Factual
NSE chief backs startups to drive India’s next wave of growth
MUMBAI: When the bell rings at the National Stock Exchange (NSE), it doesn’t just mark the opening of trade, it signals the heartbeat of India’s entrepreneurial dreams. And on Friday, those dreams took centre stage as Ideabaaz, the country’s first integrated startup-investor marketplace, debuted at NSE.
NSE, MD & CEO Ashishkumar Chauhan used the occasion to underline how the bourse has become both the launchpad and the lighthouse for Indian enterprise. “NSE has always been a catalyst in India’s growth journey. By hosting the launch of Ideabaaz, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of the country. We look forward to the day when many startups born on this platform will stand here, ringing the bell as listed companies,” Chauhan said.
For the man who oversees India’s largest fintech, the NSE, the world’s first automated screen-based trading system, statistics tell the story. Today, NSE boasts access to 12 crore unique investors holding 23.5 crore accounts, covering 99.85 per cent of India’s market. Over 2,800 companies are listed on the exchange, whose market capitalisation has swelled 125 times in 30 years to Rs 460 lakh crore (5.2 trillion dollars). That makes India the fourth-largest economy and capital market globally.
And the IPO bells are clanging louder than ever. NSE led the world in listings last year with 268 IPOs in 2024, raising Rs 1.67 lakh crore (19.5 billion dollars). Chauhan framed it as proof of India’s surging “trust market,” built on the belief of its 140 crore people in the power of entrepreneurs.
“In India, the biggest achievement since independence is the trust of its people in its entrepreneurs,” he said. “That is why we also call this a trust market. To enable aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians, it is our time to turn ideas into shared prosperity.”
Drawing parallels between icons and today’s founders, he added: “Many times I say on public platforms, what is the similarity between Dhirubhai Ambani, Ratan Tata and Nandini Letharia? They were in different businesses, came from different backgrounds but they became billionaires by listing on NSE. So you must come and list on NSE. We look forward to the day when all of you, startups, come here and become billionaires.”
Chauhan also reminded the audience that India is no stranger to enterprise, with roots going back to ancient guilds and trade networks. Today, with the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, rising incomes, favourable policies, and a vast domestic market, the stage is set. “Integration is how we convert youthful energy into innovation, livelihoods and opportunities,” he said.
As Ideabaaz takes its first steps, NSE is promising to be a steady partner from the first cheque to the IPO bell. Chauhan closed with a wish for every founder: “May your ideas find the right champions, may your ventures scale with purpose, and may you return to this stage as market leaders and nation builders. NSE will stand by you today, tomorrow and at every stage of your journey.”
From startups to stalwarts, the message was clear: at NSE, every idea has the potential to make history, one bell at a time.
Factual
National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
