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  • Weekend sports wrap: wins, deals, drama

    Weekend sports wrap: wins, deals, drama

    Sports never sleep. Every week, fans across the globe are treated to moments of brilliance, unexpected drama, and off-field developments that reshape the business of sports. This week has been no different—bringing a mix of historic wins, record-breaking transfers, and financial moves that highlight the commercial power of modern sports.

    From football’s blockbuster signings to cricket’s thrilling finishes and tennis stars rewriting history, here’s a comprehensive look at what’s making headlines in the world of sports.

    Football: Transfers, Triumphs, and Turmoil

    Football remains the global stage for both athletic brilliance and jaw-dropping financial transactions.

    Record Transfer Buzz

    One of the biggest talking points has been a record-breaking transfer deal involving a young striker whose move has redefined market dynamics. Clubs continue to break spending records as competition intensifies in Europe’s elite leagues.

    Weekend League Drama

    • Premier League: Title contenders battled fiercely, with last-minute goals keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
    • La Liga: Spanish football showcased its tactical brilliance, with underdogs pulling off shock wins.
    • Serie A & Bundesliga: New stars emerged as veterans proved their worth yet again.

    Champions League Build-Up

    As the Champions League group stages get underway, clubs are fine-tuning squads. Fans are eagerly anticipating classic rivalries returning to the spotlight.

    Cricket: India’s Highs and Global Thrills

    Cricket remains at the heart of South Asia’s sporting passion, but this week also saw global highlights.

    India’s Dominant Run

    India’s national team delivered a statement victory in their latest series, underlining their depth and adaptability across formats. Emerging stars are grabbing headlines, proving the pipeline of talent is stronger than ever.

    Global Action

    • The Ashes-style contests elsewhere brought nail-biting finishes.
    • Franchise leagues, from the Caribbean to the Middle East, added flavor with power-packed T20 spectacles.
    • Discussions around the future of Test cricket resurfaced, with calls to strike a balance between tradition and commercial viability.

    Tennis: A New Era Unfolds

    Tennis witnessed history this week, with a rising star defeating a seasoned champion in a Grand Slam showdown.

    • Men’s Circuit: Veterans are fighting to hold their ground as the next generation surges forward.
    • Women’s Tennis: A mix of resilience and flair shone through, with players from outside the top 10 making headlines.
    • Global Popularity: Tennis continues to expand into new markets, attracting younger audiences via streaming and digital platforms.

    Basketball & Beyond: Expanding Horizons

    Basketball, particularly the NBA, continues to dominate in the U.S. while expanding its international footprint.

    • NBA Pre-Season: Teams are gearing up with blockbuster trades and new strategies.
    • International Basketball: The FIBA calendar brought fresh excitement, as smaller nations challenged traditional powerhouses.
    • Beyond the U.S.: Basketball academies across Asia and Africa are producing future stars, reflecting the sport’s rapid globalization.

    Meanwhile, other sports like Formula 1, athletics, and golf also had their share of excitement. Formula 1 fans are already eyeing the next Grand Prix, while golf witnessed a thrilling playoff finish on the PGA Tour.

    The Business of Sports: Money, Media, and Markets

    Sports today is as much about the boardroom as it is about the pitch.

    • Broadcasting Wars: Streaming giants are competing fiercely for rights, reshaping how fans watch games.
    • Sponsorship Deals: Clubs and leagues are striking record sponsorship contracts, reflecting the growing corporate interest in sports.
    • Athlete Endorsements: Top athletes are now global brands, commanding millions in endorsement deals that often exceed their playing salaries.
    • Tech in Sports: From data analytics to AI-driven training tools, technology is becoming a game-changer both on and off the field.

    Fan Culture: The Heart of Sports

    No roundup is complete without acknowledging the lifeblood of sports—the fans. This week saw:

    • Stadiums packed with record attendance numbers.
    • Digital fan engagement through AR/VR experiences, fantasy leagues, and interactive platforms.
    • Social media rivalries, where banter between supporters adds to the drama off the field.

    Sports is more than competition—it’s culture, identity, and passion shared across generations.

    Challenges and Controversies

    Like every week, not all headlines were celebratory.

    • Injuries to star players raised concerns about packed schedules.
    • Financial Fair Play debates reignited in football after record deals.
    • Off-field controversies reminded us that sports figures are under constant scrutiny.

    These issues highlight the balancing act between entertainment, professionalism, and responsibility in global sports.

    Looking Ahead

    The coming weeks promise even more excitement:

    • Football: Champions League and domestic derbies will test the best.
    • Cricket: Key World Cup qualifiers and T20 leagues are on the horizon.
    • Tennis: The ATP and WTA tours move into crucial stages.
    • Basketball: NBA regular season is around the corner, bringing global buzz.
    • Formula 1: Upcoming races could determine the championship battle.

