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India can avert power shortages with stronger AC efficiency standards: Study


The study conducted by India Energy and Climate Center (IECC) highlights that India adds 10 to 15 million new ACs annually, with another 130 to 150 million expected over the next decade. A scene outside an apartment’s windows in Visakhapatnam. File phto

The study conducted by India Energy and Climate Center (IECC) highlights that India adds 10 to 15 million new ACs annually, with another 130 to 150 million expected over the next decade. A scene outside an apartment’s windows in Visakhapatnam. File phto
| Photo Credit: The Hindu

India can avoid severe power shortages and save consumers up to ₹2.2 lakh crore ($26 billion) by doubling the energy efficiency of room air conditioners (ACs) over the next decade, according to a new study at University of California (UC) Berkeley.

Also read:Centre pushes for energy-efficient cooling as power demand soars

The study conducted by India Energy and Climate Center (IECC) highlights that India adds 10 to 15 million new ACs annually, with another 130 to 150 million expected over the next decade.

“The country can avoid severe power shortages and save consumers up to Rs 2.2 lakh crore ($26 billion) by doubling the energy efficiency of room air conditioners (ACs) over the next decade. Without policy intervention, ACs alone could drive 120 GW of peak power demand by 2030 and 180 GW by 2035–nearly 30% of projected totals,” the study shows.

Call to update MSEPs

The report recommends updating India’s Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS), beginning with a 2027 revision that raises the 1-star label to ISEER 5.0 equivalent to today’s 5-star level–and tightening standards every three years.

This alone could avoid 10 GW of shortages by 2028, 23 GW by 2030, and 60 GW by 2035–equivalent to 120 large power plants.”This growth is outpacing India’s power supply and could lead to serious electricity shortages as early as 2026,” said Nikit Abhyankar, the study’s lead author and UC Berkeley faculty.

“ACs are becoming one of the biggest drivers of peak demand, and without intervention, we risk blackouts or costly emergency fixes. But with smart policy, we can turn this into a win for consumers, manufacturers, and the grid,” he added.

Lower EB bills

Even with slightly higher upfront prices, the study asserted that efficient ACs could deliver net savings of ₹66,000 to 2,25,000 crore ($8-26 billion) by 2035–paying for themselves within 2-3 years through lower electricity bills.”

A common concern with efficient ACs is that they might be more expensive, ” said Amol Phadke, co-author and UC Berkeley faculty.

“But our analysis of global markets–including India–shows that efficiency is not the main factor driving retail prices. With the right policy support, higher efficiency often goes hand in hand with lower costs, thanks to economies of scale, better supply chains, and competitive markets,” he mentioned.

The market is already adapting. The findings show that over 600 AC models, 20 percent of all offerings, already exceed India’s top efficiency threshold, the 5-star level, with many produced by domestic manufacturers.

“This is a chance for Indian manufacturers to lead,” said Jose Dominguez, co-author and IECC researcher.The report also calls for updating AC test procedures to better reflect India’s humid climate, where comfort depends not just on cooling but on moisture removal.

“In places like Mumbai or Chennai, dryness is as important as coolness,” said Nihar Shah, co-author and IECC lead on cooling. “ACs that remove moisture from the air can keep people comfortable while using only half as much electricity. Efficient dehumidification is a critical challenge for industry,” he added.



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Bank Holidays April 2025: Banks closed on several days in April – check state-wise list


Bank Holidays April 2025: Banks closed on several days in April - check state-wise list

April 2025 Bank Holidays List: The RBI issues an annual state-specific calendar detailing official bank holidays throughout the year. These holidays differ across states due to various national, regional and religious celebrations observed in India.
Multiple bank holidays are scheduled for April 2025 across various states. These include celebrations of Mahavir Jayanti, Ambedkar Jayanti, Good Friday, Bohag Bihu, Basava Jayanti and Akshaya Tritiya. A nationwide bank holiday is observed on April 1 for annual account finalisation.

April 2025 Bank Holidays List

A comprehensive state-by-state breakdown of bank holidays follows, enabling proper planning of banking activities.
The holiday list includes significant observances such as the annual bank closing for account finalization and Sarhul, along with commemorations like Babu Jagjivan Ram’s Birthday and Mahavir Jayanti. It also marks the birth anniversaries of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar and Bhagwan Shri Parshuram. Regional and cultural celebrations such as Vishu, Biju, Buisu Festival, Maha Vishuva Sankranti, Tamil New Year’s Day, Bohag Bihu, Cheiraoba, Bengali New Year’s Day, and Himachal Day are included. Additionally, religious and traditional festivals like Good Friday, Garia Puja, Basava Jayanti, and Akshaya Tritiya are observed.

