But here’s the harsh truth: 90% of startups fail.

Why? Because startups don’t perish from one blow. They fall under the pressure of little, preventable errors. Let’s dissect the largest reasons why so many great companies disappear into thin air.

1. No One Actually Wants the Product

The number one reason startups fail? Creating something nobody needs.

Most founders fall in love with their concepts rather than addressing actual problems. You may believe your product is revolutionary, but if customers don’t have the pain you’re addressing, they won’t care.

Reality check: If nobody is frantically looking for a solution like yours, it’s time to reconsider the concept.

2. The Money Runs Out Quickly

Startups are rocket ships they require fuel to remain airborne. And that fuel? Money.

Most founders don’t realize how fast costs add up salaries, marketing, tech expenses. Before they know it, there’s no money left without knowing how to generate money.

Pro tip: Obsess over cash flow, not funding rounds. A startup that prints money is always in charge.

3. Competitors Devour Them Alive

You could have the better idea, but so do one hundred other startup companies and others have deeper pockets, better teams, and more rapid execution.

Most startups fail to appreciate competition until it’s too late. A larger, better-capitalized company comes in and does it better, and they get left behind.

Takeaway: Don’t get complacent. Be on your toes, keep iterating, and keep asking, What sets us apart?

4. No Clear Path to Profitability

A startup with no actual business model is merely a costly pastime.

Too many startups prioritize growth at any cost acquiring users, pursuing vanity metrics but lose sight of the fact that, eventually, someone has to pay for the service.

Golden rule: Determine how to make money before you require money.

5. The Founders Mess It Up

Passion initiates, but execution sustains.

Most founders struggle with leadership, hiring, decision-making, and coping with the mess that is scaling. Some burn out. Others hire horribly. A few conflict with their co-founders and implode.

The solution? Find mentors, have a great team, and learn constantly.

6. Timing is Everything (And Most Get It Wrong)

Some startups jump too soon before their time, when the market is not ready. Others jump too late, into a sector already taken by giants.

Consider Web3 in 2018 too early. AI in 2023? Spot on.

Tip: Research trends, pilot the market, and drop at the optimal time.

The Tough Truth: Startups Don’t Fail. Founders Allow Them To Fail.

The silver lining? Most of these errors are avoidable.

The greatest founders are persistent. They experiment with ideas, hear from customers, manage cash effectively, and never quit adjusting.

Want to create something that endures? Take heed of these mistakes so you don’t end up being another statistic.

What’s your guess for the #1 reason startups fail? Share your thoughts below!

This budget seeks to accelerate India’s economic momentum through employment creation, infrastructure expansion, foreign investment, tax simplification, and social welfare—while maintaining fiscal prudence.

1. Taxation Reforms: Balancing Relief & Revenue Generation

Direct Taxes

Personal Taxation: Relief for the Middle Class

Increase basic exemption limit from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh under the new tax regime.

Increase Standard Deduction for salaried employees to ₹75,000 (from ₹50,000).

Extend 80C limit from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh to encourage savings.

Tax-free interest on FDs up to ₹75,000 for senior citizens.

Corporate Taxation: Incentives for Growth

15% tax rate for new domestic manufacturing units beyond March 2024.

5-year tax holiday for AI, semiconductor, robotics, & EV battery industries.

Unified capital gains tax structure with indexation benefits for all assets.

Direct Tax Code (DTC) Readiness

The tax system will align with the upcoming DTC while ensuring stability in taxation policies.

2. Indirect Taxation & GST Reforms

GST Simplification

Merge 12% & 18% slabs into a single 15% slab for ease of compliance.

Reduce GST on health & life insurance premiums from 18% to 12%.

Single-window digital compliance system for MSMEs to ease tax filing.

Customs & Import Duty

Reduce import duties on semiconductor components & electronic goods.

Higher tariffs on non-essential imports to boost ‘Make in India’.

3. Infrastructure & Public Sector Investments

₹12 Trillion Capex Allocation

Expansion of National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) to fund roads, railways, & urban projects.

Railways modernization: Faster electrification & high-speed corridors.

PSU Revamp – ₹3 trillion infusion in profitable PSUs to drive self-reliance.

Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Push

Private investments in airports, seaports, highways, & smart cities with sovereign guarantees.

Hybrid PPP models for large infrastructure projects.

4. Foreign Investment & Trade Policy

SEZ Revamp & FDI Liberalization

New ‘Make in India SEZ’ model with a 10-year tax holiday for investments over $500 million.

