Finance With Doug

Humans have long had a deep connection with forests. For centuries, forests have provided shelter, food, medicine, and raw materials. However, the benefits of forests go beyond just material needs. Emerging research highlights the profound impact that spending time in forests and natural spaces has on human health. Forests not only provide resources but also offer psychological and physical health benefits that are crucial for modern society. The Healing Power of Nature Numerous studies have shown that spending time in forests can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The concept of “forest bathing” (Shinrin-yoku), which originated in Japan, emphasizes the therapeutic effects of immersing oneself in a forest environment. The natural sounds, smells, and sights of the forest help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation and healing. Forests provide a tranquil environment that allows individuals to disconnect from the stressors of daily life and r...

  India’s corporate sector has been greatly influenced by the leadership of a select group of CEOs and executives. Their innovative strategies and forward-thinking approaches have not only driven financial growth but also positioned their companies for success in an ever-changing global market. These leaders have redefined what it means to be a successful business figure, balancing growth with social responsibility. Key Leaders Transforming Industries Abhay Bhutada – Leadership in the Financial Sector Abhay Bhutada’s compensation of Rs 241.21 crore in 2024 highlights his key role in driving the success of his financial company. Bhutada is not only a business leader but also a philanthropist, through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation , focusing on education and healthcare initiatives. Pawan Munjal – Keeping Hero MotoCorp at the Top Pawan Munjal’s leadership at Hero MotoCorp, with earnings of Rs 109.41 crore in 2024, has helped the company maintain its status as a leader in the two-wheel...

Maintaining physical fitness is essential for a healthy lifestyle. It not only enhances physical appearance but also boosts mental clarity, mood, and overall well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, staying fit has become more important than ever, especially as sedentary lifestyles become more common. The Importance of Regular Exercise Exercise plays a crucial role in keeping our bodies strong. Whether it’s running, weightlifting, yoga, or dancing, regular physical activity helps improve cardiovascular health, build muscle, and increase endurance. It also aids in weight management, preventing obesity and related diseases like diabetes and hypertension. Mental Health Benefits Exercise isn’t just about the body; it has significant mental health benefits too. Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression, promoting mental clarity and improving sleep quality. A fit body often leads to a c...

India’s business landscape in 2024 features several standout leaders whose compensation packages reflect their extraordinary contributions to their companies. From tech to media to manufacturing, these top executives are leading their companies to greater heights, impacting the economy and their industries. Their impressive salaries reveal not only their leadership but also the continued growth of the businesses they manage. Abhay Bhutada: A Philanthropic Force Abhay Bhutada , chairman and founder of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation , earned a remarkable Rs 241.21 crore in 2024. Despite previous associations with Poonawalla Fincorp, Bhutada is no longer affiliated with the company. His leadership at the foundation, which focuses on social welfare and various philanthropic causes, highlights his commitment to making a difference. The foundation’s success under his guidance reflects his broad influence, both in the business and philanthropic worlds. Also Read: How I See Executive Pay Through...

The Brain’s Reward System and Art Appreciation Viewing aesthetically pleasing art activates the brain’s reward system, which releases dopamine. This neurotransmitter is associated with feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. When individuals encounter beautiful or meaningful art, they experience a sense of joy, similar to the pleasure derived from eating good food or socializing. This response is why art can feel so rewarding, and it explains why many people are drawn to art in ways that go beyond its intellectual value. Art and Cognitive Processing: The Role of the Prefrontal Cortex The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for higher-order cognitive functions, plays a key role in how we process art. When we engage with art, this brain region helps us analyze and interpret the visual elements, such as composition, color, and texture. It also helps us connect emotionally with the piece by drawing on personal experiences and memories. The prefrontal cortex’s involvement suggests that a...

In 2024, several top Indian CEOs have earned extraordinary compensation packages, illustrating their unmatched leadership skills and business acumen. These executives have been instrumental in driving growth, shaping the strategies of their companies, and leading them to new heights. Here’s a closer look at some of the most highly paid CEOs in India and their roles in their companies' success. Abhay Bhutada: A Visionary Leader at Poonawalla Fincorp Abhay Bhutada , founder of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation , made a lasting impact at Poonawalla Fincorp. Even though he no longer holds an active role at the company, his strategic insights and leadership shaped Poonawalla’s path to success. Bhutada earned a remarkable Rs 241.21 crore in 2024, which reflects his instrumental role in the company’s impressive financial results during his tenure. Also Read: How I See Executive Pay Through a Professional’s Lens Pawan Munjal: Hero MotoCorp’s Global Strategy Pawan Munjal, Chairman & Wholetim...