April 2025 1 5 10 14 15 16 18 21 29 30
Agartala
Ahmedabad
Aizawl
Belapur
Bengaluru
Bhopal
Bhubaneswar
Chandigarh
Chennai
Dehradun
Gangtok
Guwahati
Hyderabad – Andhra Pradesh
Hyderabad – Telangana
Imphal
Itanagar
Jaipur
Jammu
Kanpur
Kochi
Kohima
Kolkata
Lucknow
Mumbai
Nagpur
New Delhi
Panaji
Patna
Raipur
Ranchi ••
Shillong
Shimla
Srinagar
Thiruvananthapuram

Source: RBI





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Japan to give crypto assets legal status as financial products: Report


As part of the move, crypto assets will be put under insider trading restrictions [File]

As part of the move, crypto assets will be put under insider trading restrictions [File]
| Photo Credit: REUTERS

Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) plans to revise the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act to give crypto assets a legal status as financial products, the Nikkei business daily said on Sunday, without citing sources.

As part of the move, crypto assets will be put under insider trading restrictions that prohibit buying and selling based on undisclosed internal information, the Nikkei said.

The FSA will submit a bill to parliament as early as 2026 to amend the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act, the paper said.



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Stock markets outlook: Investors to track reciprocal tariffs, global trends and FII activity in holiday-shortened week


Stock markets outlook: Investors to track reciprocal tariffs, global trends and FII activity in holiday-shortened week

Analysts expect equity markets to be influenced by the implications of the April 2 reciprocal tariffs on global trade, along with trends in overseas markets and foreign institutional investor (FII) trading activity. The US has threatened to impose reciprocal tariffs on key trading partners, including India, which could significantly affect investor sentiment.
“All eyes are now on Trump’s April 2 tariff announcement,” Prashanth Tapse, Senior VP (Research), Mehta Equities Ltd told PTI.
Key economic indicators to watch
With markets closed on Monday for Eid-Ul-Fitr, investors will shift focus to global developments in the absence of major domestic triggers. PMI data for manufacturing and services sectors will be closely monitored, along with the rupee-dollar trend and global oil benchmark Brent crude movements.
“With the upcoming holiday-shortened week, market participants will turn their attention to global developments in the absence of major domestic triggers. The implementation of reciprocal tariffs from April 2 and its broader implications on global trade will be closely monitored,” said Ajit Mishra, SVP, Research, Religare Broking Ltd.
FII flows and quarterly earnings outlook
The trend of FIIs moving from sustained selling to modest buying continued with increased intensity in the week ending March 28. Analysts believe that if the April 2 tariffs are not severe, the market rally may continue.
“Going forward, the trend in FII flows will depend mainly on Trump’s reciprocal tariffs expected on April 2nd. If the tariffs are not severe, the rally may continue,” said V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Investments Limited.
Investors will also track quarterly earnings reports for insights into corporate performance.
Market performance last week
Last week, the BSE benchmark Sensex climbed 509.41 points (0.66%), and the NSE Nifty rose 168.95 points (0.72%). In FY 2024-25, the Sensex surged 3,763.57 points (5.10%), and the Nifty gained 1,192.45 points (5.34%). The market cap of BSE-listed firms rose to ₹4,12,87,646.50 crore (USD 4.82 trillion).
Disclaimer: The opinions, analyses and recommendations expressed herein are those of brokerage and do not reflect the views of The Times of India. Always consult with a qualified investment advisor or financial planner before making any investment decisions.





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IndiGo slapped with Rs 944 crore penalty by income tax department; airline vows to challenge in court


IndiGo slapped with Rs 944 crore penalty by income tax department; airline vows to challenge in court

