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The Indian automotive landscape is evolving as consumers lean toward both luxury and sustainable options, according to <keyword id="20034170" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Grant-Thornton-Bharat" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Grant Thornton Bharat" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Grant Thornton Bharat">Grant Thornton Bharat</keyword>’s survey, Shifting Gears: Understanding Passenger Vehicle Market Trends. The survey, gathering insights from over 3,500 respondents, found that 85% are interested in high-end variants, with a notable rise in preference for <keyword id="20372525" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="hybrid-vehicles" source="keywords">hybrid vehicles</keyword> over electric options. With 40% of respondents favouring hybrids and only 17% opting for EVs, the shift suggests a cautious approach as consumers await more robust <keyword id="20415012" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="EV-infrastructure" source="keywords">EV infrastructure</keyword> and incentives. Meanwhile, 34% still prefer petrol vehicles, indicating the ongoing transition in <keyword id="21046358" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="consumer-preferences" source="keywords">consumer preferences</keyword>. Hybrid vehicles, acting as a bridge, are likely to boost familiarity with green technology, paving the way for broader EV adoption in the future. According to Saket Mehra, Partner and Auto &amp; EV Industry Leader at Grant Thornton Bharat, automakers must focus on both hybrid and electric solutions to match changing demands. This year’s festive season—typically accounting for 30-40% of annual sales—is critical, yet high inventory levels, weather impacts, and regional elections have slowed growth. Utility (UV) and sports utility vehicles (SUVs) continue to dominate, now representing 65% of passenger vehicle sales with 13% growth year-over-year. Despite a slow start to FY25, the popularity of SUVs and UVs reflects a strong preference for versatile vehicles. Yet, automakers are grappling with inventory challenges, with 7.9 lakh units worth ₹79,000 crore in stock as of September 2024. To tap into festive demand, nearly 90% of consumers expect substantial discounts. The survey also highlights a shift in consumer priorities, with a heightened focus on <keyword id="20961985" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="vehicle-safety" source="keywords">vehicle safety</keyword> overtaking traditional factors like design or performance. Subscription models are also gaining traction, indicating a broader transformation in how Indians perceive mobility solutions.

Indian consumers shift gears toward luxury and sustainability in the auto sector: Survey

Luxury carmakers <keyword id="19980471" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mercedes-Benz" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Mercedes-Benz" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Mercedes-Benz">Mercedes-Benz</keyword>, <keyword id="19911529" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Audi" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Audi" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Audi">Audi</keyword>, and <keyword id="19911528" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BMW" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="BMW" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="BMW">BMW</keyword> are eyeing robust sales during the festive period this year with demand for <keyword id="20194571" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="High-end-cars" source="keywords">high-end cars</keyword> continuing to see an upward trend in India. In an interaction with PTI, Mercedes-Benz India MD and CEO Santosh Iyer said the luxury car segment is set for its best-ever performance this year with <keyword id="19894908" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Festive-season" source="keywords">festive season</keyword> offtakes playing a major role in the overall performance. He noted that the festive season generally gives high double-digit <keyword id="20040491" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sales-growth" source="keywords">sales growth</keyword>, helping the automaker to average out single-digit growth of the earlier quarter. "So in that sense, on an average, then we are able to get a double-digit growth during the festive season," Iyer stated. Elaborating on the overall industry, which still remains a very small part of the overall passenger vehicle market in the country, he said the segment is headed for record volumes this fiscal year but not all players are witnessing growth." Some (companies) are even degrowing, some are flat and they are facing headwinds, but because we are the primary player in the market, we still feel the luxury car market should cross 50,000-51,000 cars this year," Iyer said. The luxury car market in India currently remains very small accounting for less than 2 % of the overall passenger vehicle market in the country. Audi India Head Balbir Singh Dhillon said the automaker anticipates positive buying trends to continue during the festive season. "Our best-selling models - the A4, A6, Q3, Q3 Sportback, Q5, Q7, and the newly launched Q8 - continue to drive robust demand," he added. The company is equally optimistic about the e-tron range, the e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT, Dhillon said. BMW Group India President Vikram Pawah said the fundamentals of the Indian economy are sturdy and consumer confidence in the luxury segment is on the rise. "For BMW Group India, the order bank is solid and we are trying our best to speed up deliveries for our customers. Along with additional bookings around Diwali and Dussehra, we are confident of closing the year on a high note while clocking impressive growth," he stated. He noted that the group is witnessing very strong demand for products across all segments. Pawah said that in the run-up to the festive season, the company has introduced several special editions of its existing model range. The festive season usually commences with Onam and ends with Diwali every year.

