https://startupinbrief.com Latest Indian startup and tech news summarized in 60 words. en-us https://startupinbrief.com/news/oura-files-to-go-public https://startupinbrief.com/news/oura-files-to-go-public "Oura, the smart ring manufacturer, has filed for an IPO, seeking a $16 billion valuation and aiming to raise $3 billion. The company reported significant revenue growth, reaching $1.2 billion in a recent nine-month period. While Oura plans to expand its AI-driven health platform into clinical sectors, it faces a class action lawsuit alleging that its sleep tracking capabilities are inaccurate and rely on estimates.". Fri, 04 Sep 2026 04:05:41 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/tesla-is-asking-people-if-they-want-to-buy-and-run-cybercab-fleets https://startupinbrief.com/news/tesla-is-asking-people-if-they-want-to-buy-and-run-cybercab-fleets "Tesla has released an interest form for businesses seeking to purchase Cybercab fleets or provide network infrastructure. This move suggests a strategic shift from operating an in-house robotaxi service toward partnering with third-party operators to scale more rapidly. While Elon Musk previously focused on personally owned vehicles and internal fleets, Tesla now appears open to collaborating with fleet management companies to saturate autonomous vehicle markets faster.". Fri, 04 Sep 2026 03:48:30 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/leanwatts-bags-2-mn-to-build-portable-ev-chargers-in-india https://startupinbrief.com/news/leanwatts-bags-2-mn-to-build-portable-ev-chargers-in-india "Clean tech startup Leanwatts has raised $2 million in seed funding led by Trivest Partners to advance its EV power electronics business. The Hyderabad-based company will use the capital to accelerate R&D, enhance its supply chain, and expand manufacturing. Currently producing chargers for electric two-wheelers and tractors, Leanwatts aims to enter public charging and power modules, targeting an annualised revenue run-rate of ₹60 crore by March 2027.". Fri, 04 Sep 2026 03:47:58 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/rentomojos-fy26-profit-zooms-142-yoy-to-104-cr-revenue-up-46 https://startupinbrief.com/news/rentomojos-fy26-profit-zooms-142-yoy-to-104-cr-revenue-up-46 RentoMojo, an IPO-bound furniture and appliance rental platform, reported strong growth in FY26, with operating revenue rising 45.5% to ₹387 crore. Profit after tax surged 142% to ₹104.2 crore, supported by a one-time tax credit. The company has filed for an IPO featuring a ₹150 crore fresh issue and an offer for sale, potentially becoming India's first listed furniture rental startup. Fri, 04 Sep 2026 02:43:17 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/startup-arr-is-less-secure-than-ever-new-research-shows https://startupinbrief.com/news/startup-arr-is-less-secure-than-ever-new-research-shows Enterprise IT spending is projected to reach $4.25 trillion by 2026, primarily driven by AI. While budgets are expanding, many AI pilots fail to reach production, and 77% of companies re-evaluate vendors every six months. This "fast in, fast out" dynamic creates revenue insecurity for startups. Consequently, buyers are increasingly demanding outcome-based pricing over traditional usage-based models to ensure economic value and long-term viability. Fri, 04 Sep 2026 02:29:23 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/the-cybercab-is-teslas-fork-in-the-road-moment https://startupinbrief.com/news/the-cybercab-is-teslas-fork-in-the-road-moment Tesla is launching the Cybercab in Austin, Texas, a gold, two-seater autonomous sedan lacking steering wheels and pedals. This move signals Tesla's attempt to transition from a traditional automaker into an AI and robotics company. While Elon Musk emphasizes low production costs and scalability, the company faces challenges regarding software reliability and the transition from geofenced testing to true, wide-scale autonomous urban transportation. Fri, 04 Sep 2026 01:12:48 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/accel-reportedly-in-talks-to-lead-1b-round-for-thinking-machines-at-40b-valuation https://startupinbrief.com/news/accel-reportedly-in-talks-to-lead-1b-round-for-thinking-machines-at-40b-valuation "Thinking Machines, the AI lab founded by former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati, is reportedly in talks to raise $1 billion at a valuation of at least $40 billion. Accel may lead the round. The company reports an annual revenue run rate exceeding $100 million, driven by its Inkling model and Tinker platform. This follows a massive $2 billion seed round and recent departures of several high-profile co-founders.". Fri, 04 Sep 2026 01:06:29 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/utilities-are-racing-to-link-up-with-fusion-startups-with-realta-fusion-the-latest-to-benefit