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Meet the team that helped us to put all of this together. Meet The Team Vedant Podar CEO and Co-founder, Podar Eduspace Vedant Podar recently graduated from Singapore Management University, and attended Harvard College. With a degree in Business Management and majoring in Finance, he has worked in companies across India, Singapore and Boston. His past work experiences span Strategic Consulting, Finance and Entrepreneurship. His dream to upskill India yet rang true and propelled him to his current role - Co-founder and Director of Podar Eduspace. Rajiv Podar Member of Management Board, Podar Eduspace Mr. Rajiv Podar is the Managing Director of Podar Enterprise. He is the Founder and Chairman of the International Business Linkage Forum (IBLF), a forum patronized by Governments and used as a platform to promote trade, joint ventures and investments between the Government & private entities. Most recently, he was appointed the President for the Indian Merchant Chamber (Mumbai). Pallawi Podar Member of Management Board, Podar Eduspace Pallawi Podar is the Executive Committee Board Member of the prestigious Indian Merchants' Chamber (Ladies Wing) for over 20 years. She was President Corporate Affairs of J.L. Morison (India) and is a Director of Podar Enterprise. She is an active member of the FICCI Ladies Organization (FLO). She is also the Chairperson of several important committees and an active member of International Business Commerce since 2020. Atul Joshi Member of Management Board, Podar Eduspace Mr. Atul Joshi is a renowned economic policy veteran and an experienced banker with more than 25 years of experience. Most recently he was the Managing Director & CEO of Fitch Ratings Group for India and Sri Lanka. He invests in and mentors start-ups. He is accredited with the introduction of several innovative instruments in the country such as the first CMBS (Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities) and the first offshore borrowing by any bank since Indian Independence. He has also been on several committees of CII, FICCI and Indo American Chamber. Mohit Kumar Chief Technology Officer, Podar Eduspace Mr. Mohit Kumar is working with Podar Enterprise for past 22 years. Currently as President, he oversees the Advisory and Consulting assignments of the Group along with International Trade, Strategic Investments, IT projects and the Group’s digital exposure. After starting as IT Project Manager, during last 18 years with the group, he donned different hats from Business Development, IT Advisory, Project Planning, Liaising and logistics including a 4 year stint in China as Head of Overseas operations. He has a Bachelor's in Engineering and holds a Master in Business Administration. Dhruv Zaveri Business Development Manager Podar Eduspace Mr. Dhruv Zaveri has been associated with the education industry for several years, contributing to the growth and outreach of reputed institutions. Currently serving as the Business Development Manager at Podar Eduspace, he is responsible for driving institutional partnerships, strategic collaborations, and market expansion initiatives. Prior to joining Podar, Dhruv held key positions at EduPristine, Zell Education, and Arihant Academy Pvt. Ltd., where he gained diverse experience in B2B development, client relationship management, and marketing strategy. His ability to understand market trends and align business goals has played a significant role in enhancing operational efficiency and brand visibility. He holds a strong commitment to educational transformation and continues to support the organization’s mission through innovation, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning. Avinash Bharwaney Chief Financial Officer and Co-founder, Podar Eduspace Avinash Bharwaney graduated with a Bachelor's of Business Administration from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and attended the University of California, Berkeley, and Singapore Management University on his university exchange. With experiences in private equity, management consulting, and in-house corporate M&A, he enjoys combining his love for building business concepts with the larger vision of upskilling India. He has a strong belief in the vision that Podar Eduspace has set out to achieve and believes that it is high time India reassesses its traditional education tracks, and instead should be aligning skill development with employers directly. Ramyasri Sonica Chief Marketing Officer and Co-founder, Podar Eduspace Ramyasri Sonica graduated with a Master's from Erasmus University in Marketing and attended Singapore Management University. With a passion for marketing, she has been honing her skills in digital marketing, email marketing, social media and brand management. After closely working with several NGOs to educate students, Ramyasri has been instrumental in the development and launch of Podar Eduspace. She manages all our marketing communications.

Apply for a research internship in the field of your choice – connect with industry professionals, write a report and be published. EduSpace Internships Take the first step: Work with Indian industry partners and mentors to gain valuable work experience. Complete a one-on-one research internship tailored to your professional journey. APPLY NOW Enrollment Fee: Rs. 50,000 What is it? Eduspace Internships is a one-month, research-based opportunity for students to sharpen their research skills by undertaking a project guided by experienced mentors from both academia and industry across India. With the flexibility to explore a wide array of topics—from business and science to the humanities— students can select subjects that ignite their curiosity and collaborate with experts to transform their ideas into industry-level research papers. At the conclusion of the internship, the best reports stand a chance to be published on our platform, EduReports. Participants receive a personalized letter of recommendation that reflects their contributions, calibre, and achievements in the internship. Highlights of the Eduspace Internship Experience: Deep Dive into Your Interests: Tackle a curiosity-driven, knowledge-building project alongside an expert mentor. One-on-One Tailored Mentorship: Benefit from personalized guidance designed to enhance your learning and growth in the internship duration. Excellence in Academic Standards: Experience high-quality mentorship with our carefully curated faculty selected from fields across India working with the designed programme. Build Expertise: Deepen your understanding through rigorous research and mentor insights. Stand Out in Admissions: Showcase your achievements with a published research project and a customized recommendation letter. Cross Boundaries in Learning: Engage in research collaboration with mentors and peers across diverse locations and backgrounds, breaking down geographical and socioeconomic barriers. Embark on a self-driven journey of discovery, build expertise, and make an impact with Eduspace Internships. Industries to intern in. BUSINESS Marketing Branding Digital Marketing Finance Economics Artificial Intelligence Data Science Entrepreneurship Technology Education Tech FinTech Strategy Management Cultural Studies Media Studies Mass Communication Sales Industry deep-dives SCIENCE Biochemistry Pharmaceutical Healthcare Math Biology Nutrition Consumer Behaviour Psychology Scientific Method Physics Data Management Research methods Analytics Biological Studies Anthropology Human Studies Commericalisation ARTS Psychology Sociology Education History Politics Political Science Philosophy Environment Tourism English Literature English Language Sustainability Design Thinking Fashion Design Museum Studies Corporate Creativity Charity/NGOs Edu REPORTS Online research publication portal by Podar of the best student-led research papers in India. The Indian Market Analysis of Assets by Arham Bafna Emotions in Branding by Naisha Sahney https://www.podareduspace.org/edureports/brand-storytelling%3A-forging-emotional-connections-in-modern-marketing-by-naisha-sahney International Marketing by Ananya Choksi https://www.podareduspace.org/edureports/marketing-and-communication-%E2%80%93-dynamics-of-international-marketing Consumer Behavior by Asiya Agarwal https://www.podareduspace.org/edureports/consumer-behavior-by-asiya-agarwal View More In collaboration with: Where to publish? While not always required, publishing your research offers tremendous value in showcasing your work and advancing your academic journey. It allows you to contribute to knowledge, gain feedback through peer review, and enhance your skills as a researcher. Also – it can open doors, help with college applications, and just make you feel proud! When choosing a journal for your research, consider factors like the nature of your research (original research vs. review), and the publication timeline. 