Invest with conviction, not emotion: Porinju advises patience amid geopolitical noise
Porinju Veliyath
, Equity Intelligence India.
Tell us some themes that you are looking at.
Porinju Veliyath:
The themes remain the same. It's about
domestically driven businesses
. India is still an emerging and massive domestic market. So, we're not heavily dependent on exports and imports of goods, to be very frank. Yes, they matter — especially for sectors like textiles and others where we have strong manufacturing and export capabilities. Some of those companies have already sobered down.
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Now, Trump has imposed 25% to 50% tariffs — and by this evening, he might say something else, maybe even 100%. This is all part of a passing phase in a tariff war. He doesn't always speak with clarity; it may just be a hard bargain with India. I understand the US delegation is visiting India by the end of the month. So, he might be making such statements without any sense of responsibility — and that's the biggest problem for the world today. The leader of the world's biggest nation is speaking without responsibility or thoughtfulness. It's a global crisis, but again, just a passing phase.
Let's focus on the opportunity. As I said, companies oriented toward the domestic market and those using technology to drive better growth and improve product and service quality — there are many such opportunities. So, there's no need to panic. Stay invested. Don't get too excited. Be patient, give it time, and let things cool down.
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Since you are bullish on domestic-facing themes, would consumption now look attractive? Especially since staples have seen some recovery in Q1 and earnings haven't been too bad — would you consider revisiting the internal consumption space, since it seems to be emerging from a slump?
Porinju Veliyath:
To be very frank, I'm not currently focused on any specific themes or sectors. I believe investors should now look at the macroeconomic picture. We are going through a fantastic phase — macro conditions are very comfortable. We're still growing at around 6.5%, interest rates are stable and may come down further, inflation is under control, and our fiscal deficit is in a healthy range. All of this is very positive.
Fortunately, we also have strong leadership and a stable government that is not just playing politics — they're getting things done. I really appreciate how our External Affairs Minister and other ministers are acting very responsibly. India has always been a responsible nation — not just recently. We've maintained a policy of non-alignment and the freedom to buy oil from whoever we want. Our energy security is crucial. We have to feed 1.4 billion people, 18% of the world's population. We cannot simply try to please a childish US President.
Our responsibility is toward our own country. We will do what is required for our growth and development. We still have a long way to go economically, with very low per capita income. So, we have no choice but to grow — and no one can stop that.
Fair point. India is a massive economy and cannot rely solely on the US. But one sector that does depend heavily on the US is pharma. You've been vocal about select companies in this space, especially those with strong growth potential. Given the tariff uncertainty, do you think pharma will be spared from further announcements? Or is this correction an opportunity to buy?
Porinju Veliyath:
I fully agree. While there is a lot of tariff-related noise, pharma has mostly been spared so far. But we can't predict what might happen in the next few weeks or months. Even this evening, Trump could say something irrational. So, we have to ignore short- to medium-term noise — the tariff war and all the ongoing rhetoric.
Pharma is an area where India has a huge competitive advantage, both in manufacturing and global supply. We have excellent pharma companies with strong R&D. I had mentioned
Piramal Pharma
earlier — we've been holding it in our PMS for a long time, and it's been highly rewarding.
After this tariff news, I took another look at the company's segments — where they manufacture and where they sell. I found that even if exorbitant tariffs are imposed,
Piramal Pharma
still looks strong. I'm just giving that as an example — it's one of our core holdings in our portfolio management service.
