Features

Why diversification is your best friend in today’s market

Published

10 months ago

September 16, 2024

Integrator Web-Editor

By Akshay Sardana, VP – Strategy & International Development, The Continental Group

In the world of investing, diversification is the only free lunch.

It’s becoming increasingly clear that diversification is not just a buzzword but a necessity from a de-risking standpoint. Whether you’re an individual investor trying to safeguard your savings or a financial institution managing large portfolios, spreading your investments across different asset classes, sectors, and geographies is crucial. We are navigating a phase marked by rising inflation, geopolitical tensions, and market volatility. Diversification is a crucial part of your financial safety net. It is just as important to think of how many different ways you can be invested, as it is to think of how long you will be invested.

Portfolios are often built primarily around time in the market; on face value, this is not a bad practice on its own. It is true that the likelihood of risk-adjusted gains goes up the longer you stay invested. But there are plenty of examples over the last five years which show that it should not be your only priority.

Remember the market uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic? While some sectors took significant hits, others, like technology, pharma, and commodities, saw substantial gains. Such disparities highlight the importance of a diversified portfolio. A large economic downturn doesn’t mean the potential for portfolio growth must fall.

Portfolio diversification is about spreading your investments to reduce exposure to any single risk. For financial institutions, diversification helps manage client portfolios more effectively. For individual investors, it safeguards savings against unexpected market downturns.

Strategies for effective diversification

Here is some data that points out why there is financial prudence in considering a diversified approach.

Tenure/Asset Class	Developed Market Equities(100%)	Developed Market(50%) + Indian Market Equities(50%)	Developed(40%) + India Equities(40%) with Gold (20%)
1 Year	16.66%	23.21%	22.60%
3 Year	6.73%	9.57%	9.53%
5 Year	11.60%	12.71%	12.28%
10 Year	9.80%	10.62%	9.62%

The table above illustrates how diversification enables investors to reduce concentration risk by spreading their investments across various sectors, asset types, and regions to achieve better results over time.

Asset class diversification: Allocating investments across different asset classes – such as equities, bonds, real estate, commodities, is the most rudimentary form of diversification. Equities might offer growth, while bonds provide stability and income. Real estate can offer inflation protection, and commodities like gold can serve as a hedge against market volatility. This approach ensures that an investor’s portfolio is not overly dependent on the performance of a single asset class. In its most ideal form, this kind of diversification allows for convenient rebalancing – changing the ratio of your investments in different classes – based on market trends.

Individual asset diversification: This strategy involves investing in a variety of assets within the same class. For example, rather than putting all your money into one tech stock or one sector, you might invest in a mix of various sectors. This approach reduces the risk associated with any single company or sector’s performance. This is critical as companies within a sector tend to have correlated performance, whereas different sectors tend to perform differently. By spreading investments across sectors, investors can leverage the strengths of multiple opportunities while cushioning against unidirectional risk.

Geographical diversification: By spreading investments across different regions, investors can hedge against local economic downturns. Investing in both emerging and developed markets can balance risks and rewards. For instance, while emerging markets may offer higher growth potential, developed markets typically provide stability. Recent geopolitical conflicts have shown that even local events can have global repercussions – having your portfolio spread across multiple regions is the only way to guard against such events.

Alternative investments: Beyond conventional asset classes, alternative investments like hedge funds, private equity, private credit, and real estate offer unique advantages. These investments often come with flexible terms and the potential for high returns, though they usually require a longer commitment. For instance, hedge funds, managed by professional fund managers, aim to maximize returns by strategically deploying investments. Private equity and private credit investing can also provide substantial returns but typically involve higher risks in terms of both capital deployed as well as timeframe.

Implementing diversification into your portfolio

Managing volatility in investments is much easier than managing emotions while investing.

To get started, there are two critical ingredients to get right:

Getting the right financial advisor
Setting up the right asset mix

If it’s a personal portfolio, you can start by automating your investments under the guidance of your advisor to ensure consistent allocation into diverse assets. Automating investments helps mitigate the risk of emotional decision-making, ensuring that a portion of your income is regularly allocated towards diverse assets. Regularly review your portfolio – at least once a quarter – and rebalance as needed to align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

For example, if you’re nearing retirement and looking for more stability, you might reduce your equity exposure and increase investments in dividend-paying stocks and real estate investment trusts (REITs), or even fixed-income assets. Dividend-paying stocks can provide a steady income stream, while REITs offer exposure to the real estate market with relatively lower volatility compared to direct real estate investments.

