Latest news with #990
IOL News
15-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
SASSA under fire over grant review process amid complaints from beneficiaries
Civil society group Black Sash has condemned SASSA for "failing" thousands of social grant recipients Image: File Civil society group Black Sash has condemned SASSA for failing thousands of social grant recipients, saying many have had their payments delayed without a clear explanation or proper notice. The watchdog has also called for a pause in the ongoing review process, citing widespread confusion and distress among beneficiaries. "Despite the CEO's claim that no grants have been suspended, we are witnessing a surge in complaints from beneficiaries who have been cut off without a clear explanation or notification. "Our Community Monitoring teams, based across the country and our national Helpline have been overwhelmed with distress calls from elderly persons, people with disabilities and caregivers, many of whom only discovered their grants had been 'flagged' when their money failed to appear" The advocacy group also argued that the situation was further exacerbated by the impact of bank verification checks on Older Persons' grants, which also impacted grant payment delays and added to the fear, confusion, and queues at SASSA local offices. Black Sash's message was in response to SASSA' CEO, Themba Matlou, who, during a press briefing on Monday, defended the agency's review process as necessary for verifying eligibility and combating fraud. "SASSA would like to categorically state that no social grant payments have been suspended or halted. All approved grants remain valid, andpayments continue to be processed. Any beneficiary with an active andvalid grant remains entitled to receive their payment," Matlou said. "This year, we have only introduced and implemented a 4th payment date to our payment schedule, where beneficiaries targeted for a review are paid on the 4th day". Matlou added that this "would ensure that they receive their payment after the necessary review, without prejudicing the general payment cycle for others,". In an interview on 702 on Monday, SASSA's Executive Manager for Grants Administration, Brenton van Vrede, provided further clarity on what constitutes 'additional income' and how beneficiaries are selected for review. He explained that only formal incomes, such as salaries, rental income, or court-ordered maintenance, count towards the means test. 'Maintenance is considered as income, but most people don't formalise that arrangement. So, it wouldn't be considered additional income unless there's a maintenance agreement.' Regarding income thresholds, Van Vrede specified: 'The means test threshold for the child support grant is R5,600, and the old age grant is almost R9,000, R8,990.' He added that rental income or any other income pushing beneficiaries over these limits could result in ineligibility for grants. 'If that rental income takes them over the threshold, then they won't qualify for the grant.' IOL News [email protected] Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel
The Advertiser
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Tesla makes India debut with upscale showroom launch
Tesla has opened its first showroom in India, marking the electric vehicle maker's long-anticipated debut in the world's third-biggest automotive market. In the Bandra-Kurla Complex, an upscale business centre in the financial capital Mumbai, the showroom will serve as Tesla's flagship retail and experience outlet as the company introduces its EV line-up to Indian customers. Tesla's entry to India comes after years of delays and policy friction, marking a pivotal expansion in a fast-growing consumer base while global sales are plunging and the company faces challenges in its two core markets, China and the US. Sales of Tesla electric cars fell sharply from April to June as boycotts over tech billionaire Elon Musk's political views continued keeping buyers away. For India, Tesla's entry signals rising investor confidence and strengthens its move towards clean mobility. The country's nascent electric vehicle market made up a little more than two per cent of total car sales in 2024. But the government wants to change that and increase the electric vehicle share to 30 per cent by 2030. Tesla will begin by importing and selling its popular Y model cars in India. The base price would be 6.78 million rupees ($A120,000) for the long-range, rear-wheel drive vehicle, according to a presentation by the company during the showroom launch on Tuesday. By comparison, the price tag is about $US44,990 ($A69,000) in the US without a federal tax credit. The rear-wheel drive will sell for about six million rupees in India. Delivery was expected to start from the third quarter, Tesla officials said. Tesla's higher pricing is likely to make its cars unaffordable for most Indians. Tesla will compete mostly with German luxury car makers such as BMW and Mercedes Benz Group AG, and not budget Indian players such as Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra. The luxury car market makes up just about one per cent of total vehicle sales The debut by American EV giant, however, would bring in world-class technology to the country, auto analysts said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has wooed Tesla for years for its global brand value and to boost the country's clean energy endeavours. Tesla has opened its first showroom in India, marking the electric vehicle maker's long-anticipated debut in the world's third-biggest automotive market. In the Bandra-Kurla Complex, an upscale business centre in the financial capital Mumbai, the showroom will serve as Tesla's flagship retail and experience outlet as the company introduces its EV line-up to Indian customers. Tesla's entry to India comes after years of delays and policy friction, marking a pivotal expansion in a fast-growing consumer base while global sales are plunging and the company faces challenges in its two core markets, China