Q4: 2026-05-26 Earnings Summary

EPS of $1.71 beats by $0.16

 | Revenue of $954.40M (47.47% Y/Y) beats by $33.72M

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Sensex declined 142 points to close at 75,868 while Nifty 50 fell 7 points to end the session at 23,907. This came even as India VIX, which measures volatility in markets fell 6% to 15.24.

HDFC Bank shares were the top losers on Sensex, falling nearly 3% after a report on an internal probe over Rs 45 crore interest payments spooked investors, although the bank rejected wrongdoing claims. ICICI Bank, ITC, Infosys, Hindustan Unilever and Tech Mahindra shares followed, closing with marginal losses. On the other hand, Power Grid shares gained nearly 3%. Zomato-parent Eternal, NTPC, Tata Steel, IndiGo and Maruti Suzuki shares followed, gaining up to 3%.

Nifty Midcap 100 index gained 0.5% while Nifty Smallcap 100 index rose 0.2%. Sectorally, Nifty Media and Nifty Metal gained around 3% and 2% respectively. Nifty Financial Services, Nifty Bank and few other indices meanwhile closed up to 1% lower. Around 1,535 stocks declined on NSE, while 1,772 advanced and 115 remained unchanged.

US and Iran appear to be closing in on the much-awaited deal to end the war in the Middle East and open up the Strait of Hormuz, but tensions simmer after the US conducted strikes on Iran. Tehran on Tuesday said that the US had violated a ceasefire by striking targets near the contested Strait of Hormuz, potentially complicating efforts to bring the war to a close.

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Iran’s foreign ministry said US strikes in Iran’s southern Hormozgan province, where Iranian media reported sounds of explosions early on Tuesday, represented a “gross violation” of the ceasefire in place for nearly seven weeks. The US said its attacks were defensive in nature, targeting missile sites and boats attempting to lay mines.
Israel meanwhile pounded Lebanon with more than 120 air strikes on Tuesday in one of the heaviest days of bombing in weeks, Lebanese security sources said. Iran has sought an end to Israeli attacks in Lebanon as part of any peace deal.Oil prices remained below the crucial $100 per barrel mark. Brent crude futures declined nearly 3% to trade at $97 per barrel, while WTI Crude futures also fell around 4% to trade at $90 per barrel.

Rupee ends unchanged
Rupee ended the session almost unchanged, up 1 paise at 95.69 against US dollar. Jateen Trivedi, VP Research Analyst of Commodity and Currency at LKP Securities, highlighted that the sharp rise in oil prices seen yesterday after US’ strikes on Iran again increased pressure on the rupee due to concerns over India’s import bill and inflation outlook.

FII selling resumes
Foreign investors remained net sellers of Indian equities on Tuesday, net selling shares worth Rs 2,408 crore on Dalal Street, according to provisional data on NSE. This came after FIIs net bought Indian shares worth more than Rs 2,115 crore on Monday, snapping a four-day long net selling streak.

Foreign investors have overall remained bearish on Indian markets so far in May, remaining net sellers of Indian equities for 12 out of 17 sessions.

Global markets
Asian markets remained mixed on Wednesday morning. South Korea’s Kospi jumped more than 2%, while Japan’s Nikkei gained over 0.5%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng and China’s Shanghai Composite however fell more than 1% each.

Wall Street ended the previous session in the deep green, with the tech-heavy Nasdaq gaining more than 1%. Dow Jones futures are currently in the green with marginal gains, indicating a positive start for the American stock market later today.

European markets had delivered mixed performance yesterday, with France’s CAC and Germany’s DAX declining around 1% each, while UK’s FTSE closed slightly higher in the green. The markets are however in the deep green today.

(With inputs from agencies)

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

LONDON — Selena Gomez drew attention during a relaxed stroll through London, sharing a stylish Instagram carousel on May 26 that captured her off-duty moments while filming the sixth season of the hit Hulu series “Only Murders in the Building.” The actress showcased a daring ivory sleeveless backless top featuring a prominent oval cutout and delicate tie detail, paired with loose light-wash baggy jeans.

