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Upcoming Electric Bikes to Look Out For In 2021

Electric bikes are the future of two-wheeler bikes in the country. The soaring fuel prices and the decreasing e-bike prices are pushing things in favour of electric energy. In the long run, the running cost of electric bikes cannot be matched even by the highest mileage bike running on fossil fuel. 

The Auto Expos offer a sneak peek at what to expect from automakers in the future. The 2021 Expo indicated that the future is all-electric. The race to develop the best e-bike 2021, which offers adequate speed, long-range and quick charging time, continues.

However, the choices in electric bikes are still limited. To give you more options, bikemakers are introducing new electric bikes in India this year. Take a look:

Okinawa Cruiser

The new Okinawa Cruiser is said to offer an impressive range of 120km on a full charge, courtesy of its 4kWh battery pack. Its 3kW motor propels this electric cruiser to a splendid top speed of 100kmph. As for the charging time, it’ll take approximately 2-3 hours to max out the battery, thanks to the fast charging.

It also features a semi-digital instrument cluster with features like mobile phone charging, an anti-theft alarm, keyless operation, find-my-scooter function, and cruise control. The e-bikerolls on 14-inch alloy wheels, which have disc brakes at both ends.

Hero Electric AE-29

The Hero AE-29 is fuelled by a 1kW motor, with a 3.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which can be fully charged in 4 hours. Combining all power-related specs translates to an impressive range of 80kms

In the feature department, it comes with a LED headlamp, digital instrument console, anti-theft alarm, Bluetooth connectivity, and more. Suspension is taken care of by twin gas-charged shock absorbers at the rear and telescopic forks up front. As for the anchorage, you get drum brakes at both ends, accompanied by CBS (Combined Braking System).

The price may seem to be on the higher side, but you can always go for a loan to buy the AE-49. Before applying, compare the two wheeler loan interest rates offered by various lenders to ensure you get the best deal.

Additional Read: Hero Electric Bikes under 1 lakh in India

Ola S1

Ola S1 is currently one of the most anticipatedelectric bikes in India. The electric bike is powered by an IPM motor rated for a continuous power of 5.5kW and a peak power of 8.5kW. Plus, the motor is paired with paired to a 2.98kWh (S1) battery pack, capable of a claimed range of 121 km. The S1 maxes out at an impressive 90kmph, and the battery pack takes approximately 4hrs 48 minutes to charge. For braking, the S1 has been equipped with a 220mm disc at the rear and 280mm disc at the front, both aided by a combined braking system (CBS).

Tork T6X

Another much-awaited launch in the electric bike segment is Tata’s Electric Bike -the Tork T6X. This machine is built around a trellis frame, and is propelled by a brushless 6kW motor, which can dish out an impressive 27Nm of torque.

On a full charge, this Tata bike can cover 100 kilometres. Its Lithium-ion battery can be charged to 80 percent in just 60 minutes. Moreover, The T6X gets a 220mm disc brake in the rear and a 267mm disc brake at the front. It rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres.

Additional Read: All you need to know about electric two-wheeler industry in India

Tata Capital supports green energy. If you wish to buy any of these electric vehicles, you can apply for a two-wheeler loan with Tata Capital. Check your approximate monthly instalments from the two-wheeler loan EMI calculator on the website.

What Vital Role does Equipment Financing Play in Reviving Business in Post Pandemic Period?

COVID-19 has disrupted business-as-usual with widespread consequences in how enterprises function post-pandemic. The extended lockdowns and restrictions on operations globally have left several companies crunched for capital with low visibility on a possible turnaround.

As the pandemic prolongs, businesses find themselves in a dilemma when it comes to capital expenditures. On the one hand, entrepreneurs are looking to postpone equipment purchases or upgrades with restricted cash reserves during a crisis. But on the other hand, technology is advancing rapidly, and entrepreneurs know of the opportunity cost in neglecting to invest in an upgrade – reduced productivity and obsolescence.

Additional Read: Will Covid-19 impact traditional recession-proof industries?

Equipment financing could be the right solution to this dilemma. Such loans help businesses without the lumpsum capital expenditure upfront to invest in their future. Access to funding to procure the latest equipment could help enterprises leverage advanced technology while also conserving cash.

Here are a few ways in which equipment financing can play a vital role in reviving businesses post the pandemic.

1. Benefit from the latest technology: In today’s market scenario, all businesses are trying to extract maximum efficiency with limited capital. And equipment financing can help companies accelerate productivity by backing them with the latest technologies. Instead of waiting for months to revive business and accumulate cash to upgrade machinery, equipment loans help companies benefit from cutting-edge technology without the huge upfront investment. Thereby improving productivity while preserving cash reserves for more pressing priorities.

Moreover, the upgraded equipment offers enterprises an edge to stay ahead of the competition. In case such machinery needs to be imported from foreign countries, integrated solution providers like Tata Capital offers foreign funding in the form of Supplier Credit and Buyers Credit to import machinery, giving businesses access to cheaper funds in foreign currency.