Luxury carmakers Mercedes, Audi, BMW expect robust sales this festive season

<div type="image" title="Indians are getting fancy, and they don&amp;#39;t mind paying a little extra if it means quality and luxury. Most consumer brands are witnessing an uptick in their premium product segment" msid="115018213" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Indians are getting fancy, and they don&amp;#39;t mind paying a little extra if it means quality and luxury. Most consumer brands are witnessing an uptick in their premium product segment&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> It's time to move over from plain, vanilla budget basics! Indians are no longer looking for “best purchases and value buys under Rs 1,000”—at least not as much as before. <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword>'s getting fancy, and how! From gold-flaked chocolates to swanky SUVs that look like they’re wheeled straight out of a Bollywood blockbuster, Indian companies are rapidly jazzing up their product lines, even faster than you can say the word "premiumization." But what does this mean for Indian companies and consumers? What is this jazz about premiumization all about? Is it just urban India that’s riding this wave, or has rural India also joined the bandwagon? We decode for you. <h2>What's premium, really?</h2>Imagine you’re eating Pav Bhaji at a roadside thela. Later during the day, you decide to dine out at a fancy, upmarket cafe, only to find Pav Bhaji Fondue on the menu. Same same, but much more expensive—often 5 to 10 times higher—for a little more hygiene and some better ambience! Think of premium products as this fondue. They are a notch up your regular, daily-use products soaps or shampoos, and even cars, all packaged luxuriously, offering just about the right touch of quality. The main differentiator, though, would be the price range. <h2>Driving home premium wellness</h2>A recent report by Nielsen suggests that over 70% of urban Indians are okay with paying a premium for their products. And companies are cashing in on this sentiment like never before. This explains why 58% of new products launched so far this year have been in the premium+ segment, as opposed to just 38% of new launches in regular, traditional trade. Take cars, for instance. Indians are no longer vying for a good old <keyword id="19950117" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="maruti" source="keywords">Maruti</keyword> 800 or <keyword id="20400567" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="alto" source="keywords">Alto</keyword>, traditionally known for their healthy mileage, but are rather happy investing in more swanky features that come along with high-end cars. In October 2024, India’s largest car manufacturer, <keyword id="19909974" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="maruti-suzuki" source="keywords">Maruti Suzuki</keyword>, sold 65,948 units of its compact cars like Swift, WagonR, Dzire, and more. Compared to the year-ago period, which saw sales of 80,662 units, this was an 18% dip. But take a look at their SUV (sport utility vehicle) sales for the same period. Cars like Brezza, Ertiga, and Grand Vitara sold about 70,644 units, a 19% uptick from the sales made in October 2023, i.e. 59,147 units. Simply put, when it comes to cars, Indians are saying the bigger, the better! The same is true for India's second biggest automobile manufacturer, Hyundai. Its SUV lineup made up a staggering 68.2% of the firm's total sales made for October 2024. What's more, SUV demand remained largely consistent across urban and rural markets. <h2>Consumers are inching up</h2>FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) are also riding the premiumization wave, with Indians prioritizing their health and wellness and not bothered about dishing out a few extra bucks for the same! You’ll find no dearth of words like organic, vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free, peppered generously over every product you’ll see today, be it soaps, juices, or more. No wonder then, sales from premium segments in 2024 make up around 27% of all FMCG sales and even contribute a massive 42% to the sector’s value growth in India. Nielsen report further adds that luxury brands that position themselves at twice the price of their category’s average are even witnessing stellar growth. In fact, for most FMCG brands like Tata Consumer Products, <keyword id="20002610" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="hindustan-unilever" source="keywords">Hindustan Unilever</keyword> (HUL), Dabur, and Nestle, it is this premium segment that is growing much faster than their regular ones. And it's not just about daily-use products; Indians are also taking their celebrations a step over. Spirits manufacturer <keyword id="20125704" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="radico-khaitan" source="keywords">Radico Khaitan</keyword> highlighted that for the first half of 2024, their prestige &amp; above segment made for 88.4% of its net sales value. In the same period, the regular popular segment accounted for just 9.1% of their net sales. From Hindustan Unilever, which saw its premium products grow 30% over the last quarter, to <keyword id="20521971" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kingfisher" source="keywords">Kingfisher</keyword> beer's parent company, <keyword id="20124009" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="united-breweries" source="keywords">United Breweries</keyword>, whose premium product sales volume jumped by 27% during the quarter as opposed to just a 5% rise in overall volumes, everyone is seemingly taking their lifestyle a notch above. Per the Nielsen report, in 2024, a typical global consumer spends about $13.7k per year. This is set to grow by around 2.4% to $14k as early as next year. Even a report by Goldman Sachs also highlighted a similar trend, noting that India’s affluent class, or those earning over $10,000 (Rs 8,42,694.97), is set to reach 100 million in the next 3 years. And where will this consumer spend? On premium products! <h2>Online shopping shifts from mass to class</h2>Amazon’s Great Indian Shopping Festival, which was live between September 27 and October 29 this year, saw 140 crore customers, more than 85% of whom came from non-metro Indian cities. On the site, there was a 400% spike in sales in premium sales across categories like watches, fragrances, handbags, jewelry, and more. Rival <keyword id="19896939" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="flipkart" source="keywords">Flipkart</keyword> noted a similar trend, recording 1.8x growth in premium beauty and personal care products during the first half of this year. <h2>Dialing in premiumness</h2>The Indian smartphone ecosystem has always been dominated by basic phones, or those entry- and mid-range phones that are priced between Rs 10,000 and Rs 6,000. But that has changed in recent times, with premium smartphones (i.e., those priced over Rs 60,000) registering 20%+ growth in 2024. During the first quarter of this year, sales of mass phones (priced between Rs 10,000 and 20,000) reached 44%, compared to 51% in the year-ago period. But it's all sunny and shiny in the mid-premium (priced between Rs 40,000 and Rs 60,000) and super-premium segments (priced above Rs 60,000). Sales growth has burgeoned by as much as 27% and 86% in these categories, respectively. As India continues its march toward becoming the world's third-largest economy by 2027, the premium party is just getting started. Industry experts predict that premium segments will grow faster than you can say "sustainable organic handcrafted artisanal batch of coffee." So the next time you see someone dropping serious rupees on a fancy bottle of black water that also somehow plays music and tracks their hydration (yes, that's a thing), remember: This is just the trailer. Picture abhi baaki hai, mere dost! Do you have a topic in mind you'd want a simpler explanation for, or insights or experiences to share on personal finance and more? Contact us at businessinsider@timesinternet.in.