    Sports fans can expect a perfect mix of drama, excellence, and unpredictability.

    Conclusion

    From record-breaking transfers in football to India’s cricketing triumphs and tennis stars ushering in a new era, this week’s sports news captured the essence of why fans love the game. Beyond the scores and results, it’s the stories, emotions, and cultural impact that make sports a unifying global force.

    As leagues evolve, athletes inspire, and fans unite, one thing is certain: the world of sports will continue to deliver moments that transcend the playing field.

  • Cheaper calls & data with GST relief

    Cheaper calls & data with GST relief

    In today’s hyperconnected world, affordable communication is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. For India, a country with over a billion mobile connections and the world’s second-largest internet user base, ensuring affordable connectivity is central to its digital growth story. The recent announcement of Goods and Services Tax (GST) cuts on telecom services is being seen as a major step toward this goal.

    The government’s rationalization of GST rates for telecom services is designed to reduce the burden on consumers, help telecom operators expand services, and push forward the Digital India vision. By making communication cheaper, policymakers hope to bridge the digital divide and enable broader participation in the country’s fast-growing digital economy.

    Why GST Cuts Matter for Telecom
    Telecom services have long been taxed heavily in India. Before GST rationalization, consumers often complained that high indirect taxes made services like mobile calls and internet data more expensive, especially when compared to other developing countries.

    By cutting GST rates, the government:

    • Reduces the effective cost of mobile recharges, data packs, and call services.
    • Makes broadband and digital services more accessible to lower-income groups.
    • Provides relief to telecom operators who are struggling with high spectrum fees and debt.

    This policy is not just about cheaper phone bills—it is about making communication a universal right in a digital-first India.

    The Consumer Impact
    For millions of Indians, especially those in rural and semi-urban areas, even a small reduction in monthly telecom expenses makes a huge difference.

    Direct Benefits:

    • Cheaper Mobile Data: With India being the largest consumer of mobile data globally, lower GST means internet services become more affordable for the masses.
    • Affordable Call Charges: Lower taxation on voice services ensures that traditional calling remains within reach for all.
    • Reduced Digital Divide: Rural households and students benefit the most, as cheaper communication enhances access to online education, telemedicine, and e-governance.

    In a country where average monthly ARPU (average revenue per user) is among the lowest in the world, affordability plays a decisive role in adoption.

    Telecom Industry Perspective
    India’s telecom operators—Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea—have long been lobbying for GST relief. The industry has been facing immense financial stress, with high spectrum costs, regulatory dues, and debt burdens.

    How GST Cuts Help Operators:

    • Higher Subscriber Retention: Lower costs reduce churn rates and keep customers on board.
    • Increased Data Consumption: Affordable pricing encourages more usage, indirectly boosting revenues.
    • Support for 5G Rollout: Cost relief frees up resources for faster investments in next-generation networks.
    • Operational Stability: Reduced tax outflows improve overall financial health.

    Thus, the GST move is not just consumer-friendly—it also stabilizes one of India’s most critical industries.

    Digital India and Inclusion Goals
    India’s Digital India mission envisions a country where every citizen can access digital services—from online banking to e-governance—without barriers. Affordable telecom is the foundation of this vision.

    GST Cuts Will:

    • Boost digital literacy by bringing more first-time users online.
    • Encourage SMEs and startups to leverage cheaper digital communication tools.
    • Expand the reach of edtech and healthtech platforms in smaller towns.
    • Support the government’s push for cashless transactions and digital payments.

    In short, cheaper communication drives economic growth, innovation, and social inclusion.

    International Comparison
    Globally, affordable telecom has been a priority for developing nations:

    • Countries like Indonesia and Kenya reduced telecom taxes to boost digital inclusion.
    • The European Union has emphasized reducing indirect taxes on connectivity to meet broadband targets.
    • India’s move aligns with these global best practices, positioning it as a leader in making communication both affordable and accessible.

    Challenges Ahead
    While GST cuts are a welcome relief, challenges remain:

    1. Sustainability of Telecom Business Models: Operators still face intense competition and thin profit margins.
    2. Rural Connectivity Gaps: Lower prices must be matched by infrastructure expansion in remote areas.
    3. 5G Rollout Costs: Operators will need additional government support to meet the capital-intensive demands of 5G.
    4. Policy Consistency: Long-term regulatory clarity is essential to ensure stability in pricing.

    Without addressing these, GST cuts alone may not fully resolve affordability concerns.

    Expert Reactions

    • Industry Analysts: Believe the move will accelerate subscriber growth and boost adoption of digital services.
    • Consumer Advocates: Welcome the relief but urge operators to pass on the full benefit to end-users.
    • Telecom Operators: Call it a “timely reform” that supports both industry survival and consumer welfare.

    Overall, sentiment across stakeholders remains positive, with a shared belief that cheaper communication will boost India’s digital economy.