and the US. Sales of Tesla electric cars fell sharply from April to June as boycotts over tech billionaire Elon Musk's political views continued keeping buyers away. For India, Tesla's entry signals rising investor confidence and strengthens its move towards clean mobility. The country's nascent electric vehicle market made up a little more than two per cent of total car sales in 2024. But the government wants to change that and increase the electric vehicle share to 30 per cent by 2030. Tesla will begin by importing and selling its popular Y model cars in India. The base price would be 6.78 million rupees ($A120,000) for the long-range, rear-wheel drive vehicle, according to a presentation by the company during the showroom launch on Tuesday. By comparison, the price tag is about $US44,990 ($A69,000) in the US without a federal tax credit. The rear-wheel drive will sell for about six million rupees in India. Delivery was expected to start from the third quarter, Tesla officials said. Tesla's higher pricing is likely to make its cars unaffordable for most Indians. Tesla will compete mostly with German luxury car makers such as BMW and Mercedes Benz Group AG, and not budget Indian players such as Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra. The luxury car market makes up just about one per cent of total vehicle sales The debut by American EV giant, however, would bring in world-class technology to the country, auto analysts said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has wooed Tesla for years for its global brand value and to boost the country's clean energy endeavours. Tesla has opened its first showroom in India, marking the electric vehicle maker's long-anticipated debut in the world's third-biggest automotive market. In the Bandra-Kurla Complex, an upscale business centre in the financial capital Mumbai, the showroom will serve as Tesla's flagship retail and experience outlet as the company introduces its EV line-up to Indian customers. Tesla's entry to India comes after years of delays and policy friction, marking a pivotal expansion in a fast-growing consumer base while global sales are plunging and the company faces challenges in its two core markets, China and the US. Sales of Tesla electric cars fell sharply from April to June as boycotts over tech billionaire Elon Musk's political views continued keeping buyers away. For India, Tesla's entry signals rising investor confidence and strengthens its move towards clean mobility. The country's nascent electric vehicle market made up a little more than two per cent of total car sales in 2024. But the government wants to change that and increase the electric vehicle share to 30 per cent by 2030. Tesla will begin by importing and selling its popular Y model cars in India. The base price would be 6.78 million rupees ($A120,000) for the long-range, rear-wheel drive vehicle, according to a presentation by the company during the showroom launch on Tuesday. By comparison, the price tag is about $US44,990 ($A69,000) in the US without a federal tax credit. The rear-wheel drive will sell for about six million rupees in India. Delivery was expected to start from the third quarter, Tesla officials said. Tesla's higher pricing is likely to make its cars unaffordable for most Indians. Tesla will compete mostly with German luxury car makers such as BMW and Mercedes Benz Group AG, and not budget Indian players such as Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra. The luxury car market makes up just about one per cent of total vehicle sales The debut by American EV giant, however, would bring in world-class technology to the country, auto analysts said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has wooed Tesla for years for its global brand value and to boost the country's clean energy endeavours. Tesla has opened its first showroom in India, marking the electric vehicle maker's long-anticipated debut in the world's third-biggest automotive market. In the Bandra-Kurla Complex, an upscale business centre in the financial capital Mumbai, the showroom will serve as Tesla's flagship retail and experience outlet as the company introduces its EV line-up to Indian customers. Tesla's entry to India comes after years of delays and policy friction, marking a pivotal expansion in a fast-growing consumer base while global sales are plunging and the company faces challenges in its two core markets, China and the US. Sales of Tesla electric cars fell sharply from April to June as boycotts over tech billionaire Elon Musk's political views continued keeping buyers away. For India, Tesla's entry signals rising investor confidence and strengthens its move towards clean mobility. The country's nascent electric vehicle market made up a little more than two per cent of total car sales in 2024. But the government wants to change that and increase the electric vehicle share to 30 per cent by 2030. Tesla will begin by importing and selling its popular Y model cars in India. The base price would be 6.78 million rupees ($A120,000) for the long-range, rear-wheel drive vehicle, according to a presentation by the company during the showroom launch on Tuesday. By comparison, the price tag is about $US44,990 ($A69,000) in the US without a federal tax credit. The rear-wheel drive will sell for about six million rupees in India. Delivery was expected to start from the third quarter, Tesla officials said. Tesla's higher pricing is likely to make its cars unaffordable for most Indians. Tesla will compete mostly with German luxury car makers such as BMW and Mercedes Benz Group AG, and not budget Indian players such as Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra. The luxury car market makes up just about one per cent of total vehicle sales The debut by American EV giant, however, would bring in world-class technology to the country, auto analysts said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has wooed Tesla for years for its global brand value and to boost the country's clean energy endeavours.
