Latest news with #Gen
Newsweek
a day ago
- Business
- Newsweek
Student Loan Update: Gen Z Hit With Highest Payments
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Millions of Americans with federal student loans have seen a sharp rise in monthly payments, with Gen Z borrowers now facing the steepest costs. New survey data from Empower reported that Gen Z participants pay an average of $526 per month toward student loans, significantly above the overall average payment of $284 for all age groups. The findings come as borrowers respond to the end of pandemic-era payment relief and major legislative changes in 2025 that eliminated income-driven repayment options, increasing financial strain for the newest generation in the workforce. Why It Matters The surge in loan payments for Gen Z is reshaping the financial futures of millions of young Americans. With nearly one-third of all borrowers experiencing increased monthly payments in 2025, more than half (56 percent) say their student loan obligations limit their ability to save or invest. Almost half delay major life milestones like buying a home or planning for retirement. Harvard graduates listen to speakers during the commencement ceremony in Harvard Yard on May 29, 2025, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Harvard graduates listen to speakers during the commencement ceremony in Harvard Yard on May 29, 2025, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Libby O'Neill/Getty Images What To Know While the average student loan payment is $284, Gen Z was paying substantially more, with an average of $526 each month, according to the Empower survey of more than 400 student loan borrowers. "Gen Z is facing the highest student loan payments largely due to the interest rates on their loans," Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek. "Over the years, those rates have steadily climbed, and this generation is bearing the brunt of that increase. As a result, their monthly payments are significantly higher than those of previous borrowers." Across all borrowers surveyed, 34 percent said they were paying $200 or more per month. The added stress has not only affected finances but also mental health, with 59 percent of borrowers reporting anxiety related to their debt. And borrowers are not always prioritizing their student loan debt, as 54 percent said they prioritize other types of debt, like credit cards and car loans. The burden on Gen Z has grown in the wake of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed by President Donald Trump that removed the income-driven repayment plans established during President Joe Biden's administration. Under the new law, available repayment options provide less relief for those earning lower incomes, especially younger borrowers just starting their careers. The end of the pandemic-era forbearance and stricter repayment requirements have produced heightened monthly payments, with substantial repercussions for budgeting and debt prioritization among Gen Z and millennials. Collectively, Americans now owe more than $1.7 trillion in student loan debt, with balances having increased sixfold since 2003. As of 2024, 42.7 million Americans held federal student loans, and a significant portion are delinquent on their payments. As loan repayment resumed, only 22 percent of Gen Z borrowers felt confident about paying back their student loans, Empower found. Half of all borrowers contributed less to savings or retirement accounts as a result of their debt. Additionally, the lingering debt has led 42 percent of borrowers to wish they had chosen a different major or school, and 57 percent now say they regret their level of indebtedness. "Long-term, this is going to delay major milestones: starting families, buying homes and climbing the career ladder," Thompson said. "Many will feel pressured to stay with companies that offer student loan repayment perks, curbing their upward mobility and locking them into jobs they might otherwise leave." What People Are Saying Rebecca Rickert, head of communications and consumer insights at Empower, told Newsweek: "When post-grads are spending over $500 a month on loan payments, it can push other financial priorities like emergency savings or homeownership down the list. This is often coupled with more reliance on credit, and later entry into financial independence." Leslie Silva, principal attorney with McCall Sweeney & Silva P.C and a student loan expert, told Newsweek: "The current student loan system, and the changes in the new domestic policy bill, do nothing to help borrowers alleviate the burden of the cost of higher education. Half of millennial and Gen X borrowers have suffered delays in other major financial decisions due to student loan debt. The new bill places limits on what parents and borrowers can apply for to fund higher education. While some hope that these limits force institutions to lower their costs, that is a very unlikely outcome." Kevin Thompson, CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek: "The current student loan system, in my opinion, was designed to keep borrowers tied to the workforce. This wasn't by accident, it was by design. By saddling young people with debt early, the system ensures a steady flow of labor from a group that must keep earning just to stay afloat." Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor at the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "They [Gen Z] enrolled and completed college at a time when the cost of tuition and housing had risen dramatically, and, on top of those elevated prices, those who attended in the last few years have had to take out loans with higher interest rates. The result is higher monthly payments that are creating real hardship for some borrowers who are just getting started in their careers." What Happens Next Borrowers previously enrolled in income-driven plans face a transition period of at least one year and, starting July 2026 to July 2028, will have select new repayment arrangements as the latest legislation takes effect. Gen Z and other borrowers are likely to face ongoing financial strain, delayed major life decisions, and an increasing demand for financial guidance amidst the rapidly changing student loan policy landscape. Silva said that moving forward, students and parents should expect to pay more out of pocket or rely more on private loan companies as the changes take effect. "We can expect to see a resurgence in private student loans forcing new student borrowers into even more debt at higher interest rates. Private student loan companies do not have a limit on applicable interest rates, whereas federal student loans do," Silva said. And the more debt student borrowers have, the longer it will take them to buy homes or contribute to retirement plans, Silva added. "It is possible we could see more support from the institutions themselves, but there has not been much evidence to support a decrease in the cost of higher education," Silva said.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Ethnic Food Market Size to Attain USD 179.21 Billion by 2034
According to Towards FnB, the global ethnic food market size is expected to be worth around USD 179.21 billion by 2034, growing from USD 93.47 billion in 2025. The market is experiencing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Driven by adventurous consumers, rising demand for fusion cuisines, and the boom in online food delivery, the market is redefining how the world eats. Ottawa, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global ethnic food market size stood at USD 86.95 billion in 2024 with projections indicating a rise from USD 93.47 billion in 2025 to nearly USD 179.21 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 7.5% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034, according to study published by Towards FnB, a sister firm of Precedence Research. The ethnic food market has been expanding in recent times due to consumers changing tastes and preferences to try authentic and fusion cuisines. Consumers prefer to experiment with their taste palettes today helping them to explore the cuisines of different regions globally. The exploring nature of consumers is helping in the growth of the ethnic food market. Access the Full Study Instantly | Download Sample Pages of the Report Now@ What is Ethnic Food Market? Gone are the days when people used to prefer limited food items which made them comfortable. Today people like to try cuisines of different regions to experiment with their taste palettes. Hence, the ethnic food market has observed a growth in the recent years. People today prefer to enjoy different types of cuisines and like to try the local food options of different regions. It helps them to understand the culture of different regions more closely and feel to be a part of it as well. Trying different cuisines of a region helps the local food spots to grow as well. It is also the best option to try the authentic cuisine of a region. The high-end restaurant of a place helps one to try local as well as dishes made by the fusion of local and trending dishes. It helps them to attract more customers and allows people to try different options to enhance their taste buds. The whole algorithm also allows one to try a specialty of each cuisine inspired by greens, proteins, or beans. Gen Z and millennials form a huge consumer base for the ethnic food market as this age group likes to experiment with their taste buds and is more interested in trying different types of cuisines globally. Key Highlights of Ethnic Food Market By region, Asia Pacific dominated the ethnic food market in 2024 due to the availability of multiple cuisines and their fusion versions. By region, North America is expected to expand in the foreseen period due to the growing population of the region belonging to different places and introducing their cuisines in North America. By cuisine type, the Asian segment dominated the market in 2024 due to the availability of multiple forms of cuisines in the region to suit the preferences of consumers from different regions. By cuisine type, the Mexican cuisine segment of the ethnic food market is observed to be the fastest growing in the forecast period. By food type, the non-veg segment dominated the ethnic food market in 2024. By distribution channel, the online segment is expected to grow in the forecast period. Rise of Online Platforms: Ethnic Food Market to Grow Rapidly Consumers today prefer to enhance their taste buds and are enthusiastic to try new cuisines of different regions. Hence, it directly helps in the growth of the ethnic food market. Consumers