Simplified FDI approval framework for critical sectors like defense, AI, and electronics.

Export Promotion & Trade Agreements

Fast-track FTAs with UK, EU, and GCC to boost exports.

PLI expansion for pharma, textiles & defense exports.

Capital Market Boost

Relax foreign investment norms in REITs, InvITs, & Infrastructure Bonds.

Allow higher FPI investment in sovereign bonds.

5. MSMEs, Startups & Digital Economy

MSME & Startup Tax Reforms

Extend MSME credit guarantee scheme by ₹1 trillion.

Tax holiday for startups extended to 5 years (from 3 years).

New fintech & blockchain incentives to promote digital banking.

Retail & Small Investors

Launch of ‘Sachet Investment Bonds’ for small investors.

Expansion of Retail Direct Scheme to let citizens invest in government infrastructure bonds tax-free.

6. Employment & Skilling

Skill India 2.0

₹50,000 crore employment-linked training scheme for youth in AI, quantum computing, and green technologies.

Expansion of apprenticeship & ITI programs with industry participation.

Startup Fund for Women Entrepreneurs

₹50,000 crore Women in Business Fund for women-led startups & MSMEs.

Daycare Tax Incentive

Companies offering daycare benefits to get an additional tax deduction.

7. Agriculture & Rural Economy

Agriculture Technology Push

₹20,000 crore Agri-Tech Fund for AI-driven crop yield models, micro-irrigation & climate-based insurance.

PM Kisan scheme expanded with higher direct transfers.

Farm-to-Market Support

Interest-free loans for rural agri-processing units & farmer cooperatives.

Warehousing & cold storage infrastructure boost under PPP model.

8. Energy, Sustainability & Climate Action

Green Energy Revolution

₹1 trillion solar & wind energy fund for rural rooftop solar adoption.

PLI scheme for EV battery production & hydrogen energy research.

Carbon Credit Trading System to incentivize green adoption by industries.

Public Transport Revamp

₹20,000 crore for metro rail expansion in Tier-2 & Tier-3 cities.

E-mobility infrastructure funding to support charging stations & green public transport.

9. Healthcare & Education

Healthcare Expansion

Increase healthcare spending to 2.5% of GDP by FY 2026.

New public-private hospitals in underdeveloped regions.

Free healthcare under Ayushman Bharat for all BPL families.

Higher Education Push

₹1 trillion for medical colleges & research universities.

National AI & Quantum Computing University to train the next-gen workforce.

10. Fiscal Discipline & Revenue Mobilization

Fiscal Deficit Target

Maintain fiscal deficit below 4.5% of GDP by FY 2026.

Strategic asset monetization rather than PSU sales.

AI-Driven Tax Compliance

AI-powered tax monitoring & automation to increase compliance.

Tax Revenue Expansion

Widen tax base without increasing rates through better compliance tracking.

Conclusion: A Forward-Thinking Budget for India’s Global Leadership

This Dream Budget 2025-26 focuses on tax simplification, infrastructure development, employment creation, foreign investment, and green energy while maintaining fiscal prudence. It aligns with the government’s long-term vision and ensures that India remains a global economic powerhouse in the years to come.

Here’s a closer look at some of the groundbreaking startups Anupam Mittal has backed across all three seasons:

Season 1: Innovation at its Core

Total Investment: ₹5.338 Crores

Number of Deals: 24

Skippi Ice Pops: A pioneer in India’s frozen dessert market, offering preservative-free, naturally flavored ice pops for all age groups.

Thinkerbell Labs: Empowering visually impaired students through their flagship Braille literacy device, Annie, which has revolutionized inclusive education.

Hair Originals: A premium brand crafting natural, high-quality hair extensions that promote sustainability and beauty innovation.

Sunfox Technologies: Developers of the world’s smallest portable ECG device, Spandan, which has transformed healthcare accessibility.

Season 2: Bold and Creative Ventures

Total Investment: ₹5.400 Crores

Number of Deals: 25

Find Your Kicks: A unique platform for sneakerheads, enabling safe and reliable resale of trendy and authentic sneakers in India.

The Sass Bar: Makers of artisanal and luxurious soaps, offering skincare with a touch of fun and creativity.

In A Can: Introducing India to canned cocktails, blending convenience with innovative alcoholic beverages for urban consumers.

PawsIndia: A one-stop destination for premium, quirky, and innovative pet products designed for modern pet parents.