    Outlook for the Future
    Looking forward, the GST rationalization could pave the way for broader reforms:

    • Integration with BharatNet: Cheaper services combined with rural broadband expansion could transform rural India.
    • Increased Internet Penetration: With over 800 million internet users today, the goal of crossing 1 billion users is now closer than ever.
    • Boost to 5G Adoption: Lower communication costs may accelerate consumer adoption of 5G-enabled services.
    • Strengthening India’s Digital Economy: As more citizens come online, sectors like fintech, e-commerce, and digital services will thrive.

    The GST cut is not just a tax change—it’s a strategic push to democratize access to communication.

    Conclusion
    The GST cuts on telecom services mark an important step in India’s journey toward universal, affordable communication. By reducing consumer costs, easing industry stress, and supporting digital inclusion, the reform aligns perfectly with the government’s long-term vision of a digitally empowered society.

    For consumers, it means cheaper bills. For telecom operators, it means breathing space. For India as a whole, it represents progress toward bridging the digital divide and ensuring that communication truly becomes a right for all, not a privilege for few.
    The NewsBit Bureau

  • Apple India sales hit $9B record in FY24

    Apple India sales hit $9B record in FY24

    Apple Inc.’s annual sales in India hit a record of nearly $9 billion in the last fiscal year, signaling growing consumer demand for its flagship devices as the company ramps up its retail footprint in the world’s most populous country.

    Revenue rose about 13% in the 12 months through March from $8 billion a year earlier, according to a person familiar with the matter, who declined to be named as the information is private. Apple’s marquee iPhones accounted for a majority of the sales, and demand for MacBook computers also surged.

    The outsized jump — which hasn’t been previously reported — is a boost for the Cupertino, California-based company at a time it’s grappling with plateauing mobile device sales around the world. While India represents still a fraction of its overall business, the company is investing in a country it expects to become a key market in coming years.

    That’s particularly important given volatile consumption in and geopolitical uncertainty around China, today its largest overseas base. Revenue from China gained 4.4% in the June quarter — but that was only its first rise in two years, and it’s lost market share there to local rivals like Xiaomi Corp.

    As part of its retail push in India, Apple just added two new stores in the cities of Bangalore and Pune this week. It’s also is planning to launch a new outlet in Noida, on the outskirts of Delhi, and another in Mumbai early next year.

    The US company in 2023 reshuffled management of its international businesses, making India its own sales region due to the growth potential the market offers with its rising incomes and a burgeoning middle class. IPhones, viewed by many Indians as a status symbol, currently account for about 7% of the local smartphone market, according to Tarun Pathak of Counterpoint Research.

    India’s local sourcing requirements prevented Apple from opening its iconic stores in the South Asian nation for years. As the policy eased, Apple finally launched its online store in India in 2020. Apple’s Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook then inaugurated the first two stores in India, respectively located in the financial hub of Mumbai and capital New Delhi, in 2023. The company has since boosted its retail network in the country and added more premium resellers.

    High taxes make iPhones pricey in India — Apple sells the entry-level iPhone 16 model at 79,900 rupees ($906.39) in India, compared with the $799 price tag in the US. The company has been trying to work around that by offering student discounts, trade-ins on older devices, and by partnering with banks for credit card rebates, and the measures have boosted sales. Cook has consistently said India’s among the company’s fastest-growing markets.

    India has also become key to Apple’s manufacturing strategy. One in every five iPhones is now made in India, and Cook plans to use the country as the major source of US-bound devices. Apple is expanding iPhone production in India at five factories, including a pair of recently opened plants, as it seeks to lessen its reliance on China, Bloomberg News reported previously. Bloomberg

  • Broadcom faces earnings test after $730B surge

    Broadcom faces earnings test after $730B surge

    Investors worried about faltering momentum in the artificial intelligence trade are looking for a spark from Thursday’s earnings report by the world’s hottest chipmaker: Broadcom Inc.

    But after the more than 100% rally in Broadcom shares since they bottomed in April, adding about $730 billion to the company’s market value and making it the third-best performer in the Nasdaq 100 Index during that time, the issue is how much further the stock can run — even off blowout results. Broadcom shares rose as much as 2.1% intraday Thursday, a third consecutive day of gains.

    “The bar is high because the stock has performed well, but their business is performing really well,” said Joseph Shaposhnik, portfolio manager of the Rainwater Equity ETF, which has Broadcom as its third-largest position. “The short-term weather seems to be amenable to a decent quarter. But it’s up a lot, so anything is possible.”

    The risk of the results being a “sell the news” event for the market is real based on recent earnings reports from AI chipmakers. Nvidia Corp.’s stock is down nearly 6%, erasing roughly $270 billion in market value, after the company’s results on Aug. 27 included a lukewarm revenue forecast that was actually in line with Wall Street estimates. And shares of Marvell Technology Inc., a close Broadcom competitor, plunged 19% on Friday after its data center revenue missed estimates.