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Synopsis In today's data-driven world, Microsoft Excel remains one of the most essential tools for professionals across industries. This curated list of the best online Microsoft Excel certification courses features top-rated programs designed to enhance your skills, from basic spreadsheet operations to advanced data analysis, automation, and financial modeling. Whether you are a beginner aiming to build a solid foundation or an experienced user looking to master complex functions like Power Query, PivotTables, or VBA, these courses offer practical, real-world applications. Team ProductLine In 2025, Microsoft Excel remains one of the most powerful and widely used tools in the professional world. From finance and marketing to data analysis and operations, Excel's versatility makes it essential for professionals looking to boost productivity, streamline processes, and make data-driven decisions. As the demand for advanced Excel skills grows across industries, enrolling in a certified Excel course is a smart investment in your career. This guide to the best online Microsoft Excel certification courses highlights the top training programs that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced users. Whether you are aiming to master formulas, automate workflows with macros, or analyze complex datasets using PivotTables and Power Query, these courses offer flexible learning, and certifications that enhance your credibility and job prospects in today's competitive market. Microsoft Excel is one of the most essential tools in today's digital workplace. Its importance lies in its powerful ability to organize, analyze, and visualize data efficiently. Whether you are a student, professional, entrepreneur, or researcher, Excel helps streamline workflows, reduce manual tasks, and support data-driven how Excel can help you: Data Organization: Easily manage large datasets using tables, filters, and sorting options. Easily manage large datasets using tables, filters, and sorting options. Accurate Calculations: Use formulas and functions to perform complex mathematical and statistical operations quickly and accurately. Use formulas and functions to perform complex mathematical and statistical operations quickly and accurately. Data Analysis: Identify trends, make forecasts, and gain insights using tools like PivotTables, charts, and conditional formatting. Identify trends, make forecasts, and gain insights using tools like PivotTables, charts, and conditional formatting. Automation: Save time by automating repetitive tasks with Macros and VBA scripts. Save time by automating repetitive tasks with Macros and VBA scripts. Reporting: Create dynamic dashboards and professional reports to communicate findings clearly. Create dynamic dashboards and professional reports to communicate findings clearly. Collaboration: Share and edit spreadsheets with team members in real-time via Excel 365 integration. Course Expert: NA Course Description:Take your Excel skills from beginner to expert with this course. Designed for learners of all backgrounds, this comprehensive training begins with the fundamentals: navigating spreadsheets, data entry, formatting, and basic calculations and steadily progresses to advanced topics such as VLOOKUP, PivotTables, Financial Functions, Macros, and VBA programming. You'll learn how to automate repetitive tasks, create impactful visual reports, analyze complex datasets, and perform financial modelling using hands-on workbooks. The course covers everything from conditional formatting, logical formulas, and lookup functions to advanced tools like Goal Seek, Scenario Manager, Data Validation, and What-If Analysis. Course Details: Cost of course: Rs. 899 (one time) Rs. 899 (one time) Course format: Online, self-paced Online, self-paced Duration: NA NA Course includes: Certification What you'll learn Master Excel basics: Data entry, cell formatting, and foundational calculations. Data entry, cell formatting, and foundational calculations. Use formulas & functions: IF, AND, OR, AutoSum, VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, COUNT, RANK, SUMIF, COUNTIF, AVERAGEIF, and more. IF, AND, OR, AutoSum, VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, COUNT, RANK, SUMIF, COUNTIF, AVERAGEIF, and more. Understand referencing: Create formulas with relative and absolute references. Create formulas with relative and absolute references. Work with data: Conditional formatting, linking sheets, paste special, and data validation. Conditional formatting, linking sheets, paste special, and data validation. Master charts and visualizations: Create and format impactful Excel charts. Create and format impactful Excel charts. Perform financial analysis: Use NPV, IRR, PMT, and depreciation functions for real-world scenarios. Use NPV, IRR, PMT, and depreciation functions for real-world scenarios. Automate tasks: Learn Macros and VBA basics to streamline repetitive processes. Learn Macros and VBA basics to streamline repetitive processes. Analyze data like a pro: Use PivotTables, Goal Seek, Scenario Manager, and other advanced tools. Use PivotTables, Goal Seek, Scenario Manager, and other advanced tools. Boost productivity: Learn keyboard shortcuts, auditing tools, and how to create print-ready sheets. Learn