Bhavye Khetan, a UC Berkeley graduate, created a fake AI-Web3 startup filled with jargon to test VC judgment. Shockingly, 27 investors showed interest despite no real product or team. The stunt highlights how superficial buzzwords can sway funding, urging VCs to rethink due diligence and calling for greater transparency in startup evaluations.

Avadzine Technologies, a Canada-based home design tech firm, is using AI, AR/VR, and budget planning algorithms to simplify residential design. With a drag-and-drop interface and predictive design tools, it targets both DIY users and professionals. The platform removes traditional barriers in home renovation, offering tech-driven personalisation without relying on high-cost consultancy models.

Bengaluru-based wealthtech startup Stable Money has raised $20 million in a round led by Fundamentum Partnership, with participation from Lightspeed, Z47, and Aditya Birla Ventures. The platform offers digital fixed-return products like FDs and bonds, manages over ₹3,000 crore in assets, and plans to expand its offerings and partnerships to meet growing demand from risk-averse Indian investors.

Three Chandigarh-based cousins turned a homemade spiced drink into Lahori Zeera. With no investor backing, they struggled to set up their own factory and distribution. Despite initial rejection and no ads for 6 years, their ₹10 desi soda gained mass appeal, generating ₹312 crore in revenue in FY24.

India's upcoming Digital Energy Grid (DEG) aims to reshape its energy landscape with smart devices, AI, and distributed platforms. By assigning digital IDs to energy assets and enabling real-time optimisation, DEG could unlock massive opportunities for startups and "energy entrepreneurs," despite challenges in integrating with India's legacy infrastructure.

Indian sneaker brand blending culture with design, Gully Labs, raised ₹8.7 crore in seed funding led by Zeropearl VC. The funds will help expand product lines, sales channels, and open physical stores. Founded in 2023, Gully Labs creates sneakers inspired by Indian traditions, aiming to take homegrown craftsmanship to global markets.

Despite positive outlooks from brokerages like Nomura and BofA, foreign investors are wary of Indian stocks due to global uncertainties, high valuations, and better returns from US treasuries. Market swings, tariff issues, and shifting global trade dynamics continue to cloud sentiment, with concerns over a global slowdown and FII outflows lingering.

Tired of overpriced airport rides or unreliable buses? QuicReach, Bengaluru startup transforming airport and intercity travel with shared, pre-scheduled cabs. Launched in 2024 by Shubham Jain, completed 20,000+ rides, earning ₹1.2 crore in the first year. With transparent pricing, higher driver earnings, and smarter ride-matching, QuicReach is making travel affordable, reliable — and greener.

Samunnati has raised ₹50 crore through Non-Convertible Debentures on Wintwealth’s platform, bringing its total via Wintwealth to ₹160 crore. The funds aim to improve capital access for smallholder farmers across India’s agri-value chain. This move strengthens Samunnati’s financial base and encourages retail participation in agri-finance, as it plans a further ₹300 crore raise to scale impact.

Cricket icon Jonty Rhodes has invested in Indian sports wellness startup UpUrFit and will serve as its brand ambassador. Founded by Munish Vig and Vikram Gunjal, the company offers products focused on recovery, pain relief, and hygiene. Launched in 2023, UpUrFit targets India's fast-growing fitness market, expected to reach $40 billion by 2030, driven by rising health and performance awareness.