Thomas Abraham

In Delhi it’s that time of year again when publishers, distributors and retailers are scrambling around frantically getting everything from point-of-sale to stocks right. It’s the World Book fair (WBF), which comes around once every two years sprawling across the giant halls of Pragati Maidan. This is the fair’s 20th edition, and although there are look-alikes all over the country, this one is undoubtedly the mother-of-them all.


In the 1980s and the ’90s, the Kolkata Book fair was the fair to go. But with the move from the maidan, apart from other venue and organisational problems, Kolkata has had to give up its title. Today the Delhi WBF is a mammoth affair, and has gone beyond just being a sort of retail exhibition.

Actually, no book fair in India would really qualify to be a ‘trade fair’ like Frankfurt or London, where business and rights deals are a norm. But like the Jaipur Literary Fest, what we lack in focus, or ‘order and method’, we make up for in sheer numbers.

The WBF is a giant carnival. The last edition had over 800,000 visitors, and the organizers are wondering whether this year the million mark will be touched, given that the Pragati Maidan now has direct metro connectivity and that admission is free. Certainly the exhibitors have gone up since last time to about 1,300. That’s still, of course, less than a tenth of the total number of publishers in the country, as estimated by the various federations who put the count at being well over 15,000.

Month of March

This year, for the first time, the dates of the WBF moved from the traditional January end to early February period to a whole month down the line. This has met with some consternation as many publishers felt that it was leaving it too late for library budgets, and many schools would have exams on, and that might affect the turnout a bit. The jury is out on that one – the verdict will be out on the 4th of March when it all gets over.

So what are the business stats from the fair? Herein lies the rub – there are none. Ironically, for an industry that is seeing technological change at a pace like never before, and typically of an industry still coming to grips with management information, there is no reliable data available apart from guesstimates.

The National Book Trust (NBT) – the fair organizers – blames it on traditional publisher mindsets and the archaic notion of ‘business secrets’ where exhibitors don’t divulge figures. But even just by conservative extrapolation, assuming a Rs 2.5 lakh average turnover per participant (incidentally, the big ones top Rs 20 crore) one is looking at a fair turnover of over Rs 30 crore in cash sales, which is more than three times the business done from all of the leading bookstores all over India in any given week. Trade buying, rights deals, subscription sales, print contracts, and other ‘collateral business’ are on top of this.

Trade & Rights

The WBF – indeed the industry – needs to take this to the next level with a dedicated two days for ‘trade and rights’. Years ago, the first two hours of the fair every day used to be designated trade hours where librarians and stockists could browse uninterrupted, a practice since discontinued. But if the 9-day fair could be shortened to seven days for consumers with two days as business days, India might yet see the fillip it needs in its rights business, as local-to-international rights networks build.

India has a large contingent going to Frankfurt but bulk of these is either English publishers-distributors, visiting principals or remainder merchants buying surplus stock. The size of the Indian rights pavilion is testament to the fact that our share of the rights pie is negligible.

 

When were the last time you heard of an Indian work in translation break out through a rights purchase the way Wolf-Totem was snapped up from Chinese or The Devotion of Suspect-X from the Japanese? It’s only if we build a rights module here within the WBF, that one can gradually work up (yes it will take years) to exploiting the rights potential from Indian languages in translation.

So what purpose does the fair serve? With the surge in online bookstores, does it still have any relevance? I believe it still has huge relevance. Quite simply it is at its most fundamental, the only real direct interface publishers have with their end readers. This is the only time you can actually put the range you want up there, and watch readers as they browse.

For most publishers, the long tedious day playing floor assistant and traffic cop rolled into one has its reward in watching that die-hard fan chasing that obscure book you thought would never sell. The ecstasy of finding that long lost book, the agony of seeing something priced beyond one’s budget, the amazement at seeing a bargain or combo offer…it’s all there every day, hour on hour. For readers, this is the one time you’ll get to see, touch, browse lists and full range as you can never anywhere else.

Online has its convenience, but by and large you need to know what book you want, notwithstanding the cross recommendations the better sites have. This is where a reader can experience that joy of discovery-where s/he will see full series, obscure imprints, rare titles.

