Leading with purpose creates wins for consumers, community and country: Hina Nagarajan of Diageo India

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Unheard tales of Maggi’s redemption: How poetry and nostalgia revived an iconic brand

Content creator Raj Shamani’s journey: Prioritizing substance over virality

MIB’s Ashwini Vaishnaw at Storyboard18 DNPA Conclave: Govt working for fair compensation for media houses

Nobody’s Perfect Retro Porsche Ad

In Conversation With Raja Rajamannar, Mastercard

Shahid Kapoor And Varun Ganjoo Speaks On PokerBaazi's Campaign

In conversation with IHCL’s Puneet Chhatwal & GroupM’s Kate Scott-Dawkins

Why are brands including e-sports in their sports marketing itinerary?

Storyboard18 x The English Nut: How to pronounce these 10 brand names

Experts' Take On Reinvention Of Ad Campaigns Through Technology

Experts Speak On Key Emerging Trends In Cannes Lions Entries

Leaders of the future have to be outstanding human beings: Nestle MD

In conversation with VMLY&R’s Hari Ramanathan

Storyboard18 presents FAST FIVE ⬇


We bring you top five news updates from the world of advertising, marketing and business of brands.


Landmark sessions at WAVES 2025: A call for universal access to media and entertainment


At WAVES 2025, a diverse and accomplished panel will send a powerful message: the future of media and entertainment must be one where no voice is left unheard, and every story finds its audience.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/landmark-sessions-at-waves-2025-a-call-for-universal-access-to-media-and-entertainment-63613.htm">Read More</a>


Retail rules, Q-comm bubbles: Cola Wars heat up as brands tap digital playbooks


This year, the soft drinks sector finds itself at the intersection of climate urgency, evolving consumption habits, and digital innovation. According to Shailja Joshi, Category Lead for Cola and Flavours at PepsiCo India, brands are leaning into “real-time digital engagement, bold storytelling and purpose-led narratives” to appeal to socially aware, mobile-first consumers. While television continues to play a role in broad outreach, she notes, the industry is pivoting toward immersive, personalized campaigns designed for the digital age.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/retail-rules-q-comm-bubbles-cola-wars-heat-up-as-brands-tap-digital-playbooks-62377.htm">Read More</a>


From promising EV brand to PR pariah? The BluSmart communication breakdown


Despite a raging crisis around the brand, consumers took to social media to profess their admiration for BluSmart and its fleet of green rides. But, when EV startup BluSmart found itself in trouble recently, observers noted an uncanny silence from its branding and communications team. There were no public statements, no investor updates, no founder apologies, only a void quickly filled by investigations, speculation and criticism.


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/from-promising-ev-brand-to-pr-pariah-the-blusmart-communication-breakdown-63616.htm">Read More</a>


WAVES 2025 Summit: Mukesh Ambani to lead keynote on building India’s global entertainment future


Among the distinguished global and Indian leaders at the WAVES Summit, Mukesh Ambani will outline a bold vision for positioning India at the forefront of the global entertainment industry, on May 1.


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/waves-2025-summit-mukesh-ambani-to-lead-keynote-on-building-indias-global-entertainment-future-63693.htm">Read More</a>


Paytm's First Games receives ₹5,712 crore GST show cause notice


One97 Communications Limited, the parent company of First Games Technology Private Limited has received a show cause notice (SCN) from the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI), Delhi Zonal Unit. The notice pertains to an ongoing tax matter in the online gaming industry and proposes a demand of ₹5,712 crore in unpaid Goods and Services Tax (GST), along with applicable interest and penalties.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/breaking-paytm-first-games-receives-%e2%82%b95712-crore-gst-show-cause-notice-63622.htm">Read More</a>


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Landmark sessions at WAVES 2025 | Cola wars heat up | BluSmart communication breakdown

As India's media and entertainment sector hurtles toward a digital-first future, the conversation around accessibility is no longer confined to policy circles, it is becoming a cultural imperative. On May 2, WAVES 2025 - the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit will spotlight this urgent transformation through a landmark panel on accessibility standards in media and entertainment, organised by Network18 Group. 

The session, divided into two parts, will explore both technological innovation and the socio-political forces reshaping how millions of Indians access content.

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has laid clear guidelines for accessibility across broadcast and cinema, and is currently working on similar standards for digital media, inspired by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). Officials emphasize that the nation's approach is not simply about compliance, but about creating a truly inclusive digital ecosystem, one where every story can be heard, seen, and felt by all.