The post, which quickly gained traction among her global fanbase, highlighted Gomez’s easygoing summer style amid her busy filming schedule in the British capital alongside co-stars Steve Martin and Martin Short. Her caption playfully referenced spending significant time with Martin, adding a lighthearted touch to the series of personal snapshots.

In the images, Gomez appeared radiant with her hair pulled back casually. One standout photo featured the striking cutout top that accentuated the ensemble’s modern edge, while another showed her in a white scoop-neck minidress posing with friends in front of the iconic Big Ben landmark. A separate shot captured her wearing a white tank top with gold earrings, highlighting a sun-soaked selfie with vibrant pink blush and matching lip color.

Fashion Choices Spark Conversation

The backless cutout top emerged as the focal point of the post, blending relaxed comfort with bold design elements. Fashion observers noted how the airy silhouette and tie-back detail created a sophisticated yet approachable look suitable for a casual city outing. Gomez completed the ensemble with a mustard-yellow top-handle bag, striking a balance between trendy and effortless.

Her choice of baggy light-wash jeans aligned with current summer trends favoring loose, comfortable silhouettes. The look reflected Gomez’s evolving personal style, which often mixes high-fashion statements with everyday wearability. Fans quickly praised the ensemble, with one commenting, “London looks SO good on you!!” Another wrote, “just radiant?.” A third added, “This feels so whimsical ?.”

Filming and Professional Commitments

Gomez’s London visit centers on production for Season 6 of “Only Murders in the Building,” the popular comedy-mystery series that has earned critical acclaim and strong viewership since its 2021 debut. The show follows three strangers who bond over their shared interest in solving murders in their upscale New York apartment building.

Martin and Short, who portray Gomez’s co-stars, have developed a close on-screen and off-screen dynamic with the actress. Her humorous caption about spending excessive time with Martin underscored the camaraderie among the cast during international filming locations. Production details for the new season remain closely guarded, but the London setting suggests fresh storylines that may take the characters beyond their familiar Manhattan surroundings.

The series has provided Gomez with a major acting platform beyond her music and producing work. She has received multiple award nominations for her performance, contributing to the show’s status as one of Hulu’s flagship comedies.

Broader Career Context

At 33, Gomez continues to balance multiple creative pursuits. In addition to acting, she maintains a successful music career, beauty brand Rare Beauty, and various producing projects. Her authentic approach to sharing personal moments on social media has helped cultivate a loyal following exceeding 400 million on Instagram.

The London photos arrive shortly after other public appearances, including a recent Los Angeles outing where she wore a white tank top. Her willingness to share glimpses of her life resonates with fans who appreciate her relatability despite her celebrity status.

Gomez has been open about her journey with mental health, lupus and personal growth. These candid moments, combined with professional achievements, have positioned her as a multifaceted figure in entertainment. Her fashion choices often spark trends, influencing young audiences who follow her style evolution from Disney Channel roots to red carpet sophistication.

Fan and Media Reaction

Social media responses highlighted both admiration for her fashion and excitement about the new season. The carousel post generated significant engagement, with followers praising her glow and sense of whimsy during the London trip. Media outlets quickly picked up the images, noting how Gomez continues to set casual style benchmarks.

The appearance of her ribcage tattoo, first debuted in 2014 with Arabic script, was visible in some shots, prompting nostalgic comments from longtime fans. This blending of personal history with current moments adds depth to her public persona.

Industry Trends and Cultural Impact

Gomez’s fashion moment reflects wider conversations around celebrity style in the social media era. Her preference for comfortable yet statement-making pieces mirrors a shift toward authenticity over rigid glamour. The cutout trend has gained popularity among various celebrities, but Gomez’s execution stood out for its elegant restraint.

“Only Murders in the Building” itself represents a successful model of star-driven streaming content. The show’s blend of humor, mystery and heartfelt character work has sustained audience interest across multiple seasons. Filming in London adds international appeal and production value.

