather than putting all your savings into it.

5. Explore government-backed savings schemes

Beginners can also look at other small savings schemes, depending on their goals and eligibility.

These may include options such as the National Savings Certificate (NSC), Sukanya Samriddhi Account for eligible investors, and other government-backed schemes.

Each scheme has its own rules covering tenure, interest rates, deposits, withdrawals and taxation. So, don't choose one just because the interest rate looks attractive.

Ask a more practical question: “Does this product work for the goal I'm saving for?”

A product with a longer lock-in may not suit a short-term requirement. Similarly, a highly liquid product may not always be the best fit for a goal that's 15 years away.

6. Keep some money easily accessible

Investing doesn't mean putting every spare rupee into a long-term product.

Before increasing your investments, make sure you have money available for unexpected expenses. An emergency fund can help you avoid breaking long-term investments when an urgent expense comes up.

You can keep this money in relatively accessible avenues based on your circumstances, such as a savings account or suitable short-term instruments.

Think of it as your financial cushion. If you suddenly have a large expense, you shouldn't have to sell a long-term investment simply to arrange cash.

How should a beginner choose between these investment options?

Here's a simple way to think about it:

Need the money soon?

Focus on options where capital stability and accessibility are important. Taking significant market risk for a short-term goal may not suit everyone.

Saving for a long-term goal?

You can explore market-linked options such as mutual funds, depending on your risk tolerance and investment horizon.

Want a long-term savings product with a government-backed structure?

PPF and other eligible small savings schemes may be worth researching.

Want exposure to gold?

Compare different ways of investing in gold instead of automatically choosing jewellery.

Want predictable interest for a defined period?

A fixed deposit may be worth considering after checking the applicable rate, tenure and taxation.

Don't choose an investment just because it is popular

Your friend may be comfortable with equity mutual funds. Your parents may prefer fixed deposits. Someone else may prefer gold. That doesn't automatically make any one option suitable for you.

Your income, financial commitments, goals, investment horizon and ability to handle fluctuations are different.

The right starting point isn't finding one “perfect” investment. It's understanding what each option does and building a mix that makes sense for your goals.

A simple starting plan

If you're completely new, keep the first step small.

First, understand your monthly income and expenses. Next, set aside money for emergencies. Then identify one or two financial goals and give each a time frame.

Once that's clear, compare suitable investment options based on risk, liquidity, potential returns, taxation, lock-in period and costs.

You don't need to invest a huge amount on day one. What matters more is understanding where your money is going and why you're putting it there.

Investment returns aren't guaranteed unless the product specifically provides for them. Market-linked investments can rise and fall, while even fixed-return products need to be assessed after considering tax and inflation.

The best place to start is therefore not with a complicated portfolio. Start with a clear goal, understand the product and invest an amount you can comfortably maintain. As your knowledge and financial situation grow, you can gradually explore more investment options.

Vijay Deverakonda Co-Launches Unhype, a Skincare Brand Built on “No BS. Only What Works.”

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 11:23:04 +0530

Hyderabad, September 12, 2026: Actor Vijay Deverakonda has co-founded and co-built Unhype, a new skincare brand created for young India with a simple philosophy — “No BS. Only what works.” The brand aims to make skincare simpler, more transparent and more accessible by cutting through excessive products, complicated routines and exaggerated claims.

Unhype has been developed as a functional skincare line for young Indians, particularly the 18–30 age group, with products designed around real Indian skin, weather and everyday conditions. The brand focuses on simple routines, science-backed formulations, transparent claims and honest pricing.

For Vijay Deverakonda, Unhype is the result of a nine-month journey of actively participating in the development of the products rather than simply lending his name to a skincare brand.

“For ten years, people have been asking me for skincare advice, tips and suggestions. I finally have an answer. I didn’t want to be the face of a brand. They asked me to co-build it — so I did,” said Vijay Deverakonda, Co-Founder, Unhype.

He added, “I tried every single version on my own face. Nine months later, here we are. No BS. Only what works. I’ve been using these for months — now it’s time for you to join me.”

