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Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Human cost of poor-quality testing in India
Ramesh, a 32-year-old construction worker, first visited his local clinic when he was having persistent cough and it refused to go away. For over two months, he had been suffering from coughing, recurring fever, and unexplained weight loss. The classic symptoms that should have raised red flags for tuberculosis (TB). But due to limited infrastructure and inadequate diagnostic support, his condition was misread as simple bronchitis. The technician, lacking proper training and resources, failed to spot early signs of TB. The doctor, relying on this flawed report, prescribed a general course of antibiotics and sent Ramesh home. Two more painful months passed. Ramesh's condition worsened. His cough began producing blood, and severe fatigue left him unable to work. This story reflects a deeper systemic failure of our country. Low-quality diagnostic services, often driven by under-resourced facilities, lack of quality checks, and poor training, lead to misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, worsening health, and higher health care costs. In situations like Ramesh's, the need is not for centralised, high-end laboratories but for accessible, quality-assured diagnostics at the point of care, especially for conditions like respiratory infections, diarrhoeal diseases, sexually transmitted infections (STDs), and chronic diseases like diabetes and kidney dysfunction. Many of these tests do not require the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accreditation. What's crucial is to ensure standardised quality control for every batch of diagnostics and robust supply chains so that tests are accurate, affordable, and always available where they are needed most. Most of the syndrome-based approaches such as fever, STDs where the diagnostic should be available at a point of care with a quality check. The cervical cancer diagnostics should be provided with appropriate quality checks, the same is with glucose levels, HB levels as well as basic diagnostics for lipids, kidney, liver tests. Point-of-care diagnostics for respiratory tract infections and diarrhoeal diseases must be made widely available, given the high mortality associated with these conditions. Just like medicines, every batch of diagnostic kits should undergo stringent quality checks and be supported by robust supply chain and storage systems. Currently, many government hospitals and public health facilities function without NABL accreditation. This underscores the need to build a parallel grassroots-level accreditation system, modeled along the lines of National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH), but adapted to rural realities. Such a system would ensure minimum quality benchmarks, especially for programme-related diagnostics and should be integrated into national health schemes including those under the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY. The lack of structured quality control has allowed an influx of unreliable diagnostic tools in both public and private sectors. Each diagnostic batch, like medicines, must undergo quality verification before deployment. This is especially critical for widespread conditions like cervical cancer, glucose imbalance, anaemia (Hb levels), and liver/kidney dysfunction, where inaccurate results can lead to incorrect treatment or no treatment at all. To ensure sustained quality, regular training and upskilling of lab technicians must be mandated. Training should focus not only on basic test operations but also on ethical diagnostic practices, quality assurance, storage standards, and the correct use of surveillance tools, which should never be substituted for clinical diagnostics. According to the National Health Profile 2023, only 12% of primary health centers (PHCs) have diagnostic labs and many of those do not meet even basic standards. The result is a massive diagnostic gap in rural India, pushing patients toward unregulated, low-quality private labs. The consequences are severe: delayed or missed diagnoses, prolonged disease burden, high out-of-pocket costs, and ultimately, preventable deaths. While decentralised diagnostics are essential, India must also invest in national reference labs to support complex testing and surveillance. Establishing 50 NABL-accredited reference labs, each serving approximately 25 million people, would ensure comprehensive national coverage. These hubs should be equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI)-assisted digital microscopy, real-time PCR machines, and cloud-based data systems for seamless health care integration. Public-private partnerships can be leveraged to train lab personnel at these reference centers, ensuring they are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills. Curriculum should emphasise AI tools, quality protocols, and patient-centric diagnostic delivery. Diagnostics are not just support tools; they are central to effective healthcare delivery. Without timely, accurate testing, even the best clinical decisions can fail. As India aspires toward Universal Health Coverage and a $ 5 trillion economy, strengthening diagnostic services, particularly at the last mile, is not optional. It's an urgent public health imperative. This article is authored NK Ganguly, former director general, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