Season 3: Transforming Industries

Total Investment: ₹8 Crores approx 

Number of Deals: 25

Nomad Food Project: A gourmet brand offering bold and exotic jams, chutneys, and spreads that cater to evolving palates.

Loka: A next-generation social metaverse platform offering immersive virtual experiences that redefine digital interaction.

CosIQ: A science-backed skincare brand committed to delivering smarter and more effective cosmetic solutions.

Watt Technovations: A startup focused on energy-efficient solutions and sustainable innovations for a better future.

Why Anupam Mittal’s Investments Stand Out

Anupam’s investment strategy goes beyond just funding; he brings mentorship, vision, and invaluable networking opportunities to every entrepreneur he backs. His ability to identify innovative ideas and transform them into scalable businesses has inspired a generation of startups in India.

Through his journey on Shark Tank India, Anupam Mittal has become a beacon of hope for entrepreneurs with bold dreams, proving that with the right guidance and support, innovation can truly flourish.

1. Focus on the Customer
   Bezos’ core philosophy is simple: “Obsess over customers, not competitors.” Amazon’s success stems from its relentless drive to enhance customer experience. Entrepreneurs should adopt this mindset—when you solve real problems for your customers, success follows naturally.
2. Think Big, Start Small
   When Bezos started Amazon, he only sold books. But he envisioned a platform that could sell everything. His ability to think big while taking small, deliberate steps highlights the importance of scalability. Start where you are, but always have a grand vision in mind.
3. Be Willing to Fail
   Bezos often says, “If you’re not failing, you’re not innovating enough.” From experiments like the Fire Phone to colossal successes like AWS, Amazon’s growth is rooted in embracing calculated risks. For entrepreneurs, failure isn’t the end—it’s a stepping stone to innovation.
4. Long-Term Thinking Wins
   Bezos didn’t build Amazon for short-term profits. He reinvested revenues into growth, technologies, and infrastructure, often sacrificing immediate returns. Entrepreneurs can learn that playing the long game, even when it’s tough, is essential for building something enduring.
5. Adapt and Evolve
   Amazon’s evolution—from e-commerce to cloud computing and even space exploration—shows the power of adaptability. In a fast-changing world, flexibility and openness to new opportunities are key to staying ahead.

Jeff Bezos’ story is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and vision. Entrepreneurs who adopt these principles—customer focus, calculated risks, long-term planning, and adaptability—can create lasting impact, just as he did. Your journey might not start in a garage, but it can lead to great heights.

If my money could send me texts, I think we’d have some pretty intense conversations. Let’s just say it’d have a lot to say about my spending habits…

Money: Morning! I noticed you checked out a few vacation packages. Should I be…concerned?

Me: Oh, come on, it’s just browsing…no plans yet!

Money: Uh-huh. Just like the browsing you did last week that ended with a sudden online shopping spree?

Me: That was different! I needed those shoes. They were 20% off!

Money: Right. I’m glad you saved 20%…but wouldn’t saving the 80% have been even better?

Me: ignores text

A few days later…

Money: Hey, just checking in. I see you’re at that coffee place again.

Me: It’s just a small pick-me-up!

Money: Small? That’s your third pick-me-up this week. And you’re buying artisanal pastries now?

Me: It’s an investment in my happiness!

Money: Funny, I thought you were investing in me…so, what happened to our Budget 2024 goals?

Me: We’re still on track! Kind of…

Money: sighs At this rate, Retire Early is turning into Retire Eventually…Maybe…If We’re Lucky.

So yeah, I’m glad my money can’t actually text me. But every once in a while, I feel those imaginary reminders. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll skip the extra coffee. Because while money may not talk, it sure has a way of keeping me in check.
Turns out, financial discipline isn’t about strict rules—it’s about a conversation…with yourself. Just remember: when in doubt, imagine what your money would text you!

Trump claims USA presidency!

Five bold predictions under Trump 2.0:

0) Middle East escalation starting soon, even before Trump becomes president. Regime change in Lebanon is the aim. Iran is in for some big hits. Another front in Syria may be opened against Russia to better negotiate Ukraine.

1) “Show of deportation”: The day Trump becomes president, he will sign deportation of illegal immigrants and stop more immigration. However this will be hardly implemented and only a few tens of thousands will be deported back for a show of sorts. The millions who came in are to be used for cheap manufacturing jobs that will come into US in the coming years as China is hit hard by Trump. 