    The Philadelphia Stock Exchange Semiconductor Index has fallen more than 3% since Nvidia’s report, compared with a less than 1% decline for the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100. Arm Holdings Plc is down more than 4% while Advanced Micro Devices Inc. is off about 3.5%.

    With the bar set increasingly high, it won’t be a shock if Broadcom shares also slip, at least in the short term, following its results, which are due after the bell. That’s what the stock did after the company’s previous earnings report in June, which topped analysts’ estimates.

    Wall Street expects Broadcom to post 34% year-over-year growth in adjusted earnings per share for the fiscal third quarter to $1.67, and a 21% jump in revenue to $15.8 billion. The expansion is being driven by billions of dollars in spending by hyperscalers including Alphabet Inc., Amazon.com Inc. and Microsoft Corp.

    Buying opportunity
    “It may be hard for Broadcom to raise expectations on this call considering it said it would already grow its AI revenue by 60% next year,” Ben Reitzes at Melius Research wrote in a note to clients on Sept. 2 in which he raised his price target to $335 from $305. “However, the company seems to be firing on all cylinders and we’d use any weakness as a buying opportunity since there is such a shortage of this type of leadership outside Nvidia in AI.”

    Analysts who cover Broadcom have long been bullish on the stock, but they’re seeing limited upside from here. The average price target is about $308 and the shares closed Wednesday at $302.39.

    Broadcom is the biggest designer of what the industry calls ASICs, or application-specific integrated circuits. The company helps owners of large data centers, such as Alphabet’s Google, to create their own chips. That business unit, one of several inside its semiconductor division, has helped Broadcom become one of Wall Street’s favorite picks as a beneficiary of the AI boom.

    Investors are likely to focus on the company’s AI growth trajectory and will be looking for an update on four in-development engagements for its XPU ASIC chips, Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Kunjan Sobhani wrote in a note on Wednesday.

    Other key areas to watch include growth in VMware as well as the pace of recovery in the non-AI semiconductor business, which could help the chipmaker regain some lost ground in gross margins.

    “With its non-AI semi business (27% of F25E sales) down roughly 40% from the peak, we believe that business should recover and offset some gross margin dilution from the AI business,” Citigroup analyst Christopher Danely wrote in an Aug. 26 note reiterating a buy rating on the stock.

    Of course, Broadcom shares could avoid the same fate as Nvidia and Marvell. The company doesn’t have the same degree of exposure to China as Nvidia, and it has shown an ability to capture spending by big technology companies building out their own AI infrastructure.

    “Marvell obviously falling short of that data center revenue, it kind of lets you know that it is still a competitive marketplace and we are starting to see winners and losers,” said Brian Mulberry, client portfolio manager at Zacks Investment Management. “The pivot is going to be more toward those companies that are actually winning that return on invested capital” like Broadcom.

    Cambricon Technologies Corp. shares tumbled by the most in nearly five months after investors cashed out of one of the more spectacular Chinese stock rallies of 2025. Shares of the AI chip designer fell as much as 16%, extending losses into a second day. That helped wipe 6.9% off the SSE Science and Technology Innovation Board 50 or Star 50 Index. That selloff reflected growing wariness about a recent surge in tech stocks and the broader Chinese market, as well as Cambricon’s doubling in market value this year. Bloomberg

  • T-Mobile Eyes $400M Q3 Boost from UScellular

    T-Mobile Eyes $400M Q3 Boost from UScellular

    T-Mobile (TMUS) said it expects to generate about $400 million more in service revenue this quarter as the U.S. wireless carrier integrates customers of the recently acquired regional rival UScellular.

    US antitrust enforcers greenlit the $4.4 billion deal in July after closing its investigation without seeking to block the transaction announced in May last year.

    The company closed the deal on August 1, taking over UScellular’s wireless operations, including customers, stores and 30% of its spectrum assets.

    T-Mobile now expects synergies from the integration to help save about $1.2 billion in costs annually, up from the initial outlook of about $1 billion run rate.

    It also expects to achieve the integration in about two years, compared with its initial three-to-four-year projection.

    T-Mobile said it will take a non-cash charge of about $350 million in the third quarter due to its switch to a more streamlined billing platform.

    The company also anticipates about $100 million in integration costs, excluded from core adjusted EBITDA, and roughly $175 million in depreciation and amortization expenses. Reuters

  • Internet users in India top 100 cr, up 3.48%

    Internet users in India top 100 cr, up 3.48%

    India has officially crossed a historic digital milestone: the number of internet subscribers has surpassed 100 crore (1 billion) as of June 2025. According to the latest telecom data, the March–June 2025 quarter recorded a 3.48% growth in internet users, showing how deeply connectivity has penetrated across the country.

    This achievement not only cements India’s place as one of the world’s largest online populations but also reflects the success of Digital India initiatives, affordable data plans, and rural internet expansion.