NEW DELHI: InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo, has been issued a penalty of Rs 944.20 crore by the Income Tax Department for the assessment year 2021-22. The airline, however, has rejected the order, calling it “erroneous and frivolous,” and has vowed to challenge it through legal means.
IndiGo to challenge tax order
The penalty order was received on Saturday, August 24, and IndiGo disclosed the development in a regulatory filing on Sunday. According to the airline, the Income Tax Authority’s assessment unit passed the order under Section 143(3) of the Income Tax Act, which deals with scrutiny assessments. However, IndiGo maintains that the order is based on a misunderstanding.
“The order has been passed on the basis of an erroneous understanding that appeal filed by the company before the Commissioner of Income Tax (Appeals) (CIT(A)) against the assessment order under Section 143(3) has been dismissed, whereas the same is still alive and pending adjudication,” IndiGo stated in its filing.
Legal action in the pipeline
IndiGo has reiterated that it will contest the order and pursue all available legal remedies. “The company strongly believes that the order passed by the Income Tax Authority is not in accordance with law and is erroneous and frivolous. The company will contest the same and shall take appropriate legal remedies against the order,” the airline said in an official statement issued on Sunday evening.
No immediate impact on operations
Despite the significant penalty amount, IndiGo assured stakeholders that the order does not pose an immediate threat to its business. “The order does not have any significant impact on financials, operations, or other activities of the company,” the airline stated.
Background and industry implications
IndiGo, India’s largest airline by market share, has been a dominant force in the aviation sector. However, taxation and compliance issues have often put airlines under scrutiny. Experts believe that such tax disputes are not uncommon in the industry, and companies frequently challenge these assessments through appellate mechanisms.
Financial analysts suggest that while the penalty is sizable, IndiGo’s strong balance sheet should cushion any immediate financial strain. “IndiGo is in a solid financial position, and while this is a large amount, the company’s decision to contest the order is a standard response in such cases,” said a senior tax consultant.





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Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ for tariffs: What it means for businesses and economy


Trump’s 'Liberation Day' for tariffs: What it means for businesses and economy
Donald Trump (File photo -AP)

US President Donald Trump has dubbed this Wednesday as “Liberation Day,” promising to unveil a new round of tariffs aimed at freeing the United States from reliance on foreign goods. While the details remain vague, the stakes are high for American families, businesses, and the global economy.
What’s in store with Trump’s new tariffs?
Trump plans to impose import taxes, including “reciprocal” tariffs that match rates imposed by other countries and account for subsidies. Target nations include the European Union, South Korea, Brazil, and India, according to new agency AP.
“This is the beginning of Liberation Day in America,” Trump announced. “We’re going to charge countries for doing business here and taking our jobs, our wealth, and a lot more.”
Trump’s tariffs could cover a wide range of products, including:

  • Automobiles: A 25% tax on foreign cars, with Trump arguing it’ll boost US auto sales.
  • Pharmaceuticals, Copper, and Lumber: Proposed tariffs targeting specific industries.
  • Oil from Venezuela: A 25% tariff, despite the US also importing Venezuelan oil.
  • China: An extra 20% tax on goods due to fentanyl production concerns.
  • Canada and Mexico: Separate tariffs aimed at curbing drug smuggling and illegal immigration.

While Trump claims these tariffs will spur domestic investments, he also hints at potential negotiations to ease the taxes once agreements are reached.
What it means for US economy
Most economists warn that these tariffs could hurt the US economy:

  • Higher prices: Consumers may face increased costs for cars, groceries, housing, and more.
  • Sluggish growth: Corporate profits could decline, slowing economic expansion.
  • Job market pressure: While Trump suggests tariffs will create jobs, the reality may be job losses in industries reliant on global supply chains.

Economist Art Laffer estimates the auto tariffs could add $4,711 to the cost of each vehicle. Goldman Sachs predicts US economic growth will slow to just 0.6% this quarter, down from 2.4% at the end of last year.
Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther warned that tariffs could raise median home costs by $21,000, making affordability a bigger issue.
Some officials argue tariffs will be a one-time price adjustment, but others fear retaliation from other countries could trigger an inflationary spiral.
Global reactions: allies and adversaries push back
The international community has reacted strongly:

  • Canada: Prime Minister Mark Carney criticized the tariffs, calling them a “break” in US-Canada relations.
  • France: President Emmanuel Macron called the tariffs “not coherent,” warning they would harm global value chains and create inflation.
  • Mexico: President Claudia Sheinbaum has taken a more measured stance, focusing on protecting jobs.
  • China: The government condemned the tariffs, emphasizing that “there are no winners in trade wars.”

Why call it “Liberation Day”?
Trump’s use of the term isn’t new. He previously referred to:

  • November 5, 2024: The presidential election day, calling it “Liberation Day.”
  • January 20, 2025: His inauguration, labelling it as a day of national redemption.

