MARKET OPPORTUNITIES FOR STARTUPS
He joined a fire department as a volunteer at 15, left Goldman Sachs to build a $225 million used fire truck marketplace targeting a $1 trillion market
Martin Hunt joined a volunteer fire department at 15, worked at Goldman Sachs and then left finance to build Garage, an AI-powered marketplace for used heavy equipment. Now 27, he has raised $41 million for the startup, which is valued at $225 million and aims to tap a $1 trillion market.
Drugmakers tap China AI app boom to reach doctors as crackdown upends marketing
As scrutiny intensifies, Chinese pharmaceutical companies are shifting gears toward digital marketing initiatives. Traditional face-to-face communications are waning, prompting the industry to embrace AI-fueled applications for connecting with healthcare providers. These tools facilitate compliant relationships, sparking partnerships among health-tech firms to disseminate clinical information through digital channels. This marks a pivotal change in marketing dynamics within the pharmaceutical landscape.
Prosus widens India fintech play after years of consumer internet bets
The Amsterdam-listed technology investor is also close to investing in artificial intelligence-led credit management startup Oolka, people familiar with the matter said. Prosus evaluated credit-on-Unified Payments Interface (UPI) startup Kiwi in October and savings platform Jar in 2025 before deciding not to invest. Prosus declined to comment on specific deals.
Energy infra startups see bigger cheques as investors bet on sovereign play
Bengaluru-based Enerzolve, which makes smart meters, power conversion systems and energy storage systems, is in talks to raise $20 million from existing investors Jungle Ventures and Kae Capital as well as Schneider Electric, people aware of the matter told ET. That’s nearly four times the $5 million it raised in a January round.
India well on track to achieve $1 trillion exports target for FY27: Piyush Goyal
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said India is on track to achieve its $1 trillion goods and services export target in FY27, having already recorded nearly $480 billion in exports during April-September. He highlighted opportunities from free trade agreements, particularly the proposed India-EU pact, for the automobile and mobility sectors. Goyal urged manufacturers to expand globally, boost competitiveness and leverage international partnerships to drive exports, investment and employment.
AI innovation in sports: Technology driving the next phase of sports development
Artificial intelligence is creating new opportunities across the sports ecosystem, from performance analysis and sports administration to technology development and wider participation. The ET AI Awards 2027 recognises organisations, technology providers and initiatives advancing the application of AI in sports through its AI Innovation in Sports category.
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From Rs 25,000 to Rs 2.5 crore: Three Pune brothers turn college kabada project into goldmine, sold 20 lakh kg scrap
Three Pune brothers have transformed a college project into a Rs 2.5 crore scrap collection business. Jayesh, Ganesh and Vaibhav Pakhale started ScrapDeal in Pune with an initial investment of just Rs 25,000. The startup has recycled 20 lakh kg of scrap, serves over 1 lakh individual customers and works with more than 100 businesses. The brothers are targeting Rs 5 crore in revenue in FY27.
Wall Street brokerages call AI stock selloff overdone, see buying opportunity in tech stocks
Wall Street brokerages Morgan Stanley, UBS and HSBC consider the recent AI stock selloff excessive, maintaining confidence in long-term investment prospects. Analysts expect Nvidia earnings, Anthropic's potential IPO and continued data centre spending to drive market sentiment, viewing regulatory concerns as unlikely to derail the broader artificial intelligence investment cycle.
From streaming to software, microdrama startups rewrite their growth pitch
Peak XV Partners-backed Dashverse has discontinued its consumer platform DashReels and is looking to raise $30-40 million, largely for Frameo AI, its video production software for businesses. Eloelo, which raised $80 million this week led by Hornbill Capital and NBCUniversal, is investing in Dolphin AI, its new production suite, alongside content creation and international expansion.
Sarvam names Google Cloud India head Sashikumar Sreedharan as president & chief business officer
Sashikumar will additionally join Sarvam's board of directors. He will lead the company's business across enterprises and government, while expanding its engagement with digital-native companies, developers and partners.
Nvidia controversy stokes export scrutiny risks for South Korean chipmakers
Samsung Electronics and SK hynix could experience greater export compliance challenges due to Nvidia's scrutiny over AI chips. US authorities have not announced new regulations yet, but potential measures might emerge. Chief Executive Jensen Huang's personal matters have spurred investigations into Nvidia's business dealings. A closed-door inquiry is scheduled to review security frameworks and contacts with foreign entities.
Anthropic wants to create new billionaires through its IPO, but American voters are growing tired of Big Tech's wealth explosion
Anthropic is preparing for a significant IPO amid growing public resistance to AI-related infrastructure projects. Investors are discussing a valuation between $1 trillion and $1.5 trillion for the Nasdaq listing. Communities express concerns over environmental impacts and rising electricity costs linked to data centres. Public sentiment is shifting against technology companies, raising questions about economic benefits versus local costs.
Novelis to begin shipping from US Aluminium unit in June quarter
The plant is currently being commissioned and is expected to begin shipments in the June quarter of the next fiscal year, Novelis said in its investor presentation on Thursday. The plant produced its first coil on the cold mill in September.
ET Wealth Expo 2026 | From HNIs to family offices, why 2026 is teaching investors the importance of de-risking: Dheeraj Gaur
Speaking on the sidelines of ET Wealth Expo 2026 in Mumbai, Gaur said the experience of 2026 has reinforced the importance of de-risking portfolios, particularly for high-net-worth investors and family offices that have built significant investable wealth over the years.