2. Build Resilient Businesses: While it is easy to postpone CAPEX plans amidst a crisis, outdated machinery has consequences on business that cannot be overlooked. Timely upgrade of equipment sets your business up for success, and equipment financing helps companies make this investment without impacting business in the short run. Machinery finance facilitates businesses to invest in the latest technology and avoid obsolescence of machinery while building resilience in the business.

3. Limited upfront investment:  Given the pandemic enforced cash constraints, equipment financing could be an easier approach for businesses with negligible budgets to modernize their equipment. Instead of investing upfront, companies can make small monthly payments while using the latest machinery.

Additionally, equipment financingloans, such as Tata Capital, allow customers to customize their repayment schedule to align with their cash flow scenario. Such flexibility helps businesses plan long-term investments in a phased manner without adding stress to the limited cashflows.

4. Free up credit lines: One of the direct consequences of COVID-19 on businesses is lack of credit. Companies of all sizes struggle to make ends meet with limited cash reserves drying up faster as the pandemic prolongs. Instead of using up standard business loans to purchase new equipment, accessing equipment financing could free up traditional credit lines that can be used to invest in the business’s day-to-day operations.

5. Option to lease instead of outright purchase: Alternatively, if businesses are not convinced of their investment returns, there is an option to rent instead of purchasing long-term assets. Machinery can be leased for monthly rental payments for a defined tenure through an operating or financial lease. The monthly rentals can be shown as expenses out of the P&L, reducing taxable income and generating tax savings. Given the current crisis, equipment leasingoffered by Tata Capital could be an effective strategy to benefit from the latest technological advancements without making a long-term commitment. Businesses also have the choice to purchase the equipment at the end of the lease tenure.

6. No additional collateral needed: The best part of equipment financing is that it does not require other collateral, unlike conventional business loans. In equipment loans, the asset procured can be the collateral in itself, reducing the burden on small businesses with limited assets to hypothecate for financing. Companies could invest the freed-up collateral and excess capital that is no longer needed upfront to meet other business priorities.

Additional Read: Corporate Loan restructuring. Will it be a Boon or a Bane for the Economy?

Equipment financing offers many benefits to businesses looking to navigate the current crisis and revive post the pandemic. Tata Capital’s digital platform provides SMEs and MSMEs with access to equipment loans up to 100 Lacs in no time with limited documentation requirements. Increase your capacity, enhance your efficiency, and respond to market demands faster at the comfort and safety of your home by applying to our equipment loans.

Key Policy Initiatives for Infrastructure Development and Financing

A country is as good as its infrastructure. The Government is acutely aware of this and is continuously working towards upgrading India’s infrastructure. Budget 2020 also provided a thrust to infrastructure development to boost spending across roads, highways, railways, airports, and ports. Allocating over 103 lakh crores for infra projects, the Government identified over 6500 projects under the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) to build a $5 trillion economy by 2025.

While many of these announcements were before the COVID-19 crisis hit the Indian shores, they are even more relevant in a crisis with a deepening financial crunch and staggering economies. Government Infrastructure spending could be the magic potion that could create jobs, increase purchasing power, and generate consumer demand to revive the economy to its past glory. Infrastructure spending directly uplifts related sectors like cement, steel, diesel, and more, which helps gradually pick up the pace of commercial activity in the economy.

Additional Read: Corporate Loan restructuring. Will it be a Boon or a Bane for the Economy?

Here are a few Government infrastructure development initiatives and avenues for financing construction projects:

1. Roads and Highways: The Indian Government, in 2017, approved a total investment of INR 6,920 billion for the construction of over 83,677 km of roads in the upcoming five years. The current FY2021 budget also provides for capital for accelerated development of roads and highways.

ICRA predicts road projects’ execution at approximately 9000Kms, 10% lower than last year due to the COVID-19 impact. However, the second half of July 2020 shows early signs of recovery with toll collections across national highways rising to 87% of pre-COVID levels. Enhanced spending on construction of roads and highways increases the demand for construction and mining equipment, laborers, and more, which helps put cash directly in citizens’ hands.

2. FDI: In a move to attract more foreign investments in the infrastructure sector, the Government has relaxed several FDI regulations to allow 100% FDI investment in select construction development projects. Moreover, these new provisions have also eliminated the lock-in period of three years in specific real estate development projects such as Hotels & Tourist Resorts, Hospitals, etc.

Lack of financing has been one of the fundamental limiting factors in improving infrastructure in developing countries. While these relaxations are sure to attract more foreign investments, an equally viable alternative is to access construction finance instead of waiting to accumulate the required upfront capital to invest in these projects. A construction finance loan could speed up infrastructure development plans without burdening cashflows.