    India’s Journey to 100 Crore Internet Users
    Just over a decade ago, internet access was limited to urban centers and a small percentage of the population. However, the introduction of low-cost smartphones, cheaper data tariffs, and government-backed digital inclusion programs transformed the landscape.

    • In 2015, India had around 30 crore users.
    • By 2020, the base had grown to 70 crore, largely fueled by the Jio revolution.
    • By mid-2025, India crossed the 100 crore milestone, marking one of the fastest internet adoption journeys globally.

    Rural vs. Urban Internet Growth
    One of the key drivers of this surge is rural connectivity.

    • Urban areas already have high penetration levels, with nearly 70–75% of the population connected.
    • Rural areas, however, have been the growth engine in recent years, thanks to:
      • Affordable smartphones under ₹5,000
      • BharatNet fiber rollout in villages
      • Regional-language apps and OTT platforms
      • Digital payment adoption through UPI in rural economies

    This rural shift is critical because more than 65% of India’s population still resides outside urban areas, meaning the digital story is far from over.

    Mobile Internet Dominance
    Out of the 100 crore internet subscribers, the vast majority are mobile internet users. India’s internet boom has been driven primarily by:

    • Low-cost 4G plans from Reliance Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea
    • Rapid 5G rollout in tier-1 and tier-2 cities since 2023
    • Bundled OTT and app services with mobile data packs

    Broadband Internet (Fixed-Line)
    While mobile dominates, fixed broadband has also been growing steadily.

    • Currently, broadband subscribers stand at around 40–50 million, a fraction of total users.
    • However, demand is rising due to remote work, online learning, and gaming.
    • Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) expansion from JioFiber, Airtel Xstream, and BSNL Bharat Fiber is set to accelerate growth.

    What’s Driving This Surge?

    1. Affordable Data Costs
      • India continues to enjoy one of the lowest mobile data rates globally, averaging under ₹10/GB.
    2. Smartphone Penetration
      • Over 800 million smartphone users now form the backbone of India’s internet base.
    3. Digital Payments & E-commerce
      • UPI transactions cross billions each month, pushing even first-time users online.
    4. Government Push
      • Programs like Digital India, BharatNet, and PM-WANI Wi-Fi hotspots have expanded reach.
    5. OTT & Entertainment Demand
      • Streaming platforms, regional content, and gaming are keeping Indians online longer than ever.

    The Global Context
    India’s internet subscriber base is now second only to China, which has around 1.1–1.2 billion users. However, India stands out due to:

    • Higher growth rate compared to mature markets.
    • Cheaper data costs than global averages.
    • Larger untapped rural market still waiting to come online.

    This means India’s digital economy is set to become a key driver of global internet traffic in the next few years.

    Challenges in India’s Internet Growth
    Despite the achievement, several challenges remain:

    1. Digital Divide
      • Urban–rural disparities persist, with many rural users still lacking high-speed connections.
    2. Network Quality Issues
      • Call drops, slow speeds in congested areas, and inconsistent coverage remain common complaints.
    3. Cybersecurity Concerns
      • With more first-time users online, India faces rising risks of cyber fraud, phishing, and scams.
    4. Affordability of Devices
      • While data is cheap, the cost of smartphones and laptops is still a barrier for some low-income groups.

    The Road Ahead: India’s Digital Future
    With internet users crossing 100 crore, the focus will now shift to quality, inclusivity, and advanced services.

    • 5G Expansion: Wider rollout in tier-2 and tier-3 cities will boost adoption.
    • Digital Public Infrastructure: Platforms like UPI, Aadhaar, ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) will create new digital ecosystems.
    • Regional Content Boom: Vernacular internet will dominate the next wave of growth.
    • AI & IoT: As AI tools and smart devices become mainstream, internet dependence will grow further.
    • Rural Digital Literacy: Awareness programs will ensure new users benefit safely from connectivity.

    Expert Take
    Industry experts believe the next 10 crore users will be the hardest to reach, as they are mostly from remote or economically weaker sections. Bridging this gap will require:

    • Affordable entry-level devices
    • Community Wi-Fi models
    • Government and private sector collaboration

    If India succeeds, it could not only expand its user base but also redefine global digital participation.

    Conclusion
    India’s internet subscriber base crossing 100 crore is a milestone that highlights both the success of digital transformation and the potential of untapped markets.

    With a 3.48% quarterly growth rate, expanding rural access, and government-backed digital infrastructure, India is well-positioned to drive the next wave of global internet adoption.

    The coming years will focus not just on numbers but on ensuring reliable, inclusive, and safe digital connectivity for every Indian.
    The NewsBit Bureau

  • GTPL targets big growth in cable and broadband

    GTPL targets big growth in cable and broadband

    In India’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, competition in both cable TV and broadband services is intensifying. One of the country’s leading multi-system operators, GTPL Hathway, has set ambitious expansion goals: 5 lakh new cable TV subscribers and 1 lakh broadband users annually.