Industry analysts note that such cross-continental shoots help elevate projects while providing cast members with varied experiences. For Gomez, the opportunity to work in historic cities like London complements her global influence as a singer, actress and entrepreneur.

Looking Ahead

As filming continues, anticipation builds for Season 6’s release. Details about plot developments, guest stars and creative direction remain limited, but the involvement of the core trio suggests continuity with the show’s beloved tone. Gomez’s social media activity often serves as subtle promotion, keeping fans engaged during production periods.

Her London visit also highlights the increasing internationalization of American streaming productions. With growing audiences worldwide, shooting on location has become a strategic choice for authenticity and broader appeal.

Gomez’s ability to navigate high-profile projects while maintaining a grounded public presence continues to distinguish her career. Whether through fashion statements, music releases or acting roles, she consistently connects with diverse demographics. The latest Instagram post reinforces her status as both a style influencer and dedicated professional.

As summer progresses, observers expect more glimpses into her London experience and insights into the upcoming season. For now, the images of Gomez enjoying the city while working on a beloved project capture a moment of balance between personal enjoyment and professional dedication in one of entertainment’s most dynamic careers.

The Cramlington base was first announced in 2024 with the expectation it would create 200 new jobs

European manufacturing giant Legrand has launched a new electronics base in Northumberland which is expected to create scores of new jobs.

The group initially revealed plans to open a new North East base back in 2024, as part of a strategy to set itself up closer to the region’s growing offshore renewable energy cluster. The new base is designed to supplement its existing UK sites, including its Birmingham head office and bases in Wembley, Scarborough and Consett.

Construction started in 2024 on a 43,000 sqft facility in Cramlington, with 200 new jobs to be created. Legrand UK & Ireland has now opened the electronics manufacturing facility at Nelson Park, which directors said establishes a new centre of excellence for the Legrand Group in Europe.

The site is home to Legrand’s CP Electronics lighting controls and Legrand Care brands, positioned close to the North East’s growing clean energy sector and skilled workforce. The new manufacturing site will extend Legrand’s presence in the UK, which spans more than 40 years.

The company said it has been designed and built with net zero principles at its core, and that the facility is entirely gas-free. An air source heat pump system provides heating and cooling across the site. It is also fitted with a rooftop solar PV array with an installed capacity of 163 kilowatt-peak, expected to generate close to 128,000 kWh annually, significantly reducing reliance on grid electricity.

The site also incorporates EV charging infrastructure, sustainable drainage, permeable paving and high-performance insulation.

The facility has also been equipped with Legrand’s own products where possible, including its Linea 5000 door entry panels, cable management solutions and digital energy metering technology. Bosses said the systems contribute to the site’s connectivity and energy efficiency while serving as a working showcase for the company’s product portfolio.

Paolo Murdocca, COO at Legrand UK & Ireland, said: “This facility represents a significant milestone for Legrand in the UK. We have built a site that not only strengthens our manufacturing capability but also reflects the standards we set for our customers.

“Cramlington gives us a modern, sustainable base from which to grow our CP Electronics and Legrand Care brands, and it demonstrates that high-quality electronics manufacturing and genuine environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. The North East offers exactly the skills and supply chain we need, and we are proud to be investing here for the long term.”

Like this story? For more news from the manufacturing sector, visit our dedicated page for the latest news and analysis here

LOS ANGELES — British screenwriter and producer Russell T Davies has sharply criticized Gwyneth Paltrow’s recent comments questioning the role of intimacy coordinators on Hollywood sets, describing the debate as one of the most divisive issues in the industry today.

Paltrow, 53, made the remarks while discussing her work on the upcoming sports drama “Marty Supreme” opposite Timothée Chalamet. In an interview with Vanity Fair, she expressed discomfort with detailed choreography for intimate scenes, saying she comes from an era where performers simply got into character without extensive planning.

“I was like, ‘Girl, I’m from the era where you get n***d, you get in bed, the camera’s on,’” Paltrow said. “We said, ‘I think we’re good. You can step a little bit back.’”