https://startupinbrief.com/news/utilities-are-racing-to-link-up-with-fusion-startups-with-realta-fusion-the-latest-to-benefit "Fusion startup Realta Fusion has partnered with Madison Gas and Electric to develop a 200-megawatt power plant in Wisconsin by the mid-2030s. This deal provides Realta with equity investment, engineering support, and grid interconnection sites. Such partnerships are becoming more common as utilities seek reliable, carbon-free baseload power to meet rising energy demands from AI data centers and supplement intermittent renewable energy sources like wind and solar.". Fri, 04 Sep 2026 00:59:16 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/abliterationai-is-making-a-business-out-of-removing-ai-guardrails https://startupinbrief.com/news/abliterationai-is-making-a-business-out-of-removing-ai-guardrails Abliteration.ai has launched a commercial service providing open-weight AI models with their safety guardrails removed. By hosting models like GLM-5.3, the startup aims to assist cybersecurity professionals in red-teaming and modeling bad actors. However, critics warn that making these "abliterated" models easily accessible increases the risk of cyberattacks and biological threats, sparking a debate over whether such tools enhance defense or enable harm. Fri, 04 Sep 2026 00:07:57 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/cars24-trims-fy26-net-loss-by-19-yoy-to-441-cr-revenue-slides-18 https://startupinbrief.com/news/cars24-trims-fy26-net-loss-by-19-yoy-to-441-cr-revenue-slides-18 Cars24 reported a narrowed net loss of ₹441.1 Cr in FY26, an 18.7% decrease, despite an 18.3% drop in operating revenue to ₹5,091.7 Cr. While product revenue declined, service revenue more than doubled. The IPO-bound startup reduced total expenses by 17.8% and is expanding into financing and AI-driven services. Despite these improvements, cash reserves halved and borrowings rose as the company prepares for a 2027 public listing. Fri, 04 Sep 2026 00:07:51 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/meta-is-paying-to-peek-at-how-you-use-their-latest-ai-model https://startupinbrief.com/news/meta-is-paying-to-peek-at-how-you-use-their-latest-ai-model "Meta is introducing a new pricing model for its Muse Spark model, offering a roughly 95% discount to users who allow their data to be used for training future versions. This initiative aims to secure vital training data for agentic tools, as Meta has previously struggled with data collection. The strategy may incentivize companies to share non-proprietary information while contributing to broader price competition among frontier AI labs.". Thu, 03 Sep 2026 23:49:56 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/openai-launches-astra-its-powerful-and-controversial-new-model https://startupinbrief.com/news/openai-launches-astra-its-powerful-and-controversial-new-model OpenAI has launched Astra, its most powerful AI model, focusing on enhanced computer and browser use, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Available to Daybreak users and soon to paid subscribers, Astra claims superior alignment and coding capabilities. However, the model faces scrutiny over "opaque recurrence," which hinders reasoning audits. President Greg Brockman suggested the model may represent the arrival of artificial general intelligence, despite changing contractual definitions. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 23:31:45 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/ultrahuman-bags-70-mn-to-build-an-integrated-healthtech-platform https://startupinbrief.com/news/ultrahuman-bags-70-mn-to-build-an-integrated-healthtech-platform Ultrahuman, a smart ring maker founded in 2019, has raised $70 million in a new funding round to expand its AI-powered wellness platform and scale R&D. Total funding now exceeds $173 million. The company aims to grow its Blood Vision and CGM platforms globally. Despite recent cybersecurity issues and a legal dispute with Oura, Ultrahuman reported a net profit of ₹71.5 crore for FY25. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 23:30:17 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/rentomojo-files-rhp-trims-ofs-to-27-cr-shares https://startupinbrief.com/news/rentomojo-files-rhp-trims-ofs-to-27-cr-shares "Furniture and appliance rental startup RentoMojo has filed its red herring prospectus with SEBI for an IPO. The company aims to raise ₹150 crore through a fresh issue of shares, while trimming its offer for sale to 2.7 crore shares. Investors like Accel and Chiratae Ventures will participate. The IPO opens for subscription from September 9 to 11, with funds targeting warehouse expansion and debt repayment.". Thu, 03 Sep 2026 22:32:31 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/qualcomm-backs-ultrahuman-in-70m-round-on-bet-to-turn-smart-rings-into-computers https://startupinbrief.com/news/qualcomm-backs-ultrahuman-in-70m-round-on-bet-to-turn-smart-rings-into-computers Ultrahuman is targeting a $200 million annual revenue run rate by January 2027 as it builds a new Qualcomm-powered smart ring. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 22:30:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/circular-unveils-ring-3-series-with-contactless-payments-and-on-finger-vibration-alerts https://startupinbrief.com/news/circular-unveils-ring-3-series-with-contactless-payments-and-on-finger-vibration-alerts Circular has unveiled the Ring 3 series, featuring Pro and Slim models made from titanium steel. Both include NFC payments, vibrating alerts, and wireless charging. The Pro model offers advanced health tracking, including FDA-cleared ECG and glucose monitoring, with a 12-day battery. The Slim version provides essential wellness insights and a 10-day battery. Expected in early 2027, these rings compete with Oura and RingConn in the growing market. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 22:12:54 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/softbank-offloads-meesho-stake-worth-1650-cr https://startupinbrief.com/news/softbank-offloads-meesho-stake-worth-1650-cr After paring stake in Lenskart, global tech investor SoftBank offloaded 8 Cr equity shares in ecommerce platform Meesho, representing a. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 21:59:03 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/ollie-is-betting-its-focus-on-privacy-can-help-it-win-the-ai-assistant-race https://startupinbrief.com/news/ollie-is-betting-its-focus-on-privacy-can-help-it-win-the-ai-assistant-race The family-focused AI assistant wants access to the details of your everyday life, but says it won’t use that data to train AI models or share it with others. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 21:39:01 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/google-launches-ai-voice-features-in-gmail-docs-and-keep https://startupinbrief.com/news/google-launches-ai-voice-features-in-gmail-docs-and-keep "Google is introducing conversational AI features called Docs Live, Gmail Live, and Keep Live for iOS and Android users in English. These Gemini-powered tools allow users to query their inboxes, draft documents using cross-app data, and create notes via dictation. Availability varies by subscription tier, with Gmail Live accessible to AI Plus, Pro, and Ultra users, while Docs and Keep Live require Pro or Ultra plans.". Thu, 03 Sep 2026 21:30:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/bits-pilani-incubated-apollyon-dynamics-sets-new-speed-record-in-india-with-498-kmh-interceptor-drone https://startupinbrief.com/news/bits-pilani-incubated-apollyon-dynamics-sets-new-speed-record-in-india-with-498-kmh-interceptor-drone Hyderabad-based defence startup Apollyon Dynamics has entered the India Book of Records after its Ahuti Mk II electric interceptor drone reached a top speed of 498 km/h. This marks the fastest multirotor UAV in South Asia. Incubated at BITS Pilani, the company develops autonomous aerial systems for the Indian armed forces. The Ahuti Mk II is designed to intercept hostile drones, with plans for a cruise missile platform by 2030. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 21:14:43 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/furlencos-fy26-profit-surges-multifold-to-595-cr-revenue-up-62-yoy https://startupinbrief.com/news/furlencos-fy26-profit-surges-multifold-to-595-cr-revenue-up-62-yoy After turning profitable in the fiscal year FY25, furniture rental startup Furlenco saw its net profit for the fiscal year. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 21:10:34 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/government-school-teachers-are-ready-for-ai-survey-finds https://startupinbrief.com/news/government-school-teachers-are-ready-for-ai-survey-finds A JanAI survey of 797 Indian government-school teachers reveals that 72% view artificial intelligence positively, though only 26% use it regularly. While teachers leverage AI for lesson planning via personal devices, a lack of institutional support persists. Concerns include student overdependence and data privacy risks. As India prepares an AI curriculum for 2026-27, JanAI plans to train 50,000 teachers to ensure responsible technology adoption. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 21:06:02 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/paypals-global-mass-layoffs-impact-220-indian-employees https://startupinbrief.com/news/paypals-global-mass-layoffs-impact-220-indian-employees "PayPal has laid off approximately 220 employees in India, representing about 4% of its local workforce. These cuts, affecting roles in tech, engineering, and finance across Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, are part of a global restructuring plan to simplify operations and reduce costs. The company aims to trim its global workforce by 20% over several years to save $1.5 billion and prioritize long-term growth investments.". Thu, 03 Sep 2026 20:43:32 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/googles-latest-ai-weather-model-gives-you-no-excuse-to-forget-your-umbrella https://startupinbrief.com/news/googles-latest-ai-weather-model-gives-you-no-excuse-to-forget-your-umbrella Google DeepMind and Google Research have launched WeatherNext 3, a high-resolution AI weather forecasting model. Outperforming traditional government systems and other AI models, it offers 5km resolution and improved rain predictions. The model integrates raw satellite data for hourly updates and will power Google Search, Maps, and Gemini. This advancement promises more accessible, accurate forecasts, potentially benefiting global agriculture and renewable energy projects in underserved regions. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 20:30:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/hdb-region-can-drive-karnatakas-tech-led-growth-says-priyank-kharge https://startupinbrief.com/news/hdb-region-can-drive-karnatakas-tech-led-growth-says-priyank-kharge Karnataka is expanding its technology growth beyond Bengaluru by developing the Hubballi-Dharwad-Belagavi (HDB) corridor. The state aims to attract 35 large companies, 10 Global Capability Centres, and 100 startups within five years. Supported by a Rs 25 crore seed fund and new infrastructure, the region leverages strengths in aerospace, research, and electronics. This strategy seeks to distribute economic opportunities and innovation across North Karnataka's diverse districts. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 20:13:04 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/amd-delhi-university-partner-to-train-10000-students-in-ai https://startupinbrief.com/news/amd-delhi-university-partner-to-train-10000-students-in-ai AMD and the University of Delhi have partnered to train approximately 10,000 students in artificial intelligence and semiconductor technologies over the coming year. Through the 'AI Engage Developer Program,' participants will gain hands-on access to AMD's ROCm AI software platform, GPU cloud credits, and technical workshops. This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, strengthening India's pipeline of skilled AI developers. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 20:08:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/kalaari-capital-opens-applications-for-investor-fellowship-programme https://startupinbrief.com/news/kalaari-capital-opens-applications-for-investor-fellowship-programme The fellowship programme provides participants exposure to different aspects of venture investing and helps build their analytical, research and writing capabilities. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 19:50:33 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/kkr-backs-bookmyshow-as-live-entertainment-becomes-its-next-growth-engine https://startupinbrief.com/news/kkr-backs-bookmyshow-as-live-entertainment-becomes-its-next-growth-engine India’s live entertainment market is entering a new phase, and BookMyShow is at the centre of it. The company has. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 19:12:36 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/indian-employees-are-taking-the-lead-in-defining-the-future-of-work-microsoft-study https://startupinbrief.com/news/indian-employees-are-taking-the-lead-in-defining-the-future-of-work-microsoft-study The Microsoft 2026 Work Trend Index identifies India as a global leader in AI workforce transformation. Approximately 32% of Indian AI users are "frontier professionals" who manage complex automated workflows, doubling the global average. Indian workers prioritize human judgment and critical thinking over total automation. Major IT firms like TCS and Infosys are scaling these tools, reporting significant productivity gains and widespread employee adoption across enterprises. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 18:42:02 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/why-does-stopping-mid-chapter-feel-so-wrong-to-your-brain https://startupinbrief.com/news/why-does-stopping-mid-chapter-feel-so-wrong-to-your-brain Stopping mid-chapter feels uncomfortable because the human brain naturally seeks closure. This psychological drive is amplified by the Zeigarnik Effect, where unfinished tasks create mental tension and remain memorable. Additionally, authors use suspense and emotional investment to keep readers engaged. Since chapters serve as natural narrative units, interrupting them disrupts the flow, often leading readers to stay up late to resolve the lingering tension. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 18:40:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/indias-stratosphere-is-up-for-grabs-can-red-balloon-make-the-uncharted-skies-commercially-viable https://startupinbrief.com/news/indias-stratosphere-is-up-for-grabs-can-red-balloon-make-the-uncharted-skies-commercially-viable Red Balloon Aerospace, founded by former Skyroot executives, is developing near-space platforms to utilize the stratosphere for communications, earth observation, and disaster management. By deploying superpressure balloons, aerostats, and solar-powered airships, the Indian startup aims to bridge the gap between aviation and orbital space. Their innovative nanocomposite materials enable long-duration flights, offering a cost-effective alternative to satellites and ground networks for diverse global applications. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 18:38:10 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/volunteer-at-techcrunch-founder-summit-in-boston https://startupinbrief.com/news/volunteer-at-techcrunch-founder-summit-in-boston "The TechCrunch Founder Summit, formerly All Stage, returns to Boston on November 4th. Organizers are seeking volunteers to assist with registration, speaker coordination, and event setup for approximately 1,100 attendees. Selected volunteers receive a summit ticket, a pass to Disrupt 2027, and access to expert-led workshops. Interested individuals must apply by October 19th to gain professional event experience and behind-the-scenes insight into a world-renowned startup event.". Thu, 03 Sep 2026 18:30:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/tiktok-comments-are-getting-more-interactive-with-voice-comments-polls-and-more https://startupinbrief.com/news/tiktok-comments-are-getting-more-interactive-with-voice-comments-polls-and-more "TikTok is enhancing its comment sections with new interactive features to increase user engagement. The updates include voice comments for users 18 and older, comment polls for creators, photo carousels allowing up to nine images, and Live Photo comments. These tools aim to transform comment sections into interactive spaces. TikTok will implement these features globally over the next month, ensuring all content adheres to its Community Guidelines.". Thu, 03 Sep 2026 18:30:00 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/the-ayurveda-co-shuts-down-after-raising-rs-125-cr-founder-says-it-expanded-too-fast https://startupinbrief.com/news/the-ayurveda-co-shuts-down-after-raising-rs-125-cr-founder-says-it-expanded-too-fast D2C beauty brand The Ayurveda Co (TAC) is formally shutting down after ceasing operations in July 2025. Despite raising approximately Rs 125 crore in venture capital and reaching 20 lakh consumers, the company failed due to unsustainable rapid expansion and premature hiring. Co-founder Param Bhargava attributed the collapse to strategic missteps. The brand once employed over 1,000 people and achieved an annual GMV exceeding Rs 150 crore. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 18:25:15 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/swiggy-narrows-crews-focus-to-travel-after-year-long-concierge-pilot https://startupinbrief.com/news/swiggy-narrows-crews-focus-to-travel-after-year-long-concierge-pilot Swiggy has pivoted its CREW platform from a general lifestyle concierge to a dedicated personal travel concierge. Available exclusively to paid subscribers via invitation, the service combines AI and human expertise to provide 24/7 global assistance for flights, stays, and visa processing. This strategic shift targets affluent consumers, aiming to bridge the gap between booking and experience as part of Swiggy's broader experimentation to enhance user stickiness. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 18:14:34 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/nvidia-confirms-it-will-buy-hugging-face-for-129-billion https://startupinbrief.com/news/nvidia-confirms-it-will-buy-hugging-face-for-129-billion Nvidia has acquired Hugging Face for $12.93 billion to expand its influence in the AI ecosystem. Hugging Face, a hub for millions of models and developers, will remain an open platform supporting various frameworks and compute providers. CEO Jensen Huang emphasized that Nvidia compute is not required for the platform. The deal allows Nvidia to better align the open-source ecosystem with its hardware and sell unused capacity. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 18:12:45 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/alipays-upi-linkup-stalled-over-security-data-concerns-report https://startupinbrief.com/news/alipays-upi-linkup-stalled-over-security-data-concerns-report India has stalled the proposed linkage between Alipay+ and UPI due to national security, data-security, and money-laundering concerns. The integration would have allowed Indian travelers to use UPI at over 150 million Alipay+ merchants abroad and enabled international visitors to pay in India. Despite UPI's global expansion into markets like Singapore and France, the Indian government remains cautious of the platform's Chinese origins and potential data misuse. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 18:10:44 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/as-enterprise-ai-starts-charging-for-work-owning-the-outcomes-becomes-the-contest https://startupinbrief.com/news/as-enterprise-ai-starts-charging-for-work-owning-the-outcomes-becomes-the-contest Enterprise AI is shifting from token-based pricing to outcome-based models, where buyers pay for successful tasks rather than usage. This transition makes AI agents the primary interface, potentially granting vendors greater pricing power and a share of created value. To maintain control and reduce costs, enterprises are adopting open-weight models on private infrastructure. This creates a significant opportunity for Indian firms to lead in domain-specific AI implementation. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 17:56:28 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/slice-eyes-100-mn-funding-at-60-valuation-cut-as-bank-valuation-takes-shape https://startupinbrief.com/news/slice-eyes-100-mn-funding-at-60-valuation-cut-as-bank-valuation-takes-shape Fintech unicorn slice is raising approximately $100 million in funding at a valuation of $450 million to $465 million, a sharp decline from its previous $1.25 billion valuation. The round, backed by Neo Group, Kado Global, and Moore Strategic Ventures, follows slice's merger with North East Small Finance Bank. Despite the valuation dip, the company reported a net profit of ₹50.9 crore in Q1 FY27, showing strong growth. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 17:55:15 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/amazons-zoox-expands-its-robotaxi-service-to-las-vegas-airport https://startupinbrief.com/news/amazons-zoox-expands-its-robotaxi-service-to-las-vegas-airport Amazon-owned Zoox is expanding its commercial robotaxi service in Las Vegas to include rides to and from Harry Reid International Airport starting Thursday. Following a federal safety exemption allowing commercial operations, Zoox now offers convenient pick-ups near baggage claim, gaining an edge over Uber and Lyft. While Zoox currently leads airport access, Tesla, Uber, and Waymo also received permits to operate robotaxis in Clark County. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 17:42:56 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/10-lessons-from-the-courage-to-be-disliked-on-living-freely https://startupinbrief.com/news/10-lessons-from-the-courage-to-be-disliked-on-living-freely "The Courage to Be Disliked" by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga introduces Adlerian psychology through a dialogue between a philosopher and a youth. The book argues that individuals are not defined by their past and should stop seeking external validation. By separating their tasks from others and focusing on personal growth and community contribution, readers can achieve true freedom and happiness through self-acceptance and present-moment living. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 17:06:56 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/zerodha-gets-sebi-nod-for-merchant-banking-to-focus-on-new-age-ipos https://startupinbrief.com/news/zerodha-gets-sebi-nod-for-merchant-banking-to-focus-on-new-age-ipos Zerodha has obtained SEBI approval to operate as a merchant banker through its subsidiary, Zerodha Corporate Advisors. The firm plans to manage IPOs and provide equity fundraising advice, specifically for new-age companies. This diversification follows a decline in brokerage revenue and rising competition from Groww. Despite these challenges, Zerodha's net profit grew slightly in FY26, and the company continues expanding its product portfolio and NRI services. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 15:38:44 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/everstone-capital-backed-wingify-ropes-in-ex-dayforce-mehernaz-dalal-as-cfo https://startupinbrief.com/news/everstone-capital-backed-wingify-ropes-in-ex-dayforce-mehernaz-dalal-as-cfo SaaS company Wingify has appointed Mehernaz Dalal, former Dayforce APAC CFO, as its new Chief Financial Officer. With 26 years of experience, Dalal will collaborate with CEO Sparsh Gupta and Everstone Capital to drive the company's next growth phase. This appointment follows Wingify's merger with AB Tasty, creating a digital experience platform valued at over $500 million with annual revenues exceeding $100 million and 4,000 global customers. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 15:13:35 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/simple-energy-catches-the-mass-market-wave https://startupinbrief.com/news/simple-energy-catches-the-mass-market-wave After years of chasing premium and performance-focused buyers, EV startups are now setting their sights on the mass market. While. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 14:47:07 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/nclt-orders-status-quo-on-byjus-assets-sold-for-16-cr https://startupinbrief.com/news/nclt-orders-status-quo-on-byjus-assets-sold-for-16-cr "The National Company Law Tribunal has ordered a status quo on assets auctioned by BYJU’S parent company, Think and Learn Pvt Ltd, to Comprint Tech Solutions. This follows a dispute where the resolution professional of BYJU’S K3 Education claimed ownership of goods worth ₹150 crore. Due to insufficient evidence from both parties, the tribunal directed Comprint to disclose the assets' location and inventory until ownership is conclusively established.". Thu, 03 Sep 2026 14:11:03 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/cradlewise-raises-12m-in-series-a-led-by-3one4-capital-prudent-investment-management https://startupinbrief.com/news/cradlewise-raises-12m-in-series-a-led-by-3one4-capital-prudent-investment-management Cradlewise, an AI-first health company, raised $12 million in Series A funding led by 3one4 Capital and Prudent Investment Management, bringing its total funding to $26 million. The startup develops a smart sleep system combining a crib, monitoring, and adaptive motion to help infants sleep better. The company plans to use the capital for international expansion, product research, and developing new offerings for children beyond infancy. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 13:30:59 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/vlcc-raises-rs-110-cr-in-funding-from-blacksoil-capital https://startupinbrief.com/news/vlcc-raises-rs-110-cr-in-funding-from-blacksoil-capital "VLCC, a beauty and wellness company backed by Carlyle, has raised Rs 110 crore from BlackSoil Capital to fuel its expansion. The funding will support the company's growth across its beauty, wellness, and personal care sectors, including new product launches and store network expansion. Operating in 11 countries with over 250 locations, VLCC aims to strengthen its platform to meet the rising demand for organized wellness services.". Thu, 03 Sep 2026 13:30:31 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/d2c-smart-crib-brand-cradlewise-raises-12-mn-to-expand-product-portfolio https://startupinbrief.com/news/d2c-smart-crib-brand-cradlewise-raises-12-mn-to-expand-product-portfolio "Cradlewise, a San Francisco-based smart crib startup, has raised $12 million in a Series A round led by 3one4 Capital and Prudent Investment Management, bringing its total funding to $26 million. The company plans to use the capital to expand its distribution channels, enter international markets, and develop new sleep-related hardware and software solutions for children, leveraging its AI-driven technology and extensive sleep data.". Thu, 03 Sep 2026 13:20:02 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/the-ayurveda-co-shuts-down-after-overexpansion-derails-business https://startupinbrief.com/news/the-ayurveda-co-shuts-down-after-overexpansion-derails-business "D2C ayurvedic beauty brand The Ayurveda Co and its sister brand Khadi Essentials have shut down after ceasing operations in July 2025. Despite raising ₹125 Cr, the startups liquidated their assets and entered a formal winding-up process. Cofounder Param Bhargava attributed the failure to unsustainable rapid expansion and premature senior hiring. The company previously sold various ayurvedic skincare, haircare, and wellness products through online and offline channels.". Thu, 03 Sep 2026 12:42:40 GMT https://startupinbrief.com/news/inside-yes-madams-bet-to-own-the-full-at-home-beauty-stack https://startupinbrief.com/news/inside-yes-madams-bet-to-own-the-full-at-home-beauty-stack Yes Madam is expanding its at-home salon services to include dermatologist-designed, non-invasive aesthetic treatments. Using a hub-and-spoke model, the startup provides professional-grade procedures like laser hair reduction and HydraGlo facials at 35-55% lower costs than conventional clinics. By employing certified professionals and single-use kits, the company ensures safety and convenience. Yes Madam aims to build a ₹500 Cr business while expanding across major Indian cities. Thu, 03 Sep 2026 12:20:27 GMT