“Having an impairment shouldn't mean being disabled by inaccessible media and entertainment,” said Christopher Patnoe, Google's Head of Accessibility and Disability Inclusion for EMEA, who will join the panel. “An impairment isn't necessarily disabling until you encounter a video without captions when you're deaf, or a website without alternative text when you're blind.”

At the heart of this transformation is technology. Adaptive tools, AI-powered captioning, screen reader compatibility, and voice-guided navigation are now integral to how content is created and consumed. Yet, as panelist Rachel Lowenstein, co-founder and chief creative officer of The Neu Project, notes, accessibility must be seen not as charity, but as strategy.

“Disabled people creatively solve problems in a world not designed for us every day. That’s the kind of innovative thinking media and tech should be building around, for the good of their businesses and for the good of society.”

The panel will not only showcase technological strides but also dig deeper into the cultural and societal underpinnings of accessibility. Speakers will address how inclusive media policies can serve as catalysts for democratic participation, social cohesion, and a vibrant creative economy.

“Stories shape our culture, fuel empathy, and connect us across differences," said Dipti Prasad, founder of XL Cinema and Nobaflix, the world’s first OTT platform for people with disabilities. "By bringing accessibility, through audio description, captions, and sign language, to every screen, we enrich the creative ecosystem itself.”

India’s ambitious push for media accessibility reflects a broader global trend, but with uniquely local stakes. Over a billion Indians consume an average of three hours of media daily, according to Prof. Brij Kothari, social entrepreneur and academic at IIT-Delhi.
“The most stunning aspect is that the tools that create universal access also have the proven power to scale improved reading literacy and language ability for all 1.4 billion Indians,” Kothari said.

The panel will also grapple with the tension between viewing accessibility as a moral obligation versus a business opportunity. Ashay Sahasrabuddhe, founder of Kintel, framed it this way: "With OTTs, accessibility of content is almost achieved. As entertainment becomes more experiential, we must work towards bringing that experience to persons with disabilities. A cohesive and holistic approach may solve the conundrum of whether accessibility is a right or a business."

For disability rights advocate, Rhodes scholar and co-founder of Mission Accessibility, Rahul Bajaj, the answer is clear. "Media accessibility ensures that people with visual and hearing disabilities are also able to watch electronic media on an equal footing with their non-disabled counterparts. It is a right which every stakeholder must do their bit to help make real."

Indeed, many panelists argue that accessibility is as much about dignity and belonging as it is about compliance or profit.
“Accessibility in the media shouldn’t be seen as a technical fix; it’s a creative opportunity to tell fuller, richer stories,” said Priti Salian, journalist and disability inclusion advocate. “When we build access in, we also build trust and belonging.”

Danish Mahajan, founder of Radio Udaan, India's first internet radio station run by persons with visual disabilities, puts it even more simply: “Accessibility isn’t just about inclusion, it’s about representation, empathy, and the right to experience stories that reflect the full spectrum of humanity." He added, "conversations around accessibility open doors, shift perspectives, and create a world where no voice is left unheard.”

At WAVES 2025, this diverse and accomplished panel chaired by Storyboard18's editor Delshad Irani, will send a powerful message: the future of media and entertainment must be one where no voice is left unheard, and every story finds its audience.

Landmark sessions at WAVES 2025: A call for universal access to media and entertainment

The capital city is set to host one of its most anticipated cultural celebrations — the 13th edition of the Delhi Literature Festival — from May 2 to 4 at Bikaner House, Pandara Road, New Delhi. This year’s theme, 'Delhi Writes: Voices, Visions & Verses', promises to spotlight Delhi's vibrant literary soul alongside powerful national conversations.

The festival will be inaugurated by Gajendra S. Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture & Tourism, in the presence of leading dignitaries, including Rekha Gupta, Delhi Chief Minister; Vijender Gupta, Speaker, Delhi Vidhan Sabha; Kapil Mishra, Cabinet Minister for Culture & Tourism; Keshav Chandra, Chairman, NDMC; and Tim Curtis, Director & Representative, UNESCO India.