    The move underlines the company’s confidence in the continued demand for linear television services alongside growing interest in high-speed broadband connectivity, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

    GTPL Hathway: A Snapshot
    GTPL Hathway is one of the largest cable TV and broadband service providers in India, with a strong presence in western and eastern states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Bihar.

    The company operates in:

    • Cable TV – Offering digital cable services to millions of homes.
    • Broadband – Providing high-speed internet, increasingly bundled with OTT services.

    GTPL has built its reputation on affordable packages, regional content focus, and last-mile connectivity in areas often underserved by bigger telecom operators.

    The Growth Targets
    According to company projections, GTPL aims to add:

    • 5 lakh cable TV subscribers per year
    • 1 lakh broadband subscribers per year

    This translates into 6 lakh new subscribers annually, a significant boost to its already large base.

    Why These Numbers Matter

    • Cable TV Market Size – India has over 100 million cable households, and despite OTT growth, cable continues to dominate due to affordability and regional content demand.
    • Broadband Growth Potential – With government focus on Digital India and increasing internet penetration, broadband remains one of the fastest-growing segments.

    Cable TV Still in Demand
    While global markets are seeing a cord-cutting trend, India presents a unique scenario. Many households continue to rely on cable TV due to:

    • Affordable subscription costs compared to OTT bundles.
    • Regional language channels that resonate with local audiences.
    • Family viewing habits, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.

    By targeting 5 lakh new subscribers each year, GTPL is betting that cable TV is here to stay, at least in the medium term.

    Broadband: The Future Growth Engine
    The demand for high-speed internet has surged since the pandemic, driven by:

    • Remote work and online education
    • Gaming and OTT consumption
    • E-commerce and digital banking adoption

    GTPL’s focus on adding 1 lakh broadband users annually shows its intent to strengthen its role in India’s fast-growing home internet market.

    The company is expected to expand fiber networks and offer bundled plans with OTT subscriptions to stay competitive with JioFiber, Airtel Xstream, and BSNL Bharat Fiber.

    Market Competition
    GTPL’s expansion plan comes at a time when competition is stiff:

    • Jio and Airtel dominate the broadband segment with aggressive pricing.
    • OTT platforms are pulling younger audiences away from traditional TV.
    • Regional cable operators still hold sway in smaller towns.

    However, GTPL has an edge in localized service delivery and last-mile connectivity, enabling it to penetrate markets where bigger players struggle.

    Industry Outlook
    1. Cable TV Market in India

    • Despite OTT growth, cable TV is expected to retain a strong base in India due to affordability and localized content.
    • Growth is expected to be moderate, but operators like GTPL will benefit from consolidation of smaller players.

    2. Broadband Market in India

    • India’s fixed broadband penetration is still under 10%, leaving significant headroom for growth.
    • Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) expansion is expected to accelerate, supported by both private investments and government initiatives.

    Challenges Ahead

    1. OTT Competition
      • With platforms like Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, and JioCinema, younger viewers are shifting online.
      • GTPL must innovate with hybrid packages combining TV + OTT.
    2. High Capex for Broadband Expansion
      • Laying fiber networks in new areas requires heavy investment.
      • Partnerships and government support will be crucial.
    3. Price Wars
      • Intense competition in broadband pricing could put pressure on margins.
    4. Customer Retention
      • As options increase, retaining subscribers will require better service quality and value-added offerings.

    Strategic Moves by GTPL
    To achieve its targets, GTPL is likely to:

    • Expand FTTH (fiber-to-the-home) broadband footprint in semi-urban and rural areas.
    • Bundle OTT services with cable and broadband packages to appeal to younger customers.
    • Leverage regional content partnerships to retain strong cable TV demand.
    • Strengthen customer service with digital tools like apps for payments, complaints, and upgrades.

    Impact on Consumers
    For consumers, GTPL’s growth push could mean:

    • More affordable bundled plans for TV + broadband.
    • Wider availability of high-speed internet in smaller towns.
    • Continued access to regional cable TV content alongside OTT.

    This aligns well with India’s digital inclusion goals, ensuring both entertainment and connectivity reach deeper into rural and semi-urban areas.

    Conclusion
    GTPL Hathway’s ambitious plan to add 5 lakh cable TV and 1 lakh broadband subscribers annually highlights its dual focus on retaining traditional TV users while aggressively expanding in the broadband space.

    In an era of shifting viewer habits, GTPL’s strategy reflects a balanced approach: leveraging its cable dominance in smaller towns while tapping into the rising demand for high-speed internet.