Simply Put: From Dal to Dolce—India is loving its luxury life

Luxury car maker <keyword id="19980471" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mercedes-Benz" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Mercedes-Benz" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Mercedes-Benz">Mercedes-Benz</keyword> India on Monday expanded its <keyword id="20763359" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Battery-Electric-Vehicle" source="keywords">Battery Electric Vehicle</keyword> (BEV) range in the country with the launch of the locally produced <keyword id="23188212" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="EQS-580-4MATIC" source="keywords">EQS 580 4MATIC</keyword>. India is the first country outside the US to start the <keyword id="20805504" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="local-production" source="keywords">local production</keyword> of the seven-seater electric SUV. EQS SUV 580 4MATIC is the second model, after the EQS sedan, to be locally produced at company's Pune-based manufacturing plant. "This will be our sixth EV in India, and the second car to be locally produced in India. We are also proud that India becomes the first market out of the US to locally manufacture the EQS," Mercedes-Benz India Managing Director and CEO Santosh Iyer told PTI in an interaction. The move to manufacture the product locally outlines the company's commitment to electrification and increasing product portfolio offering choices to customers, he added. "EQS SUV's localisation underpins our deep commitment to grow the Indian <keyword id="23188213" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="luxury-electric-car" source="keywords">luxury electric car</keyword> market and reinforce our commitment for a greener and sustainable future," Iyer said. The move also supports the government's vision of Make-in-India, he said. Iyer said local production has led to a significant advantage in terms of pricing the electric SUV. The introductory price of EQS SUV 580 4MATIC starts at Rs 1.41 crore which should also make a lot of customers shift to EVs much faster in terms of transition, he said. When asked about the demand for green vehicles, Iyer said the sales of EVs were growing in the country with even high-end products finding acceptance. "The EQA sedan which was introduced in India around 18 months back, we have sold more than 500 cars. It's a car costing more than Rs 1.6 crore. Our total penetration of EVs is 5 per cent today, it's growing. For sure, customer acceptance is there," he stated. Iyer noted that the company remains committed to offer top-end luxury EV products offering higher range in the market. He noted that there may be more opportunities in the entry EV segment but the focus of the company firmly remains on bringing luxury products in the market. "To bring products at lower price points, that is not our current strategy," Iyer said. The company aims to offer products with higher driving range, a factor that leads to bigger battery and escalation in price, he added. The EQS SUV 580 4MATIC is India's longest range electric SUV with ARAI certified range of 809 kms. Iyer said the company remains committed to the Indian market and has announced an additional investment of Rs 200 crore earlier towards manufacturing operations, new product start-ups and digitisation of manufacturing processes. The company till date has invested over Rs 3,000 crore in India, he added. In the January-September period this year, Mercedes-Benz India has launched three new BEVs ' EQA, EQS SUV 580 and Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV. With the EQS SUV 580 4MATIC, the company now offers the EQA, EQB, EQE SUV, EQS SUV, EQS sedan and Maybach EQS SUV 680 in the market. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/webstories/arkade-developers-ipo-price-band-to-risk-factors-all-you-need-to-know/slidelist/113384216.cms">Arkade Developers IPO – Price band to risk factors, all you need to know</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/xiaomi-and-samsung-accused-of-colluding-with-amazon-and-flipkart/articleshow/113381204.cms">Xiaomi and Samsung accused of colluding with Amazon and Flipkart</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/motorola-edge-50-neo-with-dimensity-7300-50mp-camera-launched-in-india/articleshow/113386868.cms">Motorola Edge 50 Neo with Dimensity 7300, 50MP camera launched in India</a>

Mercedes expands BEV range; rolls out second locally produced model in India

<ul><li>A total of 58 ultra-luxury homes have been sold across the top 7 cities in 2023 to date.</li><li>Apartments continued to be the favoured property choice among high net worth individuals (HNIs), comprising 53 out of 58 deals.</li><li>The surge in sales of <keyword id="386983" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="luxury-homes" source="Orion">luxury homes</keyword> is also linked to the reconfiguration of HNI investment strategies. </li></ul>A 19,000 odd sq ft apartment in <keyword id="1159814" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Malabar-Hills" source="Orion">Malabar Hills</keyword> Mumbai costs almost ₹100 crore more than a Bungalow in <keyword id="19667909" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Golf-Link-Delhi" source="Orion">Golf Link Delhi</keyword>! While we all know that Mumbai property is more expensive than in Delhi, is that the only reason? Research data by real estate services company ANAROCK throws up some interesting insights on ultra-luxury homes (priced &gt;₹40 Cr). The report reveals how the ultra-rich think when it comes to buying a home. The ultra-wealthy also have distinct FOMO Among affluent Indians, there exists a discernible fear of missing out (FOMO) when it comes to securing the most coveted properties. This urgency to acquire the most desirable options before others contributes significantly to the heightened interest and transactions in this niche market segment. Not surprisingly, ANAROCK Research data reveals a 247% annual increase in the total sales value of ultra-luxury homes from the beginning of 2023 compared to the entire year of 2022. Says Anuj Puri, Chairman, ANAROCK Group,, “A total of 58 ultra-luxury homes have been sold across the top 7 cities in 2023 to date, for a collective sales value of approx. ₹4,063 Cr. In contrast, the whole of 2022 saw a total of 13 ultra-luxury homes sold in these cities for a total sales value of approx. ₹1,170 cr. In terms of ultra-luxury property sales, 2023 has already made Indian real estate history even before it is over.” Apartments remain the preferred property type Apartments continued to be the favoured property choice among HNIs, comprising 53 out of 58 deals, while the remaining five transactions were for bungalows. Approximately 79% of these transactions were carried out by business professionals, with an additional 16% facilitated by senior executives from various diverse sectors. The remaining 5% of deals involved politicians and Bollywood celebrities. Surge in sales linked to reshuffling of HNI investment portfolios This surge in sales of luxury homes is also linked to the reconfiguration of HNI investment strategies. Concerns about potential stock market volatility, largely influenced by ongoing geopolitical tensions, have prompted a shift in investment portfolios. Consequently, there's been a notable inclination towards investing in ultra-luxury homes as a more stable and secure asset class. The response from top-tier Grade A developers further validates this trend. These developers are amplifying their efforts to introduce more properties within the ultra-luxury category, catering to this escalating demand. Also, the demand for luxury and ultra-luxury residences has notably increased post-pandemic. HNIs and ultra-HNIs are actively purchasing such homes, viewing them as lucrative investments, as well as for personal use. <table style="border-width: initial; border-style: none;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#a054a0;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">City </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#a054a0;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Micro-market </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#a054a0;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Property-Type </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#a054a0;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Total Cost (₹/Crore) </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;background-color:#a054a0;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Area (in Sq. Ft.) </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Mumbai </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Worli </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Apartment </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">230 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">29,885 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Mumbai </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Malabar hill </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Penthouse </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">253 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">12,624 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Mumbai </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Malabar hill </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Apartment </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">369 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">27,160 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Delhi </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Golf Links </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Bungalow </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">160 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">19,440 </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Mumbai </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Malabar hill </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Apartment </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">263 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-right:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 0.75pt;border-top:solid #000000 0.75pt;vertical-align:top;padding:0pt 5pt 0pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">19,254 </td></tr></tbody></table> Source: ANAROCK Research