For Trump, tariffs are not just economic tools—they represent a symbolic fight for America’s sovereignty and prosperity.
However, critics argue that the consequences of this “Liberation Day” will likely include economic turmoil, higher consumer costs, and strained international relations.
“I don’t see anything positive about Liberation Day,” said Phillip Braun, a finance professor at Northwestern University. “It’s going to hurt the US economy, and other countries will retaliate.”





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Halidram’s inks strategic investment pact with Singapore-based Temasek


Halidram's inks strategic investment pact with Singapore-based Temasek

Haldiram‘s, India’s largest packed snacks and sweets company, has officially entered into a strategic investment agreement with Singapore-based global investment firm Temasek. Under the deal, Temasek will acquire an equity stake from Haldiram’s existing shareholders, marking a significant milestone for the Indian packed food industry.
Major investment in India’s food sector
While the deal’s valuation has not been officially disclosed, industry sources reveal that Temasek is acquiring a 10% minority stake in Haldiram Snacks Food at a valuation of USD 10 billion (approximately Rs 85,000 crore). This is considered the largest valuation in India’s packaged food sector to date.
“Haldirams, the renowned Indian multinational snacks and sweets company, has entered an agreement with Singapore-headquartered global investment firm Temasek. The agreement will see Temasek acquire an equity stake from the existing shareholders of Haldirams,” Haldiram’s said in a statement reported by news agency PTI.
“This transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close soon,” the statement said.
Expanding global footprint
The investment will support Haldiram’s expansion plans both domestically and internationally, helping the company strengthen its presence in the competitive global snacks market.
A Haldiram’s spokesperson expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Temasek as an investor and partner in Haldiram. We look forward to working with them to harness the value they bring from their experience in the consumer space to accelerate our growth and strengthen our ability to meet evolving consumer demands.”
PwC’s investment banking team acted as the exclusive financial advisor for the transaction.
Haldiram’s growth journey
Haldiram’s, founded in 1937 in Bikaner, Rajasthan, as a retail sweets and namkeen shop by Ganga Bhishen Agarwal, has grown into a global brand, with products sold in over 80 countries.
In 2022, the packaged snacks businesses of Delhi-based Haldiram’s Snacks and Nagpur-based Haldiram’s Foods International were demerged and merged into a single entity named Haldiram Snacks Food.
Reports also suggest that Haldiram’s promoters may divest an additional 6% stake in Alpha Wave Global. Several private equity firms, including Blackstone, Alpha Wave Global, and a Bain Capital-led consortium, were competing to acquire a stake in the company.





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Opposition Rubbishes NDA Budget With "Kursi Bachao" Tag



The first budget of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term has been received with disdain by the newly-strengthened Opposition. While the Congress has been sharp in its criticism, its INDIA bloc allies have been unanimous that this is a “kursi bachao (save the chair)” budget. The term has been coined by Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav concurred. But his grouse lay elsewhere. 

“It is understandable that they have to save their government and gave special packages to Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, but a state like Uttar Pradesh that gives the country its prime ministers, is there anything for the farmers here?” Mr Yadav told reporters today.   

“This is their 11th budget and it is strange that people are still alive. The problems that have been there before — inflation, unemployment (are still there). If we look at Uttar Pradesh, what is the status of investment? They talk about big numbers, but none of their big projects are finished,” he added. 

Mr Yadav was also scathing about the government’s big ticket skilling programme in collaboration with the private sector. 

“They created unemployment for 10 years. And they hope to solve it now, that too with jobs in bits and pieces. The country’s youth need stable jobs. They are offering a paltry one-year training,” he said.  

Ms Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress was scathing. Senior party leader Kalyan Banerjee took a swipe at the special packages for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, calling it “Kursi bachao budget”.

“They have presented the budget for allies which will save their seats. This budget is to keep their NDA partners Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu happy,” he said. 

The “Kursi Bachao” epithet was also used by Rahul Gandhi.

The Congress has also alleged that the government’s flagship skilling announcement has been lifted straight its manifesto. Party chief Mallikarjun Kharge has called it a “nakalchi (copy-paste)” budget. 

“I am glad to know that the Hon’ble FM has read the Congress Manifesto LS 2024 after the election results. I am happy she has virtually adopted the Employment-linked incentive (ELI) outlined on page 30 of the Congress Manifesto… I wish the FM had copied some other ideas in the Congress Manifesto. I shall shortly list the missed opportunities,” posted senior party leader P Chidambaram on X, formerly Twitter.

