Brands
Bose doubles down on Noise, pumps in $20 million
MUMBAI: Noise, the Indian gadget and wearables brand, has received a fresh $20 million injection from Bose Corp, marking a significant vote of confidence in its global aspirations. This second investment follows Bose’s initial backing in December 2023, solidifying their partnership and fueling Noise’s ambition to become a global tech powerhouse.
“When Bose Corp backs you—not once, but twice—you know you’re onto something,” said Noise CEO & co-founder Gaurav Khatri. “They came on board last year, backing our vision to push boundaries in audio and wearables. That belief gave us the push to level up. Now, they’ve doubled down with another $20 million investment. A clear sign they believe in what we’re building—out of India, for the world.”
The new funding, structured as compulsory convertible debentures, will support Noise’s operational expenses, expansion plans, brand visibility, and working capital needs. This investment values Noise at approximately $470 million, a slight increase from its previous valuation.
Noise, which primarily sells smartwatches and audio devices, reported a revenue of Rs 1,431 crore for the fiscal year ended March 2024. Despite a flat revenue compared to the previous year, the company experienced a net loss of Rs 20.1 crore.
Bose’s continued investment underscores its belief in Noise’s potential to disrupt the global wearables market. Bose, known for its high-end audio products, brings not only capital but also expertise in product development, user experience, and global market strategy. This strategic partnership aims to accelerate Noise’s growth and enhance its product offerings.
Noise, founded in 2014, has rapidly grown in the Indian market, competing with brands like boAt and Realme. With Bose’s backing, the company is poised to amplify its reach and establish itself as a major player on the international stage.
Brands
Nykaa eyes majority stake in Deepika Padukone’s 82°E brand
Deal could help scale premium label as Nykaa sharpens its beauty play
MUMBAI: Nykaa is in advanced discussions to acquire a majority stake in 82°E, the premium skincare label founded by Deepika Padukone, according to media reports.
The proposed deal signals Nykaa’s intent to deepen its House of Nykaa portfolio while giving 82°E the scale it has struggled to achieve independently. Padukone is expected to retain a minority stake if the transaction goes through.
For Nykaa, the play is both strategic and timely. With a customer base of over 42 million, the company is betting on its strong distribution, logistics, and repeat purchase ecosystem to revive the brand’s momentum. The two sides already share a working relationship, with Padukone serving as Nykaa’s global brand ambassador since September 2025.
Launched in late 2022, 82°E entered the market with a premium positioning but has faced headwinds. The brand reported revenue of Rs 14.7 crore in FY25, down 30 per cent year on year, alongside losses of Rs 12.26 crore. Industry observers have pointed to steep pricing, a somewhat diffused brand identity, and intense competition from digital-first labels as key challenges.
The potential acquisition also reflects a broader shift in India’s beauty and lifestyle space, where celebrity-led brands are increasingly partnering with larger corporates to unlock scale. Alia Bhatt’s Ed-a-Mamma, for instance, sold a majority stake to Reliance Retail, while Katrina Kaif’s Kay Beauty has emerged as a standout success within Nykaa’s portfolio, clocking Rs 132.4 crore in FY25 revenue.
Nykaa itself has been on a strong growth trajectory. Its parent, FSN E-Commerce Ventures, reported a 156 per cent jump in net profit to Rs 68 crore in the December 2025 quarter, with revenue reaching Rs 2,873 crore.
Nykaa has been steadily building its portfolio through acquisitions such as Dot & Key, Earth Rhythm and Nudge Wellness, signalling a clear push to own and scale homegrown brands.
If the 82°E deal materialises, it could mark a fresh chapter for the label, blending celebrity appeal with corporate muscle. For Nykaa, it is another calculated step in staying ahead in an increasingly crowded beauty aisle.