Built Around Simple, Functional Skincare:

Unhype launches with two VD Signature Routines, each addressing a specific skincare concern commonly faced by young Indians. The Acne Safe Routine is designed for oily and acne-prone skin, while the Brightening Routine is focused on tan and dullness.

Each routine follows a simple three-step approach — face wash, moisturiser and sunscreen — providing what the brand describes as the basic routine most people need to build a consistent skincare habits.

The routines are priced at ₹1,299 each, covering three products. Unhype says its pricing is enabled by its own research and development and manufacturing capabilities, allowing consumers to pay for the products rather than celebrity-led marketing.

Science, Testing and Indian Conditions at the Core:

Unhype says its products are developed with a focus on efficacy, safety and transparency. The formulations have been tested and certified, with independent third-party testing forming part of the product development process.

The sunscreen uses new-generation UV filters and has undergone in-vivo and in-vitro SPF testing. The products are dermatologically tested, with the formulations designed for daily use.

The brand has also developed its products keeping Indian conditions in mind, including heat, humidity, sweat, sun exposure, pollution and hard water.

“We wanted to build skincare where every ingredient earns its place, every claim is backed and people understand what they are paying for,” the brand said.

Online-First Launch:

Unhype is taking a product-first, online-first approach to its launch. The brand is available through its own website, unhype.in, with the philosophy that the products and real users should build the brand before large-scale noise.

Pre-booking for the routines opened on September 11, while product shipments and the wider launch begin on September 21.

Vijay Deverakonda will introduce Unhype in his own words through his personal social media platforms, while @unhype will carry the brand’s ongoing story and communication. The launch campaign is built around the hashtag #Unhyped.

Rather than following the traditional celebrity skincare launch model, Unhype is positioning Vijay Deverakonda as a co-founder and co-builder who has been directly involved in developing and testing the products.

The brand’s central proposition remains straightforward: good skincare does not need more hype — it needs products that work.

Social media links

Insta

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DdI4w2XsVs2/?stkn=YXdzb3huY2tsZTdp

https://www.instagram.com/unhype.in?stkn=MW1jY2k4aGo1NWNmOA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

https://x.com/unhype_in

Website

https://unhype.in/

Is Policy Migration Better Than Health Insurance Portability

Asianet Newsable English — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 17:53:26 +0530

No, policy migration is not always better than health insurance portability. Both options serve different purposes and work in different situations. Migration allows you to move to another policy with the same insurer, while portability lets you shift to a different insurer at renewal.

The better choice depends on what you want to change, how well your current insurer meets your needs, and which option supports your future healthcare requirements.

Migration Is Better When the Insurer Still Works for You

Migration can be practical if you are satisfied with your insurer but no longer find the existing policy suitable. You may need different benefits or a revised coverage structure. In that case, changing only the policy may make more sense.

It can suit you when:

You want to stay with the same insurer.
Another policy fits your needs better.
Your concern is policy design rather than service experience.

Portability Is Better When You Want a Different Insurer

Portability may be more suitable when your concern goes beyond the policy itself. You may want another insurer because of its hospital network, plans, service approach, or policy terms. This gives you access to options outside your current insurer’s product range.

It can be useful when:

You want to change the insurer.
The present product range feels limited.
Another insurer has a policy that better matches your requirements.

Migration Can Avoid an Unnecessary Complete Switch

A full change is not always required if the insurer is meeting your expectations. Migration can help you move to a more suitable policy without changing the insurance relationship. This can matter for families reviewing medical insurance for senior citizens in India, where healthcare needs may change with age and a different policy structure may become more relevant.

Consider migration when:

The insurer is not the main issue.
You need different benefits or limits.
You prefer continuity in servicing.

Portability Gives You a Wider Choice

The strongest advantage of portability is choice. Instead of considering only plans offered by one insurer, you can evaluate suitable policies from another insurer. This helps when your priorities have changed.

Compare areas such as:

Hospital network access.
Co-payment conditions.
Room eligibility.
Waiting period terms.
Coverage structure and limits.
A wider choice helps only when the new policy improves areas that matter to you.