keyboard shortcuts, auditing tools, and how to create print-ready sheets. Hands-on learning: Includes workbooks and an eBook for practice and revision. Who should enrol Anyone interested in learning Excel, from the ground up to an expert level. Students and freshers aiming to enhance their resume and skillset. Professionals looking to upskill for better roles or promotions. Trainers and facilitators who want to teach or support Excel learning. Graduates and working professionals who want to build data handling and reporting proficiency. Business owners and entrepreneurs looking to streamline and automate business processes. Click here to explore the course Course Expert: Metla Sudha Sekhar Course Description:Master Microsoft Excel from the ground up with this one-stop learning path to becoming an Excel expert. This comprehensive course takes you from the fundamentals of Excel, like worksheet basics, formulas, and formatting to advanced data tools, business analysis, and automation using Macros and VBA. You'll explore Excel's full potential through practical lessons on PivotTables, data validation, charting, and lookup functions like VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, INDEX-MATCH, and XLOOKUP (including Excel 365 features). Learn to clean and import data from TXT, CSV, PDF, and web sources, create dynamic dashboards and business reports, and solve real-world problems using powerful Excel tools like Solver, Scenario Manager, and What-If acquire knowledge about business scenarios like sales forecasting, and tax calculation. This course also includes coverage of Geo-charts, 3D Maps, and even a glimpse into how Generative AI can assist in Excel-based predictions and automation. Course Details: Cost of course: Rs. 2,500 (one time) Rs. 2,500 (one time) Course format: Online, self-paced Online, self-paced Duration: 9.4 hours 9.4 hours Course includes: Lifetime access, Certificate of completion What you'll learn Master foundational Excel operations: Including formulas, data entry, ranges, formatting, and navigation. Including formulas, data entry, ranges, formatting, and navigation. Build confidence with essential formulas: Like SUM, AVERAGE, IF, COUNTIF, ROUND, and logical functions. Like SUM, AVERAGE, IF, COUNTIF, ROUND, and logical functions. Use advanced lookup techniques: Including VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, MATCH, INDEX, and XLOOKUP (Excel 365+). Including VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, MATCH, INDEX, and XLOOKUP (Excel 365+). Clean and import data: From multiple sources like TXT, CSV, PDF, and online databases. From multiple sources like TXT, CSV, PDF, and online databases. Create visually impactful charts : Including bar, pie, scatter, bubble, waterfall, radar, sunburst, and more. : Including bar, pie, scatter, bubble, waterfall, radar, sunburst, and more. Summarize and analyze data: Using PivotTables and PivotCharts for business intelligence. Using PivotTables and PivotCharts for business intelligence. Apply automation techniques: Using Macros and VBA to save time and reduce errors. Using Macros and VBA to save time and reduce errors. Visualize data trends with Geo-maps, 3D maps, sparklines, heatmaps, and dynamic dashboards. with Geo-maps, 3D maps, sparklines, heatmaps, and dynamic dashboards. Utilize data tools: Such as Flash Fill, Remove Duplicates, Data Validation, Solver, Scenario Manager, and What-If Analysis. Such as Flash Fill, Remove Duplicates, Data Validation, Solver, Scenario Manager, and What-If Analysis. Fix common Excel errors: E.g., #N/A, #VALUE!, #REF! and learn how to avoid them. E.g., #N/A, #VALUE!, #REF! and learn how to avoid them. Understand and apply named ranges and INDIRECT functions : For cleaner, dynamic formulas. : For cleaner, dynamic formulas. Leverage AI-powered insights: To automate repetitive Excel tasks and predict trends. To automate repetitive Excel tasks and predict trends. Practice through real-life projects: Such as sales forecasting and tax invoice generation to reinforce your learning. Who should enrol Students pursuing fields like data analysis, business studies, finance, or accounting. Working professionals seeking to sharpen Excel skills and boost productivity. Business owners and entrepreneurs wanting to harness Excel for better planning, tracking, and reporting. Analysts, managers, and consultants who rely on Excel for day-to-day data handling and decisions. Beginners or self-taught users who want to master Excel from the basics to expert-level tools. Anyone aiming to improve career opportunities with data-driven skills. Click here to explore the course Course Expert: Metla Sudha Sekhar Course Description:Unlock the full potential of Microsoft Office with this comprehensive course designed to equip you with the essential skills to thrive in a digital-first work environment. While this course covers all major Office tools, special emphasis is placed on Microsoft Excel 2021, the industry's leading spreadsheet application. Start your journey with the basics of Excel: use basic formulas, and work with ranges. As you progress, dive into advanced Excel functions like VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, XLOOKUP (for Office 365). Explore formatting techniques, build and style tables, and visualize data through compelling charts, graphs, and