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Flipkart – Walmart Deal: All The Latest Information

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Flipkart Walmart Deal,Flipkart Latest Information,Startup Stories,2018 Latest Business News,Startup News India,Entrepreneur Stories 2018,Ecommerce Startup Flipkart,Indian Startup Ecosystem,Walmart Buys Stake in Flipkart,Flipkart Business News,Flipkart Walmart Business

Three months ago reports surfaced the international retail giant Walmart was looking to invest in homegrown ecommerce startup Flipkart. While sources suggested the deal may close as soon as March, but new reports hinted Seattle based ecommerce giant Amazon.com was also looking to make a bid for a potential investment in the company. Since then, there has been a continuous back and forth between Walmart and Amazon to finalize a record breaking deal.

Recently, a number of key Flipkart shareholders agreed to sell their stakes in the company to Walmart. However, sources close to the development said SoftBank, which is the largest shareholder in Flipkart, is holding out for a better price. In order to become the largest investor in the Bengaluru based company, Walmart Inc., has already reached an agreement with the New York based investment firm Tiger Global Management, the South African media conglomerate Naspers, the venture capital firm Accel and China’s Tencent Holdings. According to The Economic Times, Sachin Bansal and Binny Bansal may sell a part of their stake in the company as well. However, a new hurdle in the form of the ecommerce firm eBay, may hamper the deal.

Recode reported, Walmart may have to first work out a deal with eBay, a Flipkart investor and partner, in order to buy a majority stake in India’s online shopping site. eBay, which invested close to $ 500 million in Flipkart last year, has a 5% stake in the business and handed over its eBay India operation as a part of the deal. Along with the investment, the San Jose based firm also signed a four year exclusive commercial arrangement to partner with Flipkart. The four year exclusive commercial arrangement gave the merchants who sell on Flipkart access to more than 150 million new customers from eBay, while eBay sellers outside of India got access to a new group of consumers inside the country. In accordance with this agreement, Walmart may not be able to seal merchandise based deals with Flipkart, unless Walmart and eBay come to some agreement. Recode further added, according to one person familiar with the arrangement eBay can also take back control of the eBay India brand name if Flipkart is acquired.

On the other hand, SoftBank has reportedly remained relatively cold to overtures made by Walmart. The Japan based venture firm invested close to $ 2.5 billion in Flipkart last year after the failed merger deal between Flipkart and Snapdeal. According to a report by The Economic Times, SoftBank was offered a $ 10-12 billion valuation to purchase its shares in Flipkart. One of the sources also said, “Discussions with SoftBank are still ongoing. Most of the others have come aboard. In a deal like this, there are always ebbs and flows, but there is a time factor to consider as well.

Flipkart has slowly grown to become one of the most valued company in the Indian startup ecosystem. With close to 8,000 permanent employees, the company has made at least 10 acquisitions in the 10 years of its existence. The firm managed to establish itself in the ecommerce industry by introducing the “cash on delivery” payment method, one of the biggest factors for its success.

 

Note: This article will be updated as and when we get further information.

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Swiggy Launches “Snacc” for 10-Minute Delivery of Snacks and Beverages

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Swiggy Launches "Snacc" for 10-Minute Delivery of Snacks and Beverages

Swiggy, the leading food delivery platform in India, has launched a new standalone app called “Snacc” to cater to the growing demand for ultra-fast food delivery. This innovative service aims to provide quick access to snacks, beverages, and light meals, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Focus on Speed and Convenience

Snacc specializes in delivering snacks and beverages within 10-15 minutes. The app operates from centralized hubs stocked with ready-to-serve items, ensuring rapid order fulfillment. This new service directly competes with other players in the 10-minute delivery space, such as Zepto Cafe and Blinkit Bistro, which have also entered the market with similar offerings.

Key Features

  • Dedicated App: Snacc operates as a separate app, providing a streamlined user experience specifically designed for quick bites.
  • Focus on Speed: The core promise of the service is a 10-15 minute delivery window, making it an attractive option for consumers seeking immediate satisfaction.
  • Centralized Hubs: Utilizing centralized hubs allows for faster order fulfillment and efficient delivery logistics.

Market Impact

The launch of Snacc reflects the increasing demand for convenient and on-demand food delivery services in India. As consumer preferences shift towards quick and accessible food options, Swiggy aims to capitalize on this trend by offering a dedicated platform for snacks and beverages.

Competitive Landscape

The introduction of Snacc comes at a time when competition in the quick food delivery market is intensifying. Other players, including Zomato and Blinkit, are also expanding their services to meet consumer demand for speedier delivery options. Zomato has recently launched its own 15-minute food delivery service in select cities, further escalating competition.

Challenges

While the 10-minute delivery model presents significant opportunities, it also poses challenges such as:

  • Maintaining Food Quality: Ensuring that food remains fresh and meets quality standards during rapid delivery.
  • Timely Delivery: Managing logistics effectively to meet the promised delivery times.
  • Operational Costs: Balancing speed with cost efficiency to maintain profitability.

Conclusion

Swiggy’s launch of Snacc marks a significant step in the evolution of the Indian food delivery market. By strategically positioning itself to cater to the evolving needs of consumers, Swiggy is set to capitalize on the growing demand for quick and convenient food options. As competition heats up in this space, Snacc aims to establish itself as a go-to solution for those seeking fast snacks and beverages, ultimately enhancing Swiggy’s overall service portfolio.

