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By Author
Published on November 16, 2023
In a landmark decision aimed at rejuvenating its tourism landscape and addressing employment challenges, the Bengal Cabinet has approved a proposal to confer industry status on the hospitality sector. This move, initiated by the state’s Tourism Department, is set to catalyze economic growth and revitalize Bengal’s tourism industry.
Key Benefits of the New Status
Electricity Bill Savings: Hotels in Bengal can now anticipate substantial savings on electricity costs, thanks to a shift to industrial power tariff rates. Estimates indicate potential savings of up to Rs 3 per unit, a significant relief given that electricity is often the second-largest expense for hotels.
Reduced Electricity Duty: With the new industry status, the hospitality sector will benefit from lower electricity duty, although the precise financial impact is yet to be fully quantified.
Lower Water Supply Costs: Hotels, which previously paid commercial rates for water, will now be charged at the more affordable industrial rates, further reducing operational expenses.
Decrease in License Fees and Taxes: The sector can also expect a reduction in various license fees and taxes, including property tax, easing the financial strain on hotel operators.
Enhanced Floor-Area Ratio (FAR): The improved FAR will allow for more extensive construction on given land parcels, likely
attracting more investors to develop hotels and related tourism facilities.
Sudesh Poddar, President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of India’s Eastern Chapter, has expressed strong support for the decision, citing it as a long-standing demand. This move is anticipated to draw investors to the state's tourism sector and encourage the expansion of infrastructure.
With an eye on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and ongoing job scarcity, the Bengal government views this development as a strategic approach to spur job creation. Investment in the hospitality sector is seen as a key driver for generating employment opportunities, considering Bengal’s rich tourism potential.
Tourism currently contributes about 13 percent to Bengal’s GDP, outpacing the national average. In 2022, Bengal welcomed over 1.04 million international tourists and 84.54 million domestic tourists. The industry status for hospitality is expected to further bolster these numbers.
The decision is poised to benefit the state's tourism industry, which employs over 15 lakh people. It also opens the door for major hotel chains to expand their presence in Bengal, enriching the state’s tourism offerings. Samrat Sanyal, General Secretary of the Himalayan Hospitality & Tourism Development Network, praised the decision for its potential to elevate the tourism sector.
The Bengal Cabinet's decision to grant industry status to the hospitality sector marks a significant step forward in enhancing the state's tourism and hospitality landscape. This move is expected to bring about a wave of positive changes, including increased investment, job creation, and overall economic upliftment in the region.
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By Hariharan U
Published on October 27, 2025
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts reported its Q3 2025 financial results, showing steady growth across operations and financial metrics. Global system-wide rooms increased 4% year-on-year to 855,400, including 503,400 in the U.S. and 352,000 internationally, while the company awarded 204 new development contracts, up 24% from Q3 2024. The global development pipeline grew 4% to 257,000 rooms, with roughly 70% in midscale and above segments and 58% internationally.
Ancillary revenues rose 18% compared to the same period last year. Net income climbed 3% to $105 million, and adjusted net income reached $112 million, with diluted EPS increasing 5% to $1.36 and adjusted diluted EPS up 5% to $1.46. Adjusted EBITDA grew 2% to $213 million, while global RevPAR declined 5% in constant currency, mainly due to softer results in Asia Pacific and Latin America, partially offset by gains in EMEA and Canada.
Wyndham generated $86 million in net cash from operating activities and $97 million in free cash flow, ending the quarter with $70 million in cash and total liquidity of about $540 million, maintaining a net debt leverage ratio of 3.5x. In October 2025, the company refinanced its $750 million revolving credit facility, extending maturity to 2030, increasing capacity to $1 billion, and reducing borrowing costs by 35 basis points. Shareholder returns included the repurchase of 830,000 shares for $70 million in Q3 and year-to-date buybacks of 2.5 million shares for $223 million, alongside $31 million in dividends.
Looking ahead, Wyndham expects full-year global room growth of 4–4.6%, global RevPAR change of -3% to -2%, fee-related revenues of $1.43–$1.45 billion, adjusted EBITDA of $715–$725 million, adjusted net income of $347–$358 million, and adjusted diluted EPS of $4.48–$4.62, while maintaining a focus on portfolio expansion, strengthening its development pipeline, and delivering consistent shareholder value amid evolving industry conditions.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on October 26, 2025
Alaska Air Group reported strong financial results for the third quarter of 2025, posting a GAAP net income of $73 million and adjusted earnings per share of $1.05. The airline’s growth is being fueled by new nonstop routes from Seattle to London and Reykjavik, set to launch in May 2026, and the introduction of the Atmos Rewards loyalty program, which exceeded premium credit card sign-up expectations.
In a major technological upgrade, Alaska Air is installing Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi across its fleet, offering complimentary access to Atmos Rewards members. The company is also progressing with the integration of Hawaiian Airlines and advancing its Alaska Accelerate strategy, aiming for significant growth and profitability by 2027.
Analysts have assigned a Hold rating on ALK stock with a $49.00 price target, citing strong financial recovery but noting bearish technical indicators and increased leverage as potential risks. The airline continues to focus on expanding its global reach and enhancing customer loyalty through strategic partnerships and its Atmos Rewards program.
Published on September 14, 2025
Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has announced a significant increase in its shareholder returns, declaring a 33% hike in its quarterly dividend. The company’s Board of Directors approved a dividend of $1.00 per common share, payable on October 13, 2025, to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 25, 2025.
Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said the move underscores the company’s confidence in its performance and long-term growth strategy. “Today’s dividend increase reflects both the strength of our performance and our commitment to return capital to shareholders. This increase in dividend, along with our ongoing share repurchase program, highlights our balanced approach to capital allocation, returning value to shareholders while funding future growth,” Liberty stated.
Royal Caribbean Group is a global leader in the vacation industry, operating a fleet of 68 ships across five brands that serve millions of guests annually. Its portfolio includes Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea, as well as land-based experiences such as Perfect Day at CocoCay and the Royal Beach Club collection. The company also holds a 50% joint venture in TUI Cruises, which manages brands like Mein Schiff and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.
With a reputation for innovation and guest-focused experiences, Royal Caribbean Group continues to expand its global footprint while maintaining its commitment to responsible and sustainable growth.
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