Several key sessions intersecting policy, politics and literature will add political and intellectual gravitas to the festival. A special panel on “Demography, Dialogue & Development” will be delivered by Sushri Bansuri Swaraj, Member of Parliament, delving into youth, governance and nation-building. A fireside chat titled “Flowing Through Time: Healing The Yamuna” features Parvesh Sahib Singh, Cabinet Minister, Delhi, highlighting ecological heritage and sustainable futures.

The festival will also witness a no-holds-barred conversation with political commentator and author Dr. Anand Ranganathan, titled “Unscripted, Unapologetic, Unfiltered.”

Over the three days, the festival will host some of India’s finest minds and bestselling authors, including Lakshmi Murdeshwar Puri (former diplomat), presenting Swallowing the Sun; Amb. Abhay K, with his national bestseller Nalanda – How It Changed The World; Dr. Aishwarya Pandit, exploring Indian Renaissance: The Modi Decade; Ravi Shankar Etteth, Arun Anand, Pavan K. Varma, Taslima Nasrin, Mukul Kumar, and many more.

There is a dedicated session on Hindi Poetry: ‘Itwaar Chhota Pad Gaya’. There will also be a discussion on ‘Can we be strangers again’, national bestseller by Shrijeet Shandilya. Also, Nityananda Misra will talk about his book, ‘Kumbha: The Traditionally Modern Mela’.

The festival will also feature the Delhi Literature Festival Awards 2025, honouring excellence in seven literary categories, and “Writers of the New Century”, an open competition for young writers.

The festival will conclude with a live performance by Meenu Bakshi, presented by Renu Hussain.

Book lovers can explore curated selections at the Kunzum Bookstore, the official Bookstore Partner of the festival. Food and conversation will flow freely at the venue, with gourmet options from Diggin Cafe, L’Opera, Haldiram, and Havemore available on site.

The festival continues its legacy of bringing together thought leaders, literary icons, policymakers and the public to celebrate India’s evolving literary and cultural landscape. The free registration and programme details are available  onwww.delhiliteraturefestival.org

Storyboard18 'Delhi Literature Festival' to kick off on May 2 at Bikaner House

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Eliminating the middlemen: Esports orgs are now the new-age marketing agencies


In India’s fast-evolving digital ecosystem, a quiet revolution is underway—and it's not happening in traditional ad boardrooms. It's unfolding on live streams, Discord servers, and inside the war rooms of India’s top esports organizations, which are no longer just about gaming.


With competitive esports revenue streams proving unstable and unsustainable, many of these organizations are ditching their old playbooks and reinventing themselves as full-blown marketing agencies. And in doing so, they’re not just surviving—they’re cannibalizing the turf of legacy media agencies.


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/eliminating-the-middlemen-esports-orgs-are-now-the-new-age-marketing-agencies-62761.htm">Read More</a>


Inside CTV's explosion: How brands are leveraging immersive storytelling and data


Marketers often face a critical trade-off: TV's mass reach at efficient costs versus CTV's targeted reach at higher costs, some settle for one of the two while others attempt to strike a balance. 


This balancing act has become more important as digital behaviors evolve and streaming becomes widespread in Indian households, Connected TV (CTV) is becoming a non-negotiable in media strategies, especially for brands eyeing premium audiences. 


With 40 million CTV households in India and a 21% year-on-year growth, marketers are increasingly leaning into the format for its ability to blend immersive storytelling with data-driven precision.


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/inside-ctvs-explosion-how-brands-are-leveraging-immersive-storytelling-and-data-62756.htm">Read More</a>


'If you play Rummy, I’ll become Mummy': Tamil Nadu’s RMG case reaches final stage


In a courtroom exchange that blended wit with warning, the Tamil Nadu Advocate General quipped, “If you play Rummy, I will become Mummy,” capturing the state’s stern stance on real money gaming (RMG) during an ongoing legal battle in the Madras High Court. The remark, though light-hearted, underscores the deeper paternalistic approach the state has taken toward online gaming regulation.


On Monday, the Madras High Court Bench comprising Justices S.M. Subramaniam and K. Rajasekhar concluded oral hearings in a significant case involving online rummy and other real money games. The matter concerns the constitutionality of Tamil Nadu’s recent gaming law, which the petitioners argue places arbitrary and excessive restrictions on their operations.