today prefer the bold and unique taste that helps to refresh their taste buds and to get a change from their regular meals. In the UK, for example, sales of bao buns a popular Asian street food have skyrocketed by 45% year-over-year, with searches up 13.7%, and retailers now offer 10+ varieties to meet demand. Additionally, 44% of burger consumers in June 2023 said they'd likely order bao bun burgers, illustrating how bold, ethnic flavors are reshaping mainstream menus. Hence, the enthusiasm to try global cuisines is helping the growth of the market. The growth of online platforms helping people order their favorite cuisines online with the ease of sitting at home also helps in the enhancement of the market. Hence, such situations help in the expansion of the ethnic food market. What are Recent Trends in Ethnic Food Market? Vegetarian and vegan options for ethnic foods are highly in demand today due to rising consumer awareness about the benefits of vegetarian and vegan food for the overall system of the body. Today consumers are also attracted to fusion dishes made by a combination of different types of ethnic cuisines helping in the growth of the ethnic food market. Ethnic snack options are also gaining traction due to the busy schedules of consumers leading to high demand for fast food and finger foods. Ethnic restaurants are partnering with online delivery platforms today to let people enjoy their taste conveniently by ordering at home as well. Healthier options for ethnic meals are also helping in the growth of the ethnic food market as people today prefer healthier food options such as sugar-free, sodium-free, and gluten-free options. Gain Comprehensive Market Insights – Download the Full Databook Today: Market Dynamics Driver Shift in Consumer Demand There are multiple factors contributing to the growth of the ethnic food market. Changing consumer preferences is one of the major reasons for the growth of the market. Consumers today are enthusiastic to try new cuisines apart from their region. It helps them to explore new tastes and flavors to give a change to their taste pallets. The culinary experience also allows consumers to adjust to new environments helpful in situations such as shifting to a new region or traveling to a new place. Ethnic cuisine is also considered to be healthy as it is made from fresh local ingredients without the use of any preservatives or harmful chemical ingredients. Hence, Gen Z and millennials form a huge base for the ethnic food market. Challenge Educating Consumers and their Acceptance Many consumers are hesitant to try new cuisines leading to restraint in the growth of the ethnic food market. Elderly consumers and aged consumers may hesitate to try new cuisines hence it acts as a barrier to the expansion of the market. Consumers do not trust the ingredients used or the cooking process followed and hence are hesitant to try new cuisines. Accepting new flavors and taste pallets easily is not acceptable to everyone. Hence, such scenarios create barriers to the growth of the ethnic food market. Ethnic Food Market Regional Analysis Asia Pacific dominated the ethnic food market in 2024. The Asia cuisine is packed with rich and bold flavors favorable for different taste pallets. Hence the cuisine dominated the ethnic food market in 2024. The cuisine involves the usage of different local and fresh ingredients and hence is favorable to consumers globally. The Chinese cuisine played a major role in the growth of cuisine in the region. The cooking techniques and use of fresh greens and other local ingredients helped in the growth of the market. What to Expect from India & Japan's Ethnic Food Market? In India, the rising middle class, urbanization, and growing exposure to international cuisines through travel and media are driving demand for global and fusion foods. The organized ethnic food market in India is expanding steadily, with more than 60% of urban millennials reportedly trying international dishes like Korean ramen, Japanese sushi, and Mediterranean wraps on a regular basis. Meanwhile, Japan continues to elevate its culinary exports, with Japanese food (Washoku) now available in over 160 countries, and overseas Japanese restaurants surpassing 159,000 in 2023, up from 55,000 in 2013. The Japanese government actively promotes its cuisine abroad, contributing to global demand for authentic Japanese sauces, noodles, and condiments. North America expects to grow in the ethnic food market in the foreseen period. The growing population of the region from different cultural backgrounds surges the demand for different traditional cuisines. Hence, the ethnic food market is expected to expand in North America in the forecast period. People prefer to taste different types of cuisines and try local and ethnic ingredients helpful for the market's growth in the forecast period. Endorsements of local cuisines by celebrity chefs and popular influencers also help in the growth of the ethnic food market in the region. U.S. and Canada Ethnic Food Market Trends The United States and Canada are key drivers of growth in the ethnic food market, fueled by increasingly diverse populations and a rising appetite for global flavors. In the U.S., nearly 70% of consumers say they enjoy trying new international cuisines, with