    If executed well, this growth plan could strengthen GTPL’s position as a key player in India’s digital connectivity ecosystem, bridging the gap between traditional television and the future of broadband-powered entertainment.
    The NewsBit Bureau

  • Streaming surpasses TV: Roku leads again

    Streaming surpasses TV: Roku leads again

    Roku the #1 selling TV operating system (OS) in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico*, announced a major industry milestone: For the third consecutive month, U.S. viewers spent more time streaming content on Roku-powered devices than watching traditional broadcast television.

    According to Nielsen data**, streaming on Roku-powered devices accounted for 21.4% of all TV viewing time in the U.S. during July, surpassing broadcast TV’s 18.4% share. This continues a trend from May and June, when streaming on the Roku platform also outpaced broadcast. Roku’s share of TV viewing has grown steadily throughout 2025 — up 14% year-over-year — reflecting not just a shift in technology, but how audiences discover and engage with the entertainment that shapes today’s culture.

    While Nielsen’s monthly The Gauge report measures viewing for the top streaming services including The Roku Channel — Roku’s free, ad-supported service, which alone accounts for 2.8% of all TV viewing — it doesn’t represent the scale of streaming on Roku-powered devices. Today’s milestone reflects viewing across thousands of apps and live TV services on the entire Roku platform, offering a more complete picture of how Americans spend their time streaming.

    “When we first said that all TV would be streamed, it was a bold prediction. That day is closer than ever,” said Anthony Wood, Founder and CEO of Roku. “Now that the shift to streaming is well underway, with Roku at the forefront, we’re focused on the next chapter: making streaming easier, more personal, and more impactful for viewers, creators, and all our partners.”

    Beyond surpassing broadcast viewership, Roku remains the leading destination for streaming overall, by usage and TV unit sales. The Roku OS powers streaming on smart TVs and devices in over half of all internet-enabled households in the U.S., underscoring Roku’s central role in the streaming ecosystem and its ability to connect tens of millions of viewers to the content they love. It also is the #1 selling TV OS in the U.S., with TV unit sales greater than the next two TV operating systems combined*.

    “In broadcast’s heyday, TV guides directed us to ‘must-see’ television and the pop cultural moments we shared,” said Charlie Collier, President, Roku Media. “Today, the streaming platform is the guide, and the moments shaping culture are happening on Roku. We’re the ‘lead-in’ to TV for millions of viewers’ and partners’ journeys, connecting them to the content, live events, and experiences that define the streaming era.”

    *Source: Circana, LLC, Retail Tracking Service, U.S., CA, and MX, Smart TV by Software Service, Unit Sales, January – June 2025.

    **The data analyzed from Nielsen is representative of all apps on the Roku platform including apps that contain Live TV such as YouTube TV and Hulu Live. Business Wire

  • GST cuts aim at cheaper Healthcare for All

    GST cuts aim at cheaper Healthcare for All

    The Government of India has announced a series of far-reaching GST rationalization measures to promote a health-positive tax regime. These reforms aim to discourage harmful consumption, lower the cost of medicines and medical devices, encourage preventive healthcare, and boost insurance coverage. The reforms strongly align with national initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, Poshan Abhiyaan and the Fit India Movement, while supporting the vision of “Affordable Healthcare for All.”

    Sharing the development, Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “The Union Government had prepared a detailed proposal for broad-based GST rate rationalisation and process reforms, aimed at ease of living for the common man and strengthening the economy.”

    Union Health Minister, Jagat Prakash Nadda also welcomed the reform, stating that “Reduced tax rates on several essential products will enhance ease of living, help families manage costs, and bring relief to different sectors.”

    Union Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted that “these reforms have a multi-sectoral and multi-thematic focus, aimed at ensuring ease of living for all citizens and ease of doing business for all.”

    Healthcare services provided by doctors, hospitals, and diagnostic centres are already exempt under the current GST regime. Building upon this, the following key reforms have been approved:

    Relief on Medicines and Pharmaceuticals

    • GST on essential medicines reduced from 12% to 5% or Nil, easing financial burden on patients.
    • Greater affordability for long-term treatment of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer.
    • Services for treatment or disposal of bio-medical waste reduced from 12% to 5%.
    • Job-work in pharmaceutical manufacturing reduced from 12% to 5%, lowering production costs and addressing inverted duty structures.
    • Strengthens India’s role as the “Pharmacy of the World” while ensuring affordability for domestic patients.

    Reduction on Medical Devices & Equipment

    • GST reduced from 12% to 5% on key medical products such as anesthetics, medical-grade oxygen, gauze, bandages, diagnostic kits, surgical gloves, glucometers, thermometers, and other appliances.
    • This will lower the cost of healthcare delivery for hospitals, diagnostic centres, and clinics.
    • Encourages wider adoption of modern diagnostic tools, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

    Vision Care

    • GST on spectacles, spectacle lenses, and contact lenses reduced from 12% to 5%.
    • Makes vision correction more affordable for students, elderly citizens, and low-income households.
    • Expected to improve productivity and boost adoption, as nearly 10 crore people are estimated to lack proper spectacles.

