Paytm Turns Profitable with Strong Q1 Boost from AI and Merchant Growth

Paytm surprised many by clocking a ₹122.5 crore profit in Q1, a sharp rebound from its hefty ₹838.9 crore loss during the same time last year. Backed by strong merchant growth and trimmed employee costs, the company clocked ₹1,917 crore in revenue and ₹72 crore in EBITDA. What’s really driving this? Smart use of AI, disciplined spending, and deeper monetisation through device subscriptions. Financial services doubled too, hinting Paytm’s lending game is maturing. It’s early days, but this feels like more than just a lucky quarter — the full-stack strategy might finally be clicking.

Credit: YourStory

Blinkit Bets on Owning Inventory for Better Margins

Blinkit, Eternal’s quick commerce arm, is shifting from a marketplace model to full inventory ownership. Instead of just listing sellers, Blinkit will now stock products itself—aiming for better margins, smoother operations, and more control. This bold move could improve availability and fill rates, but it also means higher working capital. With over 1,500 dark stores and aggressive expansion plans, Blinkit’s eyeing profitability. Margins improved slightly this quarter, and leadership seems confident. It’s a risky play in a cutthroat space, but owning the supply chain might just give Blinkit the edge it needs.

Credit: YourStory

86% Firms Urge Govt Push for AI in India’s Security: Nexgen Report

A new report by Nexgen Exhibitions says India urgently needs government incentives and investment in AI to bolster cybersecurity and border defence. Based on a survey of 200+ companies, 86% support stronger state involvement, while 14% back public-private partnerships. With 2.3 million cyber incidents and ₹1,200 crore in losses reported in 2024, the demand for an AI-driven security strategy is growing. Yet, India lacks a national AI defence framework. With global threats rising, the message is clear: without proactive action, India risks falling behind in AI-enabled warfare and defence innovation. The upcoming Police Expo 2025 will spotlight these challenges.

Credit: YourStory

QpiAI Raises $32M to Build Utility-Scale Quantum Computer

Bengaluru-based deeptech startup QpiAI has secured $32 million in Series A funding from Avataar Ventures and India’s National Quantum Mission. The company plans to build a utility-scale quantum computer and expand globally. Known for delivering real-world quantum solutions in pharma and material science, QpiAI combines proprietary hardware, AI, and quantum software. With a team of top-tier researchers and global offices, QpiAI aims to push India to the forefront of quantum innovation, serving sectors like manufacturing, logistics, finance, and healthcare.

Credit: YourStory

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