Mexican, Chinese, Thai, Indian, and Korean foods among the most popular. The steady influx of immigrants has also contributed to a broader acceptance and availability of ethnic foods over 44 million foreign-born individuals live in the U.S., supporting both demand and supply of authentic international dishes. Supermarkets and restaurant chains are rapidly expanding ethnic food offerings, with even mainstream brands introducing fusion products like sriracha mayo, kimchi tacos, and tikka masala pizza. Market Report Scope Report Attribute Key Statistics Base Year 2024 Forecast Period 2025 to 2034 Growth Rate from 2025 to 2034 CAGR of 7.5% Market Size in 2024 USD 86.95 Billion Market Size in 2025 USD 93.47 Billion Market Size by 2034 USD 179.21 Billion Dominated Region Asia Pacific Fastest Growing Region North America Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa Have Questions? Let's Talk—Schedule a Meeting with Our Insights Team: Ethnic Food Market Segmental Analysis Cuisine Type Analysis How Did Asian Food Segment Led the Ethnic Food Market in 2024? The Asian segment of the ethnic food market dominated in 2024 due to the bold, unique, and fresh flavors provided by the cuisine. Consumers prefer such bold tastes and hence the segment led the market. Asian cuisine involves a mixture of different types of flavors suitable for all taste buds. Hence, the segment dominated the ethnic food market in 2024. The cultural diversity along with its cuisine is highly appreciated globally. The Mexican food segment of the ethnic food market is expected to grow with the highest CAGR in the foreseen period due to the cuisine's rich and bold flavors. The traditional Mexican cuisine is not just an explosion of flavors but is also easy to consume outdoors. Hence, people prefer to opt for local street food while on a vacation or when they wish to explore the culinary flavors of the region. Food Type Analysis The Non-Veg Segment dominated the Ethnic Food Market in 2024 along with the Vegetarian Segment observing growth in the Forecast Period. The non-veg segment of the ethnic food market dominated in 2024 as the population of non-veg consumers was higher compared to the vegetarian segment. Hence, people preferred to try non-veg ethnic food options to try unique and bold flavors. It helped consumers taste local and authentic non-veg cuisine by trying a variety of flavors. The vegetarian segment of the ethnic food market is expected to grow in the forecast period due to the major population adopting vegetarianism and veganism. Consumer awareness about rising sustainability is also one of the major reasons for the growth of the ethnic food market in the expected timeframe. Distribution Channel Analysis The Supermarkets and Hypermarkets Led the Market in 2024 The supermarkets and hypermarkets dominated the ethnic food market in 2024 due to the availability of local and ethnic food products easily to consumers. It helps them to get access to traditional food products with ease and also allows people to try different food items to enhance their culinary experience. Hence, the segment dominated the market in 2024. The online segment of the ethnic food market is expected to grow in the foreseen period due to the convenience provided by the platform of allows people to order food easily. The availability of local and ethnic food products online allowing people to order them at the ease of sitting at home is helping the segment grow in the market. Hence, the segment is expected to boom in the market in the future globally. Feel Free to Get in Touch with Us for Orders or Any Questions at: sales@ Additional Topics Worth Exploring: India Frozen Convenience Food Market Booms as Quick Meals Become a Daily Essential: The India frozen convenience food market size is witnessing rapid growth, driven by shifting consumer lifestyles, demand for ready-to-eat solutions, and rising urbanization. Private Label Food and Beverages Market Surges as Consumers Seek Quality and Value: The global private label food and beverages market size is projected to witness strong growth from USD 255.90 billion in 2025 to USD 393.60 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 4.9% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. U.S. Private Label Food and Beverages Market Surges with Innovation and Value Demand: The U.S. private label food and beverages market is rising from USD 163.93 million in 2025 to USD 447.34 million by 2034. Food Antioxidants Market Boosted by Demand for Freshness and Clean Labels: The global food antioxidants market size is projected to grow from USD 2.47 billion in 2025 to around USD 4.31 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 6.4% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Food Leavening Agent Market Rises with Demand for Baked and Processed Foods: The global food leavening agent market size is projected to witness strong growth from USD 7.64 billion in 2025 to USD 11.06 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 4.2% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Food Technology Market Size, Share, Trends, and Growth Forecast 2034: The global food technology market size is witnessing robust growth from USD 229.49 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 538.47 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.94% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Food