Hindustan Times
03-06-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Best budget friendly RO water purifiers: Top 10 picks to keep your water pure without breaking the bank
Clean, pure water shouldn't cost a fortune! If you're looking to upgrade your home with an RO water purifier without emptying your wallet, you're in the right place. Affordable options today offer impressive filtration and durability, proving you don't have to pay a premium for quality. In this guide, we've rounded up the best budget-friendly RO water purifiers that deliver safe, refreshing water at a price you'll love. From trusted brands to hidden gems, these picks combine efficiency and value to keep your family hydrated and healthy in 2025. Let's explore your smartest options! The Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT RO+UV is a top-rated water purifier in India, designed for comprehensive protection against contaminants from borewell, tanker, or municipal water. Its multi-stage purification ensures 99.9999% bacteria and 99.99% virus reduction, with 30x better impurity removal than local purifiers. The RO Maxx technology removes heavy metals, microplastics, and pesticides, while UV e-boiling ensures every drop is as safe as boiled water. This model comes with a free service plan worth ₹2000, covering installation and unlimited repair visits for a year. Smart LED indicators keep you updated on filter life and maintenance needs. Certified by NABL and WQIA, it guarantees reliability and safety. The long cartridge life (up to 6000 litres) and compatibility with all water sources make it a versatile choice for Indian households. Excellent multi-stage purification Free, extensive service plan Cartridge replacement can be costly No mineral addition feature Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT RO+UV Water Purifier | Free Service Plan worth ₹2000 | India's #1 Water Purifier | Suitable for Borewell, Tanker & Municipal Water | 30x Impurity Removal vs Local Purifiers What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the water purifier's excellent filtration, good taste, and modern look. Installation is easy, and it's seen as a quality product. However, opinions are mixed on value for money, water wastage, and service quality. Why choose this product? Ideal for modern kitchens with strong filtration and easy setup, though be mindful of potential water wastage and varied after-sales service. The Livpure GLO PRO++ offers 7-stage advanced purification, including sediment and carbon filters, RO membrane, UV, UF, and a silver-impregnated post-carbon filter. It's suitable for all water sources and ensures bacteria and virus removal without stripping essential minerals. The taste enhancer and post-carbon filter improve water flavor and prevent bacterial regrowth. With a 7-litre tank and wall-mount design, it's a practical choice for small families. Free installation and on-demand service under warranty add value. LED indicators provide status updates, and the purifier is energy-efficient. However, it lacks a mineralizer, which some users may prefer for added health benefits. Comprehensive 7-stage purification Free installation and service on demand No mineralizer Plastic build may not appeal to all Livpure GLO PRO++ RO+UV+UF | Water Purifier for Home - 7 L Storage | Free Standard Installation | Suitable for Borewell, Tanker, Municipal Water | Black What are buyers saying on Amazon? Easy to use, good taste, nice design, but reports of leakage and RO membrane issues after several months. Why choose this product? Stylish design, advanced filtration, and good value, though some users face durability and leakage concerns over time. Havells AQUAS combines RO and UF purification with copper, zinc, and essential minerals for enhanced water quality. Its 7-stage process ensures removal of viruses, chemicals, and contaminants, while the dual mineral cartridge balances pH and remineralizes water. The removable 7L tank is easy to clean, and the zero-splash faucet adds convenience. The purifier features smart alerts for maintenance and a patented 3-way mounting for flexible installation. It's backed by a 1-year warranty with unlimited free service visits. However, the lack of UV purification may be a drawback for those seeking extra protection against microorganisms. Adds essential minerals and balances pH Flexible mounting and easy maintenance No UV purification Slightly bulky design Havells AQUAS Water Purifier (White and Blue), RO+UF, Copper+Zinc+Minerals, 5 stage Purification, 7L Tank, Suitable for Borewell, Tanker & Municipal Water What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the purifier's quality, fast hot water output, and design, though some report water wastage and dripping from the waste pipe. Why choose this product? Offers efficient