Then there are the bargains. Fair rules make it impossible to deep discount but bargain tables with ‘fair prices’ and combination offers abound. What we have over the nine days of the fair is in essence the world’s largest bookstore-over a million square feet of books to choose from-in every Indian language, a lot of foreign ones, and of course English.

(The author is Managing Director, Hachette India)

The Independent

If they are anything like most Oscar winners, the team behind The Artist will have spent the first day of the rest of their lives conforming to the grandest, and most lucrative, of Hollywood traditions.

Having woken up, pinched themselves, and made sure that -oui! – it really was a gold statuette on their bedside table, France’s newly minted movie stars are likely to have devoted their waking hours to pondering two pressing questions: how to shift that throbbing hangover, and which of the myriad career choices suddenly on their horizon should they pursue next?

Breaking the silence

The first will not have been easily answered. Having sought refreshment at the Governor’s Ball, the team who won five of Sunday’s Academy Awards – including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor – adjourned to a packed party hosted by their film’s distributor, Harvey Weinstein, at the Mondrian Hotel in Hollywood.

Then they swept through Vanity Fair’s bash, before continuing to the Chateau Marmont hotel, where at around four in the morning, several boisterous members of their entourage leapt into the swimming pool, fully clothed.
The second post-Oscar question requires even more careful consideration. Like any winners of the biggest accolade in show business, The Artist’s leading man Jean Dujardin, director Michel Hazanavicius, and producer Thomas Langmann will, for the time being, be inundated with potential job offers. But, as any Hollywood agent will tell you, an overabundance of choice doesn’t always make for easy decisions. Leverage the success

On a purely pragmatic level, history suggests that all three can, if they so desire, leverage The Artist’s success into financial security. The film has already made $76 million worldwide and is now being widened into more than 2,000 cinemas in the US, with a view to further capitalise on its Best Picture status.

As well as “back end” earnings from that pot – which must also be dipped into by the voracious Weinstein – they are entitled to use their modish status to secure significant paydays.

The People of the North East paper talks about the opportunities and challenges facing the region – and how working and hiring practices can rise to them

North East firms that are adopting flexible working models, inclusive hiring and investing in skills have been highlighted in a new report from a top regional business group.

The North East Chamber of Commerce’s People of the North East publication draws on a number of business leaders and experts to highlight the importance of creating healthier, happier and more inclusive places to live and work. The report lays out how firms are facing a period of massive upheaval that includes changing workforce expectations, rising costs and shifting labour markets.

It calls for a collaborative effort from firms, using examples from the fields of recycling, housing and business services to show what success looks like.

Tim Marsden, knowledge manager at North East Chamber of Commerce, said: “The North East’s greatest strength has always been its people. Across every sector and community, we see individuals and organisations driving innovation and creating opportunities for future generations.

“This report highlights both the opportunities and challenges facing our region. While we know there is fantastic talent, creativity and ambition here, we also recognise the barriers that still exist around economic inactivity, skills gaps, health inequalities and access to opportunity.

“As the economy continues to change at pace, one thing is clear: the future success of the North East will be shaped not only by investment and infrastructure, but by how well businesses support people, communities and opportunities.”

The report looks at how explores how businesses are adopting flexible business models and inclusive hiring practices to unlock untapped potential, enrich workplace culture and improve business performance. Sam Spoors, founder and managing director at recruitment firm Talentheads, talks about how firms are creating opportunities for people with criminal records, running targeted recruitment campaigns to get people from underrepresented groups and using partners to reach marginalised talent.

She said: “The North East’s future prosperity depends on more than economic growth – it hinges on how businesses support their people. Through inclusive hiring, flexible work, wellbeing strategies, skills development and purpose-led cultures, regional employers are setting a powerful example.

“These innovative practices are not just good for business – they are helping to reshape the region’s identity and build a more equitable and resilient workforce.”

Lee Eckert, senior operations manager at digital transformation specialist ArvatoConnect, talks about freeing up people from repetitive tasks to do higher-value work. He argues such a move can improve job satisfaction and build confidence.

He said: “Digital transformation often sparks concerns about jobs being replaced by machines. In reality, the most effective transformations are those that put employees at the centre.