3. Smart Cities: The Government allocated INR 6,450 crore in Budget 2020 to develop five smart cities in the fiscal year FY2021. To accelerate urban infrastructure, the Indian Government set a vision of 100 smart cities starting in 2015. While COVID-19 might have delayed this initiative’s progress, the urbanization endeavor would create jobs and boost economic growth across identified states.

These projects require huge upfront investment that could be catered too by accessing builder finance. Tata Capital allows for flexibility in these loans to be tailored to match the Government’s milestone payouts to ensure loan repayments align with income.

4. Transport: In the Union Budget 2020-21, the Government has given a massive push by allocating INR 1.70 trillion for transport infrastructure. Of the 103 lakh crore invested in NIP projects, over 37 lakh crore is estimated to upgrade transportation, be it metro, rails, airports, or ports. The Government also plans to build 100 airports by 2024 and launch more Tejas trains to promote tourism and domestic travel.

5. Power: The power sector is one of the keys to propel economic growth in the country, and the Union Budget 2020-21 allocated Rs 22000 crores for discom reforms, power, and renewable energy sector. To further push India’s renewable energy capacity Government also plans to establish a renewable energy capacity of 500 GW by 2030, including large solar power plants along railway tracks.

6. Oil & Gas: Under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP), 1.37 lakh square km have been allocated to the private sector and central public sector enterprises for exploration. There is also a plan for a 51% expansion of the national gas distribution grid to 27000 Kms.

In light of the pandemic, few other measures taken by the Government to continue its impetus on infrastructure development are:

– Reduction of milestone limit and faster release of monthly invoice payouts by NHAI

– Compensation for loss of toll collection by increasing the concession periods

– All registered real estate projects and central departments including railways, public works department, ministry of road, transport, and highways have offered an extension of time of at least 90 days and up to 180 days to all undergoing projects without any penalty

– Government agencies to release retention proportionately to the extent contracts are completed to ease working capital for road contractors

– Speedy settlement of arbitration of disputes between Government and contractors

Additional Read: Budget 2020: Key Highlights and Takeaways

Tata Capital believes in doing its part by offering to finance entrepreneurs committed to developing India’s infrastructure through these initiatives. If you’ve received large tenders to execute under any of these policies or are planning to participate and require construction and mining equipment financing, project financing, or any other working capital requirements to execute them, connect with us.

What are the Documents Required for Two-Wheeler Loan?

Riding a two-wheeler is a joyful experience with the wind gushing past your face and the landscape unfolding as you ride on. This close-to-nature experience is why bike riding is as popular as it is. However, the utility of a two-wheeler is not limited to long bike rides to exotic locations. A two-wheeler is very useful in any location, urban or rural. Be it a quick trip to the grocery shop or bringing home a visiting relative from the train station, two-wheeler bikes are functional and convenient. Owning one is not difficult too. Bikes and scooters are available across a wide range of prices. 

Also, a two wheeler loan is a popular financial product fulfilling the aspirations of riders across India. The documents you need to apply for a bike loan can broadly be classified into three categories: 

1. Identity proof

To prove your identity, one of the generally accepted identity proofs needs to be submitted. You have the option to furnish one of the following: 

  • Passport
  • PAN
  • Driver’s license
  • Voter ID
  • Aadhaar card
  • Ration card
  • Identity cards issued by employers may also be accepted

2. Address proof

Some of the documents accepted as identity proof also serve as address proof. The address proof documents required to buy a bike on EMI include the following:

Two wheeler loan documents
  • Passport
  • Voter ID
  • Driver’s license
  • Rental agreement
  • Telephone bill
  • Electricity bill
  • Gas connection bill
  • Ration card
  • Sale deed
  • Recent credit card bill statement
  • Property purchase agreement
  • LIC policy

Additional Read: Getting Home a Two Wheeler? 4 Tips to Follow

3. Income proof

While approving a bike loan, lenders have to be assured that the loan applicant can repay the loan in due course. They ascertain this by looking at the income proof of the applicant. These documents allow the lenders to get a fair idea about the income of the applicant, using which they can decide the loan eligibility. Some of the common documents accepted as income proof include:

  • Latest salary slip
  • Latest Form 16
  • Latest Income tax return
  • Bank statement for the last three months
  • Salary certificate

These, in a nutshell, are the documents required for two wheeler loan that the applicant must furnish.

Additional Read: Different stages involved in availing a Two-wheeler loan

4. Availing the two wheeler loan

You must note that the above list of documents required for bike loan is not exhaustive and may vary from one lender to another. Once you finalize on your lender, you have to prepare the aforementioned documents to avail the loan. Apart from furnishing the documents, you will also have to qualify the various two-wheeler loan eligibility criteria. Often, there are limits on the age of the applicant, the loan value and the tenure of the loan. Residential and employment stability of a predefined period is also sought by lenders.

