Why localisation looks different for Tier-2 and Tier-3 automotive suppliers Last week, I spoke with a specialised firm that helps international automotive suppliers enter new markets. They work with highly specialised, technology-driven companies. They have an impressive client base, and testimonials highlighted successful engagements. However, what stayed with me more was how they spoke about...
Compliance, technology, and partnerships are reshaping how global businesses get paid. The Simplicity Illusion: When “Click, Fill, Send” Isn’t Enough Last week, I tested a new invoicing platform. The interface was simple, almost beautiful — click, fill, send. But when I imagined using it for a client in Italy, everything changed. Suddenly, there were rules about FatturaPA, XML files, and real...
In my earlier post, I reflected on how small and mid-sized firms are under constant pressure to digitize their operations while also meeting rising compliance expectations. Many still rely on manual paperwork, Excel trackers, and fragmented processes for contracts and invoices. Mor than inconvenience, it’s a structural weakness that slows growth, invites errors, and makes it harder to compete in...
Introduction Recently, I read a post by Akshansh that struck a chord. He talked about how small firms are under constant pressure to digitize and comply with regulations — a pressure that often feels overwhelming. Around the same time, I had a conversation with a Dutch IT firm. They described how they work with Indian SME partners to put digital systems, audit trails, and smoother compliance...
Introduction: Beyond the First Introduction International expansion often begins with high-level support from embassies and trade missions. They are invaluable for securing initial introductions to officials and building early legitimacy. However, this is just the first step. Sustainable, long-term success requires embedding your company within the local business fabric. The purpose of this blog...
Most businesses see embassies as visa offices. Successful global companies see them as their most powerful strategic partners. The Hidden Truth About Global Expansion You’ve perfected your product. Your pricing strategy is solid. Your distribution plan looks bulletproof on paper. Yet when you enter that new market, everything feels like navigating a maze blindfolded—unclear regulations...
The Era of Predictable Business Planning Has Ended There was a time when business planning followed a simple formula: analyse last year’s performance, project modest growth, and execute. That linear approach doesn’t work anymore. Today, a single policy announcement from Washington, a regulatory directive from Brussels, or a trade decision from Delhi can rewrite industry dynamics within hours...
With Lessons from the Netherlands Corridor Quick Take: The Partnership Blueprint Global expansion isn’t what it used to be. The old playbook of exporting products into foreign markets is losing steam. Today, real growth comes when companies treat international markets not as sales targets, but as partners in innovation. Nowhere is this shift more visible than in India. With its vast digital...
From Trends to Tactics: Where India’s Digital Story Gets Real In Part 1 of this series, we explored the changing dynamics of India’s enterprise market, which is now characterized by a strong focus on outcomes and a pivot from cost arbitrage to impact. In this second part, we will focus on the sector-by-sector implementation of tech stacks that are transforming operations, customer...
I’ve been tracking India’s enterprise technology landscape for years—initially to spot Indian companies looking to expand globally, and over time, to understand how European tech firms view India as a growth market. Today, it’s the latter that dominates my conversations. And almost every time, the discussion starts with a version of the same question:“Can we really make it work in India?” The...
