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Top 3 Plum Cake Recipes: Sweeten your Christmas Holidays!

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Plum Cake Recipe

Indulge in the joy of Christmas with delectable plum cakes! Explore the delightful world of festive treats online and discover the perfect plum cake to elevate your celebrations. From aromatic goodness to fruity flavors, experience the essence of the holidays. Get ready to bake or order your favorite Plum Cake online to savor this quintessential holiday delight.

Here are 2 amazing yet easy recipes for different plum cakes that will surely give your taste buds a rollercoaster joyride.

Classic Plum Cake

In a world where sugar meets spice, this classic plum cake’s name will be carved with golden letters. This regal treat is the spotlight dessert and its ingredients- butter, cinnamon, and dry fruits, scream deliciousness. Therefore, without further ado, check out this lip-smacking recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of maida
  • 1 cup of melted butter (preferably unsalted)
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1 tspn baking powder
  • 4 big eggs
  • 1 cup of brown sugar
  • 1 tspn cinnamon
  • 1 tspn vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tspn baking soda
  • 2 cups of dried plums, raisins, currants
  • 1/2 tspn ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tspn salt
  • 1/4 tspn cloves
  • 1 cup of chopped walnuts/almonds

How to cook:

  • Switch on your oven and preheat it till 325°F.
  • Apply oil/butter and put flour in a baking cake pan.
  • Meanwhile, take a vessel and add baking soda, salt, flour in baking powder, cinnamon. and cloves together.
  • Keep them aside to rest for a while.
  • Now, add brown sugar and melted butter together in a large mixing bowl and whip them until the batter turns thin and fluffy.
  • Add the eggs one-by-one and beat them well and mix vanilla extract.
  • Now mix the remaining wet ingredients with the dried ones.
  • Add milk alternatively and eventually put all the dry ingredients.
  • Mix the nuts in a way that they’re folded in and mixed with dried fruits.
  • Transfer all the batter to the baking cake pan.
  • Smoothen the batter with the help of a spatula.
  • Now put the pan in the preheated oven to bake it for almost an hour.
  • Make sure to run a toothpick test before giving it a go.
  • Lastly, let your cake rest in the pan for about 15 minutes before serving.

Note: The Price of a Classic Plum Cake typically ranges from $10 to $30, depending on size, ingredients, and where you buy it. Specialty or artisanal versions may cost more due to unique features.

Read More articles: Winter Special Gajar Ka Halwa Recipe!

Unforgettable Rum Cake

Add a splash of holiday spirit to your plate with this unforgettable rum cake. The one is for the people who love to delve into rum-infused delights. Filled with the sweetness of sugar and the scent of rum, each bite of this heavenly cake will make you ask for more. Discover an unforgettable treat with a delectable rum cake near you. Indulge in rich flavors and moist textures, available conveniently within your reach. Savor the essence of this delightful dessert, bringing a touch of luxury to your doorstep.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of maida
  • 1 cup of melted butter (preferably unsalted)
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 1 tspn baking powder
  • 1 tspn vanilla extract
  • 1 cup of rum/brandy
  • 4 big eggs
  • 1/2 tspn baking soda
  • 1/2 tspn salt
  • 1 tspn cinnamon
  • 1/2 tspn nutmeg
  • 1 cup of chopped mixed nuts
  • 2 cups of dried plums, dates, apricots

How to cook:

  • Switch on your oven and preheat it to 325°F.
  • Apply oil/butter to a baking cake pan.
  • Meanwhile, take a vessel and add baking soda, salt, flour baking powder, and cinnamon. Mix them and let the mixture rest for some time.
  • Now take a big bowl and start whipping butter and sugar together. Make sure the entire mixture gets thin and fluffy.
  • Put eggs one by one and beat them well.
  • Add vanilla extract and stir well.
  • Now slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ones. In the meantime, keep mixing rum/brandy alternatively.
  • Make sure to put the remaining dry ingredients at the end
  • Mix the batter so that nuts and dried fruits get packed inside.
  • Transfer the mixture to the pan and smoothen the top with a spatula.
  • Now bake it for 1 to 1.5 hours before running a toothpick test.
  • At the end, when the cake is slightly hot, make holes in it with a toothpick and fill them with drops of rum/brandy.

