October 17, 2026

L&T Finance Ltd. (LTF), one of the leading Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in India has recorded consolidated Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 975 Crore, up 33% Year-on-Year (YoY) for the second quarter ended September 30, 2026 (Q2FY27). During the quarter, LTF achieved a milestone of highest-ever consolidated book of Rs. 1,36,635 Crore, up 28% YoY.  The retail book size during the quarter reached Rs. 1,34,600 Crore, up 29% YoY. The Company has recorded robust retail disbursement of Rs. 24,027 Crore for the second quarter ended September 30, 2026, up 27% YoY, reflecting continued business momentum. Improving asset quality, lowering credit costs, and higher Return on Assets reinforce the Company’s focus on profitable, risk-calibrated growth. Concurrently, the Company has accelerated technology deployment to evolve into an AI-native lender.   Highlights of L&T Finance Ltd.’s financial performance in Q2FY27   L&T Finance continues to advance its Lakshya 2031 ambition of becoming a risk-first, technology-first and AI-native retail financial services institution. The Company is embedding intelligence across customer acquisition, underwriting, portfolio management, servicing and cross-selling.   In Q2FY27, the Company’s flagship PLANET app reinforced its status as a core digital engine for the Company – surpassing 2.7 crore downloads. The application now services 94% of the total service requests generated by its customers, and has driven collections of Rs. 2,168 Crore during the quarter, coupled with a business generating of Rs. 5,934 Crore in business. Further strengthening its rural reach, PLANET app introduced a dedicated rural interface with a clear, intuitive and clutter-free UI, offering multilingual capabilities, including Hindi. This enables rural customers to navigate the app more easily, access services in a familiar language and complete transactions with greater convenience and confidence.   The Company’s Partner PLANET app has emerged as a dedicated digital platform designed to strengthen engagement with its dealer network by bringing key business information, retail performance insights and operational services onto a single interface. The platform enables dealers to access business metrics, monitor retail performance, manage Trade Advance requirements and track operational requests, enhancing transparency, convenience, and efficiency across the dealer ecosystem.   Commenting on the financial results Mr. Sudipta Roy, Managing Director & CEO, LTF, said, “Q2FY27 has been yet another strong quarter for L&T Finance with strong delivery across all business parameters, laying a solid foundation for our Lakshya 2031 journey with a sustained business momentum. These outcomes reflect the strength of our diversified retail franchise, the discipline of our execution and our continued focus on delivering sustainable, risk-calibrated growth. Despite uncertainties in the macroeconomic environment, inflation pressures, and seasonal headwinds, our resilient business model enabled us to navigate these macro dynamics effectively while expanding key focus verticals like Gold Finance, Micro Loan Against Property, Personal Loans, and Two-Wheeler Finance. Our approach will continue to be guided by disciplined underwriting, strengthened risk guardrails, granular portfolio monitoring and a strong collections framework. We believe that responsible growth and superior portfolio quality must go hand in hand.   As we progress on our Lakshya 2031 journey, we remain focused on strengthening our granular distribution channels, expanding our branch footprint and enhancing our digital acquisition capabilities. Our investments in artificial intelligence, particularly through our AI-powered credit administration and portfolio management frameworks are expected to further enhance credit decision-making, identify early warning signals and drive greater operational efficiency. These capabilities will help us build a more agile, scalable and resilient organisation.   Our priority remains to sustain profitable growth, improve returns and strengthen the quality of our franchise. We are confident that our investments in technology, distribution and risk management will help us navigate evolving market conditions while progressing towards our long-term strategic ambitions.”   Key Highlights: Building a diversified retail franchise: Retail disbursements for Q2FY27 stand at Rs. 24,027 Crore vs. Rs. 18,883 Crore in Q2FY26, a growth of 27% YoY. The Retail Book size for Q2FY27 stands at Rs. 1,34,600 Crore vs. Rs. 1,04,607 Crore in Q2FY26, registering a growth of 29% YoY. Growth was driven by all business segments across rural and urban geographies with a focus on high yielding loan products.   