PivotTables. Course Details: Cost of course: Rs. 549 (one time) Rs. 549 (one time) Course format: Online, self-paced Online, self-paced Duration: NA NA Course includes: Certification What you'll learn Excel Mastery: Create and manage spreadsheets , enter and format data with ease. , enter and format data with ease. Apply essential formulas and functions such as SUM, AVERAGE, IF, COUNT, and DATE. such as SUM, AVERAGE, IF, COUNT, and DATE. Work with advanced lookup tools like VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, and XLOOKUP (Office 365). like VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, and XLOOKUP (Office 365). Format cells, numbers, and tables to create clean and readable sheets. to create clean and readable sheets. Use tools like Flash Fill, Data Validation, and Remove Duplicates for efficient data handling. for efficient data handling. Visualize data using PivotTables, PivotCharts, column charts, line graphs, and more. using PivotTables, PivotCharts, column charts, line graphs, and more. Import data from text, CSV, and other formats for analysis. from text, CSV, and other formats for analysis. Set up print-ready pages with Fit-to-Page and advanced print options. with Fit-to-Page and advanced print options. Sort, filter, and manage large datasets with ease. PowerPoint and Word Essentials: Create polished presentations with images, charts, multimedia, animations, and transitions. Design and format Word documents using styles, tables, images, and templates. Use SmartArt, charts, and multimedia in PowerPoint to enhance audience engagement. Office 365 Integration: Understand how to collaborate in real-time using cloud-based tools. Learn the advantages of Office 365 for team communication and productivity. Explore cross-device accessibility and file sharing features. Bonus: Discover AI-powered tools to speed up tasks like content creation and Excel formula generation. Who should enrol Business professionals looking to work smarter with spreadsheets, documents, and presentations. Students and researchers who need to analyze data, write reports, or build slide decks. Job seekers wanting to boost their resumes with Microsoft Office expertise. Freelancers and entrepreneurs who need to manage their own documentation and data. Project managers and analysts who rely on Excel for tracking, forecasting, and data visualization. Anyone looking to gain hands-on, practical knowledge of Microsoft Excel and other Office tools for personal or professional use. Click here to explore the course Course Expert: Metla Sudha Sekhar Course Description:Unlock the full potential of Google Sheets with this comprehensive Google Sheets Masterclass. Designed for learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced users, this course equips you with the skills to streamline your workflow, master spreadsheet functions, and analyze data like a pro. You'll start with the fundamentals such as formatting, formulas, and file sharing, and progressively dive into advanced features like QUERY, IMPORTXML, pivot tables, and dynamic charts. Learn to automate repetitive tasks, collaborate in real time, secure your data, and build interactive dashboards using real-world datasets. With integrated tools like ARRAYFORMULA, IMPORTRANGE, and Google Workspace, this course empowers you to transform raw data into meaningful insights. Course Details: Cost of course: Rs. 799 (one time) Rs. 799 (one time) Course format: Online, self-paced Online, self-paced Duration: 7.32 hours 7.32 hours Course includes: Lifetime access, Certificate of completion What you'll learn Master basic spreadsheet features: Like cells, formulas, and data formatting. Like cells, formulas, and data formatting. Use essential functions: Such as SUM, COUNT, IFS, and more. Such as SUM, COUNT, IFS, and more. Analyze and visualize data: With pivot tables and dynamic charts. With pivot tables and dynamic charts. Implement advanced functions: Like QUERY, ARRAYFORMULA, and INDEX MATCH. Like QUERY, ARRAYFORMULA, and INDEX MATCH. Import and clean data: From CSVs, text files, and web sources. From CSVs, text files, and web sources. Collaborate in real-time : Manage team-based projects within Google Sheets. : Manage team-based projects within Google Sheets. Automate tasks; Using scripts and smart formulas. Using scripts and smart formulas. Secure spreadsheets: With permissions and data protection. With permissions and data protection. Use generative AI: To boost productivity and enhance spreadsheet performance. To boost productivity and enhance spreadsheet performance. QR code and images: Generate QR codes, embed images , and build interactive dashboards. Who should enrol Working professionals aiming to enhance their data analysis and reporting capabilities. Entrepreneurs and business owners looking to manage operations, finances, and reporting more effectively. Students and academic researchers managing and analyzing data for research or coursework. Data analysts and Excel users wanting to expand into Google Sheets and cloud-based collaboration. Anyone interested in mastering Google Sheets for personal productivity, professional use, or career advancement. Click here to explore the course Course Expert: Ricardo R. Trujeque Course Description:Excel for Everyone is a three-part comprehensive learning path developed by