Vegan Plum Cake

When we live in a world of inclusivity how can we forget the Plum Cake eggless and vegan cake lovers? This specially curated recipe is an ode to those who put nature above everything else. So, let’s get started on one of the iconic and easiest preparations to surprise your guests with preferences.

Ingredients of Vegan Plum Cake:

  • 2 cups of atta
  • 1 cup of vegetable kitchen oil (preferably refined)
  • 1 cup of brown sugar
  • 1 cup of almond milk/ soy milk
  • 1 cup of applesauce
  • 1/2 tspn baking soda
  • 1 tspn vanilla extract
  • 1 tspn baking powder
  • 1/2 tspn salt
  • 1 tspn cinnamon powder
  • 1/4th cup of cashews and almonds (chopped)
  • 1/2 tspn ground nutmeg
  • 2 cups of dried plums, raisins, cranberries

How to cook:

  • Switch on your oven and preheat it to 325°F.
  • Apply oil/butter to a baking cake pan.
  • Meanwhile, take a vessel and add baking soda, salt, flour baking powder, and cinnamon. Mix them and let the mixture rest for some time.
  • Take another bowl to mix oil and brown sugar thoroughly.
  • Now add the applesauce, and almond/soy milk, followed by vanilla extract to the oil-sugar batter and stir properly.
  • Now slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ones.
  • Mix the batter so that nuts and dried fruits get packed inside.
  • Transfer the mixture to the pan and smoothen the top with a spatula.
  • Now bake it for almost 1 hour before running a toothpick test.
  • Lastly, let the cake rest for about 15 minutes before serving it.

FAQ’s:

  1. Can I substitute all-purpose flour in the recipes with whole wheat flour for a healthier option? Yes, you can replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour in these plum cake recipes. Keep in mind that this substitution might alter the texture slightly.

  2. Can I prepare these cakes without nuts for allergy concerns? Absolutely, you can omit nuts from these recipes if needed. Simply skip adding them or substitute with seeds or extra dried fruits.

  3. How long can these plum cakes be stored and how should they be preserved? When stored properly in an airtight container, these cakes can last for up to a week at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks.

  4. Can I adjust the amount of alcohol in the rum cake recipe? Yes, you can adjust the quantity of rum or brandy in the rum cake recipe based on personal preference. Alter the amount for a milder or stronger taste.

  5. Are these plum cake recipes suitable for beginners in baking? These recipes are relatively simple to follow, making them suitable for beginners. However, it’s essential to follow the instructions precisely for the best results.

Conclusion:

As you embark on this flavorful journey through these tantalizing plum cake recipes, may your holiday celebrations be adorned with the sweetest moments and the most delectable treats. Whether you choose the classic allure of the traditional plum cake, indulge in the spirited notes of the rum-infused delight, or embrace the inclusive joy of the vegan variation, each slice tells a story of festive cheer and heartwarming joy. So, ignite your ovens, gather your ingredients, and create memories that linger, as the aroma of these cakes fills your homes with the true essence of the holiday spirit. Here’s to a season filled with love, laughter, and the irresistible charm of plum cakes!

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Can leaders unlock professional potential through intermittent fasting?

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intermittent fasting - leaders

It’s no news that a fast-paced realm of metropolitan work life requires competent management skills, efficiency, good decision-making abilities, and a lot more to reach the top. But the major catch for top leaders and business professionals is to seek strategies for enhancing their efficiency to achieve the above-mentioned things.   

Several managers, leaders, and top executives struggle to find their feet when it comes to balancing their personal and professional lives. This is because the double-edged sword of corporate culture extends beyond office premises and impacts one’s energy and vitality. A disturbed lifestyle with imbalanced work-life equilibrium results in deteriorating optimal health. Yes, believe it or not, diet and lifestyle have been linked to cognitive functioning for years.  