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/if-you-play-rummy-ill-become-mummy-tamil-nadus-rmg-case-reaches-final-stage-62755.htm">Read More</a>


NCLT dismisses insolvency petition filed against Dentsu Communication India


The Mumbai bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has reportedly dismissed an insolvency petition filed against Dentsu Communication India by Rohit Plastopack Pvt Ltd, citing insufficient evidence to substantiate the alleged operational debt of Rs 5.42 crore.


The tribunal, in its order of April 4, 2025, noted the absence of crucial documentation, such as delivery receipts or weighbridge slips, to confirm the actual delivery of goods to Dentsu Communication.


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/nclt-dismisses-insolvency-petition-filed-against-dentsu-communication-india-62806.htm">Read More</a>


'Shocks conscience of court': Delhi HC slams Baba Ramdev's 'indefensible' Rooh Afza remarks; asks to take down ad


The Delhi High Court has criticized yoga guru Ramdev for his "sharbat jihad" remark, calling it shocking and offensive. The court has directed Baba Ramdev’s Patanjali to immediately remove advertisements that labeled Hamdard’s popular drink Rooh Afza.


The court emphasized that such statements have the potential to harm communal harmony and violate public order.


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/shocks-conscience-of-court-delhi-hc-slams-baba-ramdevs-indefensible-rooh-afza-remarks-asks-to-take-down-ad-62836.htm">Read More</a>


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Esports orgs now the new-age marketing agencies | Brands tapping on the power of CTV | Delhi HC slams Baba Ramdev's 'indefensible' Rooh Afza remarks

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Quick Commerce or Quick cash? Zepto’s promotion of illegal betting firm Parimatch

Quick Commerce platform Zepto recently ran a promotional campaign for Parimatch, an offshore betting and gambling company. Despite strict guidelines prohibiting the advertising of illegal gambling platforms, Zepto not only promoted Parimatch but also went as far as including flyers in customer orders, essentially delivering gambling ads straight to people’s homes.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/quick-commerce-or-quick-cash-zeptos-promotion-of-illegal-betting-firm-parimatch-61067.htm">Read More</a> 

India's sports industry hits Rs 16,633 crore in 2024, driven by sponsorship, endorsements: GroupM

India's sports industry reached Rs 16,633 crore in 2024, driven by sponsorships (including Ground, team, and Franchise fees), athlete endorsements, and advertising expenses on related content, according to a report.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/indias-sports-industry-hits-rs-16633-crore-in-2024-driven-by-sponsorship-endorsements-groupm-esp-61051.htm">Read More</a>

26 channels won in 86th online MPEG-4 e-auction

Prasar Bharati recently published the list of successful channels of the 7th Annual (86th) e-auction MPEG-4 slots of DD Free Dish.

26 channels won in the e-auction, which was held on March 4. Multiple new TV channels of other languages ​​of the country have joined DD Free Dish, including Telugu, Gujarati, Kannada, Punjabi, Marathi, Rajasthani, Bhojpuri Odia TV channels.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/26-channels-won-in-86th-online-mpeg-4-e-auction-61076.htm">Read More</a>

SEBI’s ID mandate for intermediary ads welcomed, but industry seeks stronger AI oversight

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has announced new guidelines requiring registered intermediaries to verify their identities before advertising on platforms like Google and Meta. This move aims to combat rising fraudulent activities targeting investors on digital platforms.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/sebis-id-mandate-for-intermediary-ads-welcomed-but-industry-seeks-stronger-ai-oversight-60354.htm">Read More</a>

India’s media ‘Does not need foreign validation,’ says I&B Ministry

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has strongly refuted concerns over India's ranking in the 2024 Global Press Freedom Index, asserting that the country's vibrant media ecosystem does not require validation from foreign organizations. Responding to an unstarred question in Parliament, Dr. L Murugan, Minister of State for MIB, emphasized that India's judicial system ensures the protection of constitutional rights, including press freedom.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/indias-media-does-not-need-foreign-validation-says-ib-ministry-61141.htm">Read More</a>

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Zepto promotes illegal betting app | India's sports industry hits Rs 16,633 crore | SEBI's ID mandate for ads

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Breaking: MIB addresses AI-based news recommendation and fake news regulation


Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw addressed the shift of media houses from traditional to digital platforms, emphasizing India's diverse and expansive media landscape.