purification, quick hot water, and sleek design, but potential water wastage may be a drawback for some buyers. The V-Guard Zenora offers 8-stage purification, including RO and UV, making it suitable for TDS levels up to 2000 ppm. It comes with a true one-year comprehensive warranty, covering filters, RO membrane, and electrical parts. The package includes two pre-emptive maintenance services and free installation, providing peace of mind for buyers. With a 7-litre storage tank and wall-mount design, it's ideal for most families. The purifier is designed for borewell, tanker, and municipal water. However, it lacks advanced mineralization or taste enhancement features, which some competitors offer. Comprehensive warranty and service 8-stage purification for high TDS No mineralizer or taste enhancer Basic design V-Guard Zenora RO UV Water Purifier,TDS up to 2000 ppm,8 Stage Purification, Free Service Benefits Worth Rs. 2450, PAN India Installation, 7 L, White What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers praise the purifier's performance, easy installation, and value, but several report major water leakage issues. Why choose this product? Ideal for small families with great taste and quick setup, though water leakage problems may concern some users. The Havells Fab Alkaline is a 10-stage purifier with RO, UV, and alkaline mineralization. Immuno Shield Technology improves pH to 8, adding minerals like calcium, magnesium, copper, and zinc. The revitalizer restructures water molecules for better hydration and absorption. The transparent tank and brass touch faucet enhance hygiene and aesthetics. Smart indicators show cartridge life and purification status. The purifier offers 3-way mounting and iProtect purification monitoring. With a 1-year warranty and unlimited service visits, it's a premium choice, though the price is higher than basic models. Alkaline mineralization and revitalizer Smart indicators and 3-way mounting Expensive Bulky for small kitchens Havells Fab Alkaline Water Purifier | RO+UV+Alkaline | Free Unlimited Service Visits for 1 Yr | Revitalizer+Copper+Zinc+Minerals | 10-Stage Purifier | 7L Tank | For Borewell, Tanker, Municipal Water What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers value the purifier's alkaline feature, effective salt water filtration, and appealing design, with easy installation and good post-installation support. Why choose this product? A stylish, efficient purifier with unique alkaline benefits and strong performance, making it a solid choice for those seeking value and reliability. The Livpure Glo Star Copper features 8-stage purification, including RO, UV, UF, mineralizer, and copper ionisation. In-tank UV sterilisation keeps stored water safe, even during power cuts. The mineralizer maintains essential minerals like magnesium for health benefits. LED indicators provide real-time status, and the 7-litre tank is suitable for families. The purifier is easy to install and maintain, with free installation included. However, the ABS plastic build may not be as durable as metal alternatives, and the copper feature may require periodic maintenance. Copper and mineralizer for added health benefits In-tank UV sterilisation Plastic build Copper feature maintenance needed Livpure Glo Star Copper Water Purifier | Free Standard Installation | 8 Stage Advanced Purification | RO+UV+UF Copper | Mineraliser | In Tank UV Sterilisation | 7L Storage Capacity | Black What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers praise the purifier's effectiveness, design, and low water wastage, though some report poor service and issues with long-term functionality. Why choose this product? A stylish, efficient purifier with good performance and taste, but inconsistent service and durability may be a concern for some buyers. The Faber Neutron Pro offers 10 litres of storage and multi-stage purification, including RO, UV, MAT, Copper Guard, and pH enhancer. It supports TDS levels up to 2500, making it ideal for areas with hard water. The smart energy-saving mode turns off power when the tank is full, saving electricity. The ABS food-grade plastic tank ensures safety, and the purifier comes with a 1-year warranty. The large size is suitable for big families, but the installation may require more space. It lacks smart indicators found in some competitors. Large capacity and high TDS support Copper guard and pH enhancement Bulky design No smart indicators Faber Neutron pro RO + UV + MAT +Copper Guard + PH Enhancer, 10lts, Suitable Upto 2500 TDS What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers like the improved water taste and quick installation, but report mixed service, build quality concerns, and water leakage from the RO pipe. Why choose this product? Delivers noticeable water quality improvement and fast setup, but leakage issues and inconsistent build may affect overall satisfaction. The Pureit Wave Pro Mineral offers 7-stage purification, including RO and UV, with a mineral enhancer cartridge for calcium and magnesium. It features efficient UV sterilization and Smartsense indicators that alert you before filter expiry, suspending