UBCx on edX, designed to take learners from complete beginners to confident users of advanced Excel functionalities. In the Core Foundations course, you'll begin with Excel essentials such as data entry, formatting, and performing basic calculations. The Data Management module advances your knowledge into managing larger datasets, using PivotTables, What-If analysis, and integrating logical/statistical functions. Finally, the Data Analysis Fundamentals course teaches you how to automate tasks, use advanced formulas, build dashboards, and make data-driven decisions. Course Details: Cost of course: $510.30 $510.30 Course format: Online, self-paced Online, self-paced Duration: 18 weeks 18 weeks Course includes: Certification What you'll learn Build strong Excel foundations : Learn essential Excel operations such as data entry, formatting, and basic formulas. : Learn essential Excel operations such as data entry, formatting, and basic formulas. Develop a data-centric mindset : Understand how to solve problems using data models and structured thinking. : Understand how to solve problems using data models and structured thinking. Manipulate raw data efficiently : Clean, filter, and transform data using functions like VLOOKUP, PivotTables, and What-If Analysis.. : Clean, filter, and transform data using functions like VLOOKUP, PivotTables, and What-If Analysis.. Visualize data effectively : Create and customize charts, dashboards, and tables for clear and compelling presentations. : Create and customize charts, dashboards, and tables for clear and compelling presentations. Perform advanced data analysis : Apply conditional logic, and automate repetitive tasks. : Apply conditional logic, and automate repetitive tasks. Use real-world Excel tools : Explore Date, Financial, and Statistical functions to support personal and organizational decision-making. : Explore Date, Financial, and Statistical functions to support personal and organizational decision-making. Automate tasks with confidence : Create macros, use Visual Basic (VBA), and audit formulas for error-free workbooks. Who should enrol Beginners with little to no Excel experience who want to start from scratch. Students looking to boost their academic and career potential with Excel proficiency. Professionals who use Excel at a basic level and want to unlock its full potential. Business analysts, operations managers, and data-driven professionals seeking advanced analysis and automation skills. Anyone interested in Excel for personal productivity, career development, or organizational impact. Click here to explore the course Course Expert: Duncan McKeen Course Description:Excel Fundamentals- Formulas for Finance by the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) is designed to equip finance professionals and Excel users with the essential skills required to perform accurate and efficient financial analysis using Excel 365. In just over two hours, this hands-on course cuts through Excel's vast functionality to focus on the tools most relevant to finance, such as aggregation functions, date calculations, lookup tools, and return formulas. Whether you are managing pricing data, modeling cash flows, or simply cleaning up large data sets, this course introduces exercises that help you apply what you learn immediately. You'll also gain an understanding of how to compare functions like NPV/IRR vs. XNPV/XIRR, work with financial dates, and apply custom formatting to reports and models. Course Details: Cost of course: $ 347.90 (for unlimited access to courses) $ 347.90 (for unlimited access to courses) Course format: Online, self-paced Online, self-paced Duration: 2 hours 14 minutes 2 hours 14 minutes Course includes: Certification What you'll learn Use essential Excel functions: To perform financial and statistical analysis on datasets. To perform financial and statistical analysis on datasets. Aggregate and summarize financial data: Using core Excel functions such as COUNTIF, SUMIF, etc. Using core Excel functions such as COUNTIF, SUMIF, etc. Compare and apply lookup functions: Such as VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, and XLOOKUP for data retrieval. Such as VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, and XLOOKUP for data retrieval. Utilize Excel's date functions: To build annual, quarterly, and monthly financial models. To build annual, quarterly, and monthly financial models. Understand time-value concepts: Using NPV, IRR, XNPV, and XIRR functions. Using NPV, IRR, XNPV, and XIRR functions. Apply professional formatting: For numbers and dates to enhance clarity and consistency in reports. For numbers and dates to enhance clarity and consistency in reports. Practice keyboard shortcuts and tools: To boost speed and accuracy in financial modeling. Who should enrol Beginners seeking foundational Excel skills for finance. Intermediate Excel users looking to expand their toolkit for real-world financial tasks. Advanced users wanting a fast-paced refresher focused on finance-specific formulas. Finance professionals, analysts, accountants, or students preparing for roles that require financial data analysis in Excel. Anyone expanding their data skills in financial modeling. Click here to explore the course Course Expert: Ken Puls Course Description:Microsoft Excel 365- Basic & Advanced