Of course, none of this is set in stone – it’s essential to stay informed about market trends and adjust your strategy accordingly, as the performance of different asset classes can vary significantly over time. Make sure your plans are dynamic and avoid generic thumb rules, because personal finance is not a one-size-fits-all sphere.

Institutional diversification has some principles that can come in handy. Institutions focus on strategic asset allocation tailored to client needs, leveraging their expertise to adjust portfolios based on market trends. One effective strategy is investing in thematic funds that target specific growth areas, such as technology, healthcare, or renewable energy. Typically these are sectors that show resilience and growth potential, making them attractive even during market volatility. By maintaining well-rounded and flexible portfolios, institutions better navigate economic shocks and sector-specific downturns.

Common pitfalls

Diversification is not without its challenges. Common pitfalls include over-diversification, where the portfolio becomes too complex to manage effectively, and under-diversification, which fails to provide adequate risk mitigation. Over-diversification can lead to diminished returns, as the positive performance of some investments may be offset by the poor performance of others. On the other hand, under-diversification exposes the portfolio to higher risks, as it relies too heavily on the performance of a few assets.

Remember, the key to successful diversification lies in regular reviews, strategic rebalancing, and staying focused on long-term objectives. It’s crucial to remember that financial markets are inherently volatile, and short-term fluctuations should not drive investment decisions. Think of diversification as not just a financial strategy but also a stress management tool for yourself – a sufficiently balanced portfolio will keep you from making hasty decisions. Professional guidance to set up such a balanced system can be especially beneficial during periods of economic uncertainty.

Features

Redefining Real Estate: The Rise of Wellness-Centric Spaces

Published

4 months ago

March 14, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

By Mark Phoenix – CEO of Sankari

The way we think about real estate is evolving, and at the heart of this change is a renewed focus on wellness. As we become more aware of the profound impact our living environments have on our health and well-being, it’s clear that real estate must go beyond aesthetics and luxury—it must support a lifestyle of vitality and longevity. To me, true luxury is no longer defined solely by opulence but by spaces that promote health, balance, and connection.

The demand for wellness-oriented spaces is growing rapidly, and real estate developers must rise to meet it. Today’s buyers are looking for more than just high-end finishes and exclusive locations—they want environments that enhance their well-being. Integrating wellness features such as fitness centers, yoga studios, meditation areas, and holistic health services is no longer an option; it’s a necessity. These spaces don’t just add value to a property; they create communities that create physical health, mental clarity, and social engagement.

Wellness-centric design is about more than just adding amenities—it’s about creating environments that encourage movement, relaxation, and human connection. By prioritizing well-being in real estate, developers can offer residents a lifestyle that aligns with modern values and aspirations. These spaces cultivate a sense of belonging, allowing people to come together in ways that enrich their lives beyond the walls of their homes.

Beyond individual benefits, wellness-focused communities have a lasting impact on society. As more people seek out homes that support their health, the real estate industry has an opportunity to lead this cultural shift. Developments that incorporate sustainable materials, biophilic design, and eco-friendly building practices not only benefit residents but also contribute to a healthier planet.

In the ultra-luxury segment, this focus on wellness is especially meaningful. The most sought-after properties are no longer just about extravagance—they are about creating a sanctuary where people can rejuvenate both physically and mentally. True luxury lies in thoughtful, health-driven design that enhances everyday life in meaningful ways.

Designing for wellness also means partnering with visionary architects and designers who understand the importance of both form and function. In regions with challenging climates, for example, innovative solutions can help reduce environmental impact while enhancing comfort and efficiency. Securing sustainability certifications like LEED further reinforces a commitment to responsible development and aligns with the global movement toward eco-conscious living.

For me, integrating wellness into real estate is more than just a trend—it’s a deeply personal mission and a strategic imperative. The places we live should do more than just shelter us; they should actively contribute to our health and happiness. By embedding wellness into the very foundation of luxury real estate, we’re not just shaping beautiful spaces—we’re shaping better lives.

Features

We are bringing tradition to every table in just five minutes

Published

5 months ago

February 20, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Exclusive Interview with Ashvin Subramanyam, CEO International Business, Orkla India

In this exclusive interview, Ashvin Subramanyam, CEO of International Business at Orkla India, shares insights on the brand’s participation at Gulfood 2025 and its mission to blend tradition with innovation in the Middle East. With the launch of Eastern’s 5-Minute Breakfast range and a refreshed Arabic spice portfolio, Orkla IMEA is redefining convenience without compromising on authenticity.

What can we expect from Orkla IMEA’s presence at Gulfood 2025, and how significant is this event for your brand’s growth in the region?