FOMO and market volatility concerns key behind wealthy Indians lapping up ultra-luxury homes

<ul><li><keyword id="20313645" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="retail-leasing" source="keywords">Retail leasing</keyword> in the sector is expected to sustain at 6-6.5 million square feet in 2024, says CBRE.</li><li>By the year-end, 5-6 mn. sq. ft. of investment-grade mall space will become operational in <keyword id="21259569" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tier-I-cities" source="keywords">tier-I cities</keyword>.</li><li>Domestic brands are expected to turn cautious, but <keyword id="20322579" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-brands" source="keywords">global brands</keyword> are continuing to expand, according to the report.</li></ul><keyword id="20020606" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-brands" source="keywords">Indian brands</keyword> are turning cautious with their retail expansion. Hence, the leasing in the sector is expected to sustain at 6-6.5 million square feet in 2024, according to the latest report by the commercial real estate firm CBRE. The saturation follows the remarkable growth in 2023, as brands absorbed a little over 7 million sq ft. The supply environment in terms of retail space like malls and high streets is also expected to be stable in the current year. By the year-end, 5-6 mn. sq. ft. of investment-grade mall space will become operational in tier-I cities. “Retailers, including anchor tenants and established brands, are expected to proceed cautiously with expansion plans. They will prioritize locations with high visibility, strong foot traffic and favourable consumer demographics. As a result, rental growth is expected to rationalize across both primary and secondary locations,” the report says. But, there is a silver lining! Luxury and premium brands, especially global brands, are choosing to spread their wings in top cities despite the global macroeconomic and sectoral challenges. “Foreign luxury retailers are entering India through partnerships with local players. The upcoming launches of a few brands underline this trend. This reflects a renewed optimism in India's <keyword id="71937" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="retail-sector" source="Orion">retail sector</keyword>,” said Ram Chandnani, managing director, advisory &amp; transactions Services, CBRE India. Retail demand across investment-grade malls, prominent high streets and standalone developments has grown consistently since 2020. Tier-I cities remain key expansion hubs, and promising tier-II markets are attracting new players. Malls are transforming into experiential centres, offering a mix of entertainment, dining and shopping. “Fuelled by pent-up demand and strategic expansion, India's luxury retail sector is experiencing a leasing boom, attracting both established brands deepening their presence and new international players entering the market. This expansion reaches beyond Delhi and Mumbai to the newer markets like Hyderabad and Ahmedabad,” said Anshuman Magazine, chairman &amp; CEO of India, South-East Asia, Middle East &amp; Africa, CBRE. In 2024, the home décor segment is likely to expand in both online and offline formats, while fashion and apparel players will continue expanding in tier-I cities across malls and high streets, the report adds. It also sees good traction from domestic jewellery brands as well as the entertainment category.