Perth Now
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- Perth Now
Tesla makes India debut with upscale showroom launch
Tesla has opened its first showroom in India, marking the electric vehicle maker's long-anticipated debut in the world's third-biggest automotive market. In the Bandra-Kurla Complex, an upscale business centre in the financial capital Mumbai, the showroom will serve as Tesla's flagship retail and experience outlet as the company introduces its EV line-up to Indian customers. Tesla's entry to India comes after years of delays and policy friction, marking a pivotal expansion in a fast-growing consumer base while global sales are plunging and the company faces challenges in its two core markets, China and the US. Sales of Tesla electric cars fell sharply from April to June as boycotts over tech billionaire Elon Musk's political views continued keeping buyers away. For India, Tesla's entry signals rising investor confidence and strengthens its move towards clean mobility. The country's nascent electric vehicle market made up a little more than two per cent of total car sales in 2024. But the government wants to change that and increase the electric vehicle share to 30 per cent by 2030. Tesla will begin by importing and selling its popular Y model cars in India. The base price would be 6.78 million rupees ($A120,000) for the long-range, rear-wheel drive vehicle, according to a presentation by the company during the showroom launch on Tuesday. By comparison, the price tag is about $US44,990 ($A69,000) in the US without a federal tax credit. The rear-wheel drive will sell for about six million rupees in India. Delivery was expected to start from the third quarter, Tesla officials said. Tesla's higher pricing is likely to make its cars unaffordable for most Indians. Tesla will compete mostly with German luxury car makers such as BMW and Mercedes Benz Group AG, and not budget Indian players such as Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra. The luxury car market makes up just about one per cent of total vehicle sales The debut by American EV giant, however, would bring in world-class technology to the country, auto analysts said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has wooed Tesla for years for its global brand value and to boost the country's clean energy endeavours.
West Australian
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- West Australian
Tesla makes India debut with upscale showroom launch
Tesla has opened its first showroom in India, marking the electric vehicle maker's long-anticipated debut in the world's third-biggest automotive market. In the Bandra-Kurla Complex, an upscale business centre in the financial capital Mumbai, the showroom will serve as Tesla's flagship retail and experience outlet as the company introduces its EV line-up to Indian customers. Tesla's entry to India comes after years of delays and policy friction, marking a pivotal expansion in a fast-growing consumer base while global sales are plunging and the company faces challenges in its two core markets, China and the US. Sales of Tesla electric cars fell sharply from April to June as boycotts over tech billionaire Elon Musk's political views continued keeping buyers away. For India, Tesla's entry signals rising investor confidence and strengthens its move towards clean mobility. The country's nascent electric vehicle market made up a little more than two per cent of total car sales in 2024. But the government wants to change that and increase the electric vehicle share to 30 per cent by 2030. Tesla will begin by importing and selling its popular Y model cars in India. The base price would be 6.78 million rupees ($A120,000) for the long-range, rear-wheel drive vehicle, according to a presentation by the company during the showroom launch on Tuesday. By comparison, the price tag is about $US44,990 ($A69,000) in the US without a federal tax credit. The rear-wheel drive will sell for about six million rupees in India. Delivery was expected to start from the third quarter, Tesla officials said. Tesla's higher pricing is likely to make its cars unaffordable for most Indians. Tesla will compete mostly with German luxury car makers such as BMW and Mercedes Benz Group AG, and not budget Indian players such as Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra. The luxury car market makes up just about one per cent of total vehicle sales The debut by American EV giant, however, would bring in world-class technology to the country, auto analysts said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has wooed Tesla for years for its global brand value and to boost the country's clean energy endeavours.