Tata Capital, with a strong customer base of over 15 lakh, offers attractive two-wheeler loan. The loans can be for up to 95% of the value of the two-wheeler, thus transferring most of the two-wheeler’s value on to EMI. Besides, the simple documentation and processing, competitive interest rate and quality service make Tata Capital a preferred choice for two-wheeler loans.

Top BS6 Scooters to buy in 2020

With the New Year, stricter BS6 emission norms for automobiles were introduced in the country. The addition of fuel-injected BS6 engines (a must for BS6 compliance) saw fuel-efficiency figures dropping even with the best mileage bikes. Moreover, the rise in fuel prices has further forced buyers to look for low-fuel consuming two-wheelers. 

The bike vs scooter debate is largely centered on mileage versus convenience. Scooters prove to be more practical as they offer storage space and gearless acceleration, which are a necessity in congested city traffic. So, which are the best BS6 scooters you can buy in 2020? Let’s find out:

Honda Activa 6G

Price: Rs 65,419 – 66,919 (ex-showroom)

Think of gearless scooters, and the Honda Activa always comes to mind first. The 109cc engine powers the scooter that produces 5.73kW and 8.79Nm. If you want a no-fuss scooter, the Activa is certainly one of the best bikes in 2020for you to buy. It comes with an external fuel filler, LED DC headlamp, 3-step rear adjustable suspension, engine start/stop switch and many more useful features.

TVS Jupiter

Price: Rs 62,062 – 68,562 (ex-showroom)

Activa’s closest competitor is the TVS Jupiter. Equipped with a 109cc engine, the TVS scooter puts out 7.99PS and 8.4Nm. It gets Eco-thrust FI technology, LED headlamp, two riding modes and several other handy features. It claims to deliver fuel economy of 60kmpl, which pushes it up on the list of top 10 mileage bikes available in the country.

Additional Read: Top 10 Mileage Bikes

Suzuki Access 125

Price: Rs 68,800 – 73,400 (ex-showroom)

The Access is powered by a 125cc motor, which pumps out a max power of 8.7PS and 10Nm. The Suzuki scooter offers refined performance with impressive mileage. With a claimed fuel economy of 65kmpl, the Access is the highest mileage bike available in India. It offers a long seat, USB port, external fuel filler, and wider floorboard among several other features.

TVS Ntorq 125

Price: Rs. 66,885 – 73,365 (ex-showroom)

The most stylish and performance-oriented scooter in India, TVS Ntorq is perfect for zippy rides around the city. For millennials, the Ntorq 125 is a must-have as it lends a perfect blend of sporty styling and extraordinary performance. 

Yamaha Fascino 125 ss

Price: Rs. 67,230 – 70,730 (ex-showroom)

The Fascino 125 offers modern-retro styling that gives it a distinct identity. With its lightweight chassis, the Yamaha scooter delivers a smooth performance. The BS6-compliant engine of the Yamaha Fascino 125 offers impressive fuel efficiency, which is at par with its rivals. It gets features such as side-stand engine cut-off switch, concave lens headlight, telescopic suspension, and start/stop switch. 

Additional Read: Top Yamaha bikes in India with BS6 Engine

If any of the above scooters interest you, Tata Capital can help you with your purchase with its bike loans offered at attractive two wheeler loan interest rate. The prompt customer service and hassle-free loan sanctioning make the approval process a breeze with Tata Capital.

The 5 Best Bikes of 2020 in India

Choosing the best bike could be a daunting task for any two-wheeler aspirant with the plethora of options you have these days. Whether commuter or performance, there are several options you have in each segment. 

While some like to follow their heart when purchasing a bike, others pay heed to the market and choose one that is being favored by most. Often, what an informed buyer looks for while choosing a bike are motorcycles that are in high demand. 

With the first half of the year already behind us, let’s take a quick look at the best bikes in 2020:

Hero HF Deluxe

The HF Deluxe has been a bestseller among Hero motorcycles for years now. This no-nonsense bike is powered by a 97.2cc BS6 engine, which produces 8.02PS and 8.05Nm. It is available in two variants – kick-start and self-start. The Deluxe gets 130mm drum brakes with a combined braking system along with tubeless tires. It is priced in the range of Rs 47,800 – Rs 58,000 (ex-showroom Delhi). The Hero HF Deluxe can be purchased with a bike loan as well if you do not wish to buy it with your savings. 

Additional Read: Top 10 Best Bikes in India for Your Daily Use

Hero Splendor Plus

Any discussion about the best bikes in India of all time is not complete without the Splendor being talked about. The Hero Splendor continues to rake volumes for the brand. It gets the regular styling with a single-piece long seat and conventionally designed fuel tank. Equipped with a 97.2cc engine, it delivers 8PS of max power and 8.05Nm with an overall mileage of 80.6 kmpl. The price of Splendor Plus lies in the bracket of Rs 60,500 – Rs 63,860 (ex-showroom Delhi).