In response to concerns about AI-driven news recommendation algorithms prioritizing sensational content over credible journalism, BJP MPs Alok Sharma (Bhopal) and Janardan Mishra (Rewa) sought clarification from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) on Wednesday. They requested details on government initiatives to curb fake news and ensure accountability among media houses and online platforms.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/digital/breaking-mib-addresses-ai-based-news-recommendation-and-fake-news-regulation-60307.htm">Read More</a>


F&B consumer complaints double in 2024, reaching at 53,228 : Ministry of Consumer Affairs


The consumer complaints in the food and beverage sector almost doubled in 2024, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution revealed on March 26.

Addressing the Lok Sabha session, Minister Pralhad Joshi, shared that the issues related to food safety, adulteration, labelling violations, quality control, inspections and penalties for violation of Food Safety and Standards Act 2006, Rules and Regulations are dealt by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under the administrative control of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Implementation and enforcement of these standards primarily lies with the State/UT Governments.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/fb-consumer-complaints-double-in-2024-reaching-at-53228-ministry-of-consumer-affairs-60313.htm">Read More</a>


Press Information Bureau flags 1,575 fake news cases since 2022: Ministry of I&B

The Fact Check Unit (FCU) under Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has identified over 97 fake news items as of March 19 (in 2025 alone), revealed Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT.

Addressing the Lok Sabha session on March 26, the Minister shared that in 2024, 583 fake news were identified, 557 in 2023, and 338 in 2022. Overall, the Ministry has flagged 1,575 fake news cases since 2022.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/press-information-bureau-flags-1575-fake-news-cases-since-2022-ministry-of-ib-60317.htm">Read More</a>


CCI raids on media cartel: A week later, Ad agencies still in the dark

Cartels distort markets, harm consumers, and stifle competition, and the Indian government is committed to eliminating them. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced in the Lok Sabha that the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has investigated 35 cartel cases over the past five years.

Last week, the CCI conducted raids at leading media agencies, including Dentsu, Omnicom, Havas, Madison, IPG, GroupM, and Publicis, as well as industry bodies such as the Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI), the Indian Society of Advertisers (ISA), and the Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF). These searches were carried out over allegations of media cartelization, signaling heightened scrutiny on the sector.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/special-coverage/cci-raids-on-media-cartel-a-week-later-ad-agencies-still-in-the-dark-60176.htm">Read More</a>


EXPLAINED: What scrapping the 6% Equalisation Levy could mean for Big Tech, India, and Domestic Media

If the proposal is approved, foreign digital giants like Google and Meta who together account for nearly 65% of India’s Rs 50,000 crore digital advertising market stand to benefit indirectly, as advertisers would face lower overall costs when placing ads on their platforms.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/explained-what-scrapping-the-6-equalisation-levy-could-mean-for-big-tech-india-and-domestic-media-60189.htm">Read More</a>


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MIB addresses AI-based news recommendation | PIB flags 1,575 fake news | CCI raids: Ad agencies still in the dark

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Overnight raids and sleepless CEOs: How CCI cornered media giants


Inside the glass-walled offices of these advertising giants, a long and tense night unfolded. CEOs and senior executives were confined to their boardrooms under the watchful eyes of CCI officials.


Executives of industry bodies Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF), the Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI), and the Indian Society of Advertisers (ISA) were caught off guard as investigators swiftly sealed office premises, confiscated mobile phones, and began combing through emails, financial records, and internal communications.


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/agency-news/overnight-raids-and-sleepless-ceos-how-cci-cornered-media-giants-59629.htm">Read More</a>


CCI raids at dentsu, GroupM, IPG, Madison, Publicis fuel unrest; stakeholders demand fair probe

Amid the ongoing investigation into alleged price-fixing in India’s advertising industry, tensions are running high. However, some voices have come forward in support of the media agencies involved— dentsu, Madison, IPG, Publicis, and GroupM.


As the Competition Commission of India's (CCI) two-day investigation unfolds, many are questioning the regulatory overreach, highlighting the need for fair process, ensuring that genuine competitive practices are not stifled under broad-brush enforcement.


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/cci-raids-at-dentsu-groupm-ipg-madison-publicis-fuel-unrest-stakeholders-demand-fair-probe-59490.htm">Read More</a>


CCI raids Indian media agencies, ISA, AAAI, and IBDF – Insights from a senior leader who was questioned


Storyboard18 spoke to a senior advertising veteran who was questioned by the CCI during this investigation. The leader, who requested anonymity, revealed some crucial details of the investigation and their personal experience with the CCI’s inquiries.