Business Standard
14-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Hype Elixir Introduces Partial Cash on Delivery for Limited Edition Sneakers and Collectibles
VMPL New Delhi [India], July 14: In a game-changing move, Hype Elixir is now offering partial cash on delivery on limited edition sneakers and collectibles, fundamentally transforming how customers purchase high-value streetwear items. Establishing Trust in India's Sneaker Market Since its establishment in 2020, Hype Elixir has evolved from an Instagram-based seller into India's ultimate sneaker and streetwear destination. The brand has cultivated a passionate community known as the "HEX Squad," united by their shared obsession for authentic, limited-edition drops. From the beginning, Hype Elixir's foundational promise has remained clear: "100% AUTHENTICATION GUARANTEED" with a comprehensive money-back guarantee. This innovative payment option represents more than a new checkout method--it demonstrates Hype Elixir's commitment to providing a truly secure and confident buying experience for every member of the HEX Squad, particularly first-time buyers. By positioning itself as an innovator in secure e-commerce within hype culture, the brand addresses the primary barrier preventing new customers from making their first purchase. Addressing the Trust Gap in Resale Markets Purchasing limited edition sneakers and collectibles online, often at substantial price points such as a Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG Chicago Lost and Found at Rs.39,990 , can feel daunting for first-time customers. Concerns about authenticity and reliability represent genuine obstacles in the resale market. "We know buyers hesitate on their first order," explains Abhiraj Datt, founder of Hype Elixir. The partial COD system allows customers to secure their desired item with a small upfront payment, confirming genuine intent while reducing initial financial risk. The remaining balance is paid only when the item is physically in their hands.. This approach strategically lowers the initial financial commitment while welcoming more individuals into the Hype Elixir community and building customer confidence. The Founder's Vision: Building Community Through Trust "When we started Hype Elixir in 2020, selling Air Jordan's on Instagram, our vision was always clear: to build a community of passionate collectors and sneakerheads," states Abhiraj Datt. "This isn't just a business for us; it's an obsession with hype culture. Introducing partial COD is our way of saying, 'We hear you.' It's about building bridges of trust, especially for those stepping into the world of limited drops for the first time." This statement directly connects the new payment method to the founder's passion and empathy for the community's needs, fostering stronger emotional connections with customers. Seamless Implementation and Customer Experience The partial COD process is straightforward. When customers select Cash on Delivery at checkout for eligible limited edition items, they are prompted to make a small, predetermined upfront payment that secures the order. The remaining balance is paid to the delivery agent upon successful receipt. For customers, it provides peace of mind knowing their authentic item is secured with the flexibility of paying the majority upon delivery. Customer feedback validates this approach. One buyer noted, "I had my doubts, but Hype Elixir proved to be the best in India for limited edition sneakers. Their support team was super helpful. Smooth process!" This sentiment reflects the experiences of over 6,000+ satisfied customers served to date. Competitive Advantage and Market Position By being among the first to offer this customer-centric solution for high-value, limited items, Hype Elixir gains significant competitive advantage. The brand maintains its comprehensive authenticity verification through a nine-step authentication process while offering customers multiple payment options including UPI, card, and partial COD. "A pair of sneakers should excite you, not make you anxious. We're just making that happen," concludes Datt. This transparent approach to design, payment, and policy makes authenticity visible at checkout, building trust through each transaction and solidifying Hype Elixir's position as India's premier destination for authentic streetwear culture.
