Check Point Software Announces Q4 and Full Year 2024 Results
Rutuparna Rath business
Check Point Software Announces Q4 and Full Year 2024 Results

India, February 4, 2025 —(NASDAQ: CHKP), today announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024.

Fourth Quarter 2024 Highlights          

  • Calculated Billings reached $959 million, an 11 percent increase year over year
  • Remaining Performance Obligation (RPO): $2.5 billion, a 12 percent increase year over year
  • Total Revenues: $704 million, a 6 percent increase year over year
  • Product, License & Subscription Revenues: $463 million, a 9 percent increase year over year
  • GAAP Operating Income: $254 million, representing 36 percent of revenues
  • Non-GAAP Operating Income: $306 million, representing 44 percent of revenues
  • GAAP EPS: $2.30, a 7 percent increase year over year
  • Non-GAAP EPS: $2.70, a 5 percent increase year over year

Full Year 2024 Highlights

  • Calculated Billings reached $2,658 million, a 9 percent increase year over year
  • Total Revenues: $2,565 million, a 6 percent increase year over year
  • Security Subscriptions Revenues: $1,104 million, a 13 percent increase year over year
  • GAAP EPS: $7.46, a 5 percent increase year over year
  • Non-GAAP EPS: $9.16, a 9 percent increase year over year

“We delivered exceptional fourth quarter results, a wonderful way to transition into my new Executive Chairman role. The success in the quarter was underscored by strong 8 percent revenue growth in our core Quantum Force appliance business, our industry leading Harmony E-mail solution, and expanded adoption of the Infinity platform.” said, Gil Shwed, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Check Point Software. “I would like to thank Check Point’s customers, partners, and the Global Check Point Team for their contributions to our continued success. I look forward to Check Point achieving new heights under the leadership of our new Chief Executive Officer, Nadav Zafrir,” concluded, Mr. Shwed.

“I would like to thank Gil and the Board for the opportunity to lead such an exemplary organization. 2024 was a successful year and provides a great springboard for 2025 and beyond,” stated Nadav Zafrir, Chief Executive Officer of Check Point Software. “My first one hundred days are focused on meeting with customers and partners to understand the key challenges they face in today’s unprecedented threat environment. From my conversations so far, I have become increasingly confident that Check Point is uniquely positioned to address the cybersecurity demands of enterprises worldwide. Check Point’s future is bright, and we are focused on driving market share expansion and taking growth to the next levels,” stated Mr. Zafrir.

“After a successful fourth quarter and 2024, we are starting 2025 with an expanded executive team to balance our corporate and Go-To-Market leadership roles, and bring even more attention to customer facing functions,” said Nadav Zafrir, CEO of Check Point Software. Among the new roles joining the executive team is that of Chief Revenue Officer. Itai Greenberg will serve in this role, driving our global top-line revenue across our platform worldwide. He brings more than two decades of experience in product management and sales roles, having most recently served as Check Point’s Chief Strategy Officer and head of the Cloud and SASE businesses. Replacing Itai in the role of Chief Strategy Officer, we welcome Roi Karo to Check Point. Roi brings more than two decades of expertise in security, AI, and big data with a focus on strategy and planning.

In conclusion, after three successful years as Check Point’s President, Rupal Hollenbeck has chosen to conclude her tenure at the end of the first quarter and will remain available to support the smooth transition of the new executive team members. “I want to thank Rupal for her incredible work and dedication over the last three years during which the Go-To-Market organizations composition, reach, and focus was transformed all around the world. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors,” said Nadav Zafrir, CEO of Check Point Software. “We welcome Itai and Roi into their new executive team roles. I am excited about the opportunities before us, and I am more confident than ever that the best of Check Point is yet to come,” concluded, Mr. Zafrir.

Financial Highlights Commentary

  • Cash Balances, Marketable Securities & Short-Term Deposits: $2,784 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to $2,960 million as of December 31, 2023. The decrease in cash is primarily a result of $186 million net of cash consideration utilized for Cyberint Ltd. acquisition in 2024.
  • Share Repurchase Program: During the fourth quarter of 2024, the company repurchased approximately 1.7 million shares at a total cost of approximately $325 million. During full year 2024, we repurchased approximately 7.7 million shares at a total cost of approximately $1,300 million.
  • Cash Flow: Cash flow from operations was $1,059, which included $18 million of costs related to our currency hedging transactions, and acquisition-related costs were insignificant. This compares to $1,035 million in 2023, which included $39 million of costs related to our currency hedging transactions and $25 million in costs related to acquisitions.