“It’s about creating opportunities for people to live better lives, whether that’s through faster access to services, a more inclusive workforce or communities that feel supported rather than excluded by technology.”

The Rs 631 crore initial public offering (IPO) of CMR Green Technologies was booked over 127 times at the end of the subscription process on Friday. The company received bids for over 292 crore shares as against 2.3 crore shares on offer.

Demand was led by Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs), whose category was subscribed to 270.46 times, while retail investors subscribed 27.03 times.

The issue is entirely an offer-for-sale (OFS), priced in the range of Rs 182-192 per share, with a lot size of 78 shares.

With strong subscription and a healthy grey market premium, investors are closely tracking the issue’s potential listing performance.

CMR Green Technologies IPO Subscription Status

The IPO saw robust participation, with overall subscription reaching 127.04 times.
Retail Individual Investors (RIIs) subscribed 27.03 times the 1.14 crore shares reserved for them.
The Non-Institutional Investor (NII) segment led demand, subscribing 172.35 times the 49.07 lakh shares allocated.
Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs) subscribed to their reserved portion of 65.42 lakh shares, a robust 270.46 times

CMR Green Technologies IPO GMP Today

As of June 5, 2026, the grey market premium (GMP) for the IPO hovered around 40%. At the upper price band of Rs 192 per share, this implies a likely listing price of about Rs 269.

The GMP reflects the unofficial trading premium of IPO shares before listing, offering a sense of market sentiment and expected listing gains, though it is not a reliable indicator of actual listing performance.

About CMR Green Technologies

CMR Green Technologies is India’s largest non-ferrous metal recycling company by installed capacity and was the market leader in the domestic secondary aluminium segment in FY25, according to an ICRA report cited in its draft prospectus.

The company operates 13 manufacturing facilities across India, producing recycled aluminium alloys, billets, zinc alloy ingots and other value-added products. It is also a key player in the automotive cast alloy market, with an estimated 42%-45% share.

CMR Green is positioned to benefit from rising global demand for sustainable, low-carbon manufacturing. Recycled aluminium production generates significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions than primary aluminium and requires lower capital expenditure, the ICRA report noted.

In FY25, the company reported operating revenue of Rs 6,666 crore, up 12% year-on-year, while profit stood at Rs 155 crore, reversing a loss in FY24 driven largely by a one-time goodwill impairment.

Ahead of the IPO, the company raised Rs 188 crore from anchor investors, attracting a mix of domestic mutual funds, insurers and foreign institutional investors.

Brokerage Views

Analysts have offered mixed views on the issue.

Motilal Oswal highlighted CMR Green’s leadership in aluminium recycling, strong market share and exposure to long-term decarbonisation and sustainability themes. It also pointed to growth opportunities in segments such as extrusion and rolled alloys.

Swastika Investmart assigned a “Neutral” rating, noting that valuations of around 27x FY25 earnings appear reasonable versus peers, while acknowledging the company’s strong industry positioning.

However, it flagged risks including the pure OFS structure, customer concentration, dependence on a few key clients and relatively thin margins. It added that high-risk investors may consider the IPO primarily for listing gains.

The IPO comes amid sustained investor interest in manufacturing and sustainability-linked businesses, particularly those tied to recycling, resource efficiency and the circular economy.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)

NEW YORK — Hall of Famer Charles Barkley sharply criticized ongoing media speculation about a potential split between Boston Celtics stars Jaylen Brown and Jason Tatum, questioning why players would not want to compete alongside other elite talent during an appearance on ESPN’s “Get Up.”

Speaking with host Mike Greenberg amid coverage of the 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs, Barkley expressed frustration over reports that Brown had listed his Boston penthouse for sale, fueling trade rumors.

“These guys are so stupid at times,” Barkley said. “I never understand why guys don’t want to play with other great players. This notion you have to have a A or B. … What the hell do you want? You want to win?”

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Barkley, drawing from his own career experiences playing alongside stars like Kevin Johnson and Dan Majerle in Phoenix, emphasized the value of team success over individual accolades. He argued that Brown and Tatum should embrace the opportunity to chase multiple championships together rather than seek separate paths.