Rural Business Finance: Book size up 22% YoY to Rs. 33,465 Crore vs. Rs. 27,460 Crore in the quarter ended September 30, 2025 (Q2FY26) Quarterly disbursements for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, at Rs. 6,356 Crore vs. Rs. 6,316 Crore, up 1% YoY   Farmer Finance: Book size up 9% YoY to Rs. 17,397 Crore vs. Rs. 15,943 Crore in Q2FY26 Quarterly disbursements for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, at Rs. 1,643 Crore vs. Rs. 1,654 Crore, down 1% YoY   Two-wheeler Finance: Book size up 24% YoY to Rs. 16,158 Crore vs. Rs. 13,013 Crore in Q2FY26 Quarterly disbursements for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, at Rs. 3,170 Crore vs. Rs. 2,512 Crore, up 26% YoY   Personal Loans: Book size up 72% YoY to Rs. 18,664 Crore vs. Rs. 10,878 Crore in Q2FY26 Quarterly disbursements for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, at Rs. 4,233 Crore vs. Rs. 2,918 Crore, up 45% YoY Partnered with Pine Labs to introduce Agentic Commerce and Payments on L&T Finance PLANET App   Housing Loans and Loan Against Property (LAP): Book size up 20% YoY to Rs. 32,846 Crore vs. Rs. 27,407 Crore in Q2FY26 Quarterly disbursements for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, at Rs. 2,926 Crore vs. Rs. 2,713 Crore, up 8% YoY   SME Finance: Book size up 27% YoY to Rs. 9,495 Crore vs. Rs. 7,465 Crore in Q2FY26 Quarterly disbursements for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, at Rs. 1,820 Crore vs. Rs. 1,468 Crore, up 24% YoY   Gold Finance: Book size up 242% YoY to Rs. 5,043 Crore vs. Rs. 1,475 Crore in Q2FY26 Quarterly disbursements for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, at Rs. 3,237 Crore vs. Rs. 983 Crore, up 229% YoY Launched an integrated marketing campaign featuring brand ambassador Jasprit Bumrah under the tagline “Koi Bhi Sapna Hold Mat Karo, L&T Finance Gold Loan Karo,” covering key markets across eight states and

World Food Day is observed annually on October 16, marking the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 1945. World Animal Day is celebrated on October 4 every year in honour of St. Francis of Assisi, as conceived by Heinrich Zimmermann. The first week of October is celebrated as Wildlife Week in India. On these multiple occasions concerning wild animals, domestic animals, and farm animals, World Animal Protection renews calls for humane treatment for animals that are suffering in factory farms and in captivity for entertainment. These include the elephants that are routinely abused for rides in Amer Fort in Jaipur, Rajasthan.   Elephants in Haathi Gaon in Jaipur in Rajasthan Photograph Credit : Shubhobroto Ghosh   “As the global community observes World Food Day on October 16, 2026, under the guiding theme “Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow.” attention turns intensely toward building truly sustainable food and agricultural systems. In India, achieving comprehensive food security requires looking far beyond food availability to address the profound confluence of agriculture, animal welfare, and ecosystem conservation. True food security cannot exist in isolation from how we treat sentient creatures and the fragile natural networks that sustain all life on Earth,” says Gajender Kumar Sharma, Country Director of World Animal Protection in India.   Livestock farming for food is also linked to the destruction of pristine forests, and World Animal Protection has been promoting plant-based diets for a more responsible and environmentally friendly footprint. Proper labelling of vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and vegan products also goes a long way toward making consumers aware of their impact on the planet. The recently concluded BRICS Summit in India declaration mentions zoonotic diseases and includes cooperation on zoonotic threats and global health security, as well as biodiversity conservation, conservation of rare species and big cats, and sustainable livestock development. The government of India has very kindly informed World Animal Protection that animal welfare and wildlife trade will be addressed in future BRICS gatherings, where appropriate.   The government of India is positive toward embracing the concept of One Health, which encompasses animal welfare, human health, and environmental protection. Factory farming exacerbates the risk of zoonoses and the risks of epidemics. In the wake of coronavirus, it has become an imperative to treat animals humanely in all situations and to make systemic changes to animal rearing processes that are utilised to produce meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. World Animal Protection has welcomed the second Anti-Microbial Resistance Plan of the Government of India to address the damage to animal welfare, harm to human health, and the destruction of the environment that accompanies the irresponsible use of antibiotics in the chicken and livestock rearing industries. World Animal Protection continues to engage with various stakeholders on both wildlife and food systems to eliminate cruelty to animals.   Engaging with important stakeholders on the occasion of World Animal Day and Wildlife Week, World Animal Protection conducted a sensitisation programme with over two hundred and fifty students, parents, and teachers during an NGO gathering organised by the Cambridge School, Srinivaspuri on the occasion of the Parent-Teacher meeting. The occasion was a very fruitful one that resulted in many memorable interactions that brought to light many instances of animal abuse in food, fashion, and wildlife in entertainment. Several individuals expressed their interest in finding humane alternatives to cruel animal products like fur, leather, feathers, and silk, and also resolved not to patronise animal abuse in the wildlife entertainment sector by avoiding elephant rides and refusing to attend close-contact sessions with big cats in captive tiger venues in countries like Thailand.   