1.Journal of Investigators (JEI): The JEI is an open-access journal publishing original research conducted by middle and high school students, and is run by Harvard graduate students. The journal provides feedback on original research and publishes findings in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. They utilize expert scientists to review papers and provide feedback. JEI accepts STEM research, but non-STEM original research is also considered. - Cost: ₹3040 - Deadline: Rolling - Subject area: STEM mainly, but non-STEM original research accepted (focus on emerging investigators). - Type of research: Original research conducted by middle and high school students. Estimated acceptance rate: Difficult to determine, but likely moderately competitive given the peer-review process and focus on original research. 2.Journal of Student Research: The Journal of Student Research is a multidisciplinary, peer-reviewed online journal dedicated to publishing original research by students. - Cost: ₹6077 - Deadline: Fixed deadlines in February, May, August, and November. - Subject area: All areas. - Type of research: Original research. - Estimated acceptance rate: 30-40% 3.Journal of High School Research: This journal allows high school students to publish original research papers. - Cost: Free - Deadline: Rolling - Subject area: STEM only. - Type of research: Original research. - Estimated acceptance rate: Likely moderately competitive. 4.Stanford Intersect: Stanford Intersect publishes interdisciplinary research and writing, with opportunities for student contributions, especially in science and society. - Cost: Free - Deadline: Rolling - Subject area: Science and Society research. - Type of research: Research, articles, and writing. - Estimated acceptance rate: Highly selective. 5.Young Scientist Journal: The Young Scientist Journal publishes original scientific research by young people. - Cost: Free - Deadline: December - Subject area: STEM only. - Type of research: Original research. - Estimated acceptance rate: Likely moderately competitive. 6.Concord Review: The Concord Review is specifically for high school history research papers. - Cost: ₹6077 - Deadline: Fixed deadlines in February, May, August, and November. - Subject area: Social Science (History). - Type of research: Historical research papers. - Estimated acceptance rate: Highly selective (similar to Pioneer Academics or top-tier journals). 7.South Asian Journal of Management: Publishes management research related to the South Asian region. - Cost: ₹5000 - Deadline: Papers can be submitted at any time. - Subject area: Strategic management, Organizational behaviour, Human resource management, Marketing, Finance, Operations management, Entrepreneurship, Information technology management. - Type of research: Research papers. - Estimated acceptance rate: Likely moderately competitive. 8.Academy of Management: Publishes management research. Mostly for professionals and academics. - Cost: Free (major) - Deadline: Varies greatly. - Subject area: Business and management. - Type of research: Research papers. - Estimated acceptance rate: Competitive, as it's geared towards academics and professionals. 9.The International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR): Publishes original research in science, engineering, and technology. - Cost: ₹1500 for Indian authors - Deadline: Rolling - Subject area: Science, engineering, and technology. - Type of research: Original research. - Estimated acceptance rate: 30-40% 10.Indian Journal of Finance and Banking: Publishes research in finance and banking, with a focus on the Indian context - Cost: Approximately ₹8,500 - ₹8,600 INR (100 USD). - Deadline: Rolling submissions. Subject area: Finance, banking, economics, and related areas. - Type of research: Research papers, empirical studies, theoretical analyses. - Estimated acceptance rate: Varies. It is a peer reviewed journal. Benefits. Connect with Experts Work with our panel of industry professionals and academic professors One-on-one mentorship Personalised guidance and direct mentorship from the industry mentor. Flexible Scheduling Schedule internship in line with your academic calendar, offering flexibility. Get featured in EduREPORTS The best reports are featured in our online publication platfrom: EduREPORTS. Economical offerings The best of India at the best rates and service with industry-linked training. Individual exploration Curated research topics customised to each students' interests and passion. #ViksitBharat Indian mentors selected from all fields, who are leaders in their industry. Gain work experience Enhance your résumé and boost your skillset with this profile builder. Take the best first step Explore your dream role by working on industry-relevant topics. "The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence.” – Albert Einstein Steps to Success. APPLY NOW 01 Apply for an EduSpace Internship here. Add your existing work experience, academic interests and achievements and share why you would like to intern with us. 02 Successful applicants will receive a confirmation email and work with our management to coordinate the internship. 03 A mentor will be assigned and you are to work with them to curate the internship structure, duration and schedule. 04 The 4-week research internship is started. Each student would produce a research paper at the end. 05 During the 4-weeks the student would schedule one-on-one guidance sessions with the mentor and work with them to gain insights and delve deeper into the chosen industry and research the topic. 06 Students who successfully complete the internship receive a letter of recommendation and their report can possibly be published on EduREPORTS and added to their résumé. Our Mentors. Welcome to our Mentor Section! Explore our experienced professionals ready to guide students in our internship program. Each mentor offers unique insights to help you navigate your career journey. Scroll through to find the perfect match for your aspirations! Meet the Alumni. Our interns share their experiences with EduSpace Internships. Tap ahead to read their EduREPORTs customised to their area of interest. Asiya wrote her EduREPORT on the Consumer Behaviour in India, specifically the Indian Retail Sector. Read EduREPORT Asiya Agarwal Cathedral and John Connon School, Mumbai Apply Now. APPLICATION PROCESS Apply Share your existing academic and professional experience, your area of interest and why you want to join us. Intake Meeting Successful Applicants would be required to clear an intake meeting round where the candidate would be assessed on a call. Mentor Matching Be matched with their mentor who would guide them throughout the internship and devise topics for research and study. Internship The intern is expected to display professional excellence. The mentor would then assess their performance for a recommendation. Anchor 1 Application Form Apply for an EduSpace Internship through this form. Each candidate will be assessed by the quality of their answers, interest and qualifications for the desired industry. By submitting the form you agree to the Terms & Conditions and all rights are reserved with Podar Eduspace. First Name Last Name Email Phone School/University Upload résumé Upload here Maximum File size (15MB) Upload standardised testing scores (if any) Upload SAT/ACT/IELTS/TOEFL/GMAT/GRE score Maximum File size (15MB) Which industry would you like to work on and why? Why do you want to intern with us? Submit Application has been successfully submitted. Contact us Write to us with your queries, curiosities and ideas at contact@podareduspace.org or simply call us at +91 98202 27795.