The raid is believed to stem from a formal complaint filed in early 2024. “It was complaint no 2 from 2024.”


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/agency-news/cci-raids-indian-media-agencies-isa-aaai-and-ibdf-insights-from-a-senior-leader-who-was-questioned-59646.htm">Read More</a>


India AdEx likely to take hit in short term if CCI continues the probe, seizures at ad agencies


The country's overall advertising expenditure (adex) is likely to be affected in the short term in the wake of the Competition Commission of India's (CCI) probe into advertising firms.


CCI raid, which reportedly ended on Wednesday morning (March 19), with CEOs of the firm also being questioned for two days straight. The investigation focused on unearthing emails, pricing agreements, internal meeting records, and coordinated rate cards that suggested anti-competitive behavior.


Omnicom's takeover of IPG moves forward as shareholders approve merger


Omnicom Group and Interpublic Group (IPG) have moved a step closer to merging after shareholders from both companies approved the deal. The vote, held on 18 March, marks a crucial milestone in the proposed takeover, which would create the world’s largest advertising network by revenue, surpassing rivals Publicis Groupe and WPP.


Despite this approval, the merger—first announced in December 2024—still requires regulatory clearance and is expected to be finalised in the second half of 2025. Once completed, Omnicom shareholders will own 60.6% of the new entity, while IPG shareholders will hold 39.4%.


<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/omnicoms-takeover-of-ipg-moves-forward-as-shareholders-approve-merger-59547.htm">Read More</a>


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How CCI cornered media giants | CCI raids: Storyboard18 speaks to senior adman | India AdEx to be affected amidst CCI probe

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Breaking: SC 28% GST gaming case, Govt seeks adjournment

The Indian government on Tuesday sought adjournment at the Supreme Court in the 28% GST case levied on gaming companies. Gaming companies are mounting a strong defense against what they call an unjustified tax burden that could cripple the sector. The case, with an estimated financial impact of ₹2.5 lakh crore, is one of the biggest tax battles in India’s history.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/breaking-sc-28-gst-gaming-case-govt-seeks-adjournment-59379.htm">Read More</a>

CCI raids GroupM, Dentsu and Interpublic Group offices

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) raided offices of advertising agencies GroupM, Dentsu and Interpublic Group in Mumbai, New Delhi and Gurugram. The CCI officers also visited the Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation office for investigation.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/agency-news/cci-raids-groupm-dentsu-and-interpublic-group-offices-report-59444.htm">Read More</a>

Cricket, Celebrities, and a Masterstroke: What makes Dream11's star-studded IPL campaign stand out

Dream11's latest IPL campaign is making waves—not just for its star-studded lineup but for its sharp writing and massive production scale. With Bollywood icons Aamir Khan and Ranbir Kapoor going head-to-head alongside top cricketers like Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah, the ad has struck a chord with audiences. More than just entertainment, it's a strategic play that showcases Dream11’s dominance in the advertising landscape, a brand already known for its creative and collaborative ads.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/cricket-celebrities-and-a-masterstroke-what-makes-dream11s-star-studded-ipl-campaign-stand-out-59322.htm">Read More</a>

MeitY report on Digital Competition Bill awaited; stakeholders demand startups, MSMEs exemption

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has received over 100 suggestions on the draft Digital Competition Bill (DCB) during the public consultation period from March 12 to May 15, 2024. The Ministry is currently reviewing the stakeholder feedback to refine the Bill. Additionally, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) conducted its own consultations in June last year and is awaiting further inputs, particularly concerning the inclusion of ex-ante provisions aimed at pre-emptively regulating dominant digital platforms.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/meity-report-on-digital-competition-bill-awaited-stakeholders-demand-startups-msmes-exemption-59338.htm">Read More</a>

Unearthing emails, pricing agreements, internal meeting records: CCI crack down on potential cartelisation, price-fixing in media industry

The fair trade watchdog, the Competition Commission of India (CCI), launched searches at multiple advertising agencies across the country on March 18. CCI officials raided offices of GroupM, Dentsu and Interpublic Group in Mumbai, New Delhi and Gurugram. Officials also visited the Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation office for investigation.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/unearthing-emails-pricing-agreements-internal-meeting-records-cci-crack-down-on-potential-cartelisation-price-fixing-in-media-industry-59461.htm">Read More</a>