2) End of Russia-Ukraine war: Trump will end Russia-Ukraine war. Ukraine will get a bad deal and it will be blamed on Trump. That doesn’t matter, but the US will end Russia-Ukraine war and using Trump bring Russia back into relationship. Sanctions on Russia will be lifted. Assets unfrozen. Russia may even re-enter G8. The aim to break Russia-China bonhomie.

3) Economic war on China: As relationship with Russia is reset, China will be hit hard by sanctions, tariffs, and trade war. Chinese economy running on over-production and dumping will be hit by taking out apps like Shein and Temu with tariffs and fines. TikTok is over. It will be banned or bought by the US. Not just that, shipping issues and a manufactured recession may be used to destroy Chinese economy if needed.

4) Onshoring of hi-tech manufacturing: US will again become a manufacturing nation. As Trump launches tarrif wars on the World’s hi-tech industry, China’s economy is hit badly, and even Taiwan’s chip industry hit by Trump, manufacturing will come back to the US. They already have illegal immigrants to run these plants and jobs on the cheap. This is why they were let in their millions till now which everyone thought was for vote rigging against republicans. Wrong calculations.

5) US will become the world’s biggest oil producer. Bitcoin will go to $500,000 coming years. Gold will go to $3000 and even $5000 if they bring in the manufactured recession to hit China. Digital dollar will be introduced. XRP may become the default digital swift alternative. US debt will be financed by Cryptos, a CIA project, sold in the world markets sending in dollars for the US. The world order will radically change. China may be forced (or should we say incentivized) to go to war with the chip industry fast leaving Taiwan, and its economy in doldrums creating need to divert attention. By 2028 we can expect a very chaotic world post Trump. But the US shall remain the emperor of chaos.

It is generally expected that result of US Elections will not have much impact on the bilateral relations between USA and India as both USA nd India needs each other due to Geopolitical and strategic reasons.

Regardless of who wins the US election, India is unlikely to feel affected much.

Though, the Indian establishment wouldn’t mind either of Trump or Harris winning the elections but will obviously prefer one over the other.

While the Modi government has already worked with Trump during his tenure as a president in 2017-2021. The Modi government has also worked with Harris as she is currently the vice president of the US. Kamala Harris also has Indian roots with her mother being from Chennai.

Geo-Politics and Global Security: it is very heartening to note that the US has established a robust partnership with India in respect to overall geopolitical concerns, especially with regard to China and Indo-Pacific. Both Trump and Harris consider India as a major Partner to counter China’s rising influence and Power.

Trade: Trump is a strong believer in America First Policy and Protectionism where all Trade decisions are taken keeping in mind Trade and Business interest of USA. Trump had slammed many new tariffs on Indian products during his earlier stint. He had also withdrawn India’s GSP status but tried to negotiate an FTA. On the other hand, Harris has not tried to use Trade Tariffs as a major trade weapon to improve US Trade interests.

Immigration: It is an area where result of US election will have a significant impact. Trump will be more decisive in acting against illegal immigrants and also may reduce H-1B Visa program which is critical for IT Professionals from India.

Climate change: Trump will not really be interested in climate goals and will want India to buy more of US energy whereas Harris will take climate goals more seriously and ensure funding to India for renewable energy.

China: Both Trump as well as Harris will escalate the US-China rivalry but Trump will be more aggressive going by his earlier track record. But Trump will surely want more concessions from India as well in the Trade related Taxes and would want India to act actively in the matter to further American business interest. Trump will also aggressively take a stand against China which will be harsher than Harris in every sphere.

Conclusion: The current relationship between USA and India is deep rooted enough to withstand the turbulence that may arise during the initial period of the new President. Moreover, current Global Geo—political situation makes a strong Indo-US Partnership is a necessity for both the Countries.

1. Clear Out the Clutter and Begin Anew

In the lead-up to Diwali, we declutter our homes to welcome positive energy. Apply this principle to your investment portfolio. Are you still holding onto outdated stocks or funds that no longer serve you? Just as you would tidy up neglected spaces, refine your investments to focus on those that align with your current goals.

2. Seek Balance for Greater Resilience

Diwali teaches us about balance—light versus darkness, tradition versus innovation. Your portfolio requires balance as well. By diversifying your assets across stocks, bonds, and gold, you create a buffer against market fluctuations. When one asset falters, another can help stabilize your finances, allowing you to weather market changes.