by GoSkills is a comprehensive, CPD-accredited online course designed to take learners from Excel beginners to confident, productive users ready to tackle advanced data analysis, reporting, and automation. Taught by award-winning instructor Ken Puls, this self-paced course breaks down complex Excel skills into engaging bite-sized lessons that make learning intuitive and achievable, whether you are starting fresh or brushing up your existing knowledge. You'll gain expertise in formulas, functions, PivotTables, data validation, dynamic arrays, macros, charting, and more. You'll also explore newer Excel 365 features like XLOOKUP and LET functions. Course Details: Cost of course: Rs. 1,400 per month platform fee Course format: Online, self-paced Duration: 2 hours 14 minutes Course includes: Certification What you'll learn Navigate and customize the Excel 365 interface for efficient use. the Excel 365 interface for efficient use. Master core formulas and functions for math, statistics, logic, and text manipulation. for math, statistics, logic, and text manipulation. Organize and filter data using tables, named ranges, and data validation techniques. using tables, named ranges, and data validation techniques. Summarize large datasets with PivotTables and perform What-If analysis. with PivotTables and perform What-If analysis. Visualize insights through compelling charts, and graphs. through compelling charts, and graphs. Automate repetitive tasks by recording macros and using Power Query. by recording macros and using Power Query. Explore new Excel 365 features like Dynamic Arrays, FILTER, XLOOKUP, and LET. like Dynamic Arrays, FILTER, XLOOKUP, and LET. Format and prepare workbooks for professional reporting and printing. Who should enrol Beginners looking to build a strong foundation in Excel from scratch. Intermediate users aiming to unlock Excel's full capabilities and streamline their workflow. Professionals in any industry who handle data and want to become more efficient with reporting, analysis, or project tracking. Students or job seekers wanting to enhance their resume with Excel certification. Entrepreneurs and small business owners who want better control over their business data and decision-making. Click here to explore the course Course Expert: NA Course Description: The Advanced Excel Certification Course by the Indian Institute of Skill Development Training is a career-boosting program tailored for individuals seeking to master Microsoft Excel for real-world applications in finance, business, data analysis, and project management. This comprehensive course covers everything from foundational Excel concepts to highly advanced functions and techniques, equipping learners with the skills to perform data-driven tasks with accuracy, speed, and confidence. The course includes lifetime-valid certification, job-ready training aligned with industry standards, and free job assistance based on your career interests. Course Details: Cost of course: Rs. 4,000 Course format: Online examination, self-paced Duration: 2 months Course includes: Certification What you'll learn Master Excel fundamentals: Including workbook management, formatting, formulas, and shortcuts. Including workbook management, formatting, formulas, and shortcuts. Use advanced formulas and functions: Such as VLOOKUP, XLOOKUP, IF, SUMIF, TEXTJOIN, and more. Such as VLOOKUP, XLOOKUP, IF, SUMIF, TEXTJOIN, and more. Clean and manage data: Using tools like Flash Fill, TRIM, CLEAN, Go To Special, and Data Validation. Using tools like Flash Fill, TRIM, CLEAN, Go To Special, and Data Validation. Analyze and summarize data: With PivotTables, calculated fields, slicers, and pivot charts. With PivotTables, calculated fields, slicers, and pivot charts. Create professional-level charts: Including dynamic dashboards, Gantt charts, and sparklines. Including dynamic dashboards, Gantt charts, and sparklines. Perform advanced data analysis: Using Goal Seek, Solver, Scenario Manager, trendlines, and statistical tools. Using Goal Seek, Solver, Scenario Manager, trendlines, and statistical tools. Model and forecast data: Using histograms, frequency distributions, and regression analysis. Using histograms, frequency distributions, and regression analysis. Audit and troubleshoot formulas: With tools like IFERROR, INDIRECT, and Formula Auditing. Who should enrol Finance, accounting and data professionals who need to create reports, dashboards, or perform financial modeling. Business managers and entrepreneurs who want to improve decision-making with powerful data insights. Students and graduates, especially those in commerce, economics, data science, or business analytics programs. Anyone looking to boost their resume and improve employability in data-driven roles. Click here to explore the course Course Expert: NA Course Description: Advanced Excel Course with Certificate by Upskillist is a self-paced, certification course designed to elevate your Excel skills, from basics to advanced mastery. Over 19 weeks, you'll engage with video lectures, quizzes, assignments, and assessments that walk you through practical, real-world Excel applications. The curriculum is structured across four progressive modules– 'Diploma in Excel,' 'Intermediate in Excel,' 'Advanced in Excel,' and 'Proficient in Excel', ensuring a deep understanding