Bengaluru

Arvind SmartSpaces has strengthened its presence in South India by acquiring a new residential development project in Bengaluru, reinforcing its strategy of scaling operations in high-growth urban corridors. The acquisition underscores the company’s asset-light expansion model, focused on capital efficiency and accelerated project turnaround. With Bengaluru continuing to attract technology investments, startup activity and high-income employment clusters, residential demand remains structurally robust.

Arvind SmartSpaces Ltd has strengthened its presence in India’s most dynamic residential market by acquiring a strategically located land parcel in Bengaluru. The transaction underscores the developer’s expansion-led growth strategy, focused on high-demand urban corridors with strong infrastructure connectivity and sustained end-user demand. The proposed project is expected to generate substantial booking value and reinforce the company’s pipeline visibility over the medium term.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar positioned Bengaluru as a lens through which global investors can understand India’s economic ambition, innovation capacity, and democratic stability. Framing the city as a convergence point for technology, talent, and capital, Shivakumar emphasized Karnataka’s role in shaping India’s growth narrative. His remarks underscored policy continuity, infrastructure expansion, and investor-friendly governance as key differentiators.

Tesla staged a high-profile showcase in Bengaluru at ACKO Drive, offering a closer look at its electric vehicle technology and design philosophy for Indian audiences. The event highlighted Tesla’s advanced engineering, software-led mobility solutions, and long-term vision for sustainable transportation. Industry observers view the showcase as a strategic branding move rather than a commercial launch, aimed at gauging consumer interest and signaling intent in one of the world’s fastest-growing auto markets.

Global technology services firm Cognizant has expanded its cybersecurity capabilities with the launch of a dedicated Cyber Defence Centre in Bengaluru, reinforcing India’s role as a strategic hub for digital security operations. The new facility is designed to help enterprises detect, prevent and respond to increasingly complex cyber threats in real time. By combining advanced analytics, automation and skilled talent, the centre aims to support clients across industries facing heightened digital risk.

A recent industry report reveals that Bengaluru and Hyderabad have become the epicentres of leadership activity within India’s Global Capability Centres (GCCs). Together, the two cities account for nearly 70 per cent of the country’s leadership roles in the sector. Hyderabad leads in the growth of senior-level hiring with a 42 per cent year-on-year surge, while Bengaluru remains the top choice for global firms seeking experienced technology and operations leaders.

India’s commercial real estate sector is witnessing strong office rent growth across key metropolitan hubs, according to Knight Frank’s latest report. Bengaluru, NCR, and Mumbai have emerged as prime markets, reflecting robust demand driven by IT, tech, and financial services companies. The report highlights rising leasing activity, shrinking vacancy rates, and upward pressure on rents, signaling confidence among corporates and investors. Analysts note that hybrid work models, sector-specific demand, and infrastructure development are shaping the office space landscape.

In a significant step toward advancing India’s electric mobility ecosystem, Jio-bp, the joint venture between Reliance Industries and bp, inaugurated a new EV charging hub in Devanahalli, Bengaluru. Positioned strategically near the Kempegowda International Airport, the facility aims to support the growing demand for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in one of the country’s fastest-growing urban corridors.

Bengaluru’s ambitious beautification initiative has come under scrutiny as Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, prominent entrepreneur and biotech leader, publicly criticized the project’s planning and execution. Shaw highlighted concerns over urban sustainability, resource allocation, and long-term environmental impact, urging city authorities to prioritize functional urban development over aesthetics. Her remarks have sparked debate among civic authorities, urban planners, and residents, bringing attention to the balance between city beautification and practical infrastructure needs.

The launch of Apple’s iPhone 17 triggered a surge of early buyers at Bengaluru’s flagship Apple store, reflecting the brand’s enduring appeal and strong market anticipation. Enthusiasts queued hours before the store opened, eager to secure the latest model and limited-edition variants. Analysts note that the rush highlights India’s growing premium smartphone market, driven by brand loyalty, disposable income, and demand for cutting-edge technology. Apple’s retail staff implemented crowd management, pre-allocated inventory, and promotional incentives to ensure smooth operations.