

Daybreak
The Ken
Business news is complex and overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be. Every day of the week, from Monday to Friday, Daybreak tells one business story that’s significant, simple and powerful.
Hosted from The Ken’s newsroom by Snigdha Sharma and Rahel Philipose, Daybreak relies on years of original reporting and analysis by some of India’s most experienced and talented business journalists.
Hosted from The Ken’s newsroom by Snigdha Sharma and Rahel Philipose, Daybreak relies on years of original reporting and analysis by some of India’s most experienced and talented business journalists.
Episodes
Mentioned books

15 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 34min
As investors celebrate Urban Company's IPO, its workers are labelled 'potential risk'
Anna Elias, a PhD scholar at Erasmus University, sheds light on the impact of digital platforms on informal sector livelihoods. In a compelling discussion, she explores the success of Urban Company's IPO while revealing the struggles of gig workers, particularly women, who seek basic rights and protections. Personal stories of resilience highlight their challenges, from financial instability to unfair rating systems. The conversation calls for urgent reforms to ensure that these vital workers are recognized and supported in the evolving gig economy.

9 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 13min
Physics Wallah is going public. But can one man carry a listed company?
Exploring the journey of a YouTube tutor turned edtech mogul, the discussion reveals the ambitious leap of a ₹3,820 crore IPO, making waves in India’s education sector. The company’s rise has been fueled by accessible learning resources and a loyal student base. However, the spotlight is on its founder's larger-than-life presence, raising questions about sustainability and investor confidence as the firm enters the public market. Will one man’s charisma hold up under scrutiny? Tune in for insights!

15 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 10min
Why India's $100B trade romance with the UAE is only the beginning
India's trade relationship with the UAE is flourishing, surpassing $100 billion and offering enticing benefits for manufacturers. Companies like Tata are flocking to tax-free zones, drawn by capital access and superior infrastructure. However, this partnership raises crucial questions about whether the UAE serves as a launchpad for India’s global aspirations or poses a threat to its own manufacturing goals. As global ties shift, India's pivot to the UAE could redefine its economic landscape.

14 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 11min
Why India’s online gaming ban could hit Razorpay and PhonePe harder than you think
India's recent online gaming ban has sent shockwaves through the payment industry, impacting giants like Razorpay and PhonePe. These companies, once thriving on gaming-related revenues, now face a significant financial hit, with some losing up to 30% of their net income. The podcast delves into the broader ramifications for these fintechs, their quest for alternative growth strategies, and how this sudden shift could reshape the payments landscape in India.

11 snips
Sep 7, 2025 • 10min
Has Giva found a new silver lining in India's gold-obsessed jewellery market?
Explore how Giva is transforming India's jewelry scene by betting on silver instead of gold. This innovative brand, valued at $2 billion, taps into the untapped silver segment with stylish, affordable luxury designs. Challenges loom, from rising silver prices to proving that silver can compete with gold's cultural legacy. The conversation reveals strategies for reshaping consumer perceptions and navigating an unorganized market. Tune in for insights on this bold venture!

8 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 9min
All you need to know about GST 2.0
India is set for a major overhaul of its Goods and Services Tax, introducing a new structure aimed at simplifying compliance and slashing costs. The changes will affect everything from everyday essentials to luxury cars. However, some states are raising concerns about potential revenue losses, while economists debate the design's effectiveness. Market reactions are already visible, with key sectors experiencing significant shifts. The discussion highlights who stands to gain and who may be left behind in this ambitious tax reform.

10 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 10min
One more senior exit at Peak XV. What’s behind the churn at India’s largest venture-capital firm?
Recent departures at India's largest venture-capital firm raise eyebrows, highlighting a concerning trend. Harshjit Sethi, a key player in AI investments, has left, joining others like Shailesh Lakhani. This exodus coincides with a pivotal moment for the firm, as it anticipates major IPOs from companies like Groww and Pine Labs. The podcast delves into the paradox of experiencing financial success while facing internal turmoil. What does this mean for their global ambitions and future stability? Tune in for fresh insights.

12 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 14min
India needs doctors. So why are foreign-trained ones working unpaid—or not at all?
India faces a deepening doctor shortage, with only one for every 1,260 people, far below the WHO recommended ratio. Thousands of students travel abroad for medical degrees, but upon return, they hit bureaucratic hurdles and grueling revalidation tests. The podcast sheds light on the high failure rates of these exams and the limited internships available. Additionally, it dives into the impact of prioritizing local graduates over foreign-trained ones and how the pandemic exacerbated these challenges. Reforms in the medical system are urgently needed to harness this untapped talent.

19 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 10min
Why Peyush Bansal did the opposite of every rulebook move before Lenskart's IPO
Peyush Bansal's daring move to buy back Lenskart shares at a discount is shaking up the startup scene. This strategy not only increased his equity but also elevated him to promoter status, a title once shunned by founders. The podcast explores how this bold approach reflects broader trends in Indian entrepreneurship and challenges traditional IPO strategies. It also unpacks the complex regulatory landscape that influences these decisions, especially in light of recent events like the Paytm incident, affecting investor confidence and approval processes.

16 snips
Aug 31, 2025 • 13min
When India’s billionaires fight over legacy, who do they call?
Dive into the intriguing dynamics of wealth transfer in India, spotlighting high-profile family feuds like the Ambani rivalry. Discover the emerging role of succession coaches, who blend mediation and strategy to preserve family legacies. As over 850,000 millionaires look to hand over their fortunes, learn how heirs are shifting focus from business involvement to wealth management. Explore the complexities and critical strategies that will shape the future of family enterprises in a rapidly changing economic landscape.