For information regarding the non-GAAP financial measures discussed in this release, as well as a reconciliation of such non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures, please see “Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information” and “Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Information.”

Novotel Hyderabad Wins Double at Radio City Icon Awards
Bhumika Lenka news
Novotel Hyderabad Wins Double at Radio City Icon Awards

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) are proud to announce a remarkable double win at the Radio City Hyderabad Icon Awards 2025, held in January. The prestigious awards recognized Rubin Cherian, General Manager of both properties, as Visionary Business Leader of the Year 2024-25, honoring his impactful leadership and contributions to the hospitality and events sectors. Additionally, HICC was named the Leader in MICE Event Hosting, reinforcing its position as a premier destination for global conventions, conferences, and exhibitions.

HICC features a massive pillarless internal hall spanning 6,480 square meters with a high ceiling, making it ideal for large-scale events. The venue also offers six versatile breakout rooms, providing flexibility for simultaneous sessions and seamless event management supported by cutting-edge technology.

These accolades serve as a testament to the dedication, innovation, and excellence demonstrated by the team at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and HICC in delivering unparalleled hospitality and world-class event experiences. The awards further reinforce the property’s position as a leader in both hospitality and MICE services in the region.

Avinash Tiwary Reveals Why ‘The Mehta Boys’ Script Was Impossible to Resist
Rutuparna Rath news
Avinash Tiwary Reveals Why ‘The Mehta Boys’ Script Was Impossible to Resist

“The moment I read it, I knew that if I truly considered myself an artist, there was no way I could let go of this script”- Avinash Tiwary reveals his first reaction to the script of Prime Video’s The Mehta Boys

Prime Video’s upcoming Original movie, The Mehta Boys has already made waves on the film festival circuit with its deeply moving portrayal of the complexities of a father-son relationship. Ahead of its highly anticipated global premiere on the service, the film has piqued audiences’ curiosity with an emotionally charged trailer. Brought to life by a talented ensemble cast, including Boman Irani, Avinash Tiwary, Shreya Chaudhry, and Puja Sarup in key roles, The Mehta Boys promises to leave an emotional impact on viewers with universal themes of self-discovery, familial bonds, complex human relationships. Avinash Tiwary steps into the role of Amay, a junior architect navigating a decade-long struggle to establish his career.

In an exclusive conversation, Avinash reveals his first reaction to the compelling script of The Mehta Boys and opens up about his experience working with veteran actor-turned-director, Boman Irani.

He revealed, “The moment I read it, I knew that if I truly considered myself an artist, there was no way I could let go of this script—I had to be a part of this film.I wasn’t sure how it would unfold until I met Boman Sir. He asked me to read a scene, and that’s when something magical happened. He stood up, I stood up, and before I knew it, he was giving me instructions, and I was responding instinctively. It all just clicked at that moment.Honestly this kind of creative connection is very rare and I knew we are on to something special.”

Recalling the rehearsal process, Avinash further added, “From that moment on, he made sure I harboured the same resentment toward him that Amay feels for his father in the film. He ensured I carried that feeling throughout. I know that most people who have worked with Boman Sir see him as a friend and mentor, but we intentionally created a different equation. I wasn’t supposed to see him as a friend. Every bit of Amay’s emotions—the struggle with authority, longing for validation, the unresolved tension—I lived off-screen too. Even now, I think a part of me is still that guy, who is seeking validation from Boman Irani.”

Marking Boman Irani’s directorial debut, The Mehta Boys is an Irani Movietone LLP production in association with Chalkboard Entertainment LLP. Boman Irani has also co-produced the film with Danesh Irani, Vikesh Bhutani, and Shujaat Saudagar, and co-written it with Academy Award winner Alexander Dinelaris. The Mehta Boys is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video on February 7, in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide.