< Back The Indian Market Analysis of Assets by Arham Bafna This paper explores the various facets of the Indian asset management industry, focusing on different types of asset classes, the growth and dynamics of the sector, and the key players that have shaped its development. In this study, I have delved into the core principles of asset management, examining how it facilitates the effective allocation of investments and the management of risks and returns for investors. The Indian Asset Management Market Through this research, I have explored the different asset classes that dominate the Indian market, such as equities, real estate, gold, fixed income, and alternative investments. Each asset class offers distinct opportunities and challenges, and I have analyzed their potential returns and risks, providing a comprehensive understanding of how they contribute to portfolio diversification and wealth creation. By examining the risk-return profiles of these asset classes, this paper highlights the strategic importance of asset allocation in achieving optimal financial outcomes. Furthermore, I have provided key insights into the Indian asset management industry, focusing on its evolution, the driving forces behind its growth, and the role it plays in fostering financial inclusion and market development. Overall, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Indian asset management industry, offering valuable insights into the various asset classes, the risks and returns associated with each, and the critical role asset management plays in wealth creation and financial planning. What is an Asset Class? An asset class refers to a category of investments that possess similar characteristics.These investments function under the same set of laws and regulations.Instruments within an asset class tend to react in a similar manner to market changes. As a result, they often show comparable performance and risk patterns. Types of Asset Classes Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents refer to physical cash and financial instruments that can be quickly converted into cash.These types of investments are regarded as very safe due to the minimal risk of loss.Because they carry such low risk, they are ideal for preserving capital and ensuring liquidity.However, this safety comes at a cost, as the returns they generate are typically lower than those of other investment options. In the Indian context, fixed deposits in banks and liquid mutual funds are common instruments under this category. Many conservative investors, especially senior citizens, prefer these vehicles due to their stability. However, inflation can erode the real value of returns from cash-like instruments, making them unsuitable for long-term growth. Examples of cash and cash equivalents include cash parked in a savings account as well as U.S. government Treasury bills (T-bills) , guaranteed investment certificates (GICs) , and money market funds . Generally, the greater the risk of losing money, the greater the prospective return . Return: Cash and cash equivalents are considered low yield compared with some other investments. Risk: There’s little risk when it comes to holding cash. When it comes to investing in cash equivalents such as commercial paper, a major risk is that the issuer will not be able to pay the debt at maturity. Before buying commercial paper, you should consider the characteristics of the issuing company, the business climate of the company and the economy. Fixed Income Fixed income refers to an investment that provides regular, predetermined payments.In this type of investment, you are essentially lending money to an organization.In exchange, the borrower agrees to pay you a fixed amount at regular intervals.These payments continue until the maturity date, at which point your original investment is returned to you. These investments are typically less volatile than equities and are used to generate steady income. In India, government securities (G-Secs), tax-free bonds, and Public Provident Fund (PPF) are popular among conservative and income-focused investors. Fixed income investments are also extensively used by pension funds and insurance companies for long-term capital allocation. Government and corporate bonds are the most common types of fixed-income products. The government or company will pay you interest for the life of the loan, with rates varying depending on inflation and the perceived risk that they won’t make good on the loan. The risk of certain governments defaulting on their bonds is very unlikely, so they pay out less. Conversely, some companies risk going bust and need to pay investors more to convince them to part with their money. Return: As the name implies, the yield on fixed income assets is fixed. You can generally determine your expected return when you first invest, and you typically won’t make more than that. Risk: The company or government entity issuing a bond could default and fail to repay the loan. Treasury bonds are considered a safer form of debt since the U.S. government backs them. Equities Equities, often referred to as stocks, represent a share of ownership in a publicly listed company.There are many ways to invest in a company’s equity, including buying individual stocks or investing through stock-focused funds.You can also gain equity exposure by investing in privately owned companies, not just those traded on stock exchanges. Indian investors now have greater access to equities than ever before — through direct stock market investments, equity mutual funds, index funds, and systematic investment plans (SIPs). Over the long term, equities have historically outperformed other asset classes, making them essential for wealth creation and hedging against inflation. The Indian equity market has grown significantly in recent years, driven by digital broking platforms, investor education, and the emergence of thematic and sectoral investing (e.g., ESG, fintech, healthcare). There are two ways to make money from investing in companies: If the company pays a dividend If you sell the shares for more than you paid for them The market can be volatile , though. Share prices are known to fluctuate, and some companies may even go bust. Return: If you own stock in a company and the company appreciates in value, your share of the company is worth more, too. Returns can come in two ways: appreciation and dividend payments. Both are driven by the company’s earnings. Risk: It’s possible to lose money with equities, including the principal investment. Equity securities are subject to stock market fluctuations that occur in response to economic and business developments. Real Assets Real assets are investments tied to physical items like real estate and commodities.In real estate, investors might purchase properties such as office buildings, apartments, or industrial sites to rent or sell for profit.Commodities include basic resources like oil, wheat, and gold, which play a vital role in the global economy.They are often considered a good hedge against inflation, as their value is driven by supply and demand rather than company earnings.Many investors gain exposure to commodities by buying shares in companies that produce them.However, others choose to invest directly, either by purchasing the actual commodity or trading in futures with the goal of making a profit. In India, real assets—particularly real estate and commodities—have historically held immense importance in individual and institutional investment portfolios. These tangible assets are often viewed not only as financial instruments but also as symbols of stability, status, and long-term wealth preservation. Return: Real assets can appreciate in value but to realize returns, you may need to sell the asset. Investment properties can also provide substantial income, and because rents often increase with the cost of living, this can help combat inflation. Commodities earn return price changes driven by supply and demand versus a factor such as profitability for equities. Risk: Investments in real estate can be subject to fluctuations in the value of the underlying properties, the effect of economic conditions on real estate values, changes in interest rates and risks related to renting properties, such as rental defaults. Differences between the Asset Classes Cash and Cash Equivalents Fixed Income Equities Real Assets Risk Level Very Low Risk Low to Moderate. Risk Moderate to High Risk Moderate to High Risk (Depending on the market conditions) Return Potential Low Returns (Mostly Interest from Savings or short term investments) Moderately liquid; may require some time to sell bonds. High Return Potential with Market Growth but Volatile Returns Through Rental Income, Property Value appreciation, or both Liquidity Highly Liquid; can be accessed immediately Moderately Liquid may require some time to sell bonds Highly Liquid in the stock market but can be volatile Low Liquidity; selling property can take time Investment Horizon Short term (Ideal for emergencies or immediate expenses) Medium Term to Long Term Medium Term to Long Term Long term Investment Examples Savings accounts, treasury bills, money market funds. Government bonds, corporate bonds, fixed deposits. Stocks, mutual funds, ETFs. Residential properties, commercial buildings, farmland. Suitability Best for preserving capital and managing cash flow. Ideal for steady income and lower risk tolerance. Suitable for growth-focused investors willing to take risks. Preferred by investors seeking long-term wealth creation through tangible assets. What is Asset Management? Asset management is the practice of buying, selling, and managing investments, commensurate with specific risk tolerances, to increase wealth over time. Asset management professionals perform this service for clients. They may also be called portfolio managers or financial advisors. Many work independently while others work for an asset management company, investment bank , or other type of financial institution. Why do we need Asset Management Enhanced Operational Efficiency: Asset helps organizations track, maintain and optimize the use of their assets, leading to improved efficiency and reduced downtime. Improved Financial Performance: By managing assets effectively, businesses can reduce costs, increase asset lifecycles, and maximize return on investments. Better Decision-Making : Asset management provides data and insights that enable informed decisions about asset acquisition, maintenance, and disposal. Risk Mitigation: Asset management helps identify and mitigate potential risks associated with asset failures, damage or obsolescence. Increased Accountability: Asset management systems provide a clear audit trail and accountability for asset usage and maintenance. Competitive Advantage: Organizations that effectively manage their assets gain a competitive advantage by optimizing operations, reducing