Honda Shine

Honda Shine - Best Bikes of 2020

The Shine continues to outshine other bikes in the 125cc segment. Powered by a 125cc engine, it belts out max power of 10.74PS and 11Nm of torque. It gets segment-first features like ACG starter motor for silent start and start/stop switch. It is tagged in the price bracket of Rs 68,812 – Rs 73,512 (ex-showroom Delhi). 

Hero Super Splendor

With three bikes in the top performers’ list, Hero can be called the best bike company in India. The higher capacity Super Splendor ranks fourth in terms of sales this year. The 124.7cc engine churns respectable power figures of 10.8PS and 10.6Nm. A direct competitor of the Honda Shine, the Hero Super Splendor is priced in the range of Rs 68,150 – Rs 71,650 (ex-showroom Delhi). 

Additional Read: Best Mileage Bikes in 2020

Bajaj Pulsar 150

Pulsar is synonymous with performance bikes in India. The Bajaj Pulsar 150 continues to dominate the hearts of biking enthusiasts with its 149.5cc motor that produces 14PS of top power and 13.2Nm of max torque. It is priced in the range of Rs 91,002 – Rs 1.01 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).  If you wish to buy any of these trusted motorcycles, Tata Capital can help you with financing options at attractive two wheeler loan interest rates. Reach out to them today and bring home your dream machine without any financial woes.

Why has the number of retail investors increased during an economic crisis?

Historically, during times of economic crises and recessions, investors from the retail and institutional categories have always shied away from investing in the stock markets. Instead, they have switched to safe-haven assets such as the U.S. Dollar and gold. However, during the current economic crisis that was brought about primarily by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the situation has been quite the opposite. In a surprising move, the number of retail investors has actually increased during this period of uncertainty. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why this might have actually happened. 

Reasons why Retail Investors Increased:

1. More awareness and easier entry

One of the main reasons for the increase in the retail investor base can be attributed to an increase in awareness about the stock markets. In fact, Upstox, one of the many discount brokers in India, reported that about 80% of its total customer base acquired during the pandemic period came from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. This data point strongly suggests an increase in the penetration of share trading and the stock markets.

Also, with the introduction of eKYC and Aadhaar eSign, almost all stockbrokers have adopted this methodology. This has made the trading and demat account opening process virtually paperless and completely online, making the entry into share trading smooth and seamless. Additionally, the many incentives and discounts provided by brokerages have also played a major role in attracting a sizable retail investor population.

2. Market crash and bottom fishing

The recent stock market sell-off in March 2020 set off a sort of a frenzy amongst the investor population. Almost all the sectors, industries, and companies faced a significant drop in their market value. Both the major Indian indices, Sensex and Nifty, dropped by around 30% in a matter of a few trading sessions.

Many retail investors perhaps thought that by entering when the market was bottoming out, they could enjoy some short-term gains when the markets finally went on a rise. This led to a huge wave of new and first-time traders flooding the market and trying their hand at bottom fishing. Even penny stocks were not spared, with many such stocks experiencing a never before rise in their stock prices.

Additional Read: Here are some Investment Tips by Experts for Post-pandemic World

Reasons for Increased Retail investors

3. Retail investors getting out of busy schedules

Nations around the world, including India, were forced to adopt stringent measures to combat the spread of coronavirus. One such measure was the string of widespread lockdowns that literally forced people to stay indoors for months. With almost the entire working population working from home, their schedules were not so busy anymore.

They suddenly had more time on their hands and consequently tried to put it to good use by getting in on some of the stock market action. Hordes of retail investors took out a part of their savings and tried their hand at share trading. This ultimately led to a record number of trading and demat account openings in the history of stock markets.  

4. Retail investors looking for alternative sources of income

As a consequence of the widespread lockdowns, many businesses were forced to suspend their operations and had to suffer serious setbacks. This directly impacted the revenues of many individuals who had to contend with little to no remuneration during this phase. Some of them suddenly found themselves laid off and without a job.

Under such dire circumstances, many such individuals turned to the stock market looking for alternative sources of income. The increase in retail investor participation in the month of June 2020 is in itself clear evidence of the rise in the retail and high networth individual investors’ share in the stock market.

5. Weak returns from other investment options

In the current economic scenario, the returns offered by many traditional investment options, barring gold, have been very lacklustre. The bank interest rates are quite low and the real estate sector is struggling to get back on its feet. Considering these circumstances, more number of individuals have turned to the stock markets in the hopes of generating some short-term profits to satisfy their financial goals. This has led to a boom in the number of retail investors in the stock market.  

Additional Read: Corporate Loan restructuring. Will it be a Boon or a Bane for the Economy?

Conclusion

Although there is a strong increase in retail investor participation in the stock market as of late, it still remains to be seen whether this trend would continue further. As the country and the economy slowly recovers, there’s a slight chance of these investors moving away from the stock markets and onto the more traditional investment options. But, for now, retail investors are here to stay.