Therefore, in order to keep everything intact, intermittent fasting has become the new buzzword in the market. This special type of fasting has well-documented results that not just shape physical health but also help in boosting one’s mental health.

What is intermittent fasting?

Intermittent fasting is quite a straightforward dietary pattern that oscillates between the window of eating and fasting. However, unlike all the other fad diets, the method doesn’t preach about what to eat. It rather focuses on when to eat. The whole process involves a time-bound period of usually 16 hours where one cannot have anything. Meanwhile, all the daily intake of calories can happen in an 8-hour window during the day.  

 Practicing this method may keep your weight gain, cholesterol, heart health and inflammation in check. Intermittent fasting can even improve mental health.  

What are the benefits of intermittent fasting for leaders and managers?

Intermittent fasting is the key to multiple cognitive benefits which can help working professionals with better management and problem-solving skills. It can provide a mental edge during difficult moments of decision-making. The special type of fasting can even help one with stress resilience. Let’s explore the benefits of intermittent fasting in detail. 

Brain boosting  

It’s fascinating to know that your body releases ketones while fasting. They act as an alternative source of energy for the brain and help leaders with efficiency, mindfulness, and acuity during critical times. 

Better productivity and energy levels

Overeating or binge eating all day can impact your health and tends to exhaust you by the evening. That’s the reason to make way for cyclic fasting as it can make changes to your blood sugar levels in your body and can increase insulin sensitivity. As a result, you may experience better productivity, focus, and energy levels throughout the day.  

Stress resilience 

Intermittent fasting can work as a boon for your mental health as it can reduce the chances of stress and depression. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a hormone present in your brain is responsible for depression. According to a study published in the journal Nutrients, fasting can improve the levels of BDNF and can save you from getting stressed or depressed.  

Improved work culture 

A leader’s behaviour has the potential to impact the entire organisation’s work culture. If the bosses exhibit a lack of patience, tolerance, and problem-solving methods, it is bound to influence the professional environment as well as employees. Therefore, one needs intermittent fasting as it can reduce stress levels and cultivate a healthy work culture. 

Better time management 

A properly structured approach to eating can encourage corporate leaders to invest their time more efficiently. Practicing this can foster a working environment which is signified by increased focus and productivity.

How to do intermittent fasting?

In order to start intermittent fasting, one needs to pick a method that aligns with their lifestyle. For example, if you are going with the 16/8 process, eat nutrient-rich foods and lighter meals throughout the window of 8 hours. Meanwhile, try not to have anything at all during the remaining 16 hours of the day. However, if you find it difficult in the start, have tea, coffee, or healthy beverages. Water is one of the best things to keep you full and hydrated during the day. Have around 6-8 glasses of water throughout the day.

Disclaimer: While intermittent fasting boasts of promising benefits, it is important for everyone to approach any dietary changes mentioned in the article after being fully assured by a doctor or a healthcare professional. This is because some changes in lifestyle and dietary patterns can negatively impact your health. The information provided here is for educational purposes and should not be followed blindly without any professional consultation.

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Emerging risk of diabetes under 33 and a precautionary guide to prevent it

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Diabetes

Let’s paint a picture of an average Indian male: Vishal is in his 20s or early 30s and killing it at his work, handing out with friends, celebrating weekends, taking holidays, and enjoying every moment. However, suddenly the notorious villain named Diabetes sneaks into his life and starts threatening him. Well, unfortunately, it’s not just the story of Vishal but many other youngsters around the globe who’ve been suffering from type 2 diabetes from a young age.  

As per a report of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released in 2018, the average range of age for a man/woman to get diagnosed with type 2 diabetes was between 45 to 64 years. However, nowadays, the age bar has gone below and young people in their 20s and 30s are falling prey to this health condition.  

Why is diabetes targeting youngsters?