Davies, known for creating acclaimed series such as “Doctor Who,” “Years and Years” and “It’s a Sin,” pushed back strongly. Sources close to the writer told media outlets that Paltrow’s perspective reflects the position of established stars with significant power, while many actors with less influence rely on intimacy coordinators for safety and protection.

“This has become one of the most divisive arguments in Hollywood,” one report quoting industry insiders summarized Davies’ view.

Rise of Intimacy Coordinators Post-#MeToo

The use of intimacy coordinators became standard practice in film and television following the #MeToo movement, which exposed widespread sexual harassment and abuse in the entertainment industry. These professionals help choreograph intimate scenes, obtain consent, and ensure actors feel comfortable and protected during filming.

Advocates argue the role has improved working conditions, particularly for younger performers and those without the leverage of major stars. Critics, including Paltrow, contend that excessive coordination can reduce spontaneity and authenticity in performances.

Paltrow’s comments have reignited discussions about power dynamics on sets. Supporters of intimacy coordinators point out that what may feel unnecessary for a veteran actress with decades of experience and industry clout could be essential for emerging talents navigating unequal power structures.

Kim Basinger Echoes Similar Sentiments

Veteran actress Kim Basinger expressed comparable views in a recent Variety interview. She questioned the need for coordinators directing physical interactions.

“I can’t imagine having somebody come up to me and say, ‘Do you mind if they put their hand here?’” Basinger said, adding that such oversight might spoil the natural flow of intimate moments.

The contrasting opinions highlight a generational and experiential divide within Hollywood. While some established performers prefer the more free-form approaches of previous decades, many current industry standards emphasize clear boundaries and professional facilitation.

Industry Response and Broader Context

Intimacy coordinators are now routinely employed on major productions, with guilds and studios formalizing their involvement. The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists has supported their use as part of efforts to create safer workplaces.

Davies’ criticism underscores concerns that high-profile dismissals of the practice could undermine progress made since #MeToo. Industry observers note that while the system is not perfect, it addresses real vulnerabilities faced by performers in vulnerable situations.

Paltrow has long been vocal about various aspects of filmmaking and personal wellness through her Goop brand. Her stance on this issue aligns with a preference for actor-driven decisions over external oversight. However, it has drawn accusations of being out of touch with the realities faced by less powerful cast and crew members.

Ongoing Debate in Hollywood

The controversy arrives amid continued efforts to reform industry practices. Multiple high-profile productions have credited intimacy coordinators in recent years, citing improved actor experiences and fewer incidents of misconduct. Yet resistance persists from some quarters who view the role as intrusive or overly clinical.

Film historians point to past eras where intimate scenes were often handled informally, sometimes leading to uncomfortable or exploitative situations. The shift toward professional coordination represents a broader cultural change prioritizing consent and psychological safety.

Directors and producers find themselves navigating these discussions on individual projects. Some embrace coordinators as valuable collaborators, while others worry about creative constraints. The debate has extended to awards season conversations and industry panels.

Impact on Younger Actors

Advocates emphasize that intimacy coordinators are particularly beneficial for early-career performers. These actors may feel pressure to agree to scenes without adequate preparation or support, especially when working opposite established names.

Reports from recent productions highlight how coordinators facilitate communication between actors, directors and crew, establishing boundaries before filming begins. This structured approach reportedly reduces anxiety and allows performers to focus on their craft.

Paltrow’s collaboration with Chalamet, a younger actor rising rapidly in prominence, added another layer to the discussion. The age and experience gap between the two stars brought power dynamics into sharper focus.

Future of Intimacy Practices

As Hollywood continues evolving, the role of intimacy coordinators appears firmly established, though subject to ongoing refinement. Studios have invested in training programs and guidelines to standardize best practices across productions.

Russell T Davies, with his extensive experience writing complex character-driven stories, has consistently advocated for respectful workplace environments. His latest comments reinforce the view that safety measures should not be optional based on star status.

The conversation reflects larger societal shifts around consent, vulnerability and professional boundaries in creative fields. What began as a response to documented abuses has grown into a structured part of modern filmmaking protocols.