In uncertain times like these, safeguarding your wealth is as important as earning new returns. So, if you seek customized and expert guidance on how to secure your finances during the current economic crisis TATA Capital’s wealth management solutions are just what you need. Our team of expert wealth managers will help you find the investment strategy that’s best suited to your financial goals and help you choose the right investments across a variety of options.

What is a Key Benefit of Having an Online Presence for a Business?

Thanks to the Coronavirus pandemic, the age of digital-first business, online business, etc. is speeding up as a lot of traditional businesses, both big and small, are moving their operations online. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is set to become a trillionaire by 2026, and Zoom’s revenues spiked up by 169% only in the first quarter of 2020, according to Forbes. This is only a testimony to the rising importance of an online business presence.

Let us now look at the key benefits of taking your business online in case you haven’t done it in full force yet.

1. Online business registration

When we say taking your business online, we don’t just mean selling your products online, we also mean taking all your business operations online. The Indian government has facilitated online business registration with the Udyog Aadhar portal especially for MSMEs. Online business registration will not only make your business easier, but also open your doors to multiple benefits such as subsidies, loans. Also, knowing the benefit of SME loans on enhancing your business opportunities.

Reaching a wider audience

A store will only cater to the locality, or nearby cities at the most. However, selling your wares online will help you reach audiences in practically any part of the world. People are now comfortable with ordering products and services online and getting them shipped. If you aren’t taking the online business opportunity right in front of you, you’re losing out on a lot.

Additional Reads – What are the different types of online business opportunities you can grab?

2. Credibility

Having an online business presence to your offline stores will certainly help you scoop up more credibility and trust. Customers these days check everything online, right from the store address to reviews by past customers. An investment in enhancing your online business presence with positive stories and reviews will go a long way.

3. Greater brand awareness

An online business opportunity also comes with online promotion opportunities. As we mentioned before, you can cater to a larger audience. You can also market to a much wider audience. Online promotion tools have advanced to such an extent that your small business in India can easily target niche European markets. Advertising has become much more specific, focussed, and relevant with online tools.

online business

4. Cheaper marketing

Selling an online business or even selling an on-ground business is much easier than traditional means of marketing. You can get more guaranteed returns as compared to traditional marketing with the help of narrow target audiences, affordable design costs, SEO models, etc. Online promotions now give you an opportunity for acquiring thought leadership, influencer partnerships, and celebrity endorsements like never before.

5. Increased top-of-the-mind presence

No matter what your category or product is, your consumers are very likely to check social media multiple times a day. That just gives your online business more focused opportunities to grab their attention and stay on top of their minds in the information overload age.

6. Crisis management

Scandals and crises break out on social media and end on social media in the 21st Century. If your business lands in trouble due to any reason, having an online presence becomes crucial to address it promptly. Consumers will not have the patience to wait for half a day and read your press release. You can find numerous case studies about how upscale brands like Starbucks have mitigated crises with the help of social media strategies.

Additional Reads – Tips to Grow E-Commerce Business Online using Social Media

7. One-on-one engagement

Customers are used to being made to feel like they’re special by other brands on social media. Your brand would do better to jump on that online business opportunity soon enough to have conversations with loyal and new customers, retain them, and develop a meaningful relationship with them. All it takes is a few comment replies, tweets, and messages.

Conclusion

The importance of taking your business online cannot be stressed enough. Whether yours is an established business or an upcoming one, taking it online would be the best decision you can take right now. In the year 2020, your business can either stay stuck in time and risk dying a slow death, or evolve and join the digital revolution.

If your business is in need of funds to start online operations, there is one place which you can turn to for quick help. Tata Capital Unsecured Business Loans not only provide customized loans as per your business model, but also offer flexible repayment tenures, quick documentation, and hassle-free processing.

Know The Difference Between Udyog Aadhar And MSME

It is the MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) that drive a country’s economy by generating not only revenue but also employment and assuring equitable distribution of national income. As of 27 March 2022, there are around 8 million MSMEs active in India, which with the help of the government’s initiative, can really boost industrialization in the country.

Since the past few years, the Indian government has taken many steps towards revival of small businesses such as providing security for MSME loans. One of the latest initiatives in this direction has been the Udyog Aadhar registration initiative.

However, there is already a similar provision called MSME registration which is very similar to the Udyog Aadhaar certificate, but they are not exactly the same. 

So, if you’re uninitiated, you must be confused about the difference between Udyog Aadhar and MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) registration. Let’s look at the features, procedures, and benefits of Udyog Aadhar registration and MSME registration and understand the differences between the two.

What is Udyog Aadhar?

Udyog Aadhar is basically a government registration process which provides a registration certificate for your company along with a unique number known as your Udyog Aadhar number. This initiative is especially for SMEs. The goal of Udyog Aadhar is to give businesses maximum access to government schemes.