Trinamool’s Kalyan Banerjee He also pointed out that there has been nothing for Bengal, where the BJP has lost ground. “This budget is not for India. They have not given anything to Bengal. They can’t tolerate Bengalis. The BJP will be wiped out of Bengal,” he added.

Former Bihar Chief Minister and RJD leader Rabdi Devi said the Rs 26,000-crore support allocated to Bihar for the development of crucial projects including road connectivity and infrastructure, is a “jhunjhuna” (child’s rattle). 

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced huge packages for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, that includes a boost in infrastructure and special financial support.





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Insights From 14th Global Investment Immigration Summit


Charting Global Immigration Pathways: Insights From 14th Global Investment Immigration Summit

The 14th Global Investment Immigration Summit at the Shangri-la Hotel in Delhi

The 14th Global Investment Immigration Summit at the Shangri-la Hotel in New Delhi on February 10, 2024 marked a significant milestone in India’s quest for international opportunities. The event witnessed a remarkable surge in attendees, indicative of the growing interest among Indian investors and High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs) in exploring avenues abroad.

With a keen focus on various immigration programs such as the EB-5 Visa, Portugal Golden Visa, UK Business Immigration, and Europe Golden Visa, the summit served as a comprehensive platform for industry professionals and aspiring immigrants alike.

Organized by BLS Global and Acquest Advisors (knowledge partner) with NDTV as the media partner, the summit brought together a diverse array of immigration experts from around the world. Representatives from countries like the US, UK, Portugal, Greece, and more converged in New Delhi to share insights and expertise with over 150 HNIs and industry professionals in attendance.

The opening ceremony of the summit was graced by Sam Hussain, Director of BLS Global, and Paresh Karia, CEO Acquest Advisors who extended a warm welcome to all the distinguished guests, speakers, and partners.

Shri Raj Kumar Sharma, Founder, President, and CEO of the Indo Latin American Chamber of Commerce, delivered the inaugural address, shedding light on the myriad opportunities available to Indian business owners and HNIs on the global stage. Mr Sharma’s emphasis on the importance of seeking professional guidance in navigating the complex immigration landscape struck a chord with the audience, laying the foundation for the insightful discussions that followed.

One of the key highlights of the summit was the presentation by Paresh Karia, CEO of Acquest Advisors. With years of experience in banking, investment advisory, real estate, and immigration, Mr Karia brought a wealth of knowledge to the table. His presentation provided a comprehensive overview of the latest immigration trends, focusing on the growing interest among Indian HNIs in residency and citizenship by investment options such as the US EB-5 Visa, Portugal Golden Visa, and Greece Golden Visa. Mr Karia’s insights resonated with the audience, sparking discussions and inquiries into the various opportunities available abroad.

A power-packed session on the US EB-5 Visa program, moderated by Ambika Singh, a Senior Journalist with NDTV, captured the attention of attendees. Leading professionals from the US and India engaged in insightful discussions, dissecting the legal and financial intricacies of the EB-5 program and addressing queries from the audience. The session provided valuable insights into the highly popular US Green Card by Investment program, its requirements, benefits, and potential pitfalls, empowering attendees to make informed decisions about their immigration goals.

The summit also featured presentations highlighting investment opportunities in Europe, with a particular focus on countries like Portugal and Greece.

Post-lunch sessions delved into the technical aspects of remitting funds overseas under schemes like the Liberalised Remittance Scheme, as well as recent regulatory changes affecting such remittances. The session, led by Paresh Karia, featured renowned bankers, chartered accountants, and immigration experts who imparted valuable insights and practical guidance on navigating the intricate terrain of international finance and immigration effectively.

A panel discussion on the recent changes in the UK’s Immigration programmes rounded off the event, providing attendees with valuable insights into the opportunities available to entrepreneurs and businesses seeking immigration to the UK.

The event also witnessed the signing of a MoU between BLS Global and Latin American Chamber of commerce BLS Global. Based out of the UK, BLS Global has been a pioneer in organising immigration events offering bespoke residency and citizenship solutions across India and Middle East for the past 15 years.

Throughout the summit, Acquest Advisors played a pivotal role as the knowledge partner, providing invaluable expertise and guidance to attendees. Specialising in business immigration and residency by investment programmes offered by American and European governments, Acquest Advisors offers tailor-made solutions to HNIs, business owners, and startup entrepreneurs.