Acidulants Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis 2034: The global food acidulants market size is projected to climb from USD 6.80 billion in 2025 to USD 10.91 billion by 2034, recording a CAGR of 5.40% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034 Ethnic Food Market Top Companies Associated British Foods PLC General Mills, Inc. Ajinomoto Co. Inc. McCormick & Company Inc. Orkla ASA ARYZTA AG Paulig Group The Spice Tailor Asli Fine Food TRS Group Recent Developments in Ethnic Food Market In June 2025, PepsiCo India launched ethnic and local flavors in smaller serves to attract more consumers towards the brand. The company will launch seven fizzy drinks under its brand Slice. (Source- In January 2025, Big Bird Foods launches a new line of production in its ethnic food segment. The company expects a revenue generation of Rs. 500 million with the launch of a new line of production. (Source- Segments Covered in the Report By Cuisine Type Asian Italian Mexican Others By Food Type Veg Non-Veg By Distribution Channel Hypermarkets/Supermarkets Convenience Stores Grocery Stores Online Sales Channels By Region North America U.S. Canada Asia Pacific China Japan India South Korea Thailand Europe Germany UK France Italy Spain Sweden Denmark Norway Latin America Brazil Mexico Argentina Middle East and Africa (MEA) South Africa UAE Saudi Arabia Kuwait Thank you for exploring our insights. For more targeted information, customized chapter-wise sections and region-specific editions such as North America, Europe, or Asia Pacific—are also available upon request For Detailed Pricing and Tailored Market Report Options, Click Here: Feel Free to Get in Touch with Us for Orders or Any Questions at: sales@ Unlock expert insights, custom research, and premium support with the Towards FnB Annual Membership. For USD 495/month (billed annually), get full access to exclusive F&B market data and personalized guidance. It's your strategic edge in the food and beverage industry: About Us Towards FnB is a global consulting firm specializing in the food and beverage industry, providing innovative solutions and expert guidance to elevate businesses. With an in-depth understanding of the dynamic F&B sector, we deliver customized market analysis and strategic insights. Our team of seasoned professionals is committed to empowering clients with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, ensuring they stay ahead of market trends. Partner with us as we redefine success in the rapidly evolving food and beverage landscape, and together, we'll navigate this transformative journey. Our Trusted Data Partners Precedence Research | Statifacts | Towards Packaging | Towards Chemical and Materials| Nova One Advisor For Latest Update Follow Us: in to access your portfolio
GMA Network
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
Jillian Ward performs 'Crazy In Love' with drag queen Jade Ystar
Pride Month may be over, but Jillian Ward continued to show her support for the LGBT+ community with a fierce performance. As seen on Nelson Canlas' report in "24 Oras" on Monday, the Star of the New Gen can be seen dancing to Beyonce's "Crazy In Love" with drag artist Jade Ystar at a Bar and Lounge, celebrating a belated Pride Month event with the LGBT+ community. In her post, Jillian expressed her gratitude for performing with Jade. "Belated pride month celebration with the community yesterday! Pride month may be over, but the energy lives on! So grateful to be performing alongside queen Jade Ystar! I feel so blessed to be wrapped in the love of such unique and beautiful souls. 'Til the next!" she wrote. In return, Jade responded with love and gratitude, saying, "It's an honor performing with you!" in the comment section. Aside from being a child actress, Jillian is also a talented dancer. She recently grooved to the "Wall to Wall" dance challenge with Jay Park. Jillian last starred in "Mga Batang Riles" and "My Ilonggo Girl." —Jade Veronique Yap/MGP, GMA Integrated News
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Fans call Caleb Williams 'gay' again after new photos show him rocking blue nail polish
(Image via Getty) Out of all the things NFL fans could've freaked out over this week bad throws, contract holdouts, roster drama, the internet instead chose blue nail polish. Yep. Caleb Williams decided to show up with his fingers looking fabulous, and suddenly, it was like half of football Twitter lost its mind. Some folks went full 1950s, others were screaming 'GOAT energy,' and honestly, the comments section turned into its own Super Bowl. Fans react to Caleb Williams painted nails and the homophobia, jokes, and chaos came pouring in After the photo of the QB Caleb Williams surfaced online, Twitter/X turned into a war zone. Comments ranged from weirdly obsessed to weirdly supportive. One user posted: 'He should be playing for the San Francisco 49ers because that's extra gay.' Another chimed in with: 'Will be the first NFL star to come out as gay.' Some were just straight-up confused: 'OMG! Blue fingernails! Stop the presses!' Caleb Williams trends as fans question his sexuality over blue nail polish photos The NFL's masculinity crisis: Why nail polish still sends people into meltdown mode This isn't even new. The moment a male NFL player does something remotely outside the 'football guy' mold whether it's wearing pink, painting nails, or dressing like they've seen a fashion show, a chunk of the fanbase acts like the league's collapsing. We've seen it with Cam Newton's outfits, OBJ's cleats, and even Joe Burrow's swagger fits. Let a man do his thing and throw a 40-yard dime? Why are we mad? Gen Z fans are done with the fake outrage and fully support their painted-nail kings The best part? Younger fans weren't just not mad, they were loving it. The phrase 'PERIODT!!' was literally trending under the photo. TikTok is already making edits. And people are reposting with captions like, 'nail polish doesn't affect QB rating, babe.