1 Finance has launched an ESOP buyback program at a ₹450 crore valuation, allowing employees to sell their stock options. This move aims to reward and retain talent, boosting employee wealth. The buyback reflects strong investor confidence in the company’s growth. As startups increasingly adopt ESOP buybacks, 1 Finance sets a new benchmark in employee benefits.
Read MoreIndia’s digital health startup Practo has expanded to the UAE, offering healthcare services in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. The platform connects users with 31,000 doctors and 3,000 healthcare facilities, enabling easy appointment booking. Practo aims to improve global healthcare access, leveraging its successful India operations to support patients across borders.
Read MoreInstamart has unveiled a bold new identity, marking its shift from a Swiggy sub-brand to a standalone quick commerce platform. The rebrand introduces a fresh blue color, symbolizing trust and speed, while keeping the Swiggy 'S-Pin' as a nod to its roots. With over 35,000 products across 120 cities, Instamart aims to redefine convenience and expand its reach.
Read MoreZepto has partnered with Truecaller to improve communication and build trust in quick commerce. The collaboration enhances user interactions, from onboarding to deliveries, using Truecaller’s verified caller ID and seamless login features. This ensures secure, efficient, and reliable communication, making transactions smoother for customers and delivery partners.
Read MoreGroww has filed confidential IPO papers with SEBI, aiming to raise $700M-$1B. The fintech firm, backed by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, plans to use funds for tech development and expansion. Groww has seen rapid growth, adding 34 lakh new accounts in FY25. The IPO will include fresh equity and an offer for sale, boosting its market presence.
Read MoreRiver Indie, a Bengaluru-based EV startup, is shaking up India’s electric scooter market. Founded in 2021, it took just 27 months to launch its flagship model. With 6,100 units sold in FY25, River is challenging big players like Ola and Ather. The company focuses on affordable, utility-first scooters, aiming to redefine urban mobility with innovation and efficiency.
Read MoreIvory, a Bengaluru-based healthtech startup, is making brain health a priority in India. Founded in 2024 by Issac John and Rahul Krishnan, it uses neuroscience-based assessments and interactive tools to detect cognitive issues early. With over 40K users, Ivory aims to make cognitive screenings as common as heart or liver checkups, improving mental well-being.
Read MoreAffiniti, a fintech startup, has raised $17 million in a Series A round led by SignalFire, just six months after securing $11 million in seed funding. Founded by Aaron Bai (20) and Sahil Phadnis (22), Affiniti provides customizable expense management tools for small businesses. The funding will help expand banking, bill pay, and cash flow analytics features.
Read MoreAcorns has acquired EarlyBird, a family wealth and digital memory platform. EarlyBird allowed families to gift investments to children while preserving memories. The app will shut down, and users must withdraw funds. EarlyBird’s founders will join Acorns to enhance Acorns Early, a financial wellness app for kids. Acorns aims to expand its services for families.
Read MoreY Combinator has accused Google of being a monopolist, claiming it has stunted startup growth by discouraging investment in web search and AI startups. YC says Google’s dominance creates a "kill zone", making it harder for new companies to compete. The firm urges Google to open its search index to help startups and reduce anti-competitive practices.
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