Paltrow has not publicly responded to Davies’ criticism. The exchange has fueled social media discussions, with opinions divided between those valuing traditional approaches and those supporting institutional safeguards.

As “Marty Supreme” moves through post-production, the film may face additional scrutiny regarding its handling of intimate content. The broader industry watches closely as these debates influence future casting, directing and production decisions.

The tension between artistic freedom and performer protection remains unresolved for some, but the prevailing trend favors structured support systems designed to protect all involved. Davies’ intervention adds a prominent voice to calls for maintaining these standards across all levels of the industry.

WARSAW, Poland — CD Projekt Red announced Wednesday that “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” will receive a new major expansion titled “Songs of the Past,” arriving more than a decade after the game’s original 2015 launch and delighting fans of the acclaimed role-playing series.

The expansion marks the third large-scale add-on for the game, following the highly regarded “Hearts of Stone” and “Blood and Wine” released in 2015 and 2016. It will launch in 2027 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC, with CD Projekt Red co-developing the project alongside Polish studio Fool’s Theory.

“Songs of the Past” returns players to the role of Geralt of Rivia for a brand new adventure. The announcement came slightly earlier than planned after details appeared in the company’s RED Launcher, prompting an official reveal. A teaser image shows Geralt facing what appears to be a tree-like monster, though further story details remain under wraps.

More information about the expansion will be shared in late summer 2026. The development marks an unusual move for a game that has already enjoyed massive commercial and critical success, having sold more than 60 million copies worldwide and earned over 250 Game of the Year awards.

A Decade-Long Legacy

“The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt,” released in May 2015, quickly established itself as a benchmark for open-world RPGs. Its rich narrative, drawn from Andrzej Sapkowski’s fantasy books, combined with deep character development and meaningful player choices, earned widespread praise. The two previous expansions significantly extended the experience, with “Blood and Wine” often described as comparable in scope to a full standalone game.

Industry observers noted the surprise announcement as evidence of CD Projekt Red’s continued commitment to the franchise even as it works on multiple major projects. The studio is simultaneously developing “The Witcher 4,” a new entry starring Ciri, and a remake of the original “The Witcher” game.

Fool’s Theory, the co-developer, includes veterans who worked on “The Witcher 3.” The studio previously released titles such as “The Thaumaturge” and “Seven: The Days Long Gone,” bringing relevant experience to the collaboration.

What Fans Can Expect

While plot specifics for “Songs of the Past” are limited, the title suggests themes involving history, memory or earlier events in Geralt’s world. The teaser art does not depict a significantly younger Geralt, leaving open questions about whether the story represents flashbacks, parallel timelines or new adventures set after the base game’s events.

CD Projekt Red also updated the game’s minimum PC requirements in preparation for the expansion, now recommending an AMD Ryzen 5 2600 or Intel Core i5-8400 processor, at least 12GB of RAM, and a graphics card with 6GB VRAM such as the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 or AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT. Storage requirements increased to 70GB on SSD with Windows 11 support.

The decision to expand “The Witcher 3” more than 11 years after launch echoes CD Projekt Red’s approach with “Cyberpunk 2077,” which continued receiving substantial updates and a major expansion years after release. This strategy has helped maintain player engagement and extend the commercial lifespan of its flagship titles.

Broader Development Context

The announcement arrives as CD Projekt Red pursues an ambitious slate. “The Witcher 4” was revealed in 2024 using Unreal Engine 5, with expectations for a new trilogy. Industry estimates suggest the new Witcher games could arrive starting in 2028 or later, meaning “Songs of the Past” may serve as a bridge for fans in the interim.

The studio is also working on a sequel to “Cyberpunk 2077.” Balancing these projects alongside the “Witcher 3” expansion highlights the company’s growth since its early days, though it also raises questions about resource allocation and development timelines.

Fool’s Theory’s involvement may help maintain the distinctive narrative quality and world-building that defined the original game and its expansions. Fans have expressed excitement about returning to Geralt, whose dry wit and monster-hunting adventures remain central to the series’ appeal.