Femina North Achievers 2025 Honors Visionaries Like Shamika Haldipurkar and Varun Bahl
Rutuparna Rath news
Femina North Achievers 2025 Honors Visionaries Like Shamika Haldipurkar and Varun Bahl

Delhi, 4 February 2025: Femina, India’s foremost women’s lifestyle brand in India, proudly hosted the prestigious Femina Achievers 2025: North on January 30, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency in Bhikaji Cama, New Delhi. Building on the resounding success of its 2024 editions in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and East, the event returned this year to celebrate exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions across a wide array of sectors in North India. The event served as a grand celebration of their remarkable achievements, further solidifying Femina’s commitment to honoring excellence.

The event commenced with the ceremonial lamp lighting, a momentous tradition, conducted by distinguished dignitaries, Ms. Meenakshi Lekhi and Mr. Vijender Singh. Following this, the dignitaries presented awards to trailblazers from diverse fields, celebrating their extraordinary accomplishments across sectors such as entertainment, arts, entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, social service and more.

The event was not only a tribute to the success of these achievers but also a reflection of their perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges. Among the distinguished honorees was Shamika Haldipurkar, awarded for Excellence in Beauty Entrepreneurship for her visionary approach in launching d’you and revolutionizing the Indian skincare industry with high-performance, science-backed products. Varun Bahl, honored for Excellence in Fashion Design & Innovation, was celebrated for his remarkable contributions to couture and his innovative collaborations with global brands. Rubina Francis, awarded for Excellence in Sports, was felicitated for being a trailblazing para shooter from India who secured a prestigious medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Dr. Kiran Sethi was recognized for Excellence in Skincare & Wellness, highlighting her dedication in redefining skincare standards and bringing aesthetic wellness to a wider audience. These achievers, along with many others, were celebrated for their dedication, hard work, and remarkable achievements. Check below for the full list of winners!

Speaking about the initiative, Ambika Muttoo, Editor-in-Chief, Femina, shared, “Femina Achievers 2025: North is a celebration of talent, hard work, and success. It honors individuals who, through their remarkable accomplishments, inspire others and stand as true role models. At Femina, we take immense pride in showcasing stories that empower, uplift, and drive meaningful change. This initiative embodies that very vision, shining a spotlight on those who make a lasting impact.”

The Femina Achievers 2025: North was a resounding success, bringing together an extraordinary blend of talent, creativity, and purpose. This year’s edition continued with its legacy of excellence, creating an inspiring platform that not only celebrated individual achievements but also encouraged a spirit of collective pride. The event reaffirmed Femina’s vision of empowering and uplifting trailblazers while setting new benchmarks in honoring those shaping the future across diverse fields.

Budget Boosts Consumer Spending and FMCG with Tax Relief
Bhumika Lenka news
Budget Boosts Consumer Spending and FMCG with Tax Relief

By: Vikram Agarwal, Managing Director, Cornitos

“The budget strategically focuses on strengthening the consumer spending and purchasing power. The proposed increase in income tax exemption slab will boost investments and consumption, which will have a positive impact on the FMCG and retail sectors. In addition, considering the growing awareness of healthier food options and the increase in the demand for nutritious food, the government’s initiative towards improving the accessibility and affordability of these essential food items in itself is a remarkable move. These significant steps along with the investments in rural infrastructure and health sectors will accelerate the overall growth of the economy.”

Budget 2025: Retrospective Amendment Overturns ITC Ruling for Real Estate : Vimal Nadar, Head of Research at Colliers India
Rutuparna Rath business
Budget 2025: Retrospective Amendment Overturns ITC Ruling for Real Estate : Vimal Nadar, Head of Research at Colliers India

Vimal Nadar, Head of Research at Colliers India

There was an ongoing dispute between commercial real estate companies and the GST authorities with respect to claiming input tax credit (ITC) on construction costs including cement, steel, etc. This emerged from the ambiguity around the definition of plant and machinery as per CGST Act. Interestingly, the Supreme Court ruled in favour of the real estate companies making them eligible to claim ITC, in the latter part of 2024. However, the Government continued to contest this decree and had clearly indicated that they will ensure relevant amendment to override the ruling.