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo If you're throwing touchdowns and dropping bombs downfield, you could show up in glitter boots and eyeliner and still be That Guy. Football Twitter might still be adjusting to players expressing themselves, but Gen Z already made their choice, they're riding for QBs who can sling the ball and rock a mani. Whether it was a fashion flex, a personal vibe, or just a fun moment, the message is clear: blue nail polish is not the crisis y'all think it is. And if he throws a touchdown with those nails? That's just extra polish on the win. Also read - Watch: George Kittle dropkicks WWE star The Miz on golf course in shocking moment For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Mint
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Mint
Ola Electric Q1 Results: Loss widens to ₹428 crore; revenue plunges 50% YoY
Ola Electric Q1 Results: The electric two-wheeler manufacturer Ola Electric on Monday, July 14, posted a wider consolidated net loss for the first quarter of the financial year 2025-26 (Q1 FY26) to ₹ 428 crore. The Bhavish Aggarwal-led company had posted a net loss of ₹ 347 crore in the same period a year ago. However, on a quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) basis, the loss narrowed from ₹ 870 crore posted at the end of the March quarter of FY25. The consolidated revenue from operations plunged 49.6% year-on-year (YoY) to ₹ 828 crore during the June quarter, as its sales took a beating from heavy competition. Ola Electric had reported a revenue of ₹ 1,644 crore in the same period last fiscal year. The performance, however, improved sequentially. The company had posted a revenue of ₹ 611 crore in the March 2025 quarter. The sales declined massively during the period under review, hurt by stiff competition from other players like Bajaj Auto, TVS Motor and Ather Energy. The company delivered 68,192 units in the June quarter of FY26, as against 1,25,198 units in the same period last year. On the operating level, the EBITDA loss for Ola Electric in Q1 FY26 stood at ₹ 237 crore, higher than ₹ 205 crore posted in Q1 FY25. The margins came in at -28.6% compared with -12.5%. The auto segment EBITDA improved sharply to -11.6%, compared to -90.6% in Q4 FY25, with June marking the first EBITDA-positive month for the auto business. The gross margin, meanwhile, improved to 25.8% from 18.4% on a YoY basis. "This is our best GM performance ever, driven by Gen 3 BOM reduction as a result of our focus on vertical integration and in-house tech, and this trend will continue over the next few quarters. Our FY26 exit target is to have our GM in the range of 35-40% with PLI benefits, which will be around ₹ 40,000 - ₹ 45,000 per vehicle," Ola said in a letter to shareholders. The company's cost optimisation initiative, Project Lakshya, has driven significant operating efficiencies, reducing monthly auto opex from ₹ 178 crore to ₹ 105 crore. Consolidated opex now stands at ₹ 150 crore per month, and further reduction to ~ ₹ 130 crore/month is targeted through FY26, the company said in a press release post earnings announcement. Ola expects to sell between 3,25,000 to 3,75,000 vehicles and generate revenue of ₹ 4200 - ₹ 4700 crore. With Production Linked Incentive (PLI) benefits beginning from Q2 for the Gen 3 product portfolio, gross margin is projected to rise to 35% - 40%, and the company anticipates full-year auto EBITDA of above 5%, it added. 'The company also expects the auto business to remain EBITDA positive from Q2 onwards,' Ola said. Ahead of the announcement of the first quarter earnings for the period ended June 2025, Ola Electric share price plumbed a fresh low of ₹ 39.58. However, the stock soon rebounded and rallied over 12.5% in intraday deals, helped by the strong sequential performance and turning EBITDA positive in auto business. Commenting on the Ola Electric stock, Anshul Jain, Head of Research at Lakshmishree Investments, said the EV stock, after breaking below its previous all-time low of 45, is now hovering near the 40 mark and continues to show clear signs of weakness on the charts. "The current price structure and lack of buying conviction suggest more downside risk, with a test of the 34 level looking increasingly likely if weakness persists. For any meaningful reversal or sustainable bounce to emerge, the stock must manage a decisive close back above 45 on a weekly basis, which seems unlikely in the present scenario. Until then, investors should stay cautious and avoid fresh longs," he advised. As of 12.25 pm, Ola Electric share price was at ₹ 44.78, up 12.46% on the BSE.
