INDIAN CONSUMER DEMAND
A missed call for China is a loud wake-up call for desi companies
Indian smartphone brands Lava and Ai+ are gaining market share as Chinese rivals retreat amid soaring memory chip prices and shrinking demand. Domestic brands captured 7% of shipments in the September quarter, their highest share in nearly eight years. Government incentives and India's manufacturing expansion offer a boost, but technology, distribution, after-sales service and customer loyalty remain critical to sustained growth.
23 October 2028: Forget iPhone Duo, Ashwini Vaishnaw says India will have its own Apple and Samsung moment in 2 years
Ashwini Vaishnaw says India will have its own Indian-designed, manufactured and branded smartphones in the next two years by October 23, 2028. Here's what the IT Minister revealed about India's plans to build a homegrown smartphone brand and compete in the global mobile phone market.
Crude oil is the key to bringing FII money back to Dalal Street: Equirus AMC’s Ashutosh Tiwari
Foreign investors may return to Indian equities only if crude oil prices cool, according to Ashutosh Tiwari, managing director and chief investment officer—public equities at Equirus Asset Management. While valuations have corrected and earnings growth is expected to improve, rising oil prices have emerged as the key trigger behind renewed FII selling and remain the biggest hurdle to a sharper market re-rating.
L'Oreal bets on quick commerce, local products to accelerate India growth
L'Oreal is seeing substantial growth in its Indian market, supported by enhanced team capabilities and localization strategies. The company's consumer products division reported double-digit growth, particularly in haircare and skincare. L'Oreal is expanding its skincare brands CeraVe and La Roche-Posay into new cities to meet rising consumer demand. Additionally, L'Oreal has acquired a majority stake in Innovist to boost its digital-first marketing approach in India.
Chinese smartphone brands lose India market share as chip costs soar
Chinese smartphone brands' market share in India decreased to 67-68% in the recent July-September quarter. This decline represents the lowest percentage seen in more than eight years. Companies like Vivo, Oppo, and Xiaomi are reducing their budget models due to high memory chip prices. Domestic brands such as Lava and Ai+ are gaining traction among price-sensitive consumers as a result.
- Go To Page 1
Indians develop a taste for dark chocolate as household demand jumps 45%
Households in India are increasingly purchasing dark chocolate, with a significant rise in demand over recent years. Urban consumers account for the majority of dark chocolate purchases, driven by rising incomes and health awareness. The growth is supported by trends in quick-commerce, making premium products more accessible. Despite its growth, dark chocolate remains a small segment in India's larger confectionery market.
Diet Coke, beer makers get 6-month breather as govt extends aluminium can certification deadline
The government has extended the deadline for quality certification of aluminium beverage cans to April 2027. The extension provides manufacturers necessary time to increase production amidst growing demand. Many brands are experiencing supply challenges due to disruptions from the Middle East conflict. The beverage industry had hoped to produce additional cans but fell short of expectations. Consequently, manufacturers are seeking regulatory relief as they attempt to meet rising consumer needs.
Strong macro fundamentals, policy interventions to anchor eco against global headwinds: RBI bulletin
Strong macroeconomic fundamentals continue to support the Indian economy against global inflation and trade tensions. Recent geopolitical frictions have resulted in increased prices and supply chain issues, leading to policy changes. Currency fluctuations were observed, but measures by the Reserve Bank helped stabilize the rupee recently. Foreign Direct Investment remains robust, driven by significant inflows from major sources like the US and Singapore.
ETtech Explainer: Why Blinkit is wary of private labels while Instamart sees an opportunity
While Blinkit is not looking to significantly expand its private label business, rival Instamart sees room to grow its year-old private label brand Noice, its recently launched curated fruits and vegetables proposition Nectr, and its brand partnership initiative Switch.
Smartphone shipments fall 20% YoY in Q3 as price hikes mute demand
In the third quarter of this year, India saw a staggering 20% drop in smartphone shipments, largely due to rising memory costs impacting overall device pricing and consumer desire. Notably, the mass-market segment, particularly phones under Rs 20,000, witnessed a 47% decline. The sluggish demand was evident during the festive sales, with ecommerce platforms recording lower figures.
Nippon Silver ETF, other silver ETFs slide up to 4% as silver prices tumble. Here’s why
Silver ETFs tumble up to 4% as India permits 6,500 metric tonnes of silver imports over six months, raising expectations of easing domestic supply tightness and premiums. Higher interest rates, bond yields and a firm dollar add to pressure on bullion prices.
A Japanese giant is quietly taking a bigger shelf in India’s wardrobes
Uniqlo India's revenue increased by 44% to Rs 1,724 crore in the last financial year. The brand's focus on everyday essentials contrasts with fashion-led competitors like Zara and H&M. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing quality and versatility rather than simply seeking trendy items. A report indicates that many people make fashion purchases based on necessity rather than impulse.
India's interest rate gap with G7 in focus as RBI weighs inflation risks: Report
India's monetary policy is now shaped by the interest rate gap with major developed economies and rising inflation. The Reserve Bank of India is concerned about inflation risks and input cost increases. Recent GDP growth figures indicate resilience supported by strong private consumption and exports. YES Bank predicts a cumulative rate hike of 50 basis points by the RBI.
India Inc eyes a festive boom, but the bottom line holds a twist
Festive shopping is currently gaining momentum with significant sales in both online and offline markets. Companies are experiencing increased demand but are also facing rising costs that impact profitability. Many consumers are driven by discounts and affordable payment options during this festive season. Businesses are adapting pricing strategies to balance consumer affordability with input cost pressures.