Apart from the hereditary issues, a lot of new cases of diabetes in youth have a lot to do with their lifestyle. Sadly, under the guise of seeking pleasures from modern and comfortable living, people in their working age are embracing the couch-potato (sedentary) lifestyle. This tends to drastically transform into a serious diabetes dynamo staging a high risk of health crisis.  

Emotional eating, Netflix and chill, and binge-watching are some of the common Gen Z terms that have become a habit for the new generation. These vaguely talk about how individuals’ active lives have transformed into rather sedentary ones. Having junk food at odd hours, going days without working out, and being under extreme stress are some of the factors that lead to diabetes in youth.

What are the ways to battle the risk of diabetes in youngsters?

Now that you have an idea about the villain, let’s get our hands on the weapons. Here we are with a few easy ways to inculcate in your life and prevent the risk of diabetes 

Say bye-bye to excess sugar and unhealthy snacks

Fast food joints and cafes are not leaving any stone unturned to lure people of all age groups, especially young adults. As a result, a lot of them are at high risk of type 2 diabetes. Junk food has a high amount of added sugar, oil, and other unhealthy ingredients which although promise momentary delight can mess up your insulin resistance.  

For the unversed, insulin is a hormone that helps regulate the blood sugar levels in your body and if there occurs a dysfunction in the production it may lead to health hazards like impaired glucose regulation, obesity, diabetes, and more.  

Consider having some interesting snacking options like veggies with guacamole, puffed rice, makhanas, poha, fruits, etc.  

Don’t be a couch potato

This may sound like your mom but seriously leave your couch for some time and get going. This is because not moving and lying all day in the same place can seriously affect your body. It can simply affect your metabolism and energy levels including mental health. As per a study published in the HHS Public Access journal, a sedentary lifestyle is key to the risk of type 2 diabetes.   

Therefore, if you’re a working professional just try working out wherever you are. Even if you’re at work, figure out some easy chair and desk exercises that are easily available online. Also, take a break and have a walk of 5 minutes after every 20-25 minutes.

Bid adieu to stress

An endless pursuit to perform at work for success and money creates stress regularly that can weaken the immunity against diabetes. Your body releases certain hormones in response to excessive stress which tends to increase the blood sugar levels of your body. A report published in the journal Cureus suggests that undergoing constant stress can lead to diabetes.

Some of the best ways to bid adieu to stress are to scoop out time for friends and family, laugh as much as possible, increase social interaction, and schedule your workouts. 

You’ll lose if you don’t snooze

A good night’s sleep plays an important role in managing stress and energy levels. However, unfortunately, youngsters prefer pushing their sleep timings for leisure. This has given rise to a new term called ‘revenge bedtime procrastination’ which means compromising your sleep to enjoy ‘me’ time. Yes, we aren’t kidding.  

After having a busy schedule throughout the day, a lot of working professionals and students tend to snatch some time at night and voluntarily delay sleeping to have fun by either watching content online or scrolling through social media. Certain hormones secreted by your body help you stay awake, and it leads to excessive glucose in your blood which eventually puts you at the risk of type 2 diabetes. 

Hence, try to balance your work and personal life in such a way that you’re able to say goodnight on time. 

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Make way for hot buttered rum, Delhi’s new favourite winter drink

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hot buttered rum

It’s ‘that’ time of the year and winter has wrapped its arms around the country, especially North India. Therefore, what’s better than a classic elixir to enjoy this frost-kissed season in the heart of the country? You guessed it right; we are talking about the cozy winter love- rum to combat the Delhi ki sardi. Dark rum’s timeless aromatic presence, warm charm, and rich flavours, made it *hands down* an all-time go-to potion for Delhiites. All thanks to the well-crafted concoction, a new variation called ‘Hot Buttered Rum’ has made its way to people’s heart.  

It is exactly how it sounds, filled with the enchanting base of rum, the goodness of some spices, and a mouth-watering taste of butter, this specially curated spirit will lure you to the core. That’s the reason this drink has become the new favourite of South Delhi bars and cafes which have kept it in their winter menu.