costs, and improving customer satisfaction. Improved Asset Lifecycle Management: Asset management helps organizations plan for asset acquisition, maintenance, and disposal, ensuring that assets are used effectively throughout their lifecycle. Asset Management In India In India, the investment landscape is diverse, with a variety of asset classes appealing to different types of investors. The preferences and allocations among these asset classes are shaped by factors like economic conditions, risk tolerance, and long-term financial goals. While traditional options like real estate and gold continue to dominate, newer investment vehicles, such as equities and alternative investments, are gaining traction, especially among younger and more risk-tolerant investors. Understanding how Indian investors allocate their funds across these asset classes provides valuable insights into the broader financial trends in the country. Real estate remains one of the most preferred investment options in India, with over 59% of investors selecting it as their top choice in a 2024 survey. The popularity of this asset class can be attributed to its stability and potential for long-term returns. Institutional investments in Indian real estate also surged to $8.87 billion in 2024, a 51% increase compared to the previous year. Residential properties continue to draw the most attention, with office buildings and warehousing properties also seeing significant investments. Equity markets in India are gaining momentum, especially among retail investors. By November 2024, equity mutual funds' assets under management (AUM) reached ₹30.35 lakh crore, marking a growth of 35%. This reflects the increasing interest in the stock market, driven in part by systematic investment plans (SIPs). The AUM of SIPs reached ₹13.54 lakh crore in 2024, further solidifying equities as a preferred asset class. Gold continues to be an important investment for many Indians. It’s often seen as a safe-haven asset during times of market volatility. The demand for gold in India has been consistently high, especially through exchange-traded funds (ETFs). In 2024, the country witnessed net inflows into gold ETFs worth ₹37.5 billion in January alone, reflecting growing investor interest in gold as a hedge against inflation. Despite the growing appeal of equities and real estate, fixed-income investments remain a staple for conservative investors. Instruments like government bonds, corporate bonds, and debt mutual funds are widely popular for their stable returns. Though these investments typically yield lower returns, they offer greater security, which is particularly attractive to risk-averse individuals. High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in India are increasingly turning to alternative investments like private equity, venture capital, and hedge funds. These investment vehicles allow for greater diversification and have been particularly attractive in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and renewable energy. Alternative investments are expected to continue growing in popularity among wealthy investors seeking higher returns and greater portfolio diversification. The asset management industry in India has witnessed significant growth over the past few years, fueled by increasing investor participation, a growing middle class, and regulatory reforms that have made investing more accessible. This sector plays a critical role in the country's financial ecosystem, offering individuals and institutions the opportunity to diversify their portfolios and manage risk. Key Insights Growth of Mutual Funds: The mutual fund industry in India has seen a remarkable expansion, with Assets Under Management (AUM) surpassing ₹38 lakh crore in 2024. This growth can be attributed to the rise of systematic investment plans (SIPs), which allow investors to invest in small amounts regularly, making it more affordable and less risky. As of November 2024, SIP AUM reached ₹13.54 lakh crore, indicating a shift towards disciplined and long-term investing. Equity mutual funds have been the primary drivers of growth, capturing more than 45% of the total AUM. The success of SIPs and the increased awareness of mutual funds through digital platforms have led to a surge in retail participation, with a notable rise in first-time investors. Digital Transformation: The Indian asset management industry has undergone a digital transformation, with technology playing a pivotal role in expanding access to investments. The rise of online platforms and mobile apps has made it easier for investors to manage their portfolios, track performance, and invest in different asset classes. Robo-advisory services have also become popular, providing personalized investment advice and portfolio management for retail investors at lower costs. Focus on Sustainable Investing: Sustainable and responsible investing (SRI) has become an important trend in the Indian asset management industry. Investors are increasingly looking for investment opportunities that align with their values, such as environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. Asset management firms have responded by launching ESG-themed funds, tapping into a growing demand for investments that contribute to sustainable development. Diversification and Alternative Investments: As India's wealthier population grows, so does the appetite for alternative investments. Private equity, venture capital, and hedge funds are gaining popularity as investors look for higher returns and diversification beyond traditional asset classes. These alternative investments are mostly targeted at high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and institutional investors, offering exposure to high-growth sectors such as technology, healthcare, and infrastructure. An interesting observation about the Indian asset management industry is that, while mutual funds and equities have garnered much of the attention in recent years, there seems to be a growing disconnect between traditional investment preferences and the reality of long-term wealth creation. Many Indian investors, especially from older generations, still cling to safer, more tangible investments like real estate and gold. However, as the younger, more tech-savvy generation begins to take over the reins of wealth creation, there is likely to be a shift towards more diversified and globally integrated investment portfolios, including higher allocations in equity markets, ETFs, and sustainable investments. This transition may take time, but it holds the potential to reshape India’s investment culture, moving it away from a risk-averse mindset toward a more dynamic, growth-oriented approach. The increasing acceptance of digital platforms and the rise of robot-advisory services could also accelerate this transformation, making it easier for the next generation to embrace more sophisticated and varied investment strategies. The Indian asset management industry is home to several large and influential companies that manage a significant share of the country's investments. Some of them are: HDFC Asset Management Company One of India's largest asset management companies, HDFC AMC has consistently been a leader in terms of assets under management (AUM). The company offers a wide range of mutual funds, including equity, debt, hybrid, and solution-oriented schemes. ICICI Prudential Asset Management ICICI Prudential AMC is a joint venture between ICICI Bank and Prudential Corporation Holdings. It is one of the largest players in the Indian mutual fund industry and offers a variety of funds catering to different risk profiles. SBI Mutual Fund Managed by State Bank of India, SBI Mutual Fund is one of the oldest and most respected names in India’s asset management space. The company has a large AUM base and offers a comprehensive range of investment options. Birla Sun Life Asset Management Birla Sun Life, now known as Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC, is part of the Aditya Birla Capital Group. It offers a wide range of equity and debt products and is known for its strong distribution network. Franklin Templeton India Franklin Templeton is one of the largest and most established global asset management firms with a significant presence in India. It is known for offering a wide array of mutual funds with a focus on fixed-income products. Growth of India's Mutual Fund Industry (2015–2025) This graph showcases the substantial increase in the Assets Under Management (AUM) of the Indian mutual fund industry over a decade. Indian Asset Class Management Graph Interpretation · Global portfolios are predominantly allocated to stocks, followed by a significant allocation to fixed income. · Passive investment strategies are growing at a much faster rate than active investment strategies, indicating a shift in investor preference · While a few large asset management firms hold significant market share, the industry is still somewhat fragmented with multiple players. Global Asset Allocation by Class This pie chart displays a typical breakdown of asset allocation across various asset classes: Asset Allocation in India Interpretation: Equities form the core of most portfolios due to their growth potential. Fixed income and cash provide stability and liquidity. Real estate offers diversification and inflation protection. Commodities play a small but strategic role, especially during market volatility. Top Asset Management Companies The bar chart provides a snapshot of the top asset management firms globally, ranked by their Assets Under Management (AUM) as of March 2023. Top Asset Management Firms in India as of March 2023 Interpretation: · BlackRock is the clear leader in asset management, holding the largest amount of assets under management by a significant margin compared to its competitors. · Vanguard holds the second-largest AUM, establishing itself as a major player in the global asset management industry. · The top three firms (BlackRock, Vanguard, and Fidelity) collectively manage a substantial portion of the assets held by the leading companies in this sector. · Beyond the top few, a number of other well-known financial institutions manage significant trillions of dollars in assets, indicating a competitive landscape among the major asset managers. Learnings Through this exploration, I've come to understand that asset management is a truly global and multifaceted domain. I've learned that on a global scale, the industry is experiencing significant growth, driven largely by the increasing prominence of equities in portfolios. It's fascinating to see the clear trend towards passive investment strategies gaining traction. While a few major players hold substantial assets, the industry maintains a competitive nature. Shifting my focus to India, I've gained insights into how crucial asset management is to its financial framework. I now appreciate the sector's role in enabling both individuals and institutions to diversify their holdings and effectively manage risk. The surge in mutual fund investments, particularly through SIPs, underscores this. Moreover, I've recognized the interesting dynamic between traditional Indian investment preferences, like real estate and gold, and the emerging interest in equities and alternative assets, especially among the younger, digitally-inclined investors. This signals a compelling evolution in India's investment culture. References Association of Mutual Funds in India. (n.d.). Monthly statistics & mutual fund reports . https://www.amfiindia.com Securities and Exchange Board of India. (n.d.). Annual reports and mutual fund data . https://www.sebi.gov.in Morningstar India. (n.d.). Fund analysis and asset class insights . https://www.morningstar.in CRISIL Limited. (n.d.). CRISIL Mutual Fund Rankings & Market Outlook Reports . https://www.crisil.com ICRA Limited. (n.d.). Research on Indian asset management and credit rating updates . https://www.icra.in PwC India. (2023). Asset and wealth management revolution: India’s transformation . https://www.pwc.in National Stock Exchange of India. (n.d.). Mutual Fund statistics and performance data . https://www.nseindia.com Investopedia. (n.d.). Asset class definitions and basics of asset management . https://www.investopedia.com Previous Next