Technology overtakes brand in influencing India’s car-buying decisions: Report
Technology and advanced features have outpaced brand loyalty in influencing car purchases among Indian consumers. A recent Bain & Co survey reveals that 68% of premium car buyers prefer established brands. Furthermore, around 80% of Indian buyers utilize AI during their car purchase journey. The survey also found a significant openness towards electric vehicles among consumers, particularly among younger generations.
India could be among top 5 global markets for Glenfiddich maker as whisky drinkers trade up
India is projected to enter the top five global markets for William Grant & Sons in the coming years. The free trade agreement with the UK, effective since July, is anticipated to enhance demand significantly. Premium and luxury spirit consumption is increasing, particularly for single malts and blended whiskies. The company aims to strengthen its position in these growing segments, especially by collaborating with designers for gifting.
State of Joy strengthens India footprint with 4,000+ retail touchpoints and plans for exclusive brand outlets
State of Joy has launched Anatom, an innovative footwear collection that prioritizes comfort and practicality. This collection features Anatom School Shoes, specifically designed to meet the daily requirements of children. With an emphasis on meticulous engineering, these shoes are ideal for all-day wear. As part of its growth strategy, State of Joy plans to broaden its retail footprint across India, targeting both Tier 1 and Tier 2 markets.
Put your smartphone in the spotlight at the ET Product of the Year Awards 2026
The ET Product of the Year Awards 2026 celebrate India's top smartphone brands that skillfully convert features into commercial success. Evaluating factors such as sales figures, consumer feedback, and overall market influence, the awards prioritize performance rather than mere specifications. Companies are invited to nominate phones released from January 2025 through September 2026 for accolades.
Qualcomm to cut jobs worldwide in performance-focused layoffs, internal memo shows: Reuters reports
Qualcomm will begin notifying employees of job cuts in November as a part of its annual reviews. CEO Cristiano Amon mentioned the aim is to enhance the company's performance culture. The company faces challenges due to declining consumer electronics sales and soaring memory prices impacting demand. Qualcomm forecasts a shift in revenue sources towards non-handset businesses in the coming years.
PepsiCo India expects festive snack sales to match last year as new launches roll out
PepsiCo India anticipates steady growth in festive snack sales driven by innovative product launches and a focus on e-commerce. The company aims to expand its ready-to-eat snack range to align with consumer preferences during the festive season. SLMG Beverages, the largest Coca-Cola bottler in India, reports significant sales growth due to Diwali gift pack demand. Both companies are addressing rising input costs while focusing on consumer affordability.
Ecommerce festive sales fizzle out on price pangs
Executives attributed the slowdown to sluggish demand for premium electronics, including smartphones, home appliances and laptops, as prices of these products have risen 30-40% in the past few months. Smartphones and electronics, which account for more than half of GMV during festive sale events for some platforms, have been hit by price increases, an executive said.
India braces for first Diwali after Gulf war with tighter budgets
As households prepare for Diwali, rising food prices and travel expenses are impacting festive budgets significantly. Increased costs for essential items like vegetables and sweets are leading to reduced discretionary spending. E-commerce platforms have seen lower sales compared to last year, indicating a shift in consumer behaviour.
India-New Zealand FTA to kick in October 20, opening market opportunities for exporters
The India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement will come into effect on October 20, enhancing trade for both nations. New Zealand expects increased demand for its agricultural products, particularly kiwifruit, honey, and apples, in India. The agreement includes provisions to ensure tariff-free access for Indian goods in New Zealand's market. Both countries aim to strengthen economic ties and improve productivity in agricultural sectors.
Varun Dhawan invests in Better Nutrition, backs biofortified farming
The initiative emphasizes biofortification, which enhances nutrient levels directly through crop varieties and farming practices. Varun Dhawan's involvement as an investor highlights the connection between farming and consumer health.
PC Jeweller shares soar 26% in just two sessions. Here’s what’s triggering the sharp surge
PC Jeweller shares rallied 26% in two sessions after Cupid promoter Aditya Kumar Halwasiya bought 5.10 crore shares worth Rs 73.60 crore. The jewellery maker recently repaid its dues to 14 consortium banks, achieving debt-free status ahead of schedule.
FMCG firms grapple with input cost inflation in Q2, brace for margin pressure in H2
FMCG companies are experiencing increased margin pressure as input costs continue to rise. Rising inflation is affecting profitability, forcing firms to consider price hikes after the festive season. Companies are currently absorbing some costs to maintain consumer demand in urban and rural markets. The expectations for the second half of FY27 remain cautious amidst fluctuating commodity prices. Consumer purchasing behavior may shift if food prices increase or rural incomes decline.
Apple resets factory settings for iPhone 17: Price-conscious buyers pause purchases as Pro models gain ground
Apple is cutting production of the standard iPhone 17 for the Indian market following a more than 20% price increase, as demand weakens despite strong overseas sales. The company plans to redirect capacity towards exports, while demand for iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro models remains firm.
Festive demand drives India's diesel sales in October, data shows
Indian diesel consumption has risen significantly, driven by increased demand from the agriculture and transportation sectors. State-run fuel retailers continue to maintain fuel prices below market rates, which attracts consumers. In contrast, private retailers have increased their prices and are exporting fuels. The ongoing festival season has led to heightened purchases by wholesalers to build inventory. Diesel is also being used to generate electricity due to rising power demand.
Load More