Paresh Karia, CEO of Acquest Advisors, is at the forefront of the firm’s efforts to provide world-class immigration services to its clients. With over two decades of experience across banking, investment advisory, real estate, and immigration, Mr Karia brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. A thought leader in the field, Mr Karia is a regular contributor to leading publications and media outlets, where he shares his insights and expertise on immigration and investment trends.

In conclusion, the 14th Global Investment Immigration Summit served as a valuable platform for Indian investors and HNIs to explore opportunities abroad and gain insights into the latest immigration trends and programs. With valuable insights from BLS Global and Acquest Advisors, attendees left the summit equipped with the knowledge and expertise they need to pursue their immigration goals with confidence and success.

Disclaimer: The above sponsored content is non-editorial and has been sourced from a third party. NDTV does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the above content, nor is responsible for it in any manner whatsoever.



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Why Your Business Needs A Crisis Management Plan: Safeguarding Your Brand’s Future


Why Your Business Needs A Crisis Management Plan: Safeguarding Your Brand's Future

Recognizing the significance of preparedness, this article delves into the necessity of having a crisis management plan to protect and future-proof your brand. It’s not just about averting potential disasters; it’s about strategically navigating through them to maintain trust and integrity with your audience. The article aims to unfold the layers of crisis management, from understanding what constitutes a crisis to how a digital PR agency like Branding Experts helps develop a robust strategy that ensures your brand can withstand the storms. It will guide you through identifying potential vulnerabilities within your business and crafting a response plan that addresses immediate concerns and lays the groundwork for long-term recovery and resilience.

On the one hand, digital media offers a direct line to your audience for swift communication; on the other, they can escalate a crisis if not managed carefully. The article will provide strategies for effectively leveraging these tools to your advantage, ensuring your message is clear, concise, and received as intended.

Learning from what went right or wrong is crucial for strengthening your approach to future challenges. By fostering a continuous improvement and adaptability culture, your business can survive and thrive in adversity.

This article is a comprehensive guide for any business leader or communication professional seeking to safeguard their brand’s future. It underscores the necessity of anticipation, preparation, and adaptation in today’s ever-evolving business landscape.

Crisis Communication Through Turbulence Crisis communication stands at the intersection of public relations and emergency management, focusing on protecting and recovering a brand’s reputation during challenging times. This discipline involves strategic communication before, during, and after a crisis, aiming to maintain transparency and trust with stakeholders.

Types of Crisis Communication

Reactive Communication: Activated post-crisis, aiming for damage control and immediate response.

Proactive Communication: Involves preparing for potential crises through risk assessment and pre-crisis planning.

Interactive Communication: Engages stakeholders directly, mainly through digital platforms, facilitating real-time dialogue.

The Imperative of a Crisis Management Plan

A crisis management plan guides emergencies, detailing risk identification, response strategies, and communication protocols. It’s essential for quick, informed decision-making that helps preserve a brand’s integrity and public confidence.

Digital Media’s Double-Edged Sword

Digital platforms can exponentially amplify your message but also pose risks of misinformation. Proficiency in digital communication is crucial for controlling narratives and engaging effectively with the audience.

Benefits of Crisis Preparedness

Beyond mitigating immediate damage, a comprehensive crisis plan enhances stakeholder trust, demonstrates a commitment to responsibility, and prepares your team for efficient crisis response. It’s a testament to a brand’s resilience and foresight.

Leveraging PR Expertise

PR agencies offer invaluable expertise for brands seeking to reinforce their crisis readiness. They can tailor crisis management strategies to your brand’s unique needs, leveraging extensive experience and resources to ensure your brand survives and thrives in adversity. Crisis communication is an essential facet of a well-rounded public relations strategy. It turns challenges into opportunities for strengthening stakeholder relationships and brand loyalty. With strategic preparation and the proper support, any brand can weather the storms of crisis and emerge more robust and resilient.

The Digital Arena: A New Battlefield for PR

The digital landscape presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for crisis management. Social media platforms, blogs, and online forums can amplify a minor issue into a significant crisis in hours. PR experts understand this dynamic terrain and possess the agility and strategies to maneuver through it effectively. They monitor digital channels for potential threats, craft messages that resonate with the online community, and engage directly with audiences to maintain narrative control.