Carl Pei teases Nothing’s first AI-native product; says it 'couldn't have been an app'
Nothing will launch its first AI-native product in December with a focus on productivity. The chief executive, Carl Pei, provided limited details about the product’s functions. It is suggested that the product may help users capture conversations and take notes. Other companies are also exploring wearable AI devices that focus on companionship or productivity.
From enterprises to SMBs: How Flashfox AI plans to change the hiring game
GetWork’s AI hiring business, now spun off as Flashfox AI, is targeting 500 enterprise clients in the next 24 months as it expands into Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
AI deployment accelerating, but enterprises becoming more discerning: Freshworks CEO Dennis Woodside
The Nasdaq-listed software-as-a-service (SaaS) company reported a 14% year-on-year increase in revenue to $245.4 million for the July-September quarter, marginally ahead of its guidance. Net profit stood at $18.3 million, compared with a loss of $4.7 million in the year-ago period.
AMD forecasts fourth-quarter revenue above estimates on strong AI chip demand
Advanced Micro Devices estimates its fourth-quarter revenue will hit about $17 billion, driven primarily by robust demand for AI chips. Although the company's forecast for adjusted gross margin stands at 55%, it falls slightly short of analyst expectations. A remarkable 97% year-on-year increase in data-centre revenue showcases AMD's growth. However, the company currently faces challenges in sourcing high-bandwidth memory, essential for its AI processors.
Premji's deeptech bets; Razorpay gets IPO nod
Happy Thursday! Premji Invest is stepping up its bets on defence and aerospace manufacturing.This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch.
Premji Invest goes big on strategic output & tech
Premji Invest and Singularity AMC are likely to lead a $30-40 million round in Sanlayan at a valuation of about $200 million, according to the people. Separately, Premji Invest is in advanced talks to lead Hical’s first institutional funding round of $30-40 million, alongside TVS Capital.
India has never allowed genetically modified products' import, won't do in future: Piyush Goyal
India continues to maintain a strict policy against the import of genetically modified products, as stated by Minister Piyush Goyal. He highlighted that the dairy sector remains particularly sensitive and has not been opened in trade agreements. Goyal emphasized India's commitment to protecting its agricultural and fisheries sectors while seeking preferential market access for textiles and pharmaceuticals.
India has never allowed import of GM products, will never open dairy sector: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized India’s commitment to safeguarding its dairy sector from free trade agreement pressures. He reiterated the nation's opposition to imports of genetically modified products, considering them sensitive. Goyal mentioned efforts to unlock new employment opportunities and promote domestic agriculture for competitive exports.
Karnataka, Finland’s Tampere region sign pact to create Creative Corridor for AVGC, immersive tech
The agreement was signed under the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) initiative of the Department of Electronics, IT and Biotechnology through the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS). The proposed corridor will seek to strengthen cross-border partnerships, innovation and business opportunities between the two ecosystems.
Pixxel's Indian ownership comes under scrutiny
Pixxel founder and chief executive Awais Ahmed in a blog post on X said the company remains “headquartered, owned, managed and controlled in India,” on Monday. Indian investors, including the founders, collectively hold the largest shareholding in the company, followed by investors from Singapore, the UK and the US, he added.
Gulf investors eye India’s AI infrastructure and space tech even as broader interest stays subdued
Gulf-based investors are exploring opportunities in India's artificial intelligence and space technology sectors, despite overall subdued interest. Yotta, a data centre operator, successfully raised $150 million earlier this year for expansion plans. Pixxel Space Technologies is also seeking funding in the UAE to capitalize on growing investor interest in technology. The Indian rupee's depreciation has contributed to the cautious investment sentiment among broader market participants.
Tax-wise, $-foolish: Saving Dalal Street could come at a cost to Startup Street
India's financial landscape is experiencing pressure with foreign portfolio investors becoming net sellers in the market. There are discussions about implementing tax cuts to stabilize the situation, which could disadvantage domestic investors. A focus on only listed shares may divert investments from private markets and harm the startup ecosystem. Expert suggestions advocate for a universal tax reduction applicable to both listed and unlisted shares.
Uttar Pradesh to launch state Quantum Mission, steps up push for AI and robotics
The state of Uttar Pradesh is gearing up to launch a transformative Quantum Mission, poised to bolster its technology framework. By focusing on quantum technology within a broader digital transformation agenda, the initiative aims to ignite innovation. At the ETGovernment AI Vision Conclave, leading industry figures explored the adoption of AI, investment avenues, and workforce readiness.
Vizhinjam port receives first import container, marks new milestone
Vizhinjam International Seaport has received its first import container, marking a significant operational milestone. The container was shipped from Ningbo, China, and will support the construction sector. Import processes will now occur directly at the seaport, improving efficiency for local businesses. This new system is expected to enhance revenue retention and create job opportunities in related sectors. Overall, this marks the expansion of Vizhinjam's role as a direct service port.
Germany's Merz says EU to shape better offer as global trade order comes under pressure
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has stated that the European Union will lead in shaping free trade offers. He highlighted the significance of international trade for many countries in terms of prosperity. During his Asia tour, Merz met with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to enhance security partnerships. There were agreements signed between South Korean and German companies to support various sectors.
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