Market and Cultural Impact

“The Witcher” franchise has expanded significantly beyond games. A Netflix television series brought the story to wider audiences, while books and other media continue to attract new fans. The enduring popularity of “The Witcher 3” demonstrates the lasting value of strong single-player storytelling in an industry increasingly focused on live-service models.

Analysts suggest the new expansion could generate renewed sales of the base game and previous DLC packs, particularly as current-generation consoles and improved PC hardware allow for better visuals and performance. Many players who experienced the game at launch may return for updated versions or fresh content.

Community reactions on social media and forums reflected enthusiasm mixed with surprise at the timing. Some players noted the expansion could provide additional context or closure before the next major entry in the series. Others highlighted the potential for high-quality side stories, a strength of previous Witcher DLC.

Technical and Gameplay Considerations

As with prior expansions, “Songs of the Past” is expected to introduce new regions, quests, characters and gameplay mechanics while maintaining compatibility with existing saves. The collaboration with an external studio follows a growing industry trend of leveraging specialized teams to expand established properties efficiently.

CD Projekt Red has not detailed pricing or exact content scope, though past expansions ranged from substantial story additions to near-full-game experiences. The 2027 release window gives the team time to polish the project while avoiding overlap with other major studio initiatives.

Looking Forward for the Franchise

The surprise announcement underscores the cultural staying power of Geralt’s world. As CD Projekt Red prepares multiple Witcher projects, “Songs of the Past” offers fans a chance to revisit one of gaming’s most beloved open worlds with fresh adventures.

More details expected in late summer will likely include story hints, new characters, gameplay features and possibly release timing within 2027. Until then, players can revisit “The Witcher 3” knowing another chapter awaits in the monster-filled Continent.

The development also reflects evolving industry practices where successful single-player titles receive extended support well beyond initial launch. For a game that helped define a generation of RPGs, this latest expansion reinforces its status as a living classic rather than a static relic from 2015.

As anticipation builds toward additional reveals, the gaming community watches closely to see how “Songs of the Past” fits into CD Projekt Red’s broader vision for the Witcher universe. With Geralt returning to center stage, the expansion promises to deliver the rich storytelling and immersive gameplay that have become hallmarks of the series.

Australia’s Gen X and baby boomers are rewriting the rules of luxury spending, with a surge in high-value diamond purchases as older Australians prioritise enjoyment, legacy and personal reward over saving.

Leading jeweller Nick Ireland, founder of Nick Ireland Jewellery, a world leading premium custom jewellery maker with a presence in Australia and the UK said the shift is unmistakable and is reshaping how diamonds are bought and valued across the country.

“We are seeing a very clear and consistent increase in demand from Gen X and baby boomers who are now choosing to invest in high-quality, rare diamonds, particularly Argyle pinks and large white stones, as a way to enjoy their success while also securing something tangible and lasting for the future,” Ireland said.

A generational shift in spending

Ireland said today’s premium jewellery buyers are far more confident in spending on luxury items than previous generations, driven by decades of asset growth and changing attitudes towards wealth.

“These generations have worked incredibly hard over many years to build their financial position and, rather than holding onto everything, they are now making conscious decisions to enjoy it through meaningful purchases that bring both personal satisfaction and long-term value,” he said.

He said diamonds are increasingly being viewed as both wearable luxury and a store of value.

“They are selecting pieces that they can wear and enjoy in the present, while also knowing they hold intrinsic value and can be passed down to future generations, which adds another layer of meaning to the purchase,” he said.

“Ultimately they are a good investment as the pieces not only showcase style they also grow in value and this is something that sophisticated buyers are looking for.”

The rise of ‘self-gifting’

One of the most notable shifts is the rise in self-purchasing among older Australians, particularly women.

“We are seeing more clients in their 50s and 60s, especially professional women, who are financially independent and confident in their decisions, choosing to purchase significant diamond pieces for themselves as a reflection of their achievements and personal milestones,” Ireland said.