The luxe experience: Expanding global brands to drive retail leasing in 2024

As the vibrant <keyword id="19896655" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="wedding-season" source="keywords">wedding season</keyword> kicks off in India soon, the <keyword id="19921618" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Confederation-of-All-India-Traders" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Confederation of All India Traders" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Confederation of All India Traders">Confederation of All India Traders</keyword> (<keyword id="20143308" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="CAIT" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="CAIT" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="CAIT">CAIT</keyword>) has set an optimistic forecast, projecting a windfall for the nation’s economy. According to a recent CNBC report, CAIT predicts that this year, an estimated 48 lakh weddings are expected to take place in November and December, potentially generating a whopping ₹6 lakh crore in business. This surge reflects not just the volume of weddings but the wide-scale economic impact that accompanies such celebrations. Weddings in India are known for their grandeur, with celebrations often spanning several days and involving a number of services, from event planning and catering to jewellery purchases and attire. CAIT’s recent prediction, thus, underscores the vital role that the wedding season plays in the retail market. In this year’s cycle, the retail sector alone is poised to see a turnover of ₹5.9 lakh crore, highlighting the deep interconnectedness between cultural traditions and economic activity. In Delhi, which stands as one of the top locations for extravagant weddings, the expected impact is particularly significant. Approximately 4.5 lakh weddings are projected in the capital city, potentially contributing around ₹1.5 lakh crore to the local economy. This surge benefits a variety of sectors, including hospitality, fashion, gold and jewellery, and even technology, as digital services and e-invitations become more prevalent. The build-up to this wedding season has already shown signs of economic revival, particularly in sectors like gold and jewellery. Suvankar Sen, MD &amp; CEO of Senco Gold, noted a marked increase in wedding-related purchases during the recent Dhanteras festival. Speaking in an interview with CNBC TV-18, Sen highlighted that the August duty cut on gold played a significant role in spurring early buying behaviour. He pointed out that this policy move helped lower the cost of gold, enticing consumers to make significant purchases ahead of the peak wedding months. "We can see at least 40-50% of the consumers who are buying right now are related to weddings, and the 40-50% who are not related to weddings, are divided amongst consumers with a budget of ₹2-3 lakh buying some kind of jewellery as an annual buying during this auspicious time. Some consumers are buying working women's jewellery or lightweight for their daughters, something within ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh kind of buying happening. ₹20,000-30,000 is a budget consumer at all levels, some kind of a pendant, ring or earring that everyone would like to buy during this auspicious time. So, this is how we are seeing the consumer," he added. This early momentum has translated into packed showrooms and increased consumer spending, signalling a robust start to wedding-related commerce. Retailers across India are now preparing for a flurry of activity, restocking inventory and expanding service offerings to meet the anticipated demand. From wedding attire and décor to luxury items like high-end electronics and custom-made invitations, the shopping lists are extensive, promising a lucrative time for businesses. While traditional sectors such as fashion, catering, and venue rentals will see a boom, new trends have also emerged, expanding the <keyword id="23787664" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="wedding-economy" source="keywords">wedding economy</keyword>. The demand for eco-friendly and sustainable wedding practices has grown, with couples seeking biodegradable décor and eco-conscious catering services.

Indian weddings expected to generate ₹6 lakh crore in two months, CAIT says

New Delhi: The upcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO) of <keyword id="20214518" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Hyundai-Motors-India" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Hyundai Motors India" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Hyundai Motors India">Hyundai Motors India</keyword> has sparked significant interest in the Indian markets, but a recent report by <keyword id="20303939" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Aequitas-Investments" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Aequitas Investments" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Aequitas Investments">Aequitas Investments</keyword> suggests it may not be as promising for <keyword id="19953411" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-investors" source="keywords">Indian investors</keyword> as anticipated. The report highlighted several concerns, pointing to broader industry challenges and the valuation mismatch as reasons for caution. It said "Given the headwinds that the Global <keyword id="20081560" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="automobile-industry" source="keywords">Automobile Industry</keyword> is facing coupled with signs of a slowdown in India, the upcoming IPO might not be a great deal for Indian Investors" Hyundai Motor Company, the parent firm based in South Korea, is set to offload shares worth Rs 25,000 crore through an Offer for Sale (OFS) in the Indian market. However, the report suggested that the current global headwinds facing the automobile industry, combined with signs of a slowdown in India, may make this IPO less attractive for Indian investors. One of the key issues flagged in the report is the valuation of Hyundai Motors India. The report noted that despite contributing only 6.5 per cent of Hyundai's global revenue and 8 per cent of its overall profitability, the Indian unit is expected to be valued at approximately 42 per cent of the parent company's market capitalization upon listing. This valuation discrepancy raises concerns about whether the IPO price is justified given the Indian unit's relatively modest contribution to Hyundai's global business. "Despite contributing only 6.5 per cent of the global revenues and 8 per cent of the profitability, Hyundai's India unit will be valued at approx. 42 per cent of the Parent Co.'s MCap on listing" the report added. From Hyundai's perspective, the move makes sense. In South Korea, Hyundai's stock currently trades at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of just 5x, making the sale in India potentially more lucrative. The report argues that Hyundai is looking to take advantage of the relatively higher valuations in India. It said "From Hyundai's perspective it's a no-brainer as their stock in S.Korea trades at a measly 5x P/E" Hyundai Motor Group, which includes both Hyundai and Kia, is the third-largest automaker globally, having sold 7.3 million vehicles in 2023. While Hyundai Motors India does not have a stake in Kia Motors India, the parent company owns a controlling 34 per cent stake in Kia Motors globally and fully owns Genesis Motors, a luxury brand in South Korea.