of essential and advanced features. This in-depth program prepares you to handle complex data, automate workflows with VBA and macros, and collaborate effectively in professional environments. Course Details: Cost of course: Monthly subscription Course format: Online, self-paced Duration: 19 weeks Course includes: Certification What you'll learn Fundamentals of Microsoft Excel , including key terminologies, basic operations, and interface navigation. , including key terminologies, basic operations, and interface navigation. Techniques for effective data analysis using advanced tools like PivotTables, slicers, and built-in functions. using advanced tools like PivotTables, slicers, and built-in functions. How to maintain data integrity through structured input methods, validation techniques, and error-checking strategies. through structured input methods, validation techniques, and error-checking strategies. Creation and use of input sheets with enhanced data accuracy and auditing capabilities. with enhanced data accuracy and auditing capabilities. Methods for presenting and formatting data using spreadsheets, charts, and graphs for clear and professional reporting. using spreadsheets, charts, and graphs for clear and professional reporting. Navigating multiple sheets and workbooks , including workbook management, printing options, and efficient navigation techniques. , including workbook management, printing options, and efficient navigation techniques. Development of custom templates and lists , empowering students to streamline repetitive tasks. , empowering students to streamline repetitive tasks. Automation of tasks using Macros and VBA , allowing for improved efficiency and customization in workflow execution. Who should enrol Beginners who want a foundational yet advanced Excel skillset. Intermediate users aiming to gain mastery over advanced tools and automation. Professionals in finance, analytics, operations, research, or project management seeking efficiency through Excel. Students and early career professionals looking to enhance employability with practical Excel credentials. Entrepreneurs and freelancers managing business data or reports who want streamlined workflows. Click here to explore the course Ans. Anyone who works with data or spreadsheets can benefit, including: Professionals in finance, HR, marketing, and operations Business analysts and data analysts Students and recent graduates Entrepreneurs and freelancers Anyone looking to improve job prospects or productivity Ans. It's recommended to learn Excel 365, the most current version, as it includes the latest features such as Dynamic Arrays, XLOOKUP, and LET functions. However, many courses still cater to Excel 2016, 2019, and earlier Excel certifications are typically offered at three levels: Beginner/Core – Basic formatting, formulas, and data entry Intermediate – Charts, PivotTables, and data tools Advanced/ Expert – Macros, VBA, automation, and data modeling The above content is an initiative by Times Internet content team to explain product features and simplify jargons for its users. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. Times Internet may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article.
Mint
2 days ago
- Mint
'Hired, paid… and fired in 3 months': Startup founder's viral post on employee who faked it all
Building a startup is no easy feat, and hiring the wrong person can be a costly mistake. Arshia Kaur, founder of beauty brand Tint Cosmetics, has gone viral on Instagram after sharing a shocking hiring experience that left her out of time, money and trust. In a series of videos, Kaur recounted how her company hired a 'perfect-on-paper' candidate for the Head of Marketing role in November 2024. The applicant seemed ideal-- claiming experience in scaling brands, managing e-commerce, running ad campaigns, and driving growth. He even walked the team through what appeared to be the backend of his previous work. 'He looked amazing on paper… everything seemed extremely legit,' Kaur said. But within weeks of joining, things began to unravel. The new hire struggled to communicate with the team or management, failed to deliver on assigned tasks, and offloaded work onto other employees-- including Kaur herself. Despite multiple discussions and warnings, there was no improvement. He was fired just two and a half months into the job. The real shock came later. Curious about the mismatch between his alleged past achievements and his current performance, Kaur rechecked his documents-- and realised the entire CV had been fabricated. His salary slips were forged on Microsoft Excel, complete with impossible details such as '31 working days' in a month. There was no company stamp or signature. 'It was all fake. We got completely duped,' Kaur said, showing screenshots in her Instagram post. The entrepreneur said the incident was a hard lesson in hiring diligence. 'When you're bootstrapped, every single penny matters -- it's hard-earned money. Please double-check every document before hiring. Founders, it's your right to have the correct information about anyone you bring into your company,' she advised. Her story has since sparked debate among small business owners and job seekers alike, with many calling it a wake-up call for stricter background checks in the hiring process.