“This is no longer about waiting for someone else to buy you something special, it is about recognising your own success and choosing to celebrate it in a way that feels authentic and rewarding.”

Rare diamonds driving demand

Ireland said demand is particularly strong for rare and investment-grade stones, especially following the closure of the Argyle diamond mine.

“With the Argyle mine now closed, the supply of pink diamonds is permanently limited, which is creating a strong sense of urgency and long-term value among buyers who understand that these stones are not only beautiful but increasingly scarce,” he said.

“Our collection has been built over many years through careful sourcing and strong global relationships, and we are seeing significant interest from clients who are specifically looking for something rare and enduring.”

A move away from fast fashion luxury

Ireland said Gen X and boomers are deliberately moving away from mass-produced jewellery in favour of craftsmanship and quality.

“There is a very clear preference for pieces that are made properly, with attention to detail and a focus on longevity, rather than something that is produced quickly and lacks individuality or substance,” he said.

“At our studio, every piece is crafted in-house, which allows clients to be involved in the design process and ensures the final product reflects both quality and personal meaning. It also ensures exclusivity enabling clients to participate in the design process and create a piece that is stunningly unique.”

Family, legacy and the next generation

Ireland said many purchases are driven by a desire to create something that lasts beyond the individual.

“These are not just purchases for today, they are often made with the intention of becoming heirloom pieces that can be passed down, carrying both financial and emotional value for the next generation,” he said.

Working alongside his son Zac, who now designs many of the studio’s pieces, Ireland said the business itself reflects that generational mindset.

“It is incredibly meaningful to be building something alongside my son and creating pieces that will outlast us both, which is exactly what many of our clients are looking to achieve through their own purchases,” he said.

A powerful market force

While younger buyers continue to dominate engagement ring sales, Ireland said Gen X and boomers are now one of the most influential segments in the luxury jewellery market.

“They have the financial capacity, the confidence to spend and a very clear understanding of value, which makes them a powerful force in shaping demand, particularly in the high-end and investment-grade space,” he said.

“As more Australians enter retirement with significant assets, we expect this trend to continue to strengthen rather than slow down.”

A new era for diamonds

Ireland said the evolving behaviour of Gen X and boomers is fundamentally changing how diamonds are perceived.

“Diamonds are no longer seen purely as symbols of engagement or romance, they are increasingly being recognised as markers of success, personal achievement and long-term legacy, which broadens their relevance significantly,” he said.

“If you have spent decades working hard to build a life and create wealth, it makes complete sense to enjoy that success through something that is both beautiful and enduring.”
About Nick Ireland Jewellery

Nick Ireland is a master jeweller with more than 40 years’ experience in the global jewellery trade. Originally trained in the UK, he established his business in Australia in the early 1990s and now operates a boutique, appointment-only studio in Brisbane, with offices in Sydney and Melbourne.

Known for bespoke, high-quality craftsmanship and strong global relationships with diamond and gemstone suppliers, the business specialises in engagement rings, rare diamonds and one-off luxury pieces.

The studio holds an extensive collection of Argyle pink diamonds and offers access to thousands of internationally sourced stones, positioning it as a leading destination for premium and investment-grade jewellery in Australia.

Not long ago, landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok meant one of two things: joining the queue at a SIM card kiosk in arrivals, or bracing yourself for the international roaming charges about to hit your phone bill. Neither was particularly appealing. Today, a growing number of travellers are arriving in Thailand, and dozens of other destinations, already connected, having activated a digital SIM card before they even boarded the plane.

The technology making this possible is the eSIM, and its adoption among international travellers has accelerated sharply over the past two years.

What is eSIM technology and how does it work?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card built directly into your smartphone. Unlike a traditional physical SIM card that you insert into a slot, an eSIM is programmed remotely by scanning a QR code. The process takes about five minutes, can be done from home before departure, and requires no trip to a carrier store or airport kiosk.

For travellers, the practical implication is significant. Rather than paying $10–25 per day in roaming charges through their home carrier, the standard rate offered by Australian providers including Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone for international data, they can purchase a local-rate data plan for their destination and have it ready to activate upon arrival.