What makes hot buttered rum loved by all?

Picture this: It’s a cold winter night and you’re enjoying the chilly weather sitting beside a fireplace with a blanket wrapped around you. This is exactly what this hot buttered rum does to you. It takes you to a whole new world of taste and comfort. If you’re still not convinced to try out the new rum variant, then let’s explore a few more reasons   

Comfort and warmth

Delhi winters can be chilly and harsh and trust us, the experience of hot buttered rum is what you’ve been longing for. The drink is served hot and already has the inner warmth of rum that makes you easily battle the winter chill and happily enjoy the weather.

Taste and variations

Hot buttered rum comes with a delightful harmony of flavours. The caramelized taste of dark rum, the sweetness of butter with sugar, and the fragrant dance of spices create an unforgettable symphony that lasts long. One of the perks of hot buttered rum is that it comes with multiple customisable variations as well.  

A reason to party

Hot buttered rum is not just a drink but an absolute reason to celebrate. Delhi boasts of great house parties and prolonged celebrations which makes this elixir the need of the hour everywhere. Be it a bonfire weenie roast or a casual get-together, dark rum has always been the timeless center of attraction in winter.

Places to try hot buttered rum in Delhi

If you’re a Delhiite and looking for a place to explore hot buttered rum, then you’ve landed on the right spot. We’ve mentioned below some A-listed cafes and restaurants in New Delhi where you’ll find this supreme potion with excellence at its peak in their winter menu. Check out:

Monkey Bar

All restaurants pic credits: Zomato

https://www.instagram.com/monkeybarind/?hl=en

Address: Local Shopping Complex, 11, Vasant Kunj Rd, next to Mini Cooper Showroom, Pocket B-C, Sector C, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, Delhi 110070

Ivoryy Cocktail Garden

Address: T- 540, Panchshila park, Malviya Nagar road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110017

Plats Restaurant

https://www.instagram.com/platsdelhi/?hl=en

Address: C- 51 ground floor, Shivalik Rd, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 110017

Chido

https://www.instagram.com/chido.delhi/?hl=en

Address: shop number 18, M Block, Block M, Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110001

DIY hot buttered rum recipe

Now that you’re well-versed with where to find the mystique of hot buttered rum but are planning to throw an indoor bash for your folks, don’t worry we’ve got you covered. Unveil the magic of hot buttered rum in your kitchen with easily available ingredients at your counter. So, put on mixology gloves and have a glance at this DIY recipe to surprise your guests.  

Ingredients:

  • Take 60 ml of dark rum
  • Hot boiling water
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (preferably brown sugar)
  • Whipped cream (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1-2 cloves
  • A dash of salt
  • Cinnamon stick 
  • Orange peel 

How to prepare hot buttered rum:

  • Make sure to have a warm glass or mug 
  • Take a small bowl and mix butter, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and salt together. 
  • Now add the mixture to your glass before putting anything else. 
  • Time for dark rum; add your favourite brand of rum into the mixture. 
  • Mix hot boiling water and stir well till everything blends properly. 
  • Finally, use the cinnamon stick and orange peel for garnishing.  
  • If you want to jazz it up a little, add freshly whipped cream on top. 
  • Serve hot.
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Dermocosmetics startup SkinQ secures INR 3 Crore in seed funding from Inflection Point Ventures

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SkinQ
Meera Iyer and Dr. Chytra Anand

Dermocosmetics startup SkinQ has successfully secured a seed investment of INR 3 crore from Inflection Point Ventures, in collaboration with Venture Catalysts and Super Angels.

The funds will be allocated for the introduction of new products, research and development, team expansion, and the enhancement of the brand.

Established by Dr. Chytra V Anand and Meera Iyer, the startup focuses on catering to melanin-rich skin and aims to reach 10 million customers in the next three years.