water dispensing if not replaced. The 7-litre tank and high-speed purification up to 20LPH ensure you never run out of safe water. Certified by WQA, it's suitable for all water sources and offers up to 45% water saving. The premium design and 24x7 WhatsApp assistance add convenience. However, the price is higher than entry-level models, and some features may require regular maintenance. Mineral enhancer and smart indicators High-speed purification Higher price Maintenance reminders may be intrusive Pureit Wave Pro Mineral RO+UV LED in-tank | 7 stage Purification | 7 Litres Capicity | Up to 45% Water Saving | Suitable for Borewell, Tanker & Muncipal Water | Wall Mountable | Black What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers find the purifier effective and good in quality, with expert installation and consistent TDS levels, while also appreciating its water-saving feature. Why choose this product? An efficient, value-for-money purifier that saves water, ensures low TDS, and comes with skilled installation—ideal for health-conscious, budget-aware households. The Pureit Wave Plus Mineral offers 6-stage purification with RO and UV, plus a mineral enhancer for calcium and magnesium. Smartsense indicators alert you before filter expiry, ensuring continuous safe water. The 7-litre tank and 20LPH purification speed are suitable for families. It's WQA certified and supports all water sources. The design is sleek and wall-mountable, with a longer filter life of 6000 litres. However, it lacks some advanced features like in-tank UV sterilization and has a slightly higher power consumption. Mineral enhancer and long filter life Smartsense indicators for maintenance No in-tank UV sterilization Slightly higher power usage Pureit Wave Plus Mineral RO+UV | 6 stage Purification | 7 Litres Capacity | Up to 45% Water Saving | Suitable for Borewell, Tanker & Muncipal Water | Wall Mountable | Black What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers praise the purifier's effectiveness, good taste, easy installation, and professional service, along with its attractive design. Why choose this product? Offers fast purification, great value, and a stylish look, making it a practical and appealing choice for any kitchen. The Pureit Wave Prime Mineral offers 6-stage purification, including RO and MF, with a mineral enhancer for calcium and magnesium. It features an internal sediment filter that lasts twice as long, and Smartsense indicators for filter maintenance. The 7-litre tank and 20LPH purification speed meet family needs. It's WQA certified and suitable for borewell, tanker, and municipal water. The design is modern and wall-mountable. However, it lacks UV purification, which may be a concern for some users, and the filter replacement cost can add up over time. Mineral enhancer and long-lasting sediment filter Smartsense indicators No UV purification Filter replacement cost Pureit Wave Prime Mineral RO+MF | 6 stage Purification | 7 Litres Capacity | Up to 45% Water Saving | Suitable for Borewell, Tanker & Muncipal Water | Wall Mountable | Black What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the brand's reliability, easy installation, professional service, and good value, but have mixed opinions on water quality. Why choose this product? A trusted brand offering easy setup and great value, though water purification results may vary for some users. Budget RO purifiers effectively remove common contaminants like dissolved salts, bacteria, and heavy metals. While premium models may have additional features, many affordable purifiers still deliver safe, clean water suitable for daily household needs without compromising essential purification. Some budget-friendly RO purifiers may have slightly higher water wastage than premium units. However, many affordable models incorporate water-saving technologies, making them efficient enough for regular use while keeping wastage reasonably low and environmentally friendly. Maintenance usually involves changing filters every 6 to 12 months. Replacement filters for budget models are generally affordable and widely available. Regular servicing ensures the purifier works effectively and lasts longer without incurring high maintenance costs. Budget friendly RO water purifiers Purification Stages Storage Capacity Special Feature Similar articles for you Best budget water purifiers in 2025 with high filtration capacity and suitable for all water types Top 5 RO picks for this summer: Which gives you pure water with the lowest cost of maintenance Best water purifiers in 2024: Choose the top 10 solutions for clean and healthy drinking water RO vs UV water purifiers: Detailed comparison of features and performance with our top 10 picks It's a device that uses reverse osmosis to remove impurities and contaminants from water, making it safe to drink. Yes, many affordable RO purifiers offer excellent filtration and durability for everyday use. Filters usually need replacing every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and water quality. Some wastage occurs, but many budget models now include water-saving features to minimise waste. Yes, most RO purifiers, even budget-friendly ones, effectively remove heavy metals like lead and arsenic. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Mint