As part of the ongoing corporate engagement, five tour companies, UnBound Expeditions, Going Wild Tours, Hetalbon Resort , North East Travels and Wild Paw Adventures have taken the wildlife friendly pledge of World Animal Protection and do not offer elephant rides in their itineraries. Engagement continues on developing humane food systems with relevant government and non government agencies as well.   Highlighting the importance of keeping wild spaces in India and free from the impacts of factory farming needs robust research and investigation. In this regard it is notable to read the book, ‘Rewilding India: The CWS Story’ written by Deepa Padmanaban and edited by Dr. Krithi K. Karanth. There is considerable work to do in India to determine how rearing animals for food impacts our wild spaces and this book gives us food for thought on the importance of wild areas in India and beyond.   Today we are witnessing unprecedented cases of wildlife trade all over the world, and India has become a hotbed of wild animal seizures that point to a growing demand for non-native exotic pets. World Animal Protection is also grateful to influencers like Bhagyashree and Koneenica Banerjee for promoting compassion to animals in all walks of life. Our campaign for humane treatment of all sentient beings continues in all possible ways.   For more information, please contact Contact Person: Mr. Gajender Kumar Sharma, Country Director, World Animal Protection in India Email: gajenderksharma@worldanimalprotection.org.in Mobile Phone: +91 9313333283

Ai+ Smartphone is strengthening its customer-first approach by incorporating real user feedback into product and service improvements. Drawing insights from customer reviews, everyday device usage and after-sales interactions, the brand is addressing concerns related to camera stability, connectivity and performance through software updates, enhanced testing and more responsive customer support. This approach reflects Ai+ Smartphone’s commitment to building not just for its users, but with them. Real Feedback, Real Improvement, A better Ai+ Experience   Across its smartphone portfolio, customers have appreciated Ai+Smartphone for its design, camera capabilities, battery life, performance and value for money. The Nova 2 Neo 5G has received positive feedback for its battery performance and accessibility, while the Nova 2 Power 5G has been appreciated for its overall experience and dual-tone design, particularly the Blue Fusion colour. The Nova 2 Ultra 5G has been recognised for its photography experience, performance and AMOLED display. Similarly, the Nova 2 5G and Nova 2 Pro 5G have received encouraging responses for their overall experience and value, while the Ai+ Pulse 2 has been appreciated for its battery, display and design.   Beyond positive reviews, Ai+Smartphone is actively using customer feedback to identify and address areas for improvement. Concerns related to camera stability, connectivity and device performance have been shared with product and technical teams, informing targeted over-the-air (OTA) updates and product refinements. The Nova 2 Ultra 5G, for instance, has received software updates aimed at improving camera stability. These insights are also being considered during product reviews and pre-launch testing to strengthen the experience offered by future devices.   Ai+ Smartphone has also made independent pre-launch evaluations an integral part of its product development approach through Project Open Review, inviting external feedback on its devices before they reach consumers. As of now we have over thousand registrations, from reviewers, creators, journalists, tech enthusiasts and, for the first time, ethical hackers to independently evaluate our devices. The initiative enables the brand to gather honest, unscripted feedback and incorporate necessary refinements into its products ahead of launch, reinforcing its commitment to Trust through Transparency.   Commenting on the approach, Archi Gogoi, Head of Brand, Marketing & Growth at Ai+ Smartphone, said, “At Ai+ Smartphone, we believe that building better technology starts with listening to the people who use it. Customer feedback helps us understand what we are getting right and where we need to improve. Whether through software updates, stronger product testing or more responsive after-sales support, our focus is on translating these insights into meaningful action. As we grow, we want our customers to know that their voices play an important role in shaping the Ai+ experience.”   The brand is also strengthening its after-sales operations through daily feedback collection, improved case tracking and closer coordination between customer support and technical teams. Dedicated teams conduct pre-launch testing to identify potential concerns, while software-related issues identified through customer interactions are being addressed. Where spare parts availability affects repair timelines, handset replacements are arranged wherever required and feasible to minimise customer inconvenience.   