“The alliance with IPV & our investors is a strategic enabler in our quest to redefine the skincare paradigm through a fusion of scientific ingenuity and technological innovation,” Anand said.

The startup is the first Indian-origin dermo-cosmetics retail brand in dermatology offices and MedSpas in the United States.

Ivy Chin, Partner, Inflection Point Ventures, said, “By embracing the melanin-rich skin of Indians, SkinQ aims to revolutionise skincare by recognizing the unique needs of Indians . By addressing the distinct requirements of the melanin-rich skin, it has the potential to captivate the hearts of millions, who can truly appreciate the difference in its products.”

The startup clinched a spot as a finalist at the Beauty & You awards presented by Estee Lauder & Nykaa in November this year. Its sunscreens were ranked among the top 5 by Vogue Beauty Awards and the top 4 by Elle Beauty Awards.

Inflection Point Ventures (IPV) stands as an angel investing platform boasting over 9600 CXOs, HNIs, and professionals actively investing in startups. The firm aids new-age entrepreneurs by offering both financial and experiential capital, while also facilitating connections with a diverse group of investors.

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Ratan Tata to liquidate entire 77,900 shares in FirstCry IPO

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Ratan Tata

Business tycoon Ratan Tata is poised to liquidate his complete holding of 77,900 shares in the upcoming first public offering (IPO) of the FirstCry e-commerce platform. In 2016, Tata acquired a 0.02 per cent stake in Brainbees Solution for INR 66 lakh. Brainbees Solution oversees omnichannel ventures in children’s apparel under the FirstCry brand.

As per the draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) submitted to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) by Brainbees Solutions, the parent company of FirstCry, the initial public offering (IPO) encompasses the issuance of new equity shares valued at INR 1,816 crore. Additionally, there will be an offer for sale by existing shareholders and promoters.

Current stakeholders, such as Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M), private equity firm TPG, NewQuest Asia, and SoftBank, intend to jointly divest 5.44 crore shares in Brainbees through an Offer for Sale (OFS) in conjunction with the primary issue.

SoftBank is the leading shareholder in FirstCry, holding the largest stake at 25.5 percent, establishing it as the principal stakeholder in the online e-commerce unicorn. As outlined in the document, Mahindra is set to divest its 0.58 per cent stake in the parent company, while SoftBank plans to offload 2.03 crore shares.

Continue Exploring: SoftBank to lead FirstCry IPO sell-off with up to 2 Crore shares; other major stakeholders follow suit

The draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) additionally mentioned that FirstCry is contemplating a private placement of shares to specific investors, with a potential value of up to INR 363.20 crore. FirstCry provides a range of toys, apparel, and accessories catering to babies, kids, and mothers, available both through online platforms and physical stores.

FirstCry, as per its DRHP, has not disclosed the commencement and conclusion dates for the IPO subscription. Nonetheless, various media reports suggest that the public issue is anticipated to commence in early 2024. Additionally, details regarding the offer price and IPO price band have not been unveiled at this juncture.

According to the Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP), the funds generated will be allocated for establishing new retail outlets, warehouses, and facilitating international expansion. The book-running lead managers include Kotak, Morgan Stanley, BofA Securities, JM Financial, and Avendus, with Link Intime India Private Limited serving as the offer’s registrar.

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SoftBank to lead FirstCry IPO sell-off with up to 2 Crore shares; other major stakeholders follow suit

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FirstCry
FirstCry CEO Supam Maheshwari

SoftBank is set to offload the highest number of shares in Pune-based omnichannel marketplace FirstCry’s initial public offering (IPO). According to the draft red herring prospectus (DRHP), the Japanese investment giant intends to sell up to 2 crore shares as part of the offer for sales (OFS) component of the public issue.

SoftBank’s SVF Frog (Cayman) Ltd possesses more than 12.4 crore shares, representing a 25% stake in the company.

The unicorn’s initial public offering (IPO) includes new issuances of shares totaling INR 1,816 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) component of up to 5.4 crore equity shares.