Hyundai IPO might not be a great deal for Indian investors: Report

<keyword id="19907577" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="shares" source="keywords">Shares</keyword> of chauffeur-driven mobility provider ECOS (<keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword>) Mobility &amp; Hospitality Ltd were listed with a <keyword id="20097242" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="premium" source="keywords">premium</keyword> of over 17 % against the issue price of Rs 334 on Wednesday. The stock made its debut at Rs 391.30, a jump of 17.15 % from the issue price on the BSE. Later, it zoomed around 36.52 % to Rs 456. The Rs 601 crore share sale was entirely an Offer For Sale (OFS) of up to 1,80,00,000 equity shares. At the NSE, shares of the firm listed at Rs 390, a premium of 16.76 %. The company's market <keyword id="19896943" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="valuation" source="keywords">valuation</keyword> stood at Rs 2,646.30. The shares closed the day at Rs 441.05 on NSE, up by 13.09%. The initial share sale of Ecos (India) Mobility &amp; Hospitality got subscribed 64.18 times on the closing day of bidding on Friday. Per reports, the profit per lot in this <keyword id="19898327" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="IPO" source="keywords">IPO</keyword> is Rs 2,464 The IPO had a price range of Rs 318-334 a share. The Delhi-based company has been providing Chauffeured Car Rentals (CCR) and Employee Transportation Services (ETS) to corporate customers for more than 25 years. It operates a fleet of more than 9,000 vehicles from economy to luxury cars, across 109 Indian cities. It also provides speciality vehicles like luggage vans, limousines, vintage cars and vehicles for accessible transportation for people with disabilities. Shivani Nyati, Head of Wealth, Swastika Investmart Ltd noted that <keyword id="22886052" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="ECOS-Mobility" source="keywords">ECOS Mobility</keyword> &amp; Hospitality made a promising stock <keyword id="20491150" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="market-debut" source="keywords">market debut</keyword>, which was fueled by the strong investor interest in the IPO's 64.18 times subscription and a substantial grey market premium. "While the listing was encouraging, investors should remain cautious due to the company's mixed financial performance. Despite top-line growth, profitability has declined, indicating potential challenges in managing costs and maximizing returns. The IPO's valuation appeared higher, based on the P/E ratio, which might have contributed to the relatively modest listing gain compared to the pre-listing hype. Additionally, the company's status as a complete offer for sale means it won't receive any new funds from the IPO, potentially limiting its ability to accelerate growth or address challenges", she continued. "Those who want to hold it may keep a stop loss at around 350", said Nyati. The road transport sector, under which the company operates, is set to have a GDP of around $184.7 billion by FY2030, rising at a CAGR of 8.2% in the FY2022 to FY2030 period. Naturally, this burgeoning sector will work in favor of the corporate mobility and shared mobility segments, also as employment generation within the Indian tertiary sector remains robust in the medium and long-term. Rising infrastructure construction, be it for public transportation works of intercity metros or national highways, and the resultant traffic snarls will see consumers increasingly opt for shared mobility, especially within Indian metros and Tier 2 cities, a segment that the company has been in operating in for the last 25 years.

ECOS Mobility shares jump over 17% on market debut

<ul><li><keyword id="6358070" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mumbai" source="Orion">Mumbai</keyword>'s ranking significantly improved from 38th in Q1 2022 to sixth in Q1 2023 for high-end properties. </li><li>Bengaluru and New Delhi also saw an upward shift in their rankings, reaching 16th and 22nd positions respectively. </li><li>Despite the Federal Reserve and other central banks approaching peak interest rates, it is expected that even prime housing markets will continue to face downward pressure. </li></ul>Three major cities in India, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and New Delhi, witnessed a growth in average annual prices of prime residential properties during Q1 2023. The growth pushed the ranking of these Indian metros in Knight Frank India's 'Prime Global Cities Index Q1 2023'. Mumbai's ranking significantly improved from 38th in Q1 2022 to sixth in Q1 2023 for high-end properties. Bengaluru and New Delhi also saw an upward shift in their rankings, reaching 16th and 22nd positions respectively, compared to their previous ranks of 37th and 39th, as per the report. “The Indian economy stood out with steady performance despite concerns around global growth and inflation that marked most of 2022. However, the Indian real estate markets displayed continued momentum in demand, amid concerns of an inflationary environment, and weathered a steep rise in home loan rates over the past 12 months,” said Shishir Baijal, chairman and managing director at Knight Frank India. In terms of year-on-year increase, Mumbai experienced a 5.5% rise in average prices, Bengaluru saw a 3% increase, and New Delhi recorded a 1.2% increase, all compared to Q1 2022. Globally, Dubai secured the top position with a substantial 44.2% surge in the value of prime residential properties. Mumbai's sharp rise in the international index can be attributed primarily to the increased demand in the city. While the demand has been robust across all segments, there has been a notable surge in the sale of prime residential properties. “Particularly, we have seen demand for prime residential property being maintained largely due to three factors, firstly these sets of consumers are less dependent on mortgage support; secondly, the continuous growth in economy has led to an increase and stability in income and lastly the prolonged trend of buying larger homes,” said Baijal. What’s the index about? The Prime Global Cities Index is an index that monitors and tracks the changes in prime residential prices in 46 cities worldwide. It uses valuation-based methods and records the nominal prices in the local currency of each city. The index experienced a decline of 0.4% in the 12-month period ending in March of this year, which is the first decrease since 2009. This is a significant turnaround from the peak growth of 10.1% observed in the fourth quarter of 2021. Dubai witnessed the most rapid increase in prime prices, with a year-on-year growth of 44.2% between Q1 2022 and Q1 2023. Despite the Federal Reserve and other central banks approaching peak interest rates, it is expected that even prime housing markets will continue to face downward pressure on prices in the coming quarters. “That said, it is unlikely we will see a correction similar in scale to that seen during the Global Financial Crisis, when the overall PGCI index fell 8.2% from peak to trough in 2009,” says the report. Early indications suggest that some markets have shown signs of improvement, as 46% of markets experienced quarterly price declines in the second half of 2022, which decreased to 28% in the first quarter of this year, the lowest number since Q1 2021.