< Back Digital Communications by Yash Vadhar The marketing aspect of a business that exits in order to address people’s needs and wants by promoting certain products or even a business for that matter. Whilst all that even in current times stays to be true, there are advancements and developments that have now led to the innovation of a new type of marketing, known as Digital Age Marketing. Introduction The marketing aspect of a business that exits in order to address people’s needs and wants by promoting certain products or even a business for that matter. This is vital in a business as it is what brings them the customers that would be willing to buy their goods/buy their services. The business focuses on marketing based on the 7P’s of Marketing that the follow and believe in, which are: Product, Place, Price, Promotion, People, Process, and Physical evidence. Whilst all that even in current times stays to be true, there are advancements and developments that have now led to the innovation of a new type of marketing, known as Digital age marketing, it refers to marketing, although via the medium of internet-connected/ modern devices; such as Email marketing, social media marketing, Webpage advertising. Analysis and Discussion This new age marketing making use of technology and digital platforms allows the business to reach a wider audience and acts as an advantage for them, as it would mean more potential future customers and consumers. Some of the examples mentioned above such as Email Marketing, Social Media Marketing and Webpage Marketing hold and target a certain niche for themselves and hold different meaning. Email marketing refers to the sending of messages that are promotional in nature and that directly reach to a persons email address. This technique acts effective, as it allows the business to be able to directly get in touch with the customers and their possible potential audience, whilst they get to personalize the message according to their liking in order to attract their audience. Social Media Marketing on the other hand refers to marketing via the adaptation of social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook; this helps in promoting of the businesses products (goods or/and services) in an effective fashion as it allows businesses to directly interact with their audience and the customers to interact with the business as well [6] . This method can be proven effective, as with the help of the algorithm of such social media platforms, the advertisement of the business’ products would be provided to those with similar interests and likings, making it perfect for the business to choose, as they would be directly addressing their desired target audience [7] . Finally, Webpage advertising is thew marketing of a business’s products via the medium of certain websites and this is a great method of advertising as well, as it works in a similar fashion to that of social media marketing with the algorithm of suggesting the products of the business based on the users liking, making it apt for the business as they would be able to touch base with their target audience [8] . Advantages and Disadvantages of the different marketing techniques: Email Marketing: Advantages: · They tend to be inexpensive · Easy to scale and allows easy analysis for analysing experts · High Return on Investments are possible · Environmentally friendly Disadvantages: · Emails lack the personal touch needed to promote and market a product · Might be counted as a SPAM mail · Time-consuming · Delivery issues Social Media Marketing: Advantages: · Low cost of investment · Wide range of audience · Helps businesses in monitoring feedback · High possible rate of growth Disadvantages: · Risk of negative publicity · Long time for Return on Investment · Can be very time-consuming · Difficulty in analysing Webpage Marketing: Advantages: · Onetime major setup cost · Easy to measure and analyse · Large audience that the business can target · Marketing on Webpages can be done in multiple ways to attain audience Disadvantages: · Onetime setup cost can be very expensive to make a good website to attract customers · Can be hard to gain the trust of potential audience · Results can be very time-consuming · Lack of personal interaction with customers Use of AI and data analytics in the digital age marketing In current times, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Analysis play a crucial role in digital age marketing as they allow marketers to make better decisions and allow them to make amends and act accordingly to create a better experience for their existing as well as potential audience. Some reasons as to why AI and Data Analytics is used in digital age marketing are that Data Analytics aid marketers to do segmentation, which is splitting up their customer base into groups of people according to their age, gender, ethnic and religious groups, interests, and other factors, this allows the business to focus on one segment of their customer base at a time, providing them a more personalised and a better experience. Another reason why AI and Data Analysis is important is that Data analysers with the help of the data of their segment and other factors can with the help of AI platforms create a more personalised experience and hence send out personalised product recommendations, personalised social media ads for example and also send out personalised emails regarding their products. Lastly AI and Data analysis can be used for future predictions and carry out sales forecasting methods and be prepared in terms of not only production of goods and services but also in terms of Marketing methods to adopt and apply in the future time period. Bibliography: · Paul Hoang 5th Edition Business Management Textbook · https://kajabi.com/blog/digital-marketing#:~:text=Digital%20marketing%20is%20any%20marketing,marketing%20are%20just%20a%20few . · https://rockcontent.com/blog/what-is-digital-advertising/ · https://mailchimp.com/marketing-glossary/email-marketing/#:~:text=Email%20marketing%20is%20a%20form,also%20be%20anything%20in%20between . · https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/social-media-marketing-smm.asp · https://www.brafton.com/blog/distribution/website-marketing-the-definitive-guide/ · https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666603022000136 · https://www.simplilearn.com/how-companies-are-using-artificial-intelligence-ai-in-digital-marketing-article · https://www.imd.org/research-knowledge/digital/articles/artificial-intelligence-real-world-impact-on-business-and-society/ · https://www.webdew.com/blog/data-analytics-in-digital-marketing · https://digitalcatalyst.in/blog/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-email-marketing/ · https://www.hitechwhizz.com/2021/08/5-advantages-and-disadvantages-drawbacks-benefits-of-websites.html · https://www.thecompanywarehouse.co.uk/blog/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-websites-for-business · https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/advantages-and-disadvantages-email-marketing · https://www.savvysme.com.au/article/8-what-are-the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-email-marketing · https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/pros-and-cons-of-social-media-marketing [1] Paul Hoang 5th Edition Business Management Textbook [2] Paul Hoang 5th Edition Business Management Textbook [3] https://kajabi.com/blog/digital-marketing#:~:text=Digital%20marketing%20is%20any%20marketing,marketing%20are%20just%20a%20few . [4] https://rockcontent.com/blog/what-is-digital-advertising/ [5] https://mailchimp.com/marketing-glossary/email-marketing/#:~:text=Email%20marketing%20is%20a%20form,also%20be%20anything%20in%20between . [6] https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/social-media-marketing-smm.as [7] https://www.brafton.com/blog/distribution/website-marketing-the-definitive-guide/ Previous Next

Read more about people, the board of directors at Podar Eduspace, and look deeper into the history of Podar Eduspace, Anandilal Podar Trust and Podar Enterprises. Here to educate India. Podar Eduspace Our mission We aspire to reduce unemployment by creating a knowledge ecosystem where students and young professionals can upskill to stay relevant in this dynamically changing job landscape. Podar Enterprise Podar Enterprise has relentlessly pursued its vision to make a difference by contributing to India’s interest at home and abroad. Established in 1909, the group today represents a 100-year legacy of trust, quality and reliability - in India and internationally. Read more Anandilal Podar Trust To contribute to education in a young India, great visionaries and philanthropists: Pandit Madan Mohan Malviyaji, Shri Jamnalal Bajaj and Shri Anandilal Podar came together to establish the Anandilal Podar Trust in 1921. It is of utmost pride to us that Mahatma Gandhiji himself was the Chairman Trustee. Read more Podar Eduspace Podar Eduspace is the educational pillar of Podar Enterprise focusing on student programs ranging from research, volunteering, skill development & advisory to educational institutes. Read more Our People Meet the people who made all of this possible. Read more Meet our Board of Advisors Our Board Meet our Board of Advisors. Read more