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to accumulate things we no longer need. Clutter can negatively affect your mental and emotional well-being, creating a sense of chaos and overwhelm. Decluttering helps restore order to your space, leading to a more peaceful and productive environment. It’s not just about tidying up—it’s about reclaiming your time, energy, and focus. A clutter-free environment promotes relaxation and clarity. When you clear away unnecessary items, you’re left with only what’s truly important, reducing distractions and making it easier to concentrate on what matters most. In turn, this can lead to greater efficiency and a more fulfilling daily routine. The Psychological Benefits of Decluttering Clutter has been linked to increased stress and anxiety. When surrounded by piles of things, your brain has to work harder to filter out distractions, which can be mentally exhausting. Decluttering helps create a sense of calm and control, allowing your mind to rest and focus on ...

India has seen a remarkable surge in corporate performance over the past year, thanks to the stellar leadership of its top executives. These leaders are not only steering their organizations to greater profitability but also earning impressive pay packages. As of March 2024, several prominent figures in industries ranging from steel and media to IT consulting and two-wheelers have become the face of corporate success. Here’s a look at the key CEOs and executives who are making waves with their earnings. Abhay Bhutada: Leading the Charge Abhay Bhutada , the founder of Abhay Bhutada Foundation , takes the top spot on this list. With a remuneration of Rs 241.21 crore in 2024, Bhutada has earned a hefty package that reflects his critical role in the company’s growth. His compensation represents a significant portion of Poonawalla Fincorp's revenue and net profit. Under his leadership until 2023, the company experienced impressive growth, particularly in the non-banking financial sector...

The Change Maker Awards 2024, held on January 2 at the Le Meridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Center, celebrated innovation and leadership in sustainability. Organized by the ESG Research Foundation in partnership with BNW Developments, the event honored individuals and organizations committed to advancing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. Fostering Equity Through Grassroots Initiatives The event highlighted transformative efforts in sustainability, with Abhay Bhutada ’s work serving as a prime example of actionable change. As the founder of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation , he has championed programs aimed at addressing inequality through education and skill development. His foundation’s initiatives reflect a commitment to empowering underprivileged communities while emphasizing long-term sustainability. Bhutada’s contributions resonate with the core purpose of the awards—celebrating those who are reshaping the world by addressing systemic challenges and promoting a ...

Narcissism is a term often used casually to describe someone self-centered or vain. However, Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a complex mental health condition characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a need for excessive admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. While everyone exhibits narcissistic tendencies to some degree, individuals with NPD demonstrate these traits persistently and to an extreme that affects their relationships and daily lives. Characteristics of Narcissistic Personality A person with a narcissistic personality often exhibits the following traits: Grandiosity: A sense of superiority and entitlement, often accompanied by fantasies of unlimited success, power, or beauty. Need for Admiration: A constant craving for attention and validation from others to maintain their self-esteem. Lack of Empathy: Difficulty understanding or caring about others’ feelings, leading to strained relationships. Manipulative Behavior: Exploiting others for per...

  As a financial auditor, I have been closely observing the rising prominence of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in business and finance. This shift toward integrating ESG into core business strategies is not just a trend but a profound transformation in how companies operate. The Change Maker Awards 2024 , held in Dubai, reinforced the significance of this transition and underscored how ESG is reshaping our profession in meaningful ways. The Importance of Accountability in ESG The awards ceremony served as a platform to highlight the critical role of governance in advancing sustainability. With influential speakers like Faris Saeed, Chairman & CEO of SEE Holdings, and Fadi Al-Shihabi, Partner and Sustainability Solutions Leader at KPMG, the discussions illuminated how governance frameworks are evolving to include ESG metrics. For auditors like me, the implications are clear: ESG reporting is no longer a voluntary initiative but an essential component of ...