Meta AI starts rolling out in India📱
Genesys to launch AI-powered maps, Zepto raises $665 Mn, GST changes to benefit ecomm sellers, Funding Deals and more.
Welcome to Monday’s edition of Rise & Shine!
Starting the week with inspiration and motivation can set the tone for the days ahead.
“The greater the difficulty, the more the glory in surmounting it.”
- Epicurus
Today’s quote reminds us of the value and glory that comes from overcoming challenges.
Tech Updates
Meta AI assistant rolls out with text, and image features
Social media major Meta has rolled out the Meta AI personal assistant across all its platforms—WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram—to offer text and image generation capabilities, helping users with productivity and efficiency gains besides creative assistance.
Genesys International to launch AI-powered maps
Mapping company Genesys International is scheduled to launch its AI-powered navigation maps for the mobility markets on Monday, with five products hitting the shelves. The maps feature a navigable road network in India, covering 8.3 million kilometers and more than 30 million points of interest.
Quick commerce Zepto raises $665 Mn at $3.6 Bn valuation
Quick commerce company Zepto has raised $665 million in its Series F round from new investors Avenir, Lightspeed, and Avra (Anu Hariharan’s new fund), among others. Existing investors Glade Brook, Nexus, and StepStone co-led the round with Goodwater and Lachy Groom doubling down their stakes. The mammoth funding will help Zepto compete with other two deep-pocketed players, BlinkIt and Swiggy Instamart.
GST changes to benefit ecommerce sellers, real money gaming firms
Two separate recommendations by the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council concerning changes in indirect tax laws could benefit suppliers of online platforms and real money gaming (RMG) firms, respectively. A recommendation to reduce the tax collected at source (TCS) by electronic commerce operators, which includes ecommerce, quick commerce, and food delivery platforms, will result in cash flow benefits for sellers, brands, and some restaurants operating on these platforms. The TCS has been reduced from 1% to 0.5%.
Funding Deals
Omnichannel retailer Bluestone has raised Rs 100 crore or $12 million in debt from Neo Markets.
Actor Rana Daggubati has launched a new tequila with south Indian musician Anirudh Ravichander and Sree Harsha Vadlamudi, owner of microbrewery Ironhill India. The three have invested a combined $10 million in the company, Ironhill Hospitality Pvt Ltd. The tequila, called Loca Loka, will be made from 100% agave grown in the Jalisco region of Mexico.
⛰️ Short Story: Climbing the Mountain
There was once a young mountaineer named Alex who dreamed of conquering the highest peaks. His eyes were set on the formidable Mount Everest.
The journey was fraught with obstacles: harsh weather, treacherous terrain, and moments of self-doubt. Many advised him to turn back, but Alex persisted, driven by his dream.
After months of grueling preparation and several failed attempts, Alex finally reached the summit.
The view from the top was breathtaking, but more than the view, it was the sense of achievement that filled him with pride.
Every hardship and every moment of doubt he had endured made the success even sweeter.
Alex realized that the glory he felt was directly proportional to the difficulties he had overcome.
Tweet of the day🐥
Today’s story is a powerful reminder that our challenges are often the crucibles in which our greatest achievements are forged.
Embracing difficulties and persevering through them not only leads to success but also brings a deep sense of fulfillment and glory.
By incorporating the daily insights from Rise & Shine into your routine, you equip yourself with the mindset needed to tackle life’s challenges.
Starting your day with a thoughtful reflection can empower you to face obstacles head-on, turning potential setbacks into stepping stones for growth and success.
Have a wonderful and productive week ahead!
Feel free to share it with someone who could use a little inspiration. Let's pass on the good vibes and make someone's day!
Thanks for reading till the end!