Continuity Benefits Matter in Both Options

Both migration and portability may allow eligible continuity benefits to move to the new policy, subject to rules and policy conditions. However, continuity does not mean the new policy will be identical to the old one. Benefits, limits, conditions, and coverage structure may differ.

Before changing, check:

Which waiting period credits continue.
Whether the sum insured changes.
Whether conditions apply.
How previous coverage history is treated.
The value depends on what carries forward and what changes.

Migration May Suit a Simple Policy Upgrade

Migration can be more suitable when the problem is straightforward. Your current policy may no longer provide the type of protection you need, but you may still be comfortable with the insurer. If another eligible plan within the same company addresses that gap, migration can be sensible.

It may work better when:

Your healthcare needs have changed.
You want differently structured cover.
You do not need to change the insurer.
A suitable internal option is available.

Portability May Suit a Bigger Change

Portability is more relevant when you want to reconsider both the insurer and the policy. It may help if you are looking for different hospital access, service arrangements, policy terms, or features. Since it involves a wider change, the decision requires careful comparison.

Consider portability when:

You want more options.
Your insurer’s products no longer fit.
Another insurer appears more suitable.
You are ready to review fresh policy terms.

The Better Option Depends on Why You Are Switching

Migration is not better simply because it keeps you with the same insurer, and portability is not better merely because it offers more choice. The decision should begin with the reason for switching.

Choose migration if the policy needs to change, but the insurer does not. Consider portability if you want to change the insurer as well. In both cases, review policy wording, continuity benefits, limits, hospital access, and future suitability before deciding.

Final Thoughts

Policy migration and health insurance portability serve different purposes. Migration can be better when you want another policy but are comfortable with your existing insurer. Portability may be more suitable when you want to change both the insurer and the policy.

Neither option is universally superior. The better choice is the one that addresses the gap in your current cover, preserves relevant continuity benefits, and remains suitable for future healthcare requirements.

AI Trading Agents Give Retail Investors What Institutions Always Had: Constant Presence

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 14:58:27 +0530

Retail investors have always had it tough. They’re restricted by the clock. While markets like crypto trade around the clock, an individual investor can only monitor them for so long.

Retail investors already account for roughly 20% to 35% of daily trading volume in the US, UK and South Korea, according to the World Economic Forum.

Yet access to a market doesn’t mean an investor can pay attention to it continuously.

Institutions overcame this critical hurdle decades ago by maintaining desks across time zones. A fund can pass its book from Hong Kong to London, so someone with the authority to act is always watching the market.

The internet made real-time data, charts and research freely accessible to retail investors decades ago. But while data went retail, attention never did.

That finally seems to be changing with AI agents.

The Attention Gap

Research has found that the amount of time retail investors can spend monitoring markets can affect their behavior and performance.

A 2025 study found that retail investors in time zones behind the exchange were less aggressive in their orders, partly because they had less time to process information.

But there is an important counterpoint here. More opportunities to trade doesn’t necessarily mean improved outcomes.

In fact, research from Stanford’s Graduate School of Business found that reducing the number of trading hours leads to improvements in portfolio performance for retail investors.

The problem, then, isn’t simply that retail investors need to trade around the clock. It’s that they can’t always choose when to pay attention.

However, market conditions can still change overnight.

An investor who goes to bed in Dubai, London, or New York can wake up to a market that has moved significantly in the meantime.

Until recently, there was little practical way around that.

AI agents introduce one.

Continuous Presence is Finally a Reality

AI agents have already started helping retail investors with research. This has taken a lot off their plates and made investing a little easier.

But the real gap around accessibility still remained, which seems to be getting fixed.

Binance Agent OS is one example. It gives AI agents access to Binance market data and account information, allowing users to connect their preferred AI agent to Binance and interact with their trading accounts.

With the right permissions and prompts, an AI agent can monitor markets continuously and carry out predefined trading actions without the investor having to sit in front of a screen and execute them manually.