Mumbai sees a significant jump in Prime Global Cities Index: Knight Frank

<keyword id="6356662" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Singapore" source="Orion">Singapore</keyword>, a vibrant and modern city-state, offers a blend of cultural heritage, modern attractions, and natural beauty. It's a popular destination for travelers from India, thanks to its proximity, cultural similarities, and an array of exciting attractions. Here’s a guide to some of the <keyword id="21879861" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Best-places-to-visit-in-Singapore" source="Orion">best places to visit in Singapore</keyword> that will captivate <keyword id="20102333" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-tourists" source="keywords">Indian tourists</keyword>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="1. Marina Bay Sands" comment="subhead" text="1. Marina Bay Sands">1. <keyword id="21172707" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Marina-Bay-Sands" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Marina Bay Sands" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Marina Bay Sands">Marina Bay Sands</keyword></cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="1" msid="110582127" hostid="261" sizebytes="1337875" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Iconic Marina Bay Sands with its stunning rooftop infinity pool.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Marina Bay Sands is one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks. This luxurious resort complex includes a hotel, a shopping mall, a museum, two large theatres, and a world-class casino. The highlight is the SkyPark, a rooftop infinity pool that offers stunning views of the Singapore skyline. Though access to the pool is reserved for hotel guests, visitors can still enjoy the panoramic view from the observation deck. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="2. Gardens by the Bay" comment="subhead" text="2. Gardens by the Bay">2. Gardens by the Bay</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="110582147" hostid="261" sizebytes="2496276" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;The futuristic Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Located next to Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay is a futuristic park spanning 101 hectares. It features the famous Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome. The Supertrees, with their towering vertical gardens, come alive at night with a spectacular light and sound show. The Flower Dome showcases plants from around the world, while the Cloud Forest houses a stunning indoor waterfall. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="3. Sentosa Island" comment="subhead" text="3. Sentosa Island">3. Sentosa Island</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="110582166" hostid="261" sizebytes="1946087" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Enjoy thrilling rides at Universal Studios Singapore on Sentosa Island.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Sentosa Island is a resort destination that offers a variety of attractions. Universal Studios Singapore, an exciting theme park with rides and shows, is a major draw for families. The island also features beautiful beaches, the S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and the Sentosa Merlion. Visitors can reach Sentosa via a scenic cable car ride from Mount Faber. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="4. Little India" comment="subhead" text="4. Little India">4. <keyword id="21879864" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Little-India" source="keywords">Little India</keyword></cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="110582180" hostid="261" sizebytes="1933820" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Colorful shops and vibrant streets of Little India.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Little India is a vibrant neighbourhood that feels like a home away from home for Indian tourists. The area is filled with colourful shops, traditional Indian restaurants, and cultural landmarks like the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. The bustling Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour shopping complex, offers everything from electronics to groceries. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="5. Chinatown" comment="subhead" text="5. Chinatown">5. Chinatown</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="5" msid="110582223" hostid="261" sizebytes="1831455" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Explore cultural heritage at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown.&amp;lt;br&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Chinatown is a cultural enclave that showcases Singapore’s rich Chinese heritage. Visitors can explore the Chinatown Heritage Centre, visit the beautiful Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, and enjoy delicious street food at Chinatown Food Street. The area is also known for its traditional shops and markets selling souvenirs, textiles, and antiques. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="6. Orchard Road" comment="subhead" text="6. Orchard Road">6. Orchard Road</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="110582243" hostid="261" sizebytes="2265189" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Shop till you drop at the luxurious malls on Orchard Road.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Orchard Road is Singapore’s premier shopping destination. This bustling boulevard is lined with luxury boutiques, department stores, and shopping malls. Popular malls include ION Orchard, Ngee Ann City, and Paragon. Besides shopping, Orchard Road offers a variety of dining options, from high-end restaurants to casual eateries. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="7. Singapore Zoo and Night Safari" comment="subhead" text="7. Singapore Zoo and Night Safari">7. Singapore Zoo and Night Safari</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="7" msid="110582255" hostid="261" sizebytes="2702872" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Experience wildlife up close at the Singapore Zoo.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>The Singapore Zoo is renowned for its open-concept exhibits that allow animals to roam in naturalistic habitats. Highlights include the Fragile Forest, the Great Rift Valley of Ethiopia, and the Orangutan Island. Adjacent to the zoo is the Night Safari, the world’s first nocturnal zoo, offering a unique opportunity to observe nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="8. Clarke Quay" comment="subhead" text="8. Clarke Quay">8. Clarke Quay</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="8" msid="110582269" hostid="261" sizebytes="1373695" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Clarke Quay&amp;#39;s lively riverside nightlife.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Clarke Quay is a riverside quay that comes alive at night with a vibrant nightlife. The area is filled with restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it a popular spot for evening entertainment. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic river cruise to see Singapore’s skyline and iconic landmarks illuminated at night. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="9. Singapore Flyer" comment="subhead" text="9. Singapore Flyer">9. Singapore Flyer</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="9" msid="110582293" hostid="261" sizebytes="1554420" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Panoramic city views from the Singapore Flyer.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>The Singapore Flyer is a giant observation wheel that offers breathtaking views of the city. Standing at 165 meters, it is one of the world’s tallest Ferris wheels. The 30-minute ride provides panoramic views of landmarks like Marina Bay, the Singapore River, and even parts of Malaysia and Indonesia on a clear day. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="10. Haw Par Villa" comment="subhead" text="10. Haw Par Villa">10. Haw Par Villa</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="10" msid="110582307" hostid="261" sizebytes="2497550" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Discover Chinese mythology at the unique Haw Par Villa.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Haw Par Villa is a unique theme park that showcases Chinese mythology and folklore. It features over 1,000 statues and dioramas depicting scenes from Chinese legends and history. The park is best known for its Ten Courts of Hell, a series of gruesome displays illustrating the Buddhist concept of hell. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Tips for Indian Travellers" comment="subhead" text="Tips for Indian Travellers">Tips for Indian Travellers</cmsannotation> Food: Singapore is a food lover’s paradise with a variety of Indian vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Visit hawker centres for affordable and delicious local food. Weather: Singapore has a tropical climate. Carry light, comfortable clothing and stay hydrated. Transport: The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system is efficient and convenient for getting around the city. Language: English is widely spoken, making it easy for Indian tourists to communicate. Singapore’s mix of cultural experiences, modern attractions, and natural beauty makes it a wonderful destination for Indian travellers. Whether you’re exploring futuristic gardens, indulging in world-class shopping, or enjoying vibrant nightlife, Singapore has something for everyone. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently asked questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently asked questions">Frequently asked questions</cmsannotation> 1. Do I need a visa to travel to Singapore? Yes, Indian passport holders need a visa to enter Singapore. You can apply for a Singapore visa online or through authorised travel agents. The visa process is straightforward and typically takes about 3-5 working days. 2. What is the best time to visit Singapore? Singapore has a tropical climate with consistent temperatures year-round. However, the best time to visit is between February and April when the weather is relatively dry and pleasant. Avoid visiting during the monsoon seasons (November to January and June to September) when heavy rains can disrupt outdoor activities. 3. What is the local currency and how can I exchange money? The local currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Money can be exchanged at banks, currency exchange counters at the airport, and authorised money changers throughout the city. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted at most establishments. 4. Is Singapore safe for tourists? Yes, Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world for tourists. It has low crime rates and a very efficient public safety system. However, it’s always advisable to take common precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings. 5. What is the best way to get around Singapore? Singapore has an excellent public transportation system, including the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and buses, which are efficient, clean, and affordable. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are also widely available. The EZ-Link card or Singapore Tourist Pass are convenient options for unlimited travel on public transport. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/international/webstories/top-10-activities-to-do-in-singapore-for-an-unforgettable-visit-in-2024/slidelist/110551251.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">10 best things to do in Singapore for an unforgettable visit</a>