In addition to SoftBank, various entities, including Mahindra & Mahindra, Premji Invest, private equity investor TPG, Apricot Investments, and NewQuest, are divesting their stakes in the IPO.

Mahindra & Mahindra, with a holding of more than 4 crore shares in FirstCry, constituting almost an 11% stake, intends to divest over 28 lakh shares in the offer for sale (OFS). In contrast, Premji Invest, holding over 2 crore shares in the startup, plans to offload 86 lakh shares.

TPG Growth holds nearly 2 crore shares in FirstCry and aims to divest approximately 39 lakh shares in the IPO. Concurrently, TPG’s NewQuest Asia Investments III Limited will offload over 30 lakh shares in the FirstCry IPO.

As an individual shareholder in the startup, Ratan Tata is selling 77,900 shares as part of the IPO.

FirstCry’s co-founder and CEO Supam Maheshwari, possessing more than 2.8 crore shares in the company, will also divest 18.2 lakh shares in the IPO. The other co-founder, Amitava Saha, is selling over 13 lakh shares.

Established in 2010 by Maheshwari and Saha, FirstCry is an omnichannel marketplace catering to baby and kids products. The unicorn aims to utilize the funds generated from the IPO to establish new contemporary stores and warehouses, invest in its subsidiary Globalbees Brands, and cover various growth-related expenses, including acquisitions.

In the fiscal year 2023, FirstCry experienced a substantial increase in net loss, soaring over 500% to INR 486 crore from INR 78.6 crore in the preceding fiscal year. It is noteworthy that the startup had achieved a net profit of INR 215.9 crore and sales revenue of INR 1,602.8 crore in FY21. During FY23, the startup recorded sales amounting to INR 5,632.5 crore, reflecting a remarkable 135% surge from INR 2,401.2 crore in FY22.

Continue Exploring: IPO-bound FirstCry faces soaring losses, reporting over 500% surge to INR 486 Crores in FY23

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McDonald’s India – North & East tempts taste buds with new kebab rolls

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Kebab rolls

McDonald’s India – North & East has introduced a delightful addition to its menu with the debut of freshly introduced Kebab rolls.

Priced at an affordable INR 139, these rolls present two delectable options, featuring Paneer Kebab and Chicken Kebab.

“This festive season, we are celebrating Indian flavours through our newly launched Kebab rolls and value wraps. Our latest offerings are all set to satiate your cravings and add a burst of joy to your experience. Whether you are on the move, having office get togethers, or dining-in celebrating with friends and family, our menu promises to be favourite companion of your palate in every consumption occasion,” said Rajeev Ranjan, Managing Director, McDonald’s India – North and East.

The Kebab rolls are meticulously prepared by grilling marinated Paneer or Chicken, combined with finely chopped onions, enveloped in Malabar Paratha to achieve a harmonious flavour. They are served with a delightful accompaniment of Mint and Makhani Mayo for added richness.

McDonald’s ensures that the preparation of vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals occurs in separate kitchen areas, acknowledging and respecting diverse cultural, religious, and dietary requirements.

The Kebab rolls are available for individual purchase or as part of meal options at designated McDonald’s outlets situated in the North and East regions.

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Bata India faces INR 60 Crore tax notice over GST discrepancies

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Bata
Bata

Footwear major Bata India has been served a notice by the State Tax Officer, Anna Salai Assessment Circle, Chennai, with an amount of INR 60.56 crore, as indicated in a filing to the bourses on Thursday. The notice, dated December 27, 2023, relates to various issues highlighted in a final audit report on December 25 for the financial year 2018-19, as per the filing.

The raised concerns encompass disparities in turnover on outward supplies in the monthly GST returns, variations in tax on outward supplies in the GSTR-9 & GSTR-9C returns, excessive availing of Input Tax Credit (ITC), and ITC Reversal on credit note.

The company stated that it initially received an audit notice on April 27, 2023, and promptly submitted pertinent documents in reply.