At Gulfood 2025, Orkla IMEA, subsidiary of Orkla India, is set to make a strong impact by unveiling the Eastern 5-Minute Breakfast range, designed to bring the authentic flavors of Kerala to the fast-growing ready-to-cook market in the Middle East. In addition, visitors can expect a refreshed Arabic spice portfolio, reflecting Orkla India’s continued commitment to catering to the diverse culinary preferences of the region.

Gulfood is a key platform for us as it enables us to showcase our latest innovations to a global audience, including retailers, distributors, and food industry leaders. The Middle East is a strategic market for our expansion. By blending tradition with convenience, our goal through this event is to become a household name across diverse communities in the region, reinforcing our commitment to quality, authenticity, and innovation in packaged foods.

How does Gulfood help Orkla IMEA connect with new markets, consumers, and industry partners, particularly in the Middle East?

Gulfood serves as a vital gateway for Orkla India to connect with new markets, consumers, and industry partners through its subsidiary Orkla IMEA in the Middle East. As one of the world’s largest food and beverage trade exhibitions, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to engage directly with key stakeholders, including retailers, distributors, and hospitality businesses, facilitating strategic partnerships and market expansion.

For Orkla India, this event is instrumental in understanding regional consumer trends, preferences, and evolving dietary habits, particularly in the fast-growing packaged food sector. The launch of the Eastern 5-Minute Breakfast range and refreshed Arabic spice portfolio at Gulfood allows us to showcase our innovation in convenience-driven yet authentic culinary solutions.

By participating in Gulfood, we strengthen our brand presence, foster collaborations with regional partners, and position ourselves as a trusted name in ethnic and mainstream food categories. It’s a key milestone in our vision to become a household name in the Middle East.

Eastern is set to unveil its preservative-free quick South Indian 5-Minute Breakfast range. What was the inspiration behind this concept?

The Eastern 5-Minute Breakfast range was inspired by the growing need for convenient, time-saving meal solutions that do not compromise on authentic taste and quality. South Indian breakfasts, particularly Kerala’s traditional dishes, are deeply rooted in culture, requiring significant time and effort to prepare. However, with modern lifestyles becoming increasingly fast-paced, many consumers struggle to recreate these meals from scratch.

Recognizing this shift, Eastern set out to bridge the gap between tradition and convenience by crafting a range that retains the authentic flavours and textures of Kerala’s most-loved breakfasts while eliminating the long preparation time. The preservative-free formula ensures that consumers enjoy fresh, wholesome meals made from high-quality ingredients in just three easy steps, ready in five minutes.

With this innovation, Eastern empowers busy professionals, young families, and expatriates to stay connected to their culinary heritage without compromising on their schedules, making traditional breakfast accessible anytime, anywhere in just 5 minutes.

Can you give us an insight into the development process behind this 5-Minute Breakfast range, especially in maintaining authentic South Indian flavors without preservatives?

The development process for our 5-Minute Breakfast range began with a deep understanding of our consumers’ evolving lifestyles and their desire for authentic Kerala-style breakfasts that eliminate a lengthy preparation process. We identified a unique need-gap: while traditional dishes like Puttu, Appam, and Idiyappam are much-loved, the time and effort they require can be challenging in today’s fast-paced world.

Our journey involved benchmarking these dishes to the traditional methods used by homemakers, capturing the essence of how an amma would prepare them at home. This set the standard for the flavor profiles we aimed to achieve. The challenge was to replicate the authentic taste and texture while ensuring our products were preservative-free.

Our R&D team worked tirelessly, conducting extensive trials to balance authenticity and convenience. Through our innovation center we crafted recipes that retain the goodness of traditional Kerala breakfasts while being ready in just five minutes. With this range, Eastern redefines breakfast convenience, allowing families to savor the true flavors of Kerala in a fraction of time.

With over one million Keralites in the UAE, how does Eastern plan to cater to both the traditional tastes of this community and the broader multicultural audience?

With almost two million Keralites in the UAE, Eastern understands the deep emotional and cultural connection this community has with its traditional cuisine. The Eastern 5-Minute Breakfast range is designed to preserve the authentic flavours of Kerala while offering a convenient solution for modern lifestyles. By using high-quality ingredients and a preservative-free formula, the range ensures that the taste and texture remain true to tradition, making it an ideal choice for Malayalees longing for home-cooked meals.

While there are other instant and ready-to-eat options in the market, Eastern’s range stands out by offering dishes like Puttu and Palappam, which traditionally require culinary expertise and time-consuming preparation. These dishes are not widely available in the quick- convenience food category.