How to register for Udyog Aadhar?

To register for Udyog Aadhar and take advantage of all the Udyog Aadhar benefits, there are some basic steps to be followed. The main part of this simple process is the UAM (Udyog Aadhar Memorandum) which is a self-declaration form. Here’s the complete process for

  1. The one-page form can be filled online or offline. In order to register online, you can visit the government’s official MSME website.
  2. Use individual registration in case you want to register for multiple industries.
  3. In the form, you will have to self-certify your business, business activity details, bank details, employment and ownership details, etc. with self-certified certificates.
  4. There are no fees required for the submission of this form.
  5. After submitting the form, a registration number will be generated and mailed to you along with the unique Udyog Aadhar Number (UAN) of your company.

After your Udyog Aadhar verification is complete, you will receive a Udyog Aadhar certificate which will help you avail benefits like easy MSME loans.

Now that you know how simple the process is, let us have a look at Udyog Aadhar benefits in detail.

Benefits of Udyog Aadhar registration

  1. One of the main benefits of Udyog Aadhar registration is that you can avail a lot of government schemes such as a micro business loans, unsecured MSME loans, subsidized rates, easy loans, etc.
  2. You can enjoy financial support for participation in foreign expos.
  3. Opening of current bank accounts will become hassle-free. 
  4. One of the major Udyog Aadhar benefits you can enjoy is exemption on excise and indirect taxes.
  5. You will be able to file for trademarks and patents at lower rates.
  6. Udyog Aadhar certificate holders will receive concessions on their electricity bills as well.

Additional Read: A Detailed Guide to the Udyog Aadhar Registration Process

Udyog Aadhar update and correction

Once your Udyog Aadhar verification is complete, you can update the information to add a new company or make corrections. Below are the steps to perform the Udyog Aadhar updateand correction:

  1. Visit the official website of Udyog Aadhar and log in using your credentials.
  2. Click on the option “Update Udyog Aadhar”. It will redirect you to a new webpage.
  3. On the new webpage, enter your Udyog Aadhar number and click on the option to send an OTP to the registered mobile number or email address.
  4. Enter the OTP and the verification code displayed on the page. It will redirect you to another web page.
  5. On this new page, you can add/correct details such as the name and address of the company. After updating the information, click on the “submit” button.
  6. Upon clicking the submit button, you will receive an acknowledgement number which you can use to track the status of your Udyog Aadhar update request.

Once the update and correction process is complete, your Udyog Aadhar certificate will show the updated/corrected information. 

The aim of this new initiative is to provide a better alternative to business owners between MSME and Udyog Aadhar registration.

Now that you know about Udyog Aadhar, let us also look at MSME registration in detail to understand the difference between Udyog Aadhar and MSME.

What is MSME registration?

In order to promote MSMEs, which are the backbone of the Indian economy, the MSMED Act facilitates a lot of schemes, subsidies, and incentives. To be able to benefit from these, you need to get your MSME registered, although it is not compulsory.

Steps for MSME registration

  1. Fill the application with company name, registration number, GST number, and other relevant details.
  2. Fill in your personal details including name, bank details, address, PAN, etc. along with a photo.
  3. Your application will be processed and reviewed by an official executive, who will ask you to make changes in case of discrepancies.
  4. Once that is done, you will soon receive your digital MSME registration certificate.

Benefits of MSME registration

MSME registration certificate holders are entitled to the following benefits:

  1. Access to all state and central government schemes.
  2. Easy access to subsidies, MSME loans, different types of business loans, etc.
  3. A chance to avail of a bank loan at lower rates (1% to 1.5%).
  4. Benefits of tax rebates.
  5. Access to government tenders opened, especially for MSMEs.
  6. Registration of patents at lower costs.
  7. Preference for government licenses and certifications.

Additional Read: Why Is MSME Loan the Perfect Finance for Small Business Owners?

Difference between Udyog Aadhar and MSME

Both MSME and Udyog Aadhar registration processes are quite similar but they are different initiatives. Udyog Aadhar can be an easy means to acquire MSME registration. So, you can easily apply for MSME registration once you get your 12-digit Udyog Aadhar number. For your business to get maximum benefits, it would be a good idea to get both MSME and Udyog Aadhar registrations done.

Looking for a business loan?

While the government is making paperwork and accessibility easier for your business with MSME and Udyog Aadhar registrations, we have something to help you with your urgent finances as well.

Try Tata Capital Unsecured Business Loans which are customized to your business plan, quick, hassle-free, and offer flexible repayment options. With the support of government initiatives and the right loan, your business will soon tide over difficult times and prosper.

Suzuki Access vs Honda Activa: Which is better?

Wondering which gearless scooter to buy? You must then definitely consider the Suzuki Access 125 and Honda Activa 125 as both rank high among the best bikes in 2022. Suzuki Access 125 fuel economy, performance, engine, features, etc., all are compared in this article with Honda Activa 125.