The integration works through the Binance Model Context Protocol (MCP) server, which enables an agent, such as Claude or ChatGPT, to access Binance. With the connection, your agent can access market data, view order books, balances and positions, conduct trading analysis, and, where authorized, carry out the trade.

Jeff Li, VP of Product at Binance, says, "Markets do not pause when someone closes an app or steps away from a screen. The early adoption of Agent OS points to growing demand for agents that can remain connected as market conditions change: in the first week, MCP connections doubled and call volumes increased twentyfold, within two weeks, daily requests exceeded 90,000 with 95% completed within 60 milliseconds and a 97% success rate. The next phase of market access will be shaped not only by what agents can do, but by how quickly and reliably they can respond when the market moves."

The results are encouraging.

The early volume of Binance’s Agent OS is being driven by individual users rather than institutions. Their agents averaged more than 800 requests a day within weeks of launch. In the past, that kind of continuous presence would have required a trading desk.

What it Changes for Retail Investors

Until now, individual investors had to wait until the morning to act on overnight price movements or the research their AI agent had completed.

Now, they’re disconnected for fewer hours.

Imagine a cryptocurrency falling sharply overnight after an unexpected announcement. Under the traditional retail workflow, the investor wakes up, discovers the move, and decides what to do.

An always-on agent would have prepared an analysis or proposed action already. The investor wakes up to a situation that’s already been monitored.

It reduces the “shock factor” that pushes investors into panic decisions on waking up. When the agent has already monitored the price through the night and acted on a pre-set strategy, the morning becomes a review rather than an emergency.

But that doesn’t mean the strategy itself is good.

Presence Isn’t An Investment Edge

While AI agents help improve accessibility, they don’t directly impact profitability. This is where the distinction between infrastructure and investment skill becomes important.

An agent that never sleeps will execute a flawed thesis with the same diligence as a sound one. In short, it could lead to excessive trading on a weak strategy, which could increase losses.

AI could therefore remove one retail constraint while making another problem worse.

Research quality doesn’t necessarily change either. Institutions have vast resources at their disposal, an area where retail investors still lag. Retail investors also don’t enjoy a risk appetite similar to institutions, meaning greater access to markets won’t necessarily change their ability to absorb large drawdowns.

The question isn’t whether retail investors suddenly get the same edge as institutions.

Instead, the change is that, for the first time, they can have something institutions have had for a long time: someone still watching while they’re asleep.

Entri App Ties Up with IIT Palakkad Technology IHub Foundation (IPTIF)

Asianet Newsable English — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 15:41:53 +0530

Entri App has entered a collaboration with IIT Palakkad Technology IHub Foundation (IPTIF) to bring campus-based, industry-designed skilling programmes across South India.

This kicks off with two five-day, hands-on short-term courses – one in EV Technology and one in Mobile Robot Development. They will be delivered on the IPTIF, IIT Palakkad campus. A six-month flagship programme is in the pipeline with a dedicated campus immersion module.

For Entri, the tie-up marks a step deeper into high-intensity, lab-based technical skilling. This will move beyond online-first learning into programmes anchored in IIT infrastructure and validated by IIT faculties.

Who is IPTIF & Why this Partnership Matters

IPTIF is a Section 8 company incorporated by IIT Palakkad in 2020. It is one of 25 Technology Innovation Hubs supported by the Department of Science and Technology under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS).

Located in Palakkad, it is positioned as a connecting point between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. IIT Palakkad's campus gives the collaboration a natural reach across both states, which is where Entri plans to focus its early outreach.

What makes the collaboration distinct is the design process itself. The courses are not generic curricula wrapped around an IIT name. They are shaped directly by the labs on campus that includes facilities for

Battery testing
3D design and scanning
PCB design
IoT development boards
Robotics and automation
Drone technology
Embedded systems and microcontrollers
CNC
Mechanical fabrication

One of the major highlights is that the students train on the same equipment researchers use and not simulated versions of it.

Under the model, IPTIF owns end-to-end course delivery on campus, while Entri leads sales, marketing, and learner outreach.

Entri App: What it Brings to the Table

Entri App is an edtech and skilling platform focused on making career-oriented, industry-relevant learning accessible to students and job-seekers.