 

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Google Rolls Out QR Code Sharing for Quick Share on Android

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Google Rolls Out QR Code Sharing for Quick Share on Android

Google is enhancing file sharing on Android with the wide rollout of QR code functionality for its Quick Share feature. This update simplifies the process of transferring files between Android devices, eliminating the need for manual device discovery or contact setup.

How it Works

Effortless Sharing

With the latest Google Play Services update (version 24.49.33), users can access the “Use QR code” option within the Quick Share menu. This feature streamlines the sharing process, making it more intuitive and user-friendly.

QR Code Generation

When users select the “Use QR code” option, a unique QR code is generated on their device’s screen. This code serves as a digital key for initiating file transfers.

Quick Scanning

The recipient can easily scan the QR code using their Android phone’s camera app. Once scanned, a secure link is automatically generated, initiating the file transfer without additional steps.

Automatic Transfer

After scanning, a quickshare.google link opens on the recipient’s device, leading to an immediate connection and file transfer process.

Benefits

Simplicity

This new approach eliminates the need to add contacts, verify devices, or navigate complex settings. Users can share files with just a quick scan of a QR code.

Multiple Recipients

A single QR code can be scanned by multiple devices, allowing for convenient group sharing. This feature is particularly useful in collaborative environments where files need to be shared with several people simultaneously.

Reliability

The QR code method bypasses potential issues associated with device discovery in the standard Quick Share interface, ensuring a smoother and more reliable sharing experience.

Wider Availability

This update expands QR code sharing functionality beyond Samsung devices, making it a universal feature available for all Android users. Previously, similar functionality was primarily associated with Samsung’s own Quick Share offering.

A Familiar Feature

While new for Google’s Quick Share, many users may recognize this functionality from Samsung’s Quick Share feature, which includes additional capabilities like cloud sharing. This familiarity may ease the transition for users adapting to Google’s implementation.

Overall Impact

The addition of QR code sharing marks a significant improvement for Quick Share, enhancing its reliability and ease of use. This update aligns with Google’s December 2024 Feature Bundle, which focuses on improving Android’s versatility and user experience.

Future Potential

As QR codes become increasingly integrated into everyday tasks—from payments to information access—Google’s introduction of this feature reflects a broader trend in technology usage. The seamless integration of QR codes into file sharing not only enhances convenience but also aligns with how users are already interacting with technology.

Conclusion

With the rollout of QR code sharing in Quick Share, Google is making file transfers between Android devices faster and more efficient than ever before. By simplifying the sharing process and expanding accessibility across all Android devices, Google is enhancing user experience and reinforcing its commitment to innovation in mobile technology. This development promises to make sharing files not only easier but also more reliable in various settings, from personal to professional environments.

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Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt Invests in 3D-Printed Rocket Maker Relativity Space

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Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt Invests in 3D-Printed Rocket Maker Relativity Space

Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, has made a significant investment in Relativity Space, a California-based company pioneering 3D-printed rocket technology. This investment comes at a crucial time for Relativity as it navigates challenges and aims to advance its innovative approach to space travel.

Overview of Relativity Space

Founded in 2015, Relativity Space aims to revolutionize space travel through its unique 3D printing techniques, which allow for the rapid production of rocket components. The company’s flagship rocket, Terran 1, was launched in 2023, but unfortunately, it failed to achieve orbit. Despite this setback, Relativity is now focusing on its next-generation rocket, Terran R, which is scheduled for launch in 2026.

Challenges Faced

Relativity Space has encountered several challenges over the past few years, including funding difficulties in 2024. These hurdles have prompted the company to seek additional capital to support its ambitious plans and operational needs.

Schmidt’s Investment

Schmidt’s investment is particularly timely as Relativity Space works to secure funding for the development of Terran R and its ongoing operations. His backing underscores the growing interest in the private space sector and highlights the potential of innovative technologies like 3D printing to transform space exploration.

Background on Eric Schmidt

Known for his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic endeavors, Schmidt has been actively involved in various investment and advisory roles since stepping down as Google CEO in 2011. He has a history of supporting technology-driven initiatives and startups, making this investment a natural extension of his interests.

Industry Context

The investment by Schmidt comes amid an intensifying modern space race, often referred to as “Space Race 2.0.” Private companies are increasingly vying for dominance in orbit, with firms like SpaceX leading the charge. In 2024, SpaceX achieved a remarkable milestone with 134 launches, showcasing rapid advancements in the industry.

Competitive Landscape

Relativity Space is positioned as a key player within this competitive landscape, despite its initial setbacks. The company’s focus on 3D printing technology offers a unique approach that could potentially lower costs and increase efficiency in rocket manufacturing compared to traditional methods.

Conclusion

Eric Schmidt’s investment in Relativity Space highlights the growing interest and potential within the private space sector, particularly regarding innovative technologies like 3D printing. As Relativity prepares for the launch of Terran R and seeks to overcome its funding challenges, Schmidt’s support may provide crucial momentum for the company’s future endeavors. This move not only reinforces Schmidt’s commitment to advancing technology but also signifies a broader trend of increased investment in space exploration initiatives that promise to reshape our understanding and capabilities in this frontier.

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