    Insurance Coverage

    • Individual health insurance policies (including family floaters and senior citizen plans) have been exempted from GST.
    • This will make premiums more affordable for middle-class households and encourage wider insurance adoption.
    • Complements Ayushman Bharat and PMJAY by expanding private coverage, reducing out-of-pocket expenditure, and driving the mission of Health for All.

    Essential Nutrition and Holistic Health

    • UHT milk and paneer (branded and unbranded) exempted from GST, ensuring daily nutrition remains tax-free.
    • Dry fruits and diabetic foods reduced from 12% to 5%, promoting healthy dietary habits.
    • Prepared or preserved fish, fruit pulp or juice-based drinks, and beverages containing milk reduced from 12% to 5%.
    • These measures will improve household nutrition, particularly benefitting women, children, and the elderly.

    Fitness and Preventive Health

    • GST on gyms and fitness centres reduced from 18% to 5%.
    • Makes fitness more affordable for youth and working professionals.
    • Complements the Fit India Movement and strengthens preventive healthcare.

    No Concessions for Sin Goods: In line with the government’s strong commitment to fighting non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cancer, no tax cuts have been proposed on goods widely recognized as harmful, including tobacco products, pan masala, and sugary drinks.

    The GST rationalization package reflects a balanced, citizen-centric approach to taxation. By lowering the burden on medicines, medical devices, nutrition, and insurance, while discouraging harmful consumption, the Government has taken a major step towards making healthcare more accessible, affordable, and preventive in nature.

  • Andhra Cabinet clears ₹25 lakh free Health Cover Under UHP

    Andhra Cabinet clears ₹25 lakh free Health Cover Under UHP

    Andhra Pradesh Cabinet approved the Universal Health Policy under the Ayushman Bharat–NTR Vaidya Seva Scheme, providing free treatment up to Rs 25 lakh per family per year.

    State policy aiming to offer 3,257 treatments free of cost
    The policy will cover all citizens regardless of financial status, benefiting 1.63 crore families, with medical services available in 2,493 network hospitals under the NTR Vaidya Seva Hybrid Policy, offering 3,257 treatments free of cost.

    Approvals with six hours, promises policy
    A pre-authorisation management system will ensure treatment approvals within six hours, and claims under Rs 2.5 lakh will be handled by insurance companies, while the NTR Medical Service Trust will bear costs from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 25 lakh, covering 1.43 crore poor families and 20 lakh other families. Feedback from patients will be collected via QR codes.

    In a press briefing following the Andhra Pradesh Cabinet meeting, Minister Kolusu Parthasarathy announced several key decisions taken under the chairmanship of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu.

    Here is the list of decisions taken during the Cabinet meeting:
    Health policy

    • The Cabinet has approved the Universal Health Policy in the state.
    • Under the Ayushman Bharat-NIR Vaidya Seva Scheme, a new policy will provide free treatment up to Rs 25 lakh per family per year.
    • The policy will be implemented for all citizens, regardless of financial status, covering 1.63 crore families in the state.
    • The NTR Vaidya Seva Hybrid Policy will provide almost free medical services in 2,493 network hospitals, offering 3,257 treatments free of cost.
    • A pre-authorisation management system will be introduced to grant permissions for medical treatments within 6 hours.
    • Medical treatment claims under Rs 2.5 lakh will be handled by insurance companies, while costs between Rs 2.5 lakh and Rs 25 lakh will be borne by the NTR Medical Service Trust. This will cover 1.43 crore poor families and 20 lakh other families.
    • Feedback from patients undergoing treatment will be collected via QR codes.

    New medical colleges

    • The cabinet also approved the establishment of 10 new medical colleges in the state under the PPP model.
    • In two phases, medical colleges will be set up in Adoni, Madanapalle, Markapuram, Pulivendula, Penugonda, Palakollu, Amalapuram, Narsipatnam, Bapatla and Parvathipuram under PPP mode.
    • The cabinet approved issuing RFPs for this purpose. In the second phase, colleges will be established in the remaining six areas.
    • The Chief Minister directed officials to prepare a feasibility report for these establishments under PPP.

    SIPB projects

    • Additionally, the cabinet decided to endorse several projects cleared by the State Investment Promotion Board (SIPB)
    • Give a green signal to Hindalco’s Rs 586 crore project in Kuppam.
    • Approve Skyroot Aerospace projects and allocate land to Mother Dairy
    • The government has also approved MSME Parks policies as part of the Speed of Doing Business initiative.
    • The government will also provide capital subsidies and approve the repeal of Nala charges for investments.
    • The government has approved the ‘HFCL investment proposal’, worth around Rs 1,197 crore in Madakasira, which is expected to create approximately 800 jobs.
    • Under Tourism Development, a 3-star hotel in Mantralayam and a 4-star hotel in Vizag have been approved.

    Newsmeter