Its role in the IPTIF partnership is not curriculum design but reach. It primarily drives learner outreach so that campus-grade technical training is not limited to students with IIT aspirations.

That distinction matters for how the partnership is structured. IPTIF owns delivery because it owns the infrastructure.

Entri's job is making sure the right students, especially outside IIT Palakkad's immediate network across Kerala and Tamil Nadu, actually hear about these programmes before seats fill up. So, hands-on learning experience on Electrical Vehicle, an industry demand choice along with the surging Mobile Robot Development expertise is a good move.

It's the same specialization split behind Entri's other skilling verticals. They partner with domain experts on content and delivery, and put full weight behind getting qualified learners in the door.

What is Launching First: Two Five-Day, On-Campus Courses

Two short-term programmes are rolling out first, launching a week apart in September, with three batches running per course each month and 25 learners per batch.

1. Five-Day Hands-On EV Training

This is a full-time, on-campus programme built around real EV hardware rather than classroom theory alone.

Each day of the five-day format is split into 2.5 hours of theory, 1.5 hours of hands-on practical work, and a 1-hour problem-solving tutorial.

Core topics covered include:

EV architecture and power flow
Lithium-ion battery technology
Battery Management Systems (BMS)
Motor drives and power electronics
Battery testing and diagnostics

Learners work through a concept-to-application-to-testing progression, using IPTIF's battery testing lab, EV and motor testing setup, and fab lab for rapid prototyping.

By the end, the programme aims to leave students with

System-level EV understanding
Battery testing fundamentals
Motor-drive basics
Direct exposure to industry-grade testing infrastructure

This is designed specifically for ITI, Diploma, or B.Tech students and graduates looking to bridge the gap between what they learn in class and what the EV industry expects from day one.

2. Design to Simulation – Mobile Robot Development Using Fusion 360 and ROS 2

The second course takes learners through the mobile robotics development pipeline, from design through simulation, using Fusion 360 for modeling and ROS 2 (Robot Operating System) for robotic control and simulation. It is delivered as a full-time, hands-on programme on the IPTIF, IIT Palakkad campus.

A third short-term course, on additive manufacturing, 3D modeling, and reverse engineering, is also part of the short-term course lineup and will follow in the batch rollout.

What is Coming Next: Six-Month Flagship Programmes with Campus Immersion

Alongside the short-term courses, Entri and IPTIF are developing five, six-month, high-ticket programmes for this financial year.

Unlike the five-day courses, these longer programmes will have co-owned curricula, reviewed and validated by IIT Palakkad professors. This will include a structured campus immersion component, which gives learners sustained, in-person time on campus rather than a single short module.

The Team Driving the Collaboration

From IIT Palakkad Technology IHub Foundation:

Dr. Saishyam Narayanan – CEO, IPTIF
Dr. Rijesh Krishna – COO, IPTIF
Madhu V M – Senior Associate, Skill Development, IPTIF
Dr. Rajeswari R – Manager, HR and Administration

From Entri App:

Mohammed Hisamuddin – CEO, Entri App
Rashid Mohyideen – Content Operations Head
Aswin K R – Head of Learning and Impact
Nabeel Ahammed O K – Vertical Head, Technical Skilling
Rafsal A – Category Manager, Technical Skilling (Tamil Nadu)
Sachin Babu O P – Category Manager, Technical Skilling (Kerala)

What this Collaboration Means for the Next Generation of Engineers

Here is the shift that actually brings the impact – EV Technology and Robotics training is moving from the lecture hall to the lab bench.

A Quick Overview
Launching first	Five-Day EV Training + Robot Development (Fusion 360 & ROS 2)
Where	On-campus at IPTIF, IIT Palakkad Campus
Coming next	6-month flagship programmes
Who it's for	B.Tech students or Graduates seeking industry-grade, hands-on exposure
Batch size	25 learners, multiple batches a month

The question is whether you will learn them on a whiteboard or on a battery testing rig. Entri App and IPTIF are getting this covered for you.