Budget 2025 has brought in this expected revision into effect by reviewing the definition of plant & machinery thereby disallowing commercial real estate companies who are into construction of buildings for rental purposes retrospectively. The extent of impact due to this amendment will depend upon the following factors:

  • If these companies have been claiming input tax credit since 2017 and remained under dispute.
  • If these companies calculated their tax liability without considering ITC until the court order in 2024 and then began considering ITC in their calculation.
  • This change brings in clarity in the interpretation of ‘plant and machinery’ and the covenants related to claiming of ITC.
Southern Cross University Launches Access25 for Indian Students
Bhumika Lenka education
Southern Cross University Launches Access25 for Indian Students

February 4, 2025: Southern Cross University (SCU) is proud to announce the Access25 initiative, which will make international education more accessible for students in 2025. The initiative sets tuition fees for international students at an affordable $25,000 per year, ensuring students receive the best value for their investment while pursuing high-quality education. The university aims to build a diverse and vibrant student community by offering competitive, accessible pricing without compromising academic excellence.

The Southern Cross Delegation led by Prof Mary Spongberg, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor is currently in India to meet their key academic and research counterparts. They will be engaging with colleagues from IIBT Bombay, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, India, and Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences on sustainability and partnerships in this space between universities. Professor Jon Wardle and Associate Professor Christina Aggar will host discussions on fostering sustainability partnerships, and Professor Aggar will also visit the Asha Community Health and Development Society to further explore healthcare collaboration opportunities.

Speaking about the visit, Prof Mary said, “Southern Cross University has always had a strong presence in the Indian market, and we wish to maintain and expand that presence, through collaborations in research and with industry and community. Any vision we have for our presence in the Indian market must be underpinned by genuine partnership, impactful research collaboration, co-designed projects and curricula and shared experiences with students. I believe that working together, forming international teams, and sharing postgraduate students, builds trust, friendships and co-operation.”

With the ever-changing landscape for visas, Australian universities have also faced some challenges. Prof Mary, emphasized that the university continues to thrive despite these obstacles and said, “While the visa situation has been challenging for many universities, it has not negatively impacted SCU. We are open for business and remain confident that our region, with its well-established Indian communities in the Northern Rivers and Coffs Harbour, offers a supportive and welcoming environment for Indian students.”

In the past few years SCU has been broadening their research across the sciences and engineering, in nursing and education. Currently SCU has several projects in India, and researchers who frequently work with Indian colleagues and communities. Over the last six years SCU researchers have published around 5000 articles with researchers from Indian institutions -including the National Botanical Institute, the Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Science, the Indian Council of Medical Research, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, the Public Health Foundation of India, the Universities of Calcutta, Delhi and IIHMR Jaipur. These articles represent research across all the disciplines and are evidence of SCU’s longstanding engagement and collaboration with Indian partners.

BASF Secures Spotlight on Farmers with ‘Wah Re Kisan’ Campaign
Neel Achary business
BASF Secures Spotlight on Farmers with ‘Wah Re Kisan’ Campaign

Mumbai, India February 04th, 2025:  BASF launched its ‘Wah re Kisan’ campaign (Hindi for “Salute to farmers”). The campaign is part of the Biggest Job On Earth campaign and seeks to advocate for India’s farmers by highlighting five farmers who are making a difference to their communities and to India’s agricultural landscape. BASF appointed Mr. […]

The post BASF Secures Spotlight on Farmers with ‘Wah Re Kisan’ Campaign first appeared on Business News Week.

Borzo Secures Logistics Efficiency with Innovative ‘End-of-Day’ Delivery Service
Neel Achary business
Borzo Secures Logistics Efficiency with Innovative ‘End-of-Day’ Delivery Service

Mumbai, 04th February 2025: Addressing the growing demand for flexible and economical logistics solutions, Borzo (formerly known as WeFast) a global intracity delivery service has introduced a flexible and convenient “End-of-Day” delivery. This new feature is designed for people and businesses that prioritize convenience over urgency, guaranteeing delivery by the end of business hours, providing […]

The post Borzo Secures Logistics Efficiency with Innovative ‘End-of-Day’ Delivery Service first appeared on Business News Week.

2.Oh! Secures Haircare Excellence with Its Latest Leave-In Conditioner
Neel Achary business
2.Oh! Secures Haircare Excellence with Its Latest Leave-In Conditioner

If someone told you that all you have to do for a perfect hair day is to massage in a dollop of a leave-in magic potion into your strands after a wash and tick off shine, nourishment, hydration, and protection — all in one go, chances are you would not believe it! 2.Oh!, a science-first […]

The post 2.Oh! Secures Haircare Excellence with Its Latest Leave-In Conditioner first appeared on Business News Week.