03-06-2025
- Business
- Mint
Recommended stocks to buy today: Top stock picks by market experts for 3 June
The Nifty slipped to an intraday low of 24,526 on Monday, 2 June, but recovered later in the day. Overall sentiment remained subdued with no strong buying interest. The Nifty 50 ended the session 34.10 points lower, down 0.14%, at 24,716.60. The BSE Sensex also remained weak throughout the day and ended almost flat at 81,373. The Bank Nifty outperformed the broader indices. Top three stocks recommended by Ankush Bajaj for 3 June Two stock recommendations for today, 3 June, by MarketSmith India Why it's recommended: Diverse product portfolio across high-growth sectors, strong legacy, and indigenous innovation. Key metrics: P/E: 17.02, 52-week high: ₹ 1,760.00, volume: ₹ 4.92 crore Technical analysis: Trendline breakout Risk factors: High dependency on agrochemical sector, raw material price volatility Buy at: ₹ 1,218.80 Target price: ₹ 1,450 in three months Stop loss: ₹ 1,110 Why it's recommended: Strong focus on underserved markets, diversified loan book. Key metrics: P/E: 24.51, 52-week high: ₹ 810, volume: ₹ 459.59 crore Technical analysis: bullish flag pattern breakout Risk factors: Geographical concentration risk, asset quality risks in MSME and vehicle finance Buy at: ₹ 718 Target price: ₹ 790 in three months Stop loss: ₹ 690 Stocks to trade today, recommended by Trade Brains Portal for 3 June Current price: ₹ 2,777 Target price: ₹3,380 in 16-24 months Stop-loss: ₹ ₹2,475 Why it's recommended: Founded in 1949, Dr. Lal PathLabs is one of India's leading diagnostic chains, offering a comprehensive range of pathology and radiology services. Its pan-India presence includes 12,365 pick-up points (PUPs), 6,607 patient service centers (PSCs), and 298 clinical laboratories as of FY25. The company serves patients and healthcare providers with over 3,100 pathology tests, 1,400+ radiology/cardiology tests, and 385 test panels, operating across more than 23 countries. Key operational strengths A logistics backbone supported by 280+ satellite labs and 36 NABL accreditations. Partnerships with 150+ hospitals/labs. A medical team of 250+ physicians and 1,800+ employees. Financial highlights (FY25) Revenue: ₹2,461 crore, up 10.5% YoY Ebitda: ₹696 crore, up 14.2%, with 28.3% margin PAT: ₹492 crore, up 35.9%, with a 20% net margin The management is guiding for 11–12% revenue growth in FY26, driven by test portfolio expansion and rising patient volumes. Ebitda margins are expected to hover around 27%, as the company invests in growth regions (especially South and West India), digital infrastructure, and talent acquisition. Growth strategy Continued focus on digital expansion, including an AI-based recommendation engine to improve patient experience. Increasing depth in high-growth segments such as genomics, autoimmune disorders, and reproductive diagnostics. Accelerated presence in Tier-3 and Tier-4 cities, particularly in North and East India; 18 new labs added in FY25. Ongoing integration of Suburban Diagnostics (acquired in 2021) to broaden reach and service offerings. Emphasis on volume-led growth by increasing both patient footfall and tests per patient. Actively exploring inorganic growth opportunities through M&A, leveraging its strong brand recall. Risk factors: The accuracy of diagnostic services is critical. Any lapses due to operational errors, poor maintenance, or mishandling could damage reputation and trust. The diagnostic space remains fragmented and highly competitive, with pricing pressure from numerous unorganized players offering similar services. Current price: ₹ 260 Target price: ₹ 310 in 16-24 months Stop-loss: ₹ 230 Why it's recommended: Established in 1991, Mahindra Finance is among India's leading non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), catering to a wide customer base across rural and semi-urban India. The company operates a robust pan-India network with over 1,365 branches across 27 states and 7 Union Territories, covering 516,000 villages and 8,000 towns, and serving 11 million customers through 6,000+ dealers and 10 OEM partnerships. Its diverse portfolio spans vehicle loans, SME financing, home finance, insurance broking, mutual funds, personal loans, and fixed deposits, with an AUM of $14.1 billion. Financial highlights (FY25) Total disbursements: ₹60,741 crore, up from ₹58,647 crore in FY24 Profit after tax: ₹2,261 crore, up 16% YoY Total income: ₹18,530 crore, up 16% YoY Loan book: ₹1,16,214 crore, up 17% YoY Interest income: ₹16,566 crore, up 15% YoY Interest expenses: ₹8,415 crore, up 21% YoY The company maintained healthy asset quality, supported by a tech-led approach to underwriting and collections. Credit cost stood at 1.3%, net interest margin at 6.5%, and gross stage 3 (GS3) assets at 3.7%. The company maintained healthy asset quality, supported by a tech-led approach to underwriting and collections. Credit cost stood at 1.3%, net interest margin at 6.5%, and