Bata India underwent a personal hearing on January 10, 2024, to present its case and furnish additional information on the contested issues, as outlined in the filing.

The company conveyed its assurance in its capability to present a robust defense in the matter before the relevant authorities.

“It is believed that the company has a good case to defend the matters without any material financial impact,” Bata India said.

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FirstCry’s Q1 FY24 sales hit INR 1,407 Crore, reflecting robust growth

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FirstCry

SoftBank-backed omnichannel retail startup FirstCry has formally lodged its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with the market regulator SEBI, aiming to secure INR 1,816 Crore through fresh share issuances.

The IPO offer also includes an offer-for-sale component, enabling the startup’s investors to offload up to 5.4 Crore equity shares.

Continue Exploring: IPO-bound FirstCry files DRHP, targets INR 1,816 Crore fundraising in fresh issue

Discussing the financials of the startup, Brainbees Solutions Limited has disclosed sales of INR 1,406.9 Crore on a consolidated basis in the initial three months of the current financial year, FY24. The ecommerce unicorn primarily generates revenue by selling babycare products on its platform. Taking into account other income, FirstCry’s total income in Q1 of FY24 amounted to INR 1,426.8 Crore.

The sales for the initial three months constitute nearly 25% of the startup’s total FY23 sales. In FY23, FirstCry achieved a consolidated operating revenue of INR 56,32.5 Crore, reflecting a remarkable 135% surge from the INR 2,401.2 Crore reported in the preceding fiscal year.

Incorporating additional income, the overall income reached INR 5,731.2 Crore in FY23, marking a surge of 127.7% from the INR 2,516.9 Crore recorded in FY22.

During the first quarter of FY24, FirstCry recorded a net loss of INR 110.4 Crore. The startup reported a consolidated net loss of INR 486 Crore in the financial year 2022-23 (FY23), indicating a substantial 518% increase from the INR 78.6 Crore in the preceding fiscal year.

In the first quarter of FY24, the startup disclosed total expenses amounting to INR 1,541.8 Crore. In the preceding fiscal year, the startup’s total expenditure reached INR 6,315.6 Crore, indicating a substantial 145% increase from the INR 2,568 Crore in FY22.

As a marketplace, FirstCry allocated INR 904.4 Crore for product procurement, constituting nearly 59% of the startup’s total expenditure in the first quarter. In FY23, the startup’s procurement expenditure amounted to INR 3,953.3 Crore, reflecting a substantial 150% increase from the INR 1,572.1 Crore spent in FY22.

In the first quarter of FY24, the startup spent INR 159.2 Crore on employee benefit expenses, including INR 45.2 Crore for ESOP expenses. In FY23, FirstCry incurred INR 769.8 Crore for employee benefit expenses, reflecting a significant 127% increase from the INR 338.8 Crore spent in FY22.

FirstCry allocated £164.5 million in expenditure during Q1 FY24, constituting nearly 10% of the startup’s revenue for the same period. In FY23, the startup’s spending escalated to £416.4 million, reflecting a 55% increase from the £268.6 million spent in the previous fiscal year.

FirstCry’s initial public offering (IPO) features an offer-for-sale component. This offer encompasses an offer-for-sale (OFS) segment involving 5.4 crore equity shares. SoftBank from Japan, holding a stake of over 25%, plans to sell the highest volume, with up to 2 crore equity shares, while Premji Invest aims to sell 8.6 million shares during the OFS. Additionally, founder Supam Maheshwari will divest some of his shares in the IPO, noteworthy is that Maheshwari is not partaking in the sale of shares in the OFS.

At present, the startup possesses 321 contemporary stores and 615 stores operated under franchise ownership throughout the country.

In December of this year, FirstCry joined the ranks as the third Indian startup to submit its draft papers. Earlier in the same month, co-living workspace Awfis filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) to generate INR 160 crore through fresh issues. Additionally, Bhavish Aggarwal’s Ola Electric is aiming to raise INR 5,500 crore through the public markets.

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