We work with marginalized youth, women, specially-abled, school & college drop-outs in both rural and urban India. Our industry-connected skilling model will create a visible impact on the lives of over a million uneducated & unemployed youth who enter the workforce each year. Acerca de Skill Development Through our skilling initiatives we aim to work with the Government of India and MNCs to provide skilling to urban and rural communities across India. Through this vision, we seek to work with Anandilal Podar Trust to contribute and give back to our nation. The Anandilal Podar Trust, established in 1921, the flagship philanthropic initiative of Podar Enterprise has 100+ years of outstanding services towards society at large. APT has been running multiple schools, colleges, Private ITI, Sports Complex and have been front runners in setting up schools and vocational training for the differently abled. Since 2014, APT has engaged with National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) , under the Ministry of Skill & Entrepreneurship as PIA for projects like Star, PMKVY. APT also empanelled under Rajasthan Skill & Livelihoods Development Corporation (RSLDC) for implementing skill based training in the healthcare sector. Our objective is to impact the lives of underprivileged youth by providing them skill, employment and livelihood. We have been implementing partners for large scale government projects including: PMKVY and RSLDC. We engage with corporate sector and PSU's as their preferred partner for implementing CSR Projects across pan-India. We work with marginalized youth, women, specially-abled, school & college drop-outs in both rural and urban India. Our industry-connected skilling model will create a visible impact on the lives of over a million uneducated & unemployed youth who enter the workforce each year. We also aspire to give back to society and contribute to India in becoming the Skill Capital of the World . We are working with the Sector Skill Council for People with Disabilities in states like Maharashtra and Rajasthan to train disabled candidates (hearing, sight and locomotive disabilities) and are employing them in various sectors like logistics, telecommunication, etc. Our Focus Sectors Are – Logistics, Telecommunication, Technology and Energy

Podar Enterprise has relentlessly pursued its vision to make a difference by contributing to India’s interests at home and abroad. Established in 1909, the group today represents a 100-year legacy of trust, quality and reliability - in India and internationally. Acerca de About Podar Enterprise Podar Enterprise has relentlessly pursued its vision to make a difference by contributing to India’s interest at home and abroad. Established in 1909, the group today represents a 100-year legacy of trust, quality and reliability - in India and internationally. Over the years, Podar Enterprise has expanded into multiple sectors with a strong presence in 15 locations across the world: offering unique opportunities for trade, investment and joint ventures. Our expertise lies in Government Relationships, Advisory & Consulting, Education, International Business, Investment & Strategic Partnerships, Affordable Housing & Sanitation, and Sports. Key milestones 1909 Established in 1909, the group today represents a 100-year legacy of trust, quality and reliability - in India and internationally. 1997 Past Chairman Mr. Kantikumar R. Podar was the first Indian President of SAARC and former President of FICCI . Current Managing Director, Mr. Rajiv K. Podar, is the former President of IMC , and is the Representative to multiple governments worldwide. Podar subsidiaries are the Official Trade Houses for Moscow Regional Administration, Republic of Belarus and Republic of Benin. 2000 Strategic partner for enabling a line of credit for ECOWAS Development Bank (Africa) from the Government of India. 2005 2008 The first and exclusive partner for Cricket Australia’s Cricket Education Program (CEP). 2014 Joint partnership with Covestro (formerly Bayer MaterialScience) to create durable, cost-effective solutions for those of lower socioeconomic status. 2016 Advisors to Russian HNWIs, Russian MNCs and Australian Finance Groups in recommending investment, acquisition and market-entry strategies in India. But the group’s greatest milestone is that it prides itself in having built a team that is inventive, hardworking, and committed to high morals. It strongly believes that there is no substitute for hard-work, trust, and commitment. They aspire to continue growing and giving back to the nation, through quality service across generations. "Reboot the business, reboot the policies, reboot the economy." - Rajiv Podar

3 months to add solar, cooling systems or finance to your skillset. Job Assistance guaranteed, upskilling programmes for India. We are here to find your professional edge Podar Skills Our Programs Take the next step towards your success by upskilling yourself with our selection of Podar Eduspace courses and offerings Skill Centre A first of its kind industry-linked training programme in Nawalgarh. Offering courses in Solar, Cooling Technologies, Banking & Finance. Learn more Skill Development Our skilling initiatives are focused on closing the employability gap here in India. With strong government linkages and corporate tie-ups, we are here to share in India's growth story. Learn more

Podar Skills in collaboration with Harvard Business Publishing is a 13-certification programme to add hard, soft and digital skills to your CV. PODAR SKILLS PROGRAMME Develop 13 key skills, and 12 Harvard certificates to boost your profile and rêsumé for the next step in your career. Programme Fee: Rs. 25,000/- Apply Now Home About Us Podar Eduspace Our People Our Board of Advisors Podar Enterprise Anandilal Podar Trust Online Programmes EduSpace Internships EduREPORTS Podar Skills WorkEx Bootcamp Skilling Initiatives Skill Centre Skill Development Knowledge Ecosystem EduSPACE: The Blog Podar Conversations Contact Us 13 CERTIFICATES 14 SKILLS ADDED 2.5 HOURS per week 30 hours Self-paced, asynchronous 12 Harvard Business Publishing PLUS 1 PodarPRO certificate 3 months access Interactive platform Résumé boost Rolling admissions PROGRAMME STRUCTURE Develop 13 k ey skills, and 12 Har vard certificates to b oost your profile and rêsumé for the next step in your career. Download Brochure Hard Skills 4 certificates Industry skills relevant to any field or career. Understand the world and level up your knowledge. 8 hours | Online, Self-paced Customer Focus Marketing Essentials Finance Essentials Strategy Planning Soft Skills 4 certificates Interact purposefully, lead meaningfully, communicate effectively. 8 hours | Online, Self-paced Persuading Others Leading People Presentation Skills Career Management Digital Skills 4 certificates Harness the constant in the change. Innovate and create your impact in the digital world. 8 hours | Online, Self-paced Digital Intelligence Decision Making Innovation & Creativity Change Management PodarPRO 1 certificate Essential skills to boost your résumé interview skills. Curated by professionals with 20+ years experience across industries. Practical, effective, easy to apply. 2 hours | Online, Self-paced Résumé Builder Interview Skills WHO IS IT FOR? Students College Students Working Professionals School Students Everything you need to know before university. From presentation skills to essential business skills. Learn how to unlock your creativity and digital intelligence – while boosting your profile! Working Professionals Level up your career with Podar Skills Programme. The advent of AI encouraged us to package all the essential skills one might need in their career. Gain a strong understanding of business concepts, build soft skills to convince, persuade and map out your career. Digital skills and PodarPRO will fill in the gaps to overcome what is holding you back in your career. The course has helped me pick up on complex topics, build my confidence and given me clarity for the next step in my career. Rajendra Prasad, VP, PIMS College Students Envision your career and add essential business skills to your résumé to stand out. Soft skills such as leadership and persuasion, and digital skills such as innovation and change management will future-proof your career in a world being built by AI. WHY PODAR SKILLS? ✓ Skills-based learning ✓ Hard, soft, digital skills ✓ Holistic curriculum ✓ One-on-one mentoring ✓ Applicable to all fields ✓ Guaranteed résumé boost Apply Now Application Form LET'S DISCUSS Book a session w ith our mentors to learn more and ask a ny questions you may have. Book a Consultation 15 min Request to Book GET IN TOUCH Email Call Mail Instagram APPLY NOW Name Email Phone (WhatsApp) Age City/Locality Organisation/School/College Name Name of Referrer (If Applicable) Enroll Now Thank you for registering, someone from the team will reach out to help you process the payment. Am I eligible for this course? All students and young professionals above the age of 15 and who command a level of fluency in English are eligible. What does the application process consist of? All applicants should fill out the form above and our team will reach out shortly with a short call. If all goes smoothly, you will be invited to join the cohort! How does this program benefit me as a student? This course provides a strong foundation of hard, soft, and digital skills from highly-trained professionals at Harvard Business Publishing and Podar Enterprises. It demystifies business skills and prepares you for the world ahead. It definitely is the perfect profile building opportunity for your college or university applications. Harvard Business Publishing is a recognised awarding body and will help you gain practical skills – especially presentation skills. How does this program benefit me as a professional? The course supports up-skilling of professionals as well as provides professionals with access to industry leaders, in-demand skills and important concepts such as AI, innovation etc. How does this program boost employability? Aside from the skills and resume support, participants get access to an optional virtual research internship experience with partner companies within the fields of finance, consulting, NGOs. How long does the course run for? Podar Skills The programme takes 30 hours to complete which can be taken as 2 hours per day for 2 weeks. Students have flexibility to do it at their own pace and they have 3 months to complete all the courses from Harvard Business Publishing, and they can complete the PodarPRO module at their convenience. Work Ex Bootcamp Our program runs for approximately 6 weeks with dates depending on the courses selected. The Startup Design 101 Workshop runs from 11-1:30pm IST for two days over one weekend, The MetCrynN Workshop runs from 11-1:30pm IST for two days over one weekend and the HBS Online courses are to be done in your own time. What happens if I miss a session? All sessions will be recorded and all materials & recordings will be shared with course participants for their review. It is encouraged that students attend all courses.