Best places to visit in Singapore for Indians

<ul><li><keyword id="19946118" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="luxury" source="keywords">Luxury</keyword> brands leased 0.6 million square feet of space in 2023, which is a 170% year-on-year growth.</li><li>Exclusive high-end malls like Jio World Plaza in Mumbai and Mall of Asia in Bangalore act as facilitators.</li><li>Apart from millennials and GenZs, <keyword id="20098485" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="gen-alpha" source="keywords">Gen Alpha</keyword> also has an affinity to luxury retailing — forming a new set of consumers. </li></ul>Indians no longer have to fly abroad to buy Valentinos, Balenciaga, or shop at Tiffany &amp; Co. — as these luxury brands have been establishing their presence across the country for the last few years. And, there are more to come. <keyword id="20943315" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="brioni" source="keywords">Brioni</keyword>, <keyword id="20943314" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="roberto-cavalli" source="keywords">Roberto Cavalli</keyword>, and Dunhill are expected to enter <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword> in 2024. Indians’ love for global luxury brands has been growing as much as their love for India, according to a report by CBRE. The report, which mapped retail space leasing in India’s top eight states, says that as much as 0.6 million square feet of space was leased by them in 2023 — a 170% year-on-year growth. Their preferred format is high streets which have a 45% share in total space leased by luxury brands. It’s followed by malls at 40%, and individual stores make up the rest at 15%. “This surge in leasing has been accompanied by the entry and expansion of various international luxury fashion, watch and jewellery brands across different locations,” says CBRE. A few exclusive high-end malls have also opened recently like Jio World Plaza in Mumbai and Mall of Asia in Bangalore — facilitating the entry of more brands. Also, French upmarket retailer Galeries Lafayette is planning to enter India in a joint venture with <keyword id="20943317" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="aditya-birla-retail" source="keywords">Aditya Birla Retail</keyword>. The trend was put in high gear during the pandemic when global travel restricted the global shopping trips of affluent Indians. Consequently, international retailers ensured that their Indian customers had access to the current season trends. Also, they eliminated price disparity between Indian stores and their counterparts in other global cities — making a smooth entry. Moreover, luxury offerings in metros also attract affluent consumers from tier II cities. This growth trajectory has prompted them to adopt an aggressive expansion approach by opening stores in cities such as Chandigarh and Ahmedabad. The luxury sector, which saw a significant increase in leasing in 2023, shows a promising trend with the entry and expansion of international brands. This positive momentum is expected to continue, aligning with our anticipation for a similar trend in the years ahead,” said <keyword id="20177586" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="anshuman-magazine" source="keywords">Anshuman Magazine</keyword>, chairman &amp; CEO of India, Southeast Asia, Middle East &amp; Africa at CBRE. Young wear Prada More trends bode well for the growth of luxury sales in India. Luxe is catering to a younger and younger clientele. Millennials and GenZs collectively hold a significant market share in luxury sales. But there is a new and emerging generation of luxury brand lovers — Gen Alpha born between 2010-2024. As per CBRE, the spending power of GenZ, and even Gen Alpha is projected to grow three times faster than other generations till 2030. This trend highlights a more precocious attitude towards luxury, with GenZ consumers becoming more conscious of luxury much earlier than even millennials. It means teens are much more brand-conscious than ever and as that trend takes off, there will be more aspirations and buyers of such brands. “Luxury brands are aggressively chasing new avenues to attract both seasoned and aspiring luxury consumers,” says <keyword id="20943316" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="magazine" source="keywords">Magazine</keyword>. Social media has become a game changer when it comes to skyrocketing awareness. “For these generations, luxury isn’t about price; it’s a way to express themselves – a badge of social status, refined taste and individuality,” sums up CBRE.

You Searched For "Indian luxury market" and got 12 results

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FOMO and market volatility concerns key behind wealthy Indians lapping up ultra-luxury homes

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The luxe experience: Expanding global brands to drive retail leasing in 2024

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Indian weddings expected to generate ₹6 lakh crore in two months, CAIT says

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Best places to visit in Singapore for Indians

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