Both Suzuki Access 125 and Honda Activa 125 come from trusted and respected Japanese automotive manufacturers that have a significant presence in India. Not only are these two among the best mileage bikes, but they are also easy to maintain with excellent service support.

However, choosing between the two can be a bit of a challenge. Here is a head-to-head comparison of Access vs Activa.

The Honda Activa 125 has an ex-showroom price of Rs. 75,761, and the Suzuki Access 125 has an ex-showroom price of Rs. 75,024. Suzuki Access 125 comes in 6 variations, while Honda Activa 125 comes in 6 colours and 3 variants.

SpecificationsActiva 125Access 125
Engine Specifications  
Engine4 Stroke, BS-VI Engine4- Stroke, 1-Cylinder
Engine Displacement (CC)124 cc124 cc
Power8.29 PS @ 6500 rpm8.7 PS @ 6750 rpm
Cooling SystemFan CooledAir Cooled
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Starting MechanismSelf/Kick StartSelf/Kick Start
Fuel Consumption  
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Fuel Tank Capacity5.3 L5 L
0-60 kmph (sec)8.72s7.19s
Mileage60 kmpl64 kmpl
 Chassis and Suspension 
Chassis TypeUnder BoneHigh Rigidity Under Bone
Front SuspensionTelescopicTelescopic
Rear SuspensionSpring Loaded Hydraulic TypeSwing Arm Type
Other Specifications  
Battery12V 3Ah (MF)12V, 3Ah Maintenance Free
Wheel TypeAlloy WheelSheet Metal
Kerb Weight111 kg103 kg
PriceRs. 75,761Rs. 75,024

The two bikes are fuel-efficient and are often counted to be among the top 10 mileage bikes, but neither is the highest mileage bike on account of the engine capacity. Suzuki Access 125 fuel economy is up to 64 km/l. Usually, bikes with a lower cylinder capacity get those honours, but they are not as powerful.

In terms of build, performance and price, there isn’t much of a difference between the two. However, when it comes to certain features, one offers some that the other doesn’t. Because Honda Activa 125 fuel economy is 50-55 km/l.

The Suzuki Access 125 comes with additional features like central locking and a unique safety shutter, Combined Braking System, digital speedometer, mobile charger DC socket and chrome headlamp.

In Honda Activa vs Suzuki Access, the Activa 125, on the other hand, has a full metal body, combi brake system, digital meter, disc brakes, HET Engine with BS-IV, sturdy alloy wheels, better pick-up and suspension. Honda Activa 125 weighs 111 kg, and Suzuki Access 125 weighs 104 kg.

While the Honda Activa 125 appears to be larger than the Suzuki Access 125, in actuality, there isn’t much of a size difference between the two scooters. The Honda Activa is slightly broader and higher than the Suzuki Access 125, but it is also slightly longer. While the Access 125 has a somewhat longer seat, it is much taller than the Activa 125. The Access 125, on the other hand, will appeal to younger riders because of its lower kerb weight.

Much has changed in both scooters with their BS6 revisions compared to their previous versions. The Suzuki Access 125 has had just minor alterations. However, the Honda Activa 125 has received a far more significant upgrade in terms of style and features.

The Suzuki Access 125 has the same neo-retro styling as the Suzuki Access 125, with vertically arranged clear glass turn indicators on the front apron and a chrome-plated headlamp. However, this time it’s a complete LED unit. To reinforce its classic aesthetic, the side body panels of the Access 125 are bulgy. But the rear retains the compact horizontally arranged tail lamp cluster with clear lens indications. The fuel filler on the exterior right above the tail lamp cluster is also a welcome upgrade on Access 125.

In comparison to the Suzuki Access 125, the Honda Activa 125 has fully new body panels that give it a considerably more refined and sophisticated appearance. The complete LED headlamp is slimmer here. The side body panels are significantly sleeker here, and the chrome accents give it a premium appeal. The tail lamp cluster is substantially larger towards the back, with sharper turn indicators.

Suzuki Access vs Honda Activa: Which is better?

Suzuki Access 125 and Honda Activa 125 are both popular 125cc scooters known for their fuel efficiency, comfort, and spaciousness. The Access 125 offers slightly better acceleration, while the Activa 125 has a higher top speed. The best scooter for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as fuel efficiency, performance, comfort, and price when making your decision.. If you are looking for a loan, do know you can get full financing for your new ride with Tata Capital’s two-wheeler loan.

Check any online bike loan calculator to ascertain your loan eligibility and apply for a loan today. The bike loan EMI calculator allows you to structure a repayment schedule that is convenient and suits your budget.

So, in Activa vs Access, both are excellent options, and there isn’t really a right or wrong decision to make here. Attractive two-wheeler loan interest rates and flexi pay options from Tata Capital mean you can ride out on your new bike without having to worry about financing.