Meet Our Board of Advisors - Raj Nair, Rakesh Wahi & Neil Maxwell. Meet Our Board of Advisors Rakesh Wahi Co-founder of Forbes Magazine, Africa & CNBC Africa. Mr. Rakesh Wahi is a visionary entrepreneur who has been involved with early stage investments in emerging markets for the last 30 years. He is a well- respected member of the investment community and has distinguished himself in the field of IT, telecommunications, media, technology and education investments in the CIS, Middle East, South-East Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. Neil Maxwell Board Member of Cricket NSW and Chairman of SCG Cricket Neil has over 30 years’ experience in the sports industry. His latest roles have involved development of a sports rights acquisition strategy focused on securing the long-term commercial rights to key sports in the ANZ region. This has resulted in partnerships with the AFL, NRL, Cricket Australia, New Zealand Cricket and NZ Rugby Union (All Blacks). Neil has held senior management positions at New Zealand Cricket, Cricket New South Wales, the Melbourne Cricket Club, Lord’s Cricket Office as well as having represented NSW, Victoria, Australia ‘A’ and Fiji in cricket. He is currently a Board Member of Cricket NSW and Chairman of SCG Cricket. Neil was formerly a long-term Board Member of the Australian Cricketers Association. Post his roles within cricket Neil built and sold a sports marketing and sponsorship agency that managed the sponsorship portfolios of Sanitarium, Vodafone, Diageo (Johnnie Walker), Skins, Commonwealth Bank (cricket) and Travelex amongst others. In 2008, Neil was approached by the BCCI to recruit cricketers for the inaugural Indian Premier League. He was later appointed CEO of the Kings XI Punjab franchise where his role was to manage the start-up franchise. This included securing players and support staff through to creating ticketing programmes as well as developing and implementing a comprehensive commercial strategy. Neil has had business interests in the sub-continent for over 25 years and as result has an vast business network in the region. Raj Nair Chairman of Avalon Consulting & Avalon Global Research. Mr. Raj Nair has over 40 years of experience as a doer-manager, entrepreneur, advisor and mentor. This has given him exposure across functional areas, across industries and across countries. In his current role, Raj serves as – Chairman: Avalon Consulting, Avalon Global Research and Germinait Solutions Pvt Ltd. As a strategy consultant, Raj has helped companies across diverse industries in India, USA, Europe, and the Middle East to develop strategies, align strategy to vision, grow in competitive markets, restructure to make companies more customer focused and more. After working in consumer durables marketing at Murphy, and later as a Merchant Banker with Grindlays Bank for 6 years, he set up a Marketing Research and Advisory firm and followed that up with a Management Consulting company. He thereafter, co-founded a very successful Analytics company in 2000. In 2008, seeing the opportunity in text analytics with the advent of Social Media, he founded a technology company that would create IT products that help analyse what people are saying in the digital world. Raj is an Engineering graduate from IIT, Bombay and a Post-Graduate in Business Management, from IIM, Ahmedabad. He also holds a degree in General Law from the University of Mumbai.

< Back Finance, Banking and the Economy at large by Divyes Chakravarty Gain an understanding of how money, banking and the financial system intersect and work. The different concepts, principles and intricacies of money and more. Macroeconomics: Macroeconomics is the branch of economics that studies the behaviour and performance of the economy as a whole. It focuses on aggregate changes in the economy such as unemployment, growth rate, gross domestic product and inflation. Macroeconomists employ aggregate measures such as gross domestic product (GDP), unemployment rates, and the consumer price index (CPI) to analyse large-scale consequences of individual decisions. The two main areas of macroeconomic research are long-term economic growth and shorter-term business cycles. Microeconomics: Microeconomics is the study of individuals, households and firms' behaviour in decision-making and allocation of resources. It generally applies to goods and services markets and deals with individual and economic issues. Microeconomics studies how prices are determined in the marketplace. Manufacturers and customers initiate forces that we term them as supply and demand accordingly and it is their interaction within the marketplace that devises the price mechanism. It is also known as Price Theory as it deals with the determination of the price of commodities and factors. Financial Systems: A financial system is a collection of institutions which allow the exchange of funds, such as banks, insurance companies, and stock exchanges. The financial system exists at the corporate, national, and global levels. Borrowers, lenders, and creditors are exchanging current funds to finance ventures, either for consumption or productive investment and seeking returns on their financial assets. Furthermore, the financial system includes sets of laws and policies used by creditors and lenders to determine which projects are funded, who fund the projects, and the scope of the financial deal. Risk Management: Risk management is the process of identifying, assessing and controlling financial, legal, strategic and security risks to an organization’s capital and earnings. These threats, or risks, could stem from a wide variety of sources, including financial uncertainty, legal liabilities, strategic management errors, accidents and natural disasters. A successful risk assessment program must meet legal, contractual, social and ethical goals and monitor new technology-related regulations. By focusing attention on risk and committing the necessary resources to control and mitigate risk, a business will protect itself from uncertainty, reduce costs and increase the likelihood of business continuity and success. Three important steps of the risk management process are risk identification, risk analysis and assessment, and risk mitigation and monitoring. Risk Identification: Risk identification is identifying and assessing threats to an organization, its operations and its workforce. For example, risk identification may include the implementation of a robust cybersecurity system to prevent malware attacks. Risk Analysis: Risk analysis involves establishing the probability that a risk event might occur and the potential outcome of each event. Risk evaluation compares the magnitude of each risk and ranks them according to prominence and consequence. Risk mitigation: Risk Mitigation refers to the process of planning and developing methods and options to reduce threats to project objectives. A project team might implement risk mitigation strategies to identify, monitor and evaluate risks and consequences inherent to completing a specific project, such as new product creation. International Banking: International banking refers to the practice of providing financial services across international boundaries. Banks provide services such as accepting deposits, issuing loans, facilitating payments, and offering investment products to customers around the world. International banking allows businesses to access capital from global markets and make investments overseas. It also enables customers to make transfers between foreign countries without having to use local currency exchange services. International banking services are beneficial for businesses as they provide access to a wider range of financial services than domestic banks can offer. This includes foreign currency exchange, international remittances and transfers, trade finance, and access to global markets. Additionally, by utilizing the expertise of international banks, businesses can take advantage of local knowledge to invest in the best markets around the globe. Investment and Corporate Finance: Investment and corporate finance are essential components of the financial landscape. Investment involves allocating capital with the expectation of generating returns over time. It encompasses various activities, including analysing markets, evaluating investment opportunities, managing portfolios, and assessing risk. Corporate finance, on the