The comments come as the Celtics, fresh off recent playoff runs, navigate questions about their future roster construction. Brown and Tatum have formed one of the league’s most productive duos, leading Boston to multiple Eastern Conference Finals, NBA Finals appearances and a championship. Yet persistent narratives about potential friction or front-office decisions continue to swirl.

Barkley Weighs In on Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Possibilities

Barkley also addressed the looming situation surrounding Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, whose future has become a major offseason storyline. The two-time MVP and Bucks owner have signaled a desire for resolution around the draft.

“If I’m the Bucks and I can get Jaylen Brown for Giannis, that’s probably the best you’re going to do,” Barkley suggested, while cautioning against trading the Greek Freak within the conference.

The remarks highlight the high stakes for Milwaukee as it evaluates how to build around or potentially move its franchise cornerstone. Any deal involving Antetokounmpo would reshape the Eastern Conference landscape dramatically.

LeBron James Future Dominates Discussion

Turning to LeBron James, Barkley offered a clear recommendation for the 41-year-old legend as he enters the twilight of his career. With the Lakers facing challenges in the competitive Western Conference alongside Luka Doncic, Barkley believes Cleveland represents James’ best option.

“LeBron only has one play in my opinion and that’s to go back to Cleveland,” Barkley said. “That’s his only smart logical choice. Go back and finish his career with the Cavs. It’s a perfect fit.”

Barkley argued that staying in Los Angeles would not yield contention, especially against powerhouses like the Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder, while a return to his hometown team could position the Cavs as Eastern Conference favorites. He dismissed other destinations as attempts to chase records in a way that might not align with legacy goals.

James continues to perform at an elite level, but questions about his next chapter have intensified as the Lakers look toward the future. A move back to Cleveland would carry significant narrative weight, closing a storied career arc.

Context Within 2026 NBA Landscape

The conversation unfolded against the backdrop of the ongoing NBA Finals, where the Knicks lead the Spurs 1-0. Barkley’s appearance underscored ESPN’s comprehensive coverage of league storylines extending beyond the championship series.

The Celtics’ situation remains a focal point for analysts, with many viewing the Brown-Tatum pairing as a rare asset that should be preserved. Media speculation, however, often amplifies minor developments into major trade rumors, a dynamic Barkley has long criticized.

Antetokounmpo’s potential availability and James’ future decisions are expected to dominate the 2026 offseason, with implications for free agency, the draft and trade markets across the league. Teams are already positioning themselves for what could be one of the most active periods in recent years.

Barkley’s Legacy as NBA Commentator

Barkley, a longtime TNT analyst now contributing across platforms, brings a no-nonsense perspective shaped by his Hall of Fame playing career. His willingness to challenge conventional narratives and player decisions has made him a polarizing yet influential voice in basketball discourse.

Fans and commentators reacted to the clip with a mix of agreement and debate, particularly around his views on superteam dynamics and loyalty. Some praised his emphasis on winning, while others noted perceived inconsistencies with past comments on player movement.

The segment highlighted broader themes in modern NBA culture, including player empowerment, media influence and the balance between individual ambition and collective success. As stars like Brown, Tatum, Antetokounmpo and James navigate their careers, such discussions will continue shaping public perception.

Looking Ahead for Key Storylines

For the Celtics, maintaining the Brown-Tatum core could provide stability as they aim for sustained contention. Any significant changes would require careful management to avoid disrupting chemistry built over several seasons.

Milwaukee faces a critical juncture with Antetokounmpo. Retaining him or securing high-value assets in a trade will define the franchise’s trajectory for the next decade.

James’ decision carries emotional and competitive weight. A Cleveland homecoming would captivate fans, while other paths might extend his championship pursuit in new environments.

As the 2026 Finals progress and the offseason approaches, these storylines promise to generate extensive coverage and fan engagement. Barkley’s candid takes add color to the analysis, reminding observers of the human elements behind the headlines.

The NBA landscape remains dynamic, with talent movement, front-office strategy and on-court performance intersecting in complex ways. Whether players prioritize winning alongside stars or seek new challenges will continue influencing roster construction league-wide.

For now, Barkley’s message is clear: winning should take precedence, and opportunities to play with great teammates are worth embracing. His commentary resonates as teams prepare for pivotal decisions that could reshape the league for years to come.