Blusmart’s unfair advantage has now become its biggest roadblock
Mar 28, 2025
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Discover the struggles of BlueSmart, India's first EV ride-hailing platform, facing executive turnover and fierce competition. Explore the booming private banking sector as wealthy clients demand personalized services. Uncover the scandal surrounding major ad agencies accused of price-fixing just before India's biggest marketing event. Dive into the implications of these events on the future of electric mobility and advertising in India.
BlueSmart Mobility faces financial difficulties due to executive resignations and rising leasing costs linked to its parent company's instability.
The booming demand for private banking services in India reflects the growing number of ultra-high net worth individuals seeking personalized financial management.
Deep dives
The Rise and Fall of BlueSmart Mobility
BlueSmart Mobility, an innovative ride-hailing platform that aimed to disrupt the Ola-Uber duopoly, has encountered significant challenges. Launched with an electric fleet and a full-stack model, BlueSmart distinguished itself by eliminating cancellation fees and surge pricing. However, recent developments, including the resignation of top executives and internal restructuring, indicate financial struggles, particularly influenced by its relationship with parent company Gensol Engineering. Gensol’s own financial instability has led to BlueSmart potentially facing increased leasing costs, which could further exacerbate its widening losses.
Booming Wealth Management in India
India's rapidly growing population of ultra-high net worth individuals is driving an unprecedented demand for private banking and wealth management services. As the country anticipates a surge in millionaires, global financial institutions like UBS and HSBC are keenly entering the Indian market, while local banks are enhancing their offerings. The role of private bankers has evolved, requiring them to provide personalized and accessible service to meet the high expectations of wealthy clients. This has resulted in long hours and intense demand, as these professionals not only manage assets but also cater to lifestyle whims, emphasizing the importance of building trust in client relationships.
Antitrust Raids on Advertising Giants
Recent raids by India's Competition Commission on several major advertising agencies have raised eyebrows in the industry, amidst allegations of price collusion. Companies such as Group M, Publicis, and Dentsu were targeted for potentially fixing advertising rates, marking a significant move against powerful players in the market. The raids coincide with major shifts in the advertising landscape, particularly following the substantial merger of Walt Disney and Reliance’s media assets, which has reshaped market dynamics. As these investigations unfold, they highlight ongoing concerns about fair competition and the evolving nature of advertising in India.