Brands
Singapore Airlines steers sponsorship for F1 Singapore GP through 2028
MUMBAI: Fasten your seatbelts, because Singapore Airlines (SIA) isn’t just cruising past the chequered flag; it’s doubling down.
The airline has committed to four more years as the title sponsor of the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, cementing its partnership with one of the most anticipated events on the F1 calendar.
Since first revving up as the title sponsor in 2014, Singapore Airlines has proudly supported this electrifying race for 11 years, and now, the track is set for an extension covering 2025 to 2028. The event will retain its full-throttle name, FORMULA 1 SINGAPORE AIRLINES SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX, kicking off this year from 3-5 October at the iconic Marina Bay Street Circuit.
This is no ordinary Grand Prix—it’s a spectacle.
Imagine the roar of engines reverberating through Singapore’s city streets, illuminated by a stunning night-time skyline. It’s not just a race; it’s a showstopper that puts Singapore on the global map as a premier business and tourism hub. The event draws racing fans, tourists, and international businesses alike, creating an economic ripple effect that benefits SIA’s global network.
What makes this partnership so special?
Commenting on the renewed partnership, Singapore Airlines chief commercial officer Lee Lik Hsin said, “The Singapore Grand Prix is an important event in Singapore’s sporting and tourism calendar. It has become iconic not just for showcasing our beautiful skyline but also for highlighting Singapore’s position as a key global hub. This extension underscores Singapore Airlines’ long-standing commitment to supporting the development of sports and tourism in Singapore.”
Meanwhile, Formula 1 chief commercial officer, Emily Prazer added, “We are delighted that Singapore Airlines will continue as the title sponsor of the FORMULA 1 SINGAPORE AIRLINES SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX. Singapore has become one of the most revered Grands Prix on the calendar, and it is through the hard work and dedication of partners such as Singapore Airlines that we can continue to deliver such a strong event. We look forward to continuing to work with them to further elevate this event for years to come.”
Beyond the adrenaline rush, the race serves as a turbocharged driver for Singapore’s economy, attracting thousands of attendees and coinciding with major international meetings and events. For Singapore Airlines, the sponsorship isn’t just about brand visibility—it’s about showcasing Singapore’s excellence to a global audience.
The renewed partnership promises to keep raising the bar. Whether you’re a racing enthusiast or a casual fan drawn by the glamour and glitz of the night race, the F1 Singapore Airlines Singapore GP guarantees high-octane drama, world-class entertainment, and Singapore’s signature hospitality.
So, what’s not to love? Stunning night-time views, thrilling races, and a brand partnership that screams excellence. Mark your calendars for October 3-5, 2025, and prepare to witness Singapore Airlines fly high—both in the skies and on the track.
Brands
Lotus Chocolate FY26 profit drops sharply, Q4 slips into loss
Revenue steady at Rs 579.55 crore, Q4 loss at Rs 4.47 crore
MUMBAI: Sweet on the top line, slightly bitter on the bottom Lotus Chocolate’s FY26 numbers tell a story that’s more dark cocoa than milk. The company managed to hold its revenue steady for the year, but profitability took a visible hit, capped by a loss-making fourth quarter. Lotus Chocolate Company Limited reported revenue from operations of Rs 579.55 crore for the year ended March 31, 2026, marginally up from Rs 573.75 crore in FY25. Total income rose to Rs 615.61 crore, compared with Rs 574.56 crore in the previous year, supported by a sharp jump in other income to Rs 36.06 crore from just Rs 0.81 crore.
However, the gains at the top did little to cushion profitability. Net profit for FY26 fell dramatically to Rs 0.10 crore, down from Rs 17.23 crore in FY25, reflecting significant cost pressures across the business.
The March quarter proved particularly challenging. The company reported a net loss of Rs 4.47 crore in Q4 FY26, compared with a profit of Rs 0.14 crore in the previous quarter and Rs 1.42 crore in the same quarter last year. Total income for the quarter stood at Rs 138.01 crore, down from Rs 150.21 crore in Q3 FY26 and Rs 157.52 crore in Q4 FY25.
Expenses remained elevated throughout the year. Total expenses rose to Rs 614.44 crore in FY26 from Rs 551.50 crore in FY25, eating into margins. A key swing factor was the cost of materials consumed, which stood at Rs 304.44 crore, while changes in inventories also reflected volatility, with a negative impact of Rs 62.44 crore in the previous year reversing to a positive Rs 52.93 crore this year.
Employee benefit expenses nearly doubled to Rs 34.00 crore from Rs 17.98 crore, while finance costs surged to Rs 16.31 crore from Rs 7.11 crore, indicating higher borrowing and funding costs. Depreciation and amortisation expenses also increased to Rs 3.92 crore from Rs 1.81 crore, reflecting ongoing investments.
On the balance sheet front, total assets stood at Rs 275.96 crore as of March 31, 2026, slightly higher than Rs 270.34 crore a year earlier. Borrowings remained significant, with current borrowings at Rs 89.00 crore, highlighting continued reliance on external funding.
Cash flow dynamics showed improvement in operations, with net cash generated from operating activities at Rs 93.23 crore, compared with a negative Rs 129.60 crore in FY25. However, financing outflows remained high at Rs 74.90 crore, driven largely by repayment of borrowings and interest costs.
Despite stable revenue, the sharp drop in profitability underscores the pressure of rising input costs, higher finance expenses and operational adjustments. The contrast between steady sales and squeezed margins leaves Lotus Chocolate at a crossroads proving that in business, as in confectionery, the real test isn’t just in the sweetness of sales, but in the richness of returns.