3. Safeguard Your Wealth Like a Protector  

Just as diyas ward off darkness, insurance and emergency funds shield our wealth from unforeseen circumstances. Having a financial safety net is essential for navigating life’s unpredictability without compromising your financial aspirations.

4. Take Gradual Steps Towards Long-Term Wealth

Lighting diyas one at a time illustrates the importance of patience. Building wealth follows a similar principle. Rather than pursuing quick gains, concentrate on steady, consistent investments. This method enables your finances to grow, akin to the gradual illumination that fills a space with warmth.

5. Reevaluate Your Financial Goals for a Fresh Start

Diwali signifies new beginnings, making it an ideal moment to reassess your goals. Have your aspirations shifted? Are your investments aligned with your current priorities? Taking the time to revisit your strategy now can help clarify your path toward achieving your dreams.

This Diwali, let’s not just celebrate the light around us but also cultivate it within our finances. May the lessons of this festival guide you in building a future filled with prosperity and purpose.

Wishing you and your loved ones a Diwali filled with joy, abundance, and financial wisdom. Happy Diwali!

1. Build an Emergency Fund
   Just as Lord Dhanvantari emphasizes immunity, an emergency fund acts as financial immunity, protecting you from unforeseen expenses and keeping your goals intact.
2. Avoid Financial Toxins
   Like toxins harm the body, high-interest debts and impulsive spending weaken financial health. Strive for mindful spending and debt reduction to keep your finances strong.
3. Invest in Long-term Health
   Lord Dhanvantari teaches that health requires sustained effort. Similarly, wealth grows when invested long-term. Prioritize SIPs, PPFs, or index funds for consistent growth.
4. Regular Financial Check-ups
   Just as health requires regular check-ups, so does your portfolio. Review your investments, rebalance as needed, and ensure they’re aligned with your goals.
5. Healthy Wealth Diversification
   Just like a balanced diet, a diversified portfolio ensures steady growth and minimizes risk. Spread your investments across assets to protect against market volatility.

This Dhanteras, honor Lord Dhanvantari’s principles in both health and wealth for a prosperous future!

Key Milestones in His Life & Achievements

– 1961: Ratan Tata began his career in Tata Steel, starting at the grassroots level, even working with a blast furnace.

– 1971: Rejected a lucrative offer from IBM and chose to stay in India, solidifying his commitment to Tata and the nation.

– 1974: Became Chairman of Tata Industries.

– 1986: Took over as Chairman of Air India, marking his early leadership role in the aviation sector.

– 1991: Ratan Tata became Chairman of Tata Group, a defining moment as he led the group into the 21st century, shifting from traditional industries to modern global enterprises.

Major Business Milestones:

1. Tata Namak (1983): Revolutionized the Indian salt industry by introducing iodized salt with the tagline “Tata Namak, Desh ka Namak.”

2. Tata Motors: In 1999, his offer to sell Tata Motors to Ford Motors was rejected. Ironically, Tata later acquired Jaguar and Land Rover from Ford.

3. Tata Tea: Acquired the Tetley Group in 2000, making Tata the second-largest tea brand globally.

4. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS): In 2004, TCS went public, becoming the first Indian IT company to cross $1 billion in revenue.

5. Tata Sky (2006): Entered the direct-to-home (DTH) satellite television industry, which grew into a leader in the market.

6. Jaguar Land Rover (2008): Acquired the British brands, saving them from bankruptcy and bolstering Tata Motors’ global presence.

7. Tata Nano (2009): Launched the world’s cheapest car, aiming to make car ownership accessible to the masses.

Personal & Philanthropic Achievements:

– Awards: Received the Padma Bhushan in 2000 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008, India’s highest civilian awards.

– $50 Mn Donation to Harvard: Funded the creation of Tata Hall at Harvard Business School for an executive education center.

– IIT Bombay Donation: Donated ₹95 crore, marking the largest contribution in the institute’s history, supporting R&D innovation.

Post-Retirement:

– 2012: Retired as Chairman of Tata Group but retained the title of Chairman Emeritus. Under his leadership, Tata grew into a global conglomerate with over $100 billion in revenue.

– 2022: Played a pivotal role in bringing Air India back under the Tata fold after 69 years.

Ratan Tata’s life is a testament to a visionary leader who not only took Tata Group to extraordinary heights but also contributed immensely to India’s industrial and social progress. 

” We have lost a Kohinoor”