The global eSIM market is growing rapidly. According to Ericsson’s Mobility Report, the number of eSIM-capable devices worldwide is expected to exceed 6 billion by 2030, with consumer uptake accelerating as flagship smartphones from Apple, Samsung, and Google ship with eSIM as standard.

Why Thailand is a defining test case

Thailand welcomes close to 40 million international visitors annually, with Australians consistently among the top visitor nationalities. Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui all depend on mobile connectivity in ways that make reliable internet not a luxury but a functional necessity for navigation, booking accommodation, hailing rideshare services, and staying in contact while moving between provinces.

Traditional roaming plans handle this adequately but expensively. A 10-day trip to Thailand on standard roaming from an Australian carrier can generate $100–250 in data charges for moderate use. A Thailand eSIM from a provider like Yesim costs a fraction of that — plans start from a few dollars per day with full 4G LTE access through local Thai networks including AIS and DTAC.

The Yesim eSIM Thailand offers both prepaid data plans and unlimited options, with plans designed specifically for tourist stay lengths, from a single day to 30 days. Crucially, it can be purchased and installed before departure, so the phone connects to a Thai network the moment the plane lands, without any queuing or in-country setup required.

The shift away from traditional roaming

The economics of traditional international roaming have always been difficult to justify. Carriers charge a daily access fee that applies whether you use 10 MB or 1 GB, and the data allowances on most roaming day passes are insufficient for the way travellers actually use their phones.

Travel eSIM providers operate on a different model. Plans are prepaid, data-specific, and priced based on the actual cost of wholesale access to local mobile networks. There’s no connection fee, no daily access charge, and no risk of bill shock when you arrive home.

The convenience factor is equally significant. The ability to switch between a home SIM and a travel eSIM on the same device, a feature built into every dual-SIM compatible iPhone from the XS onward and most modern Android flagships, means travellers can keep their Australian number active for calls while the eSIM handles all data internationally.

Compatibility and adoption

eSIM technology is now supported by the majority of smartphones sold in Australia. iPhones from the XS (2018) and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, and most other flagship Android devices all support eSIM.

The activation process is straightforward enough that first-time users typically encounter no issues: purchase a plan online, receive a QR code by email, scan it through the phone’s settings menu, and set the eSIM as the active data line. For travellers with older devices that don’t support eSIM, physical SIM cards from local carriers remain an option, though the convenience gap is widening.

Getting started: a practical note for Australian travellers

For travellers heading to Thailand or any other international destination in the near term, Yesim is currently offering new customers a 10% discount using the promo code YESIMIBT10 at checkout. Plans for Thailand include daily unlimited options and multi-week prepaid data packages, all activatable before departure.

More information and plan comparison for eSIM Thailand is available on the Yesim site.

Frequently asked questions

How do I activate a Thailand eSIM before I travel?

Purchase a plan from a provider like Yesim at yesim.app, then follow the QR code installation steps under your phone’s cellular or SIM settings. iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM. Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add eSIM. The eSIM installs in under a minute. Set it as your data line, enable data roaming on the eSIM profile, and your phone connects to a Thai network automatically upon arrival.

How much does a Thailand eSIM cost compared to standard roaming?

A standard Australian carrier roaming to Thailand typically runs $10–15 per day for a limited daily data allowance. A Yesim Thailand eSIM plan starts significantly lower with prepaid data packages and unlimited daily options available. New customers can use code YESIMIBT10 for 10% off their first purchase.

Can I keep my Australian number active while using a Thailand eSIM?

Yes. On dual SIM-capable devices, your physical SIM card stays active for calls and SMS on your Australian number while the eSIM handles mobile data in Thailand independently. You can receive calls on your home number and browse on eSIM data simultaneously.

What network does a Yesim Thailand eSIM use?

Yesim connects to local Thai networks including AIS and DTAC, which together provide 4G LTE coverage across Thailand, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and the main tourist corridors. Coverage in remote rural areas and on smaller islands may vary.