other hand, focuses on the financial decisions and strategies within a company. It involves managing capital structure, raising funds, making investment decisions, and maximizing shareholder value. Both investment and corporate finance play crucial roles in driving economic growth, facilitating business expansion, and optimizing financial resources. They require expertise in financial analysis, valuation, risk assessment, and strategic planning to make informed decisions that align with business objectives and deliver sustainable financial performance. History of Money: Before money, we used the barter system i.e. trading by goods and services. Metals objects were introduced as money around 5000 B.C. By 700 BC, the Lydians became the first in the Western world to make coins. Metal was used because it was readily available, easy to work with, and could be recycled. Soon, countries began minting their series of coins with specific values. Since coins were given a designated value, it became easier to compare the cost of items people wanted. Some of the earliest known paper money dates back to China, where the issuing of paper money became common from about 960 AD. With the introduction of paper currency and non-precious coinage, commodity money evolved into representative money. This meant that what the money itself was made of no longer had to be of great value. Representative money was backed by a government or bank's promise to exchange it for a certain amount of silver or gold. For example, the old British Pound bill or Pound Sterling was once guaranteed to be redeemable for a pound of sterling silver. For most of the 19th and the early part of the 20th century, the majority of currencies were based on representative money that relied on the gold standard. Representative money has now been replaced by fiat money. Money is now given its value by government fiat or decree, ushering in the era of enforceable legal tender, which means that by law, the refusal of "legal tender" money in favour of some other form of payment is illegal. Nowadays, even virtual currency is used. As digital representations of money, this type of currency is stored and traded using computer applications or specially designated software. The appeal of virtual currency is that it offers the promise of lower transaction fees than traditional online payment mechanisms do and is operated by decentralized authorities. Corporate Governance: Corporate Governance refers to how companies are governed and for what purpose. It identifies who has power and accountability, and who makes decisions. It is, in essence, a toolkit that enables management and the board to deal more effectively with the challenges of running a company. Corporate governance ensures that businesses have appropriate decision-making processes and controls in place so that the interests of all stakeholders (shareholders, employees, suppliers, customers and the community) are balanced. Governance at a corporate level includes the processes through which a company’s objectives are set and pursued in the context of the social, regulatory and market environment. It is concerned with practices and procedures for trying to make sure that a company is run in such a way that it achieves its objectives while ensuring that stakeholders can have confidence that their trust in that company is well founded. As the home of good governance, the Institute believes that good governance is important as it provides the infrastructure to improve the quality of the decisions made by those who manage businesses. Good quality, ethical decision-making builds sustainable businesses and enables them to create long-term value more effectively. Entrepreneurial Finance: While corporate finance focuses on existing businesses and the challenges they face to deliver returns to their investors and increase shareholder value, entrepreneurial finance is the study of value and resource allocation. It is centred around new businesses and the owner’s challenge to acquire the funding needed to test whether the business can become financially sustainable. All entrepreneurial ventures which are reliant on funding to get started must ask how much money can and should be raised, at what point in the journey, and which sources of funding are viable. Raising money can be a drain on time and existing financial resources, so entrepreneurs must do their research into the routes most likely to result in positive outcomes for their business model and industry. Sources of entrepreneurial financing are: Venture Capital: This type of entrepreneurship financing is often reserved for start-ups and small businesses which have the high-growth potential for long-term success. Venture capitalists don’t always provide investment in the form of financial funding, as this can also be provided to a business in the form of technical or managerial expertise. Angel Investors: Angel investors are typically a group of entrepreneurs or former executives who have amassed personal wealth through a variety of sources. These high-net-worth individuals provide venture capital and often co-invest alongside a trusted associate into the same or similar industries in which their experience lies. Crowdfunding: Crowdfunding is when a business or new venture is presented online with a summary of the business plan, to raise money from individuals. Initial Public Offering: An IPO is the first time a company sells its shares to the public in a bid to raise money. This form of financing is used by businesses of all sizes and at all stages and requires a lot of preparation, bureaucratic hurdles, and paperwork. This means that it is a risky option for start-ups as it can take a long time and incurs costs throughout the process. Appendix: Macroeconomics: Investopedia's "Macroeconomics" section ( www.investopedia.com/terms/m/macroeconomics.asp ) Microeconomics: Khan Academy's "Microeconomics" course ( www.khanacademy.org/economics-finance-domain/microeconomics ) Risk Management: "Principles of Risk Management and Insurance" by George E. Rejda and Michael McNamara International Banking: The Bank for International Settlements' website ( www.bis.org/topics/banking.htm ) Investment and Corporate Finance: CFA Institute's "Corporate Finance" section ( www.cfainstitute.org/en/programs/cfa/curriculum/investment-foundations/corporate-finance ) History of Money: "The Ascent of Money: A Financial History of the World" by Niall Ferguson, The British Museum's "History of Money" section ( www.britishmuseum.org/learn/schools/ages-7-11/history/money ) Corporate Governance: The International Corporate Governance Network's website ( www.icgn.org ) Entrepreneurial Finance: "Entrepreneurial Finance: Strategy, Valuation, and Deal Structure" by Janet Kiholm Smith, Richard L. Smith, and Richard T. Bliss Bibliography: https://cleartax.in/g/terms/financial-system#:~:text=A%20financial%20system%20is%20a,%2C%20national%2C%20and%20global%20level . https://www.ibm.com/topics/risk-management https://study.com/learn/lesson/international-banking-services-overview-function-examples.html#:~:text=International%20Banking%20Structures-,What%20is%20International%20Banking%3F,to%20customers%20around%20the%20world . https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/corporatefinance.asp https://www.investopedia.com/articles/07/roots_of_money.asp#:~:text=People%20bartered%20before%20the%20world,of%20payment%2C%20including%20virtual%20currencies . https://www.cgi.org.uk/about-us/policy/what-is-corporate-governance#:~:text=Corporate%20governance%20is%20the%20system,accountability%2C%20and%20who%20makes%20decisions . https://online.wlv.ac.uk/a-guide-to-entrepreneurial-finance/#:~:text=What%20is%20entrepreneurial%20finance%3F,of%20value%20and%20resource%20allocation . Previous Next

We are here to help you become the best version of yourself by equipping you with the necessary skills. Check out how we do it with WorkEx Bootcamp and Skill Development. Our Programs Take the next step towards your success by upskilling yourself with our selection of Podar Eduspace courses and offerings EduSPACE: The Blog Develop a working understanding of topics such as AI, tech, business, education and more. Written by experts to simplify complex ideas. Learn More Podar Conversations A flagship monthly series of mentoring talks by Podar Eduspace, bringing together industry CEOs and veterans with decades of leadership experience. Learn more