Swift and Strategic Communication

In the throes of a digital crisis, time is of the essence. PR professionals excel in rapid response, crafting clear, concise, and empathetic communications that address the issue head-on. They recognize the importance of timing and tone, ensuring that messages reach their target audience quickly and strike the right chord. By doing so, they prevent misinformation from spreading and quell potential uproar before it escalates. Engaging with Transparency and Authenticity Transparency is the cornerstone of effective digital crisis management. PR experts advise brands to communicate openly about the crisis, the steps to address it, and what it means for their stakeholders. This openness fosters trust and credibility, even in turbulent times. Authenticity, too, is non-negotiable. Audiences can spot insincerity from miles away, so messages must be genuine and reflect the brand’s values.

Building and Leveraging Digital Relationships

Relationships are the currency of the digital world. PR professionals build and nurture relationships with influencers, bloggers, and online communities long before a crisis hits. These relationships become invaluable during a crisis, providing channels to disseminate accurate information and counteract negative sentiment. Moreover, these allies can become advocates, amplifying positive messages and supporting the brand’s recovery efforts.

Analyzing and Adapting

Post-crisis analysis is an essential component of digital crisis management. PR teams dissect the crisis and the response to identify what worked, what didn’t, and why. This reflection is crucial for refining strategies and preparing more effectively for future challenges. The digital landscape is ever-evolving, and so must be the strategies employed to manage crises within it.

Why even have a crisis management plan?

Having a crisis management plan isn’t just wise; it’s indispensable. This strategic safeguard blueprint equips businesses to confront crises head-on, minimizing fallout and steering the brand toward stability. Let’s delve into why crafting a crisis management plan is non-negotiable for modern businesses:

Preparedness Equals Resilience

First off, preparedness breeds resilience. When panic tends to cloud judgment in the eye of the storm, a crisis management plan acts as a beacon, guiding the decision-making process. It ensures that every action taken is measured, calculated, and aligned with the brand’s long-term vision, preventing knee-jerk reactions that could exacerbate the situation.

Speed is of the Essence

Speed in crisis response can make or break a brand’s reputation. With a plan in place, businesses can respond swiftly and effectively, outpacing rumors and misinformation that flourish without official communication. This rapid response capability is crucial in retaining stakeholder trust and confidence.

Consistency in Communication

A crisis management plan enforces consistency in messaging. It ensures that all communications, whether to employees, customers, or the media, resonate with the same tone and message. This consistency is vital in maintaining a clear and united brand voice, even when navigating turbulent waters.

Mitigating Financial Impact

The financial repercussions of a crisis can be devastating. A well-structured plan includes strategies to mitigate these impacts, safeguarding the company’s bottom line. By addressing the situation efficiently, businesses can reduce the duration of the disruption and expedite recovery, thereby limiting financial strain.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

In a crisis, legal and regulatory implications often come into play. A crisis management plan anticipates these considerations, incorporating compliance measures to avoid legal pitfalls. This proactive approach is essential in navigating the complex web of regulations that businesses operate within.

Protecting Brand Equity

Painstakingly built over the years, brand equity can erode in a matter of days if a crisis is mishandled. A crisis management plan prioritizes the protection of this intangible asset. By managing the situation effectively, businesses can preserve and enhance their brand’s value and reputation.

Learning and Evolution

Finally, a crisis management plan is not static; it’s a living document that evolves. Post-crisis analysis provides invaluable insights, allowing businesses to refine and improve their strategies. This cycle of learning and adaptation is crucial for staying ahead of potential threats in an ever-changing business environment. Crisis management is a critical asset that prepares businesses to face unexpected challenges with confidence, agility, and strategic foresight. In a world where the only constant is change, such preparedness is the cornerstone of enduring success and resilience.

The latest in handling digital crisis

By incorporating these advanced and technical strategies into your digital crisis management approach, organizations can enhance their resilience and response capabilities, mitigating risks effectively in today’s ever-evolving digital landscape.

