Bengaluru

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.

IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel chains, is significantly expanding its footprint in Bengaluru with the addition of 420 new keys across multiple properties. This strategic move reinforces IHG’s commitment to India’s booming hospitality sector, capitalizing on the city’s growing demand for business and leisure accommodations. Bengaluru’s status as a technology and business hub makes it a critical market for luxury and midscale hotel offerings.

UrbanVault, a fast-growing player in the co-working ecosystem, has opened a new shared office facility in Bengaluru, further consolidating its presence in India’s startup capital. The expansion reflects the rising demand for flexible workspaces, driven by startups, freelancers, and enterprises adapting to hybrid work models. The move is also indicative of UrbanVault’s strategy to deepen its reach in high-demand markets, offering state-of-the-art infrastructure and community-driven work environments.

Fusion CX, a global leader in customer experience management, has announced the opening of a new delivery center in Bengaluru, reinforcing India’s position as a strategic hub for digital and business services. The facility, designed to accommodate the company’s growing workforce and support its expanding client base, reflects Fusion CX’s commitment to scaling operations in one of the world’s most dynamic outsourcing markets.

Commodity traders in Bengaluru faced a disruption as market updates and trading notes were not made available during the latest session. The absence of real-time data and trading insights created uncertainty for participants who rely heavily on daily reports to make informed decisions in futures and spot markets. While the disruption was temporary, it highlights the dependence of market participants on timely information, particularly in sectors such as agricultural commodities, metals, and energy contracts where price movements can be rapid and volatile.