gross stage 3 (GS3) assets at 3.7%. Growth drivers Mahindra Finance has focused on targeting resilient borrowers, digitizing processes via third-party API integrations, and using data analytics to drive collection efficiencies. The company's SME segment saw a 48% jump in disbursements, accounting for 5% of the total. Among vehicles: Passenger cars rose 8%, making up 41% of disbursements Tractor loans grew 3%, contributing 10% Pre-owned and three-wheeler financing accounted for 16% and 4%, respectively Commercial vehicle financing remained stable at 21% Other segments (farm implements, gensets, personal/consumer loans) grew 21%, contributing 2% Mahindra Finance's diversified portfolio and strong brand in rural markets position it well to benefit from increased rural spending and the uptick in auto and SME financing. Risk factors: Credit risk remains a concern, particularly in rural markets, where loan delinquencies could lead to higher NPAs and impact profitability. The company's dependence on multiple funding sources exposes it to liquidity risks, especially during times of financial market stress. Continued performance depends on effective risk management, prudent capital allocation, and strong administrative controls. Ankush Bajaj is a Sebi-registered research analyst. His registration number is INH000010441. MarketSmith India: Trade name: William O'Neil India Pvt. Ltd; Sebi-registered research analyst registration number: INH000015543 Trade Brains Portal is a stock analysis platform. Its trade name is Dailyraven Technologies Pvt. Ltd, and its Sebi-registered research analyst registration number is INH000015729. Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing. Registration granted by Sebi and certification from NISM in no way guarantees performance of the intermediary or provide any assurance of returns to investors. Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.
Mint
03-06-2025
- Business
- Mint
Stocks to trade today: Trade Brains Portal recommends two stocks for 3 June
Stock market today: Indian benchmark indices endured a highly volatile session on Monday, 2 June, but managed to pare early losses and close with modest declines, as late-session buying by bulls helped lift sentiment. The Nifty 50 ended down 0.14% at 24,716, recovering 189 points from the day's low. The Sensex also clawed back from early losses to finish 77 points, or 0.09%, lower at 81,373. Against this backdrop, Trade Brains Portal has picked two stocks—one from the healthcare sector and the other from the finance sector. Stocks to trade today, recommended by Trade Brains Portal for 3 June: Dr. Lal PathLabs Ltd Current price: ₹ 2,777 Target price: ₹3,380 in 16-24 months Stop-loss: ₹ ₹2,475 Why it's recommended: Founded in 1949, Dr. Lal PathLabs is one of India's leading diagnostic chains, offering a comprehensive range of pathology and radiology services. Its pan-India presence includes 12,365 pick-up points (PUPs), 6,607 patient service centers (PSCs), and 298 clinical laboratories as of FY25. The company serves patients and healthcare providers with over 3,100 pathology tests, 1,400+ radiology/cardiology tests, and 385 test panels, operating across more than 23 countries. Key operational strengths include: A logistics backbone supported by 280+ satellite labs and 36 NABL accreditations. Partnerships with 150+ hospitals/labs. A medical team of 250+ physicians and 1,800+ employees. Financial Highlights (FY25) Revenue: ₹2,461 crore, up 10.5% YoY Ebitda: ₹696 crore, up 14.2%, with 28.3% margin PAT: ₹492 crore, up 35.9%, with a 20% net margin The management is guiding for 11–12% revenue growth in FY26, driven by test portfolio expansion and rising patient volumes. Ebitda margins are expected to hover around 27%, as the company invests in growth regions (especially South and West India), digital infrastructure, and talent acquisition. Read this | Dr Lal PathLabs feels margin heat as it chases growth, long-term outlook remains strong Growth Strategy Continued focus on digital expansion, including an AI-based recommendation engine to improve patient experience. Increasing depth in high-growth segments such as genomics, autoimmune disorders, and reproductive diagnostics. Accelerated presence in Tier-3 and Tier-4 cities, particularly in North and East India; 18 new labs added in FY25. Ongoing integration of Suburban Diagnostics (acquired in 2021) to broaden reach and service offerings. Emphasis on volume-led growth by increasing both patient footfall and tests per patient. Actively exploring inorganic growth opportunities through M&A, leveraging its strong brand recall. Risk factors: The accuracy of diagnostic services is critical. Any lapses due to operational errors, poor maintenance, or mishandling could damage reputation and trust. The diagnostic space remains fragmented and highly competitive, with pricing pressure from numerous unorganized players offering similar services. Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Ltd Current price: ₹ 260 Target price: ₹ 310 in 16-24 months Stop-loss: ₹ 230 Why it's recommended: Established in 1991, Mahindra Finance is among India's leading non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), catering to a wide customer base across rural and semi-urban India. The company operates a robust pan-India network with over 1,365 branches across 27 states and 7 Union Territories, covering 516,000 villages and 8,000 towns, and serving 11 million customers through 6,000+ dealers and 10 OEM partnerships. Its diverse portfolio spans vehicle loans, SME financing, home finance, insurance broking, mutual funds, personal loans, and fixed deposits, with an AUM of $14.1 billion. Read this | Three multibagger penny stocks to watch out for in 2025 Financial Highlights (FY25) Total disbursements: ₹60,741 crore, up from ₹58,647 crore in FY24 Profit after tax: ₹2,261 crore, up 16% YoY Total income: ₹18,530 crore, up 16% YoY Loan book: ₹1,16,214 crore, up 17% YoY Interest income: ₹16,566 crore, up 15% YoY Interest expenses: ₹8,415 crore, up 21% YoY The company maintained healthy asset quality, supported by a tech-led approach to underwriting and collections. Credit cost stood at 1.3%, net interest margin at 6.5%, and gross stage 3 (GS3) assets at 3.7%. The company maintained healthy asset quality, supported by a tech-led approach to underwriting and collections. Credit cost stood at 1.3%, net interest margin at 6.5%, and gross stage 3 (GS3) assets at 3.7%. Growth Drivers Mahindra Finance has focused on targeting resilient borrowers, digitizing processes via third-party API integrations, and using data analytics to drive collection efficiencies. The company's SME segment saw a 48% jump in disbursements, accounting for 5% of the total. Among vehicles: Passenger cars rose 8%, making up 41% of disbursements Tractor loans grew 3%, contributing 10% Pre-owned and three-wheeler financing accounted for 16% and 4%, respectively Commercial vehicle financing remained stable at 21% Other segments (farm implements, gensets, personal/consumer loans) grew 21%, contributing 2% Mahindra Finance's diversified portfolio and strong brand in rural markets position it well to benefit from increased rural spending and the uptick in auto and SME financing. Risk factors: Credit risk remains a concern, particularly in rural markets, where loan delinquencies could lead to higher NPAs and impact profitability. The company's dependence on multiple funding sources exposes it to liquidity risks, especially during times of financial market stress. Continued performance depends on effective risk management, prudent capital allocation, and strong administrative controls. Market Recap: 2 June Indian benchmark indices ended a volatile session with minor losses on Monday. The Nifty 50 opened at 24,669.70, lower than Friday's close of 24,750.70, and slipped to an intraday low of 24,526.15 before recovering to close at 24,716.60, down 34.10 points or 0.14%. The index remained above its 50-, 100-, and 200-day EMAs, while breaking past the 20-day EMA. Its Relative Strength Index (RSI) stood at 54.70. The Sensex opened at 81,214.42, also below its previous close of 81,451.01, and dipped to a low of 80,654.26 before closing at 81,373.75, down 77.26 points or 0.09%. The Sensex also broke through its 20-day EMA and had an RSI reading of 54.69. Among sectoral indices, PSU banks led the gains on expectations of a possible rate cut at the upcoming RBI policy meeting. The Nifty PSU Bank index jumped 2.43% to 7,145.30, driven by strong moves in Indian Overseas Bank, which climbed 5.42% to ₹42, and Bank of Maharashtra, which rose 6.82% to ₹57.66. Realty stocks also saw strong buying, with the Nifty Realty index rising 2.18% to 970.05. Brigade Enterprises led the pack with a gain of 5.29%. On the other hand, technology stocks underperformed. The Nifty IT index fell 0.69% to 37,063, with names like Mphasis and Persistent Systems losing nearly 2% each. The Nifty Metal index also declined, slipping 0.48% to 9,148.95, after former US President Donald Trump announced plans to double steel import tariffs to 50%. JSW Steel and Lloyds Metals & Energy were among the notable losers, falling 1.25% and 2.76%, respectively. Also read | Amara Raja's March quarter margin is an irritant. More trouble ahead? Asian markets were largely in the red, mirroring the cautious sentiment. Hong Kong's Hang Seng index dropped 0.57% to 23,157.97, while China's Shenzhen Component lost 0.86% to close at 10,040.63. Japan's Nikkei 225 slid 1.3% to 37,470.67. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones in the US managed a modest gain of 0.13% to close at 42,270.07, even as tensions flared between the US and China. Beijing accused Washington of violating the Geneva tariff truce and threatened to raise retaliatory tariffs on US steel and aluminium imports to 50%. Trade Brains Portal is a stock analysis platform. Its trade name is Dailyraven Technologies Pvt. Ltd, and its Sebi-registered research analyst registration number is INH000015729. Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing. Registration granted by Sebi and certification from NISM in no way guarantee performance of the intermediary or provide any assurance of returns to investors. Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.