SC 28% GST gaming case | CCI raids ad agencies | Dream11's star-studded IPL campaign

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EXCLUSIVE: Cable operators urge MIB to fast track Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill

The All India Digital Cable Federation (AIDCF) has urged Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to expedite release of the draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023. The ministry had submitted its Action Taken Report to the Parliamentary Standing Committee, stating that the process would take some time and that the committee would be kept updated on its progress.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/television/exclusive-cable-operators-urge-mib-to-fast-track-broadcasting-services-regulation-bill-59199.htm">Read More</a>

BREAKING: Ashwini Vaishnaw announces $1 billion fund to boost creators' economy

A $1 billion fund is being created to boost the India creators' economy, said Ashwini Vaishnaw Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Railways & MeitY at Global Media Dialogue ahead of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES).

The dialogue took place on March 13, 2025, at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi, to encourage participation from various governments before the WAVES Declaration in Mumbai on May 2, 2025.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/breaking-ashwini-vaishnaw-announces-1-billion-fund-to-boost-creators-economy-59165.htm">Read More</a>

South India and content partnerships to drive Pay TV margins in 2025

Rating agency ICRA forecasts the revenues for the Indian Pay TV industry to witness a contraction in the range of 1-3% in FY2026. India’s Pay TV subscriber base is feeling the pressure of competition from OTT platforms, YouTube, and DD Free Dish, driven by affordable mobile data and diverse regional content offerings.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/south-india-and-content-partnerships-likely-to-drive-pay-tv-margins-in-2025-58934.htm">Read More</a>

Colgate-Palmolive India announces key director reappointments

Colgate-Palmolive India Limited has approved the reappointment of three key directors as part of its ongoing leadership continuity strategy.

The decision, made by the company's Board of Directors at a meeting held earlier today, is subject to approval by shareholders via postal ballot.

The reappointments, based on the recommendations of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, extend the tenures of Gopika Pant, Sekhar Natarajan, and Surender Sharma for their respective roles within the organization.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/colgate-palmolive-india-announces-key-director-reappointments-59290.htm">Read More</a>

Fast-fashion retailer Forever 21 files for bankruptcy for second time

Fast-fashion giant Forever 21 has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time in six years, Reuters reports.

It cited declining mall traffic and intensifying competition from online retailers as key reasons for its financial struggles. The U.S. operating company made the filing on Sunday in the District of Delaware, the report added.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/fast-fashion-retailer-forever-21-files-for-bankruptcy-for-second-time-59269.htm">Read More</a>

Cable operators push for Broadcasting Services Bill | Ashwini Vaishnaw to boost creators' economy | Pay TV set to improve margins in 2025

Storyboard18 presents FAST FIVE ⬇


We bring you top five news updates from the world of advertising, marketing and business of brands.

Press Council of India reports 468 cases of 'paid news' in four years

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has also stated that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has established dedicated mechanisms to handle complaints regarding paid news.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/how-it-works/press-council-of-india-reports-468-cases-of-paid-news-in-four-years-59077.htm">Read More</a>

SC showdown: Top lawyers to face-off for 28% GST gaming case on March 18

The case, with an estimated financial impact of ₹2.5 lakh crore, is one of the biggest tax battles in India’s history.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/gaming-news/sc-showdown-top-lawyers-to-face-off-for-28-gst-gaming-case-on-march-18-59070.htm">Read More</a>

Narayana Murthy criticizes AI hype in India, calls out 'Silly Old Programs'

_Speaking at TiE Con Mumbai 2025, Murthy remarked that AI has become a buzzword in India, often being misused to describe basic software programs._

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/narayana-murthy-criticizes-ai-hype-in-india-calls-out-silly-old-programs-59110.htm">Read More</a>

95% of Bengaluru unicorns report losses in FY24, despite high valuations

Only seven Bengaluru-based unicorns were profitable in FY24 (Zerodha, Postman, Moneyview, Perfios, Zeta India, Razorpay, and Groww), registering a PAT of Rs 6,209.6 crore

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/95-of-bengaluru-unicorns-report-losses-in-fy24-despite-high-valuations-59082.htm">Read More</a>

Intel appoints Lip-Bu Tan as its new CEO

Veteran semiconductor leader to take the helm on March 18, succeeding interim Co-CEOs.

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/intel-appoints-lip-bu-tan-as-its-new-ceo-59119.htm">Read More</a>

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