  1. Advanced Threat Intelligence: Employ cutting-edge threat intelligence solutions using AI-ML algorithms to identify potential digital threats proactively. This allows for real-time monitoring of emerging issues and vulnerabilities.
  2. Incident Response Automation: Implement incident response automation tools to streamline a digital crisis’s identification, assessment, and initial response phases. These tools can expedite decision-making processes and reduce response times significantly.
  3. Predictive Analytics: Utilize models that analyze historical data to forecast potential crisis scenarios. Organizations can prepare more effectively by identifying patterns and trends and strategically allocating resources.
  4. Blockchain Verification: When data integrity is crucial, employ blockchain technology to verify and secure digital communications. This ensures the authenticity and immutability of crisis-related information.
  5. Quantitative Risk Assessment: Develop a quantitative risk assessment framework that assigns numerical values to potential digital threats. By quantifying risks, organizations can prioritize their response efforts based on the severity and possible impact.
  6. Natural Language Processing (NLP): Implement advanced NLP algorithms for sentiment analysis and language processing. This enables organizations to gauge public sentiment more accurately and adapt their responses accordingly.
  7. Zero-Day Vulnerability Monitoring: Stay ahead of cyber threats by actively monitoring for zero-day vulnerabilities. Invest in tools and resources to detect and respond to these previously unknown security flaws.
  8. Deep Web Monitoring: Expand your monitoring efforts beyond the surface web to include the deep and dark web. This allows for early detection of discussions and activities that could escalate into digital crises.
  9. Quantum Encryption: In cases where the highest level of data security is required, explore quantum encryption solutions. Quantum technology offers unbreakable encryption methods, ensuring the confidentiality of crisis-related information.

Role of PR agencies in crisis management

PR agencies specializing in crisis management, such as Branding Experts , are adept at navigating the intricate landscape of digital crises. Their expertise lies in mitigating damage and strategizing for long-term resilience and reputation preservation. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of how these agencies contribute:

  1. Strategic Crisis Communication Planning: PR agencies excel in crafting meticulously detailed crisis communication plans tailored to a business’s specific needs and vulnerabilities. These plans delineate precise steps to be taken when a crisis, especially a digital one, strikes.
  2. Vigilant Social Media Management: The battleground often shifts to social media platforms during a digital crisis. PR agencies employ advanced monitoring tools to track mentions, gauge sentiment, and swiftly respond to negative comments, reviews, or rumors. Their expertise lies in determining the most effective action in real time.
  3. Reputation Restoration: In the aftermath of a digital crisis, a company’s reputation can be tarnished. PR agencies are skilled in implementing multifaceted reputation management strategies, working meticulously to rebuild trust and reaffirm a positive brand image.
  4. Media-Ready Spokesperson Training: These agencies offer comprehensive media training to crucial company representatives. They ensure they are well-versed in handling media inquiries and equipped to convey consistent and impactful messaging that aligns with the crisis communication plan.
  5. Legal Collaboration: Digital crises often carry legal implications. PR agencies collaborate closely with a company’s legal team to navigate these treacherous waters. They ensure all communication remains within legal boundaries and offer advice on potential risks.
  6. Objective External Perspective: Crises can cloud judgment. PR agencies bring an objective, external perspective, offering strategic advice unburdened by internal biases. This perspective aids in devising effective crisis management strategies.
  7. Preemptive Crisis Preparedness: PR agencies do not merely react to crises; they proactively assist businesses in identifying potential risks and vulnerabilities. By preemptively developing strategies to mitigate these risks, they help minimize the impact of future crises.
  8. Continuous Monitoring and Analysis: The battle isn’t over once a digital crisis subsides. PR agencies persistently monitor and analyze online conversations and sentiment. They make data-driven recommendations for ongoing reputation management to safeguard against future crises.

Brandingexperts.com: Your guide to being crisis-proof

The crisis communication and reputation management process at this PR agency typically encompasses these core components:

  1. PR Campaigns and Strategy: They flood the digital landscape with positive content, reshaping the narrative in favor of their clients.
  2. Reputation Management: These agencies inundate forums and rating websites, such as Quora, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Trustpilot, with hundreds of positive reviews, strengthening their clients’ online presence.
  3. News Coverage: Leveraging press releases through video content ensures their clients’ brand stories reach news channels, enhancing credibility.

With a seasoned team of PR professionals and crisis management experts, Brandingexperts.com doesn’t just react to crises; it anticipates them, ensuring your business is always several steps ahead. Imagine having a shield that not only guards your brand’s image but also turns potential threats into opportunities for growth and engagement.

From monitoring digital whispers that could hint at upcoming storms to deploying swift, strategic responses that mitigate damage, Brandingexperts.com stands as your brand’s sentry and spokesperson in turbulent times. Their service continues after crisis management. They’re also masters of the rebound, skillfully navigating the post-crisis landscape to rebuild and enhance your brand’s standing.

Through targeted PR campaigns, strategic content placement, and a deep understanding of digital dynamics, they reshape narratives to spotlight your brand’s strengths and vision.

Disclaimer: The above sponsored content is non-editorial and has been sourced from a third party. NDTV does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the above content, nor is responsible for it in any manner whatsoever.



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