At the same time, Eastern is expanding its reach to a broader multicultural audience by showcasing South Indian cuisine as a flavourful, nutritious, and easy-to-prepare option for all. The simplicity of the 3 Easy Steps preparation makes these dishes accessible to non-South Indian consumers who are eager to explore new flavours. Through strategic retail partnerships, digital outreach and and aggressive in-store sampling, Eastern aims to introduce and establish South Indian breakfast as a preferred choice for consumers in this region.

What’s one thing about Orkla IMEA that people might not know but should?

While Orkla IMEA was incorporated recently, we have been in the region for over 25 years now, through our brand Eastern.

Features

2025 Hospitality Tech Trends

Published

5 months ago

February 12, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

By Prince Thampi, Founder and CEO, Hudini

As we approach 2025, the hospitality industry is poised for transformational growth, driven by evolving traveller preferences and advancements in technology. The future of hospitality promises enhanced convenience, personalisation and sustainability, with a significant focus on creating memorable experiences for guests. Let’s dive into five key trends that will shape the hospitality tech landscape in 2025 and beyond.

The Continued Rise of Frictionless Technology

The increased demand for frictionless experiences is set to dominate the industry, with more and more travellers preferring hotels that offer touch-free check-in, check-out, and room access via mobile apps. This trend reflects a broader shift towards easy interactions powered by seamless digital integration. Mobile apps have been an essential tool for a few years now, enabling guests to manage their stays, order room service, and access hotel information effortlessly. With the introduction of Gen AI, those apps have become more powerful than ever and are now able to provide highly personalised recommendations and speak in different languages.

Hotels embracing this trend will gain a competitive edge, as tech-savvy travellers prioritise convenience and efficiency during their stay. According to a recent survey by Deloitte, around 72% of travellers are more likely to choose a hotel that offers mobile check-in and check-out services over those that don’t.

Hyper Personalised Guest Experiences

In 2025, personalisation will continue to be at the core of hospitality services but will finally be taken to the next level thanks to Gen AI. Guests expect hotels to anticipate their needs and offer tailored experiences, from customised room settings to personalised dining recommendations. Apps powered by AI are now able to predict guest needs based on a wealth of data, ingested from the hotel systems or fed externally.

Leveraging guest data and insights, hotels can create unique offerings that cater to individual preferences. This level of personalisation not only enhances guest satisfaction but also fosters loyalty and repeat bookings. According to Oracle’s findings, biometrics and AI are set to play pivotal roles, with 62% of guests valuing automated recognition for personalised interactions. Biometrics will experience a breakthrough into mainstream hospitality in 2025. Facial recognition technology has matured significantly and is ready to be weaved into the guest experience. It will enable better security and guest recognition while protecting their privacy at the same time.

AI-Enabled Customer Service

Artificial intelligence is revolutionising every aspect of the hospitality industry, but will be by itself a new way of providing customer service. Chatbots and virtual assistants are becoming standard tools for handling common queries, offering instant support, and streamlining operations at any time and in any language.

AI-driven solutions not only enhance efficiency but also provide guests with 24/7 assistance, ensuring a smoother and more satisfying experience. By integrating AI technologies, hotels can free up staff to focus on delivering exceptional in-person service.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

Sustainability is no longer optional, it’s a necessity often enforced by regulation. Travellers are increasingly favouring hotels that adopt eco-friendly practices, such as using locally sourced food, implementing energy-efficient operations, and reducing waste.

By prioritising sustainability, hotels not only meet guest expectations but also contribute positively to the environment. This commitment to green initiatives enhances brand reputation and attracts environmentally conscious travellers. A recent survey by Booking.com found that 83% of global respondents believe more sustainable travel is vital, with 49% believing there aren’t enough sustainable travel options and 53% saying they get annoyed when a hotel prevents them from being sustainable.

Smart use of technology is key in the sustainability journey of hotels. Technology can accurately measure the reduction in carbon footprint, it will help reduce energy and adopt renewable energy sources, and will enable the effective management of food waste. Many hospitality apps allow guests to apply green energy settings to a room, some will even exchange your energy savings to loyalty points.

The return of ‘real’

With Gen Z – the first generation grown up with everything digital – becoming the next large group to travel, the craving for ‘real’ experiences is bigger than it ever was. Hotels focusing on truly unique and hyper local experiences; a great meal, cultural outing, or wellness treatment will win the hearts of this generation.

Fortunately hotel apps, AI, automation of processes, sustainability tech and the removal of cumbersome processes like checking-in and studying paper manuals will free up hotel staff to allow them to do what they do best: providing unforgettable, personalised and sustainable experiences.