To make customer support more responsive and personalised, Ai+ Smartphone has strengthened its social media feedback and escalation process. Dedicated teams regularly monitor customer messages, comments and mentions, ensuring concerns are reviewed, prioritised and coordinated with Customer Service for timely action. The process focuses on proactive engagement, structured follow-ups and tracking cases through to resolution, helping deliver a more consistent and accountable customer experience. Ai+ Smartphone currently aims to resolve most service concerns within three to four days, depending on the nature of the issue and spare parts availability.   Ai+ Smartphone also plans to introduce customer experience videos following service resolution to better understand customer satisfaction and identify opportunities for improvement. Alongside product reviews and service feedback, these insights will help the brand refine its support processes, improve turnaround times and incorporate customer learnings into future product and service decisions.   As Ai+ Smartphone continues to expand its portfolio, customer feedback will remain central to how the brand evolves. By connecting real-world experiences with product development, software enhancements and after-sales improvements, Ai+ Smartphone is reinforcing its commitment to building technology not just for its users, but with them.   About Ai+ Smartphone Ai+ Smartphone is a next-generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.   From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company’s Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.   About Ai+ and NxtQuantum Shift Technologies NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is designed, engineered and developed in India while remaining globally competitive.

Mars conducted an extensive global research programme on pet adoption across 14 markets, alongside a Censuswide survey of 2000 adults aged 18 and above across India. Mars launches a new online Adoption Hub, giving prospective and current pet parents practical, expert guidance on the most common barriers and responsible pet ownership, so they can navigate the adoption journey with confidence. Mars expands 2026 Global Adoption Weekend to over 30 countries, supporting more local shelters than ever before.    Key findings: What India really thinks about pet adoption 56% of Indians surveyed have had a shelter or rescue adoption experience, compared with 42% globally. 69% of 25–34-year-olds have adopted, making younger Indians the strongest adoption cohort; 23% of this age group say they are ready to adopt today. 44% say housing rules have prevented them from getting a pet: more than double the 20% global figure. 54% of working Indians say their work arrangement makes them more likely to adopt, versus just 34% globally; this rises to 66% among 25–34-year-olds. 89% of adopters in India change their pet’s food after adoption, compared with 71% globally; almost half switch immediately rather than transitioning gradually. 44% of Indian pet owners trust a veterinarian most for feeding advice, compared with 57% globally, highlighting an opportunity to strengthen access to trusted veterinary guidance, particularly during the crucial period after adoption.    Mars Global Adoption Survey reveals that uncertainty about an animal’s background and a lack of expert advice can deter prospective pet adopters, highlighting a critical need for guidance throughout the adoption journey.   Mars Global Adoption Weekend drive across India Launched ahead of the 2026 Mars Global Adoption Weekend, the study builds on findings from the 2023 Mars State of Pet Homelessness survey, which estimated that 69.3 million pets in India are homeless. The latest survey takes a closer look at the barriers that may prevent people from adopting pets and explores how to address these challenges so more pets can find loving homes and stay with their families for life.  A survey of 2,000 people in India found encouraging potential for pet adoption: 25% of current pet parents who did not adopt said they would consider adoption in the future with the right guidance and support. Navigating the Rescue Reality with Confidence Among those considering adoption, the most common concerns stem from the unknown, including undiscovered medical history (34%), behavioral background (23%) and household compatibility (27%). The study also highlights an opportunity for greater nutrition expertise and guidance. With 89% of adopters in India changing their pet’s diet after leaving the shelter, expert support can play an important role in helping pet parents navigate the transition and ensure their pets receive appropriate, complete and balanced nutrition in a safe and informed way.   According to Manish Syag, Managing Director, Mars Pet Nutrition, India, said “Every pet deserves to be safe, healthy, and loved. Adoption is one of the most powerful ways we can help give animals that future. Our research shows encouraging momentum for adoption in India, with 56% of respondents having had a shelter or rescue adoption experience, compared with 42% globally. But creating a better world for pets goes beyond finding them homes; it requires sustained action across animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, and the communities in which pets and people live. At Mars, we are working across this ecosystem through animal birth control, vaccination, and community education programmes. This also includes supporting Humane World for Animals’ National ABC Training Centre in Lucknow through the Mars Impact Fund. Our efforts also include Adoption Weekend initiatives, feeding programmes in partnership with leading NGOs, and our Better Cities for Pets work in Bengaluru.  