Fashion Value Chain
28-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Wizely App: Bridging Tradition and Technology with Digital Gold
Gold has been a significant part of Indian tradition and is considered a prized investment with high liquidity. Today, one may find that investing in physical gold is no longer a convenient option with storage issues, risk of theft, and additional fees like making charges. Thats where digital gold steps in. Wizely, a digital gold app, simplifies buying and selling even further. A recent survey showed that 75% of the people under 35 years of age who are looking to invest in gold trust digital gold. The primary reason why millennials and tech-savvy investors prefer to buy digital gold is due to the flexibility and convenience it offers. Wizely's features have been built on the same two tenets, giving consumers the freedom and accessibility to invest in this precious metal anytime and from anywhere. Benefits of Choosing Digital Over Physical Gold Suitable for both experienced and new investors, here are some benefits of investing in digital gold: It is a comparatively reliable and secure investment during adverse market conditions. It offers a safe choice to preserve wealth when the economy is unstable. Digital gold is safely stored in insured vaults, depending on the service provider, with no need for consumers to worry about locker fees or insurance. This removes the hassles of physical storage and protection. While physical gold may involve fees or additional expenses, no such charges are involved in the purchase of digital gold. Digital gold allows investors to start investing without saving up to a huge amount. Fractional investing allows buyers to get started on their journey with ease. The purity of the gold is assured by the platform, which gives investors certifications to eliminate worries. Reputed platforms offer live gold prices and updates, giving investors a clear insight into their investments value over time. How Wizely Makes Gold Investments Simple, Secure, and Accessible Wizely allows both new and experienced consumers to invest in digital gold with ease. Key reasons to choose Wizely include the following:â Wizely allows users to start their investment journey with just â¹100, making it more inclusive. This low entry barrier makes it easy for investors to adopt regular saving habits, too. Investments through Wizely are made in 99.99% pure 24K digital gold certified by NABL. An equal amount of physical gold is secured in vaults controlled by specialised partners. Wizely offers instant updates on gold prices so that users can track their investments' value in real-time. The app also allows investors to buy digital gold in small or large amounts as per their choice, giving them complete control. Compared to other gold investments, users do not incur extra expenses like making charges or storage costs with Wizely. It ensures all money is invested in pure gold, maximising one's returns. It provides a hassle-free digital experience where the user can complete the entire process online without any physical paperwork or documentation. There is no need for a Demat account, allowing even an amateur investor to start the process of building wealth. Investors purchase gold from the trusted organisation SafeGold on Wizely, which is stored with high-security lockers by specialists such as Brinks and Vistra. All these features enable investors to save smartly and connect to the tradition of investing in gold while benefiting from technology. With over 1 million downloads and a 4-star rating on the Google Play Store, Wizely is fast gaining popularity. Getting Started with Digital Gold Investments on Wizely To get going with digital gold investments, users need to download the app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. Then follow these steps: Enter the mobile number and email, followed by OTP verification Set a secure PIN for app access Enter the name as per the PAN card details Go to the home screen and select the 'Buy Gold' option Choose an investment amount, starting from Rs. 100, or the weight of gold in grams Complete the KYC process by providing the PAN number Finish the payment (with the gold rate locked for 7 minutes during the transaction) In a rapidly digitised world, putting your savings into gold has become easier, safer, and more accessible than ever. The Wizely digital gold app online unites the traditional sheen of gold with the convenience of technology. It provides potential investors with a smarter option to gradually accumulate wealth over time. With real-time pricing data, safe gold storage, and the flexibility to invest just Rs. 100, this app simplifies a timeless investment with tech-savvy benefits. To get started, one can download the Wizely App and take a step towards financial wellness.