Through Mars Global Adoption Weekend, we want to build on this initiative by bringing more prospective pet parents and animals together, while helping adopters access the information and support they need to make adoption a confident, lifelong commitment.” Clearing the Path to Responsible Adoption  To help clear the path to pet adoption, the company launches a new online Mars Adoption Hub that offers expert-backed advice, drawing on the Waltham Petcare Science Institute’s extensive knowledge and practical resources for pre- and post-adoption support. When the right support is in place, the reward of adopting a pet is clear: Pet parents cite seeing an adopted pet become relaxed and comfortable in their home (40%) and feeling like part of the family (43%) as the most fulfilling milestones of adoption. Geeta Seshamani, Vice President, Friendicoes, said, “As more people open their homes to pets, it is important that adoption remains at the heart of the conversation. We were delighted to collaborate with Mars to encourage more people and families to consider adopting rescued pets and to understand the responsibility that comes with welcoming a pet into their lives. Through initiatives like these, we hope to create greater awareness around responsible pet parenting and help more animals find loving homes.”  Veterinarian and Pet Nutrition & Health Science Expert – Esther Bijsmans, DVM, PhD Mars Pet Nutrition comments: “Adopting a pet is an exciting and rewarding experience, but practical guidance is key to building confidence and helping pets and their owners thrive together.  “When welcoming home a new pet, we encourage pet parents to follow the 3-3-3 rule: the first three days are about helping a new pet feel safe, the first three weeks are about establishing routines, learning the household dynamic and building trust; and by three months, most pets will have begun to settle in. Patience and bond-building play a central role. “Nutrition also plays a vital role in a pet’s overall well-being. A common mistake is switching food too quickly. Instead, gradually transition to a new diet over 7–10 days to support healthy digestion and help pets adjust comfortably.”  Global Impact, Local Action Building on the incredible success of last year, the 2026 Mars Global Adoption Weekend expanded to over 30 countries, supporting shelters around the world, helping more pets find homes. As part of Mars Global Adoption Weekend, a worldwide initiative

SPR City, Chennai’s integrated township in Perambur, has announced an upcoming price revision for its premium residential offerings across the Highliving District and SPR Sky Towers, following strong demand from homebuyers. Prices will increase by Rs. 5 lakh for 2 BHK residences, Rs. 10 lakh for 3 BHK residences and Rs. 15 lakh for 4 BHK residences.   With 75% of Sky Towers and 95% of Highliving District sold, prices rise after Vijayadashami   The revision comes amid sustained buyer interest, limited inventory and rising land and construction costs. With 75% of Sky Towers sold and 95% of the Highliving District sold out, the price revision reflects strong demand for premium residences and the increasing cost of development.   The revised pricing also accounts for inflationary pressures and the rising cost of land across Chennai. Periodic price revisions are necessary to support the long-term financial sustainability of the project while maintaining its planned quality and scale.   SPR City offers an integrated township experience, bringing together residential communities, retail destinations, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, landscaped spaces and lifestyle amenities within one urban ecosystem.   Pricing will be reviewed periodically based on market conditions, construction costs, inflation and future project requirements. Further revisions may be considered in the coming months, depending on the evolution of these factors.   For prospective buyers, the period before the revised prices take effect after Vijayadashami offers an opportunity to purchase at current prices. With limited inventory remaining, particularly in the Highliving District, buyers looking to secure their preferred configuration at existing prices are encouraged to act promptly.   The upcoming revision reflects SPR City’s commitment to balancing strong customer demand with the evolving costs of developing a large-scale integrated township in Chennai.   About SPR City SPR City is an integrated township in Perambur, Chennai, envisioned around the philosophy of Work, Live, Play, Learn and Commune. The development brings together residential communities, retail destinations, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, landscaped spaces and lifestyle amenities to create a comprehensive urban living destination.   For more information, please contact us @ 81000 81000 or visit our website www.sprindia.com.