When celebrated entrepreneurs like Dilip Piramal make a shocking choice to sell their decades-long legacy, what does that narrative reveal for Indian-run family businesses?

For the most part, it spotlights the hidden challenges of automatically assuming the family throne. While traditionally, Indian family founders have had the outdated view that their kids would one day take over the business, modern times now suggest otherwise, arguing that resorting to the next generation is a risky move. That’s why for one expert, he believes in the power of intentional succession planning to sustain the business instead.

“Succession is not inheritance; it’s a strategic choice that shapes the future of an enterprise. Preserving legacy isn’t about keeping a surname at the helm—it’s about choosing leaders best equipped to drive progress. Competence over convention is the only way to ensure resilience in the face of generational change,” Ankit Shrivasta said, Founder & Managing Partner of Enventure, a U.S.–India private equity firm supporting founder-led businesses in generational planning.

Piramal is the chairman of the renowned luggage company, VIP Industries, but recently announced his decision to sell 32% stake to private investors completely separate from the family tree. Leaving a reputable brand behind, Piramal’s instance is a common trend too often seen amongst everyday Indian families.

Yet, Piramal’s instance in mind, what is the obsession with presumed jobs in typical Indian households?

For a long time, Indian family culture has involved high parental expectations, where kids were raised on the idea that a well-rounded education is nonnegotiable and perfectionism is the only way to a stable life. As part of the Asian values, the younger generation has been required to fulfill familial responsibilities with a strong discipline at the forefront.

That same concept is most prominent in families who own businesses, given there is an unspoken rule that kids born into the company should be the next natural successor to lead the way. In taking ownership, the kids will inevitably succeed in life and thus, meet the longtime parental beliefs.

But as expert Shrivastava explains, kids are no longer prepared nor willing to take reign, and it is time to shift to a more purposeful business mindset. With a thoughtful succession plan, business owners will ultimately find long-term stability without compromising their vision or identity.

On the other hand, there are negative implications when owners only look from within.

“When the next generation lacks interest or preparation, defaulting to tradition can lead to stalled growth, governance gaps, and lost market value,” Shrivastava explained.

Furthermore, the desire to pursue untraditional careers is growing amongst the Indian community. Famous actors like Priyanka Chopra and Karan Brar are real-time examples, who both exemplify that success can be achieved through the arts or other fields, rather than through conventional industries like medicine, or in this case—the entrepreneurial sector. As a result, ambition is no longer limited to corporate life nor family ties.

And in the case of Piramal, he highlights too well what happens when a family entity is dependent on the next in line. As a father himself, he was suddenly forced into a bold decision after his daughters expressed reluctance in taking the torch.

The hard truth of it is, legacy is not defined by blood, and Indian family dynamics are quickly becoming a harmful mentality for business owners. Even in the strongest dynasties, a downfall soon awaits if there is no proper succession plan in place.

For all those Indian family business founders, how will you take your business to the next step? Are you in the majority expecting your kid to take ownership? Do you have a succession plan inclusive of all potential successors? These are the important questions that will determine what the future of your dream ultimately holds.

Photo: Ben Rossett

A new capability within ChatGPT is quietly entering the market. It’s called ChatGPT Agent, and it’s here to stay. But fret not—here is everything you need to know about it, and what you can expect in this new wave of technology.

Have you ever wanted someone else to book your appointments for you? Or handle creating your work presentation from start to finish? How about someone to code your company’s website? If so, that is where OpenAI’s latest ChatGPT Agent comes in—a new AI feature launched earlier this July. Designed to act as a personal assistant, this latest invention is intended to not just assist and respond to text, but complete far more complex, human-dependent tasks.

“This isn't just another chatbot. It's an AI that takes real actions. It can book flights with your credit card. It can read your confidential files and make decisions without asking permission,” CEO of Iterate.ai, Jon Nordmark explained.

The one-of-a-kind agent is regarded as a convenient resource that takes artificial intelligence to an entire new level. While its counterpart ChatGPT provides solely text-based interactions, the agent model goes far beyond this skillset by performing tasks autonomously. With its ability to leverage the web and analyze personal data, ChatGPT Agent can handle multi-step projects based on the elaborate requests initially handed to them.

While both innovative and forward-looking for the AI industry, experts urgently warn about the broader implications ChatGPT Agent will pose for businesses and individuals consuming the new system. 

Like Nordmarks argues, a link to deeply private information is one factor that will become everyone’s risk.

“This may sound extreme, but if your calendar shows a 3PM break, your location pings near a Starbucks, and your expense log shows a $4.25 charge, the agent puts it together. When agents get access to calendars, messages, receipts, apps, and location history, they don’t see you sipping—they infer it with startling precision,” he advised.

Regardless, for businesses that heavily depend on AI to ease workflow, the agent could be the next biggest advantage for garnering operational success. Features like its detailed research skills, analytical mindset, and access into files make it undeniably hard to not partake.

Still, the concerns are heavy, and as businesses proceed, adopting the agent must come with utmost caution.

“As leaders, we need to think twice before encouraging employees to use memory-hoarding agents—ones that act without human judgment—inside shared-cloud environments,” Nordmark added.

Much more than the privacy uncertainties, questions around the agent’s accuracy are also circling many. Given the tool can take on concrete actions on behalf of its user, results can likely lead to irreversible consequences, such as accidental deleting of important files, overpurchasing items, or emailing the wrong person.

At the same time, folks who actively use the agent are vulnerable to manipulation. For instance, malicious actors could disrupt the system with an unintended prompt, making it easy for the agent to work against the user’s request.

Looking ahead, the widespread demand for large language models like ChatGPT Agent is only rising. And in a world where autonomy is soon to be challenged and authentic effort starts to diminish, overall society can expect a number of losses far beyond the obvious, such as a weakened job market and a lack of human dignity.

If the goal is to alleviate work for people, perhaps ChatGPT Agent is the answer. But if the goal is to advance business with sincerity, maybe the solution lies in a shift in mindset, where labor begins with responsible action and trustful collaboration.

To put it simply, ChatGPT Agent has rightful and meaningful intentions. But as the newest capability begins to roll out, businesses and its partners must remain vigilant during a time when modern technology is at a harmful rate. 

The time to choose is now. Will you follow it or opt for integrity?

Photo: Zac Wolff

Daily movement helps dogs stay strong, healthy, and full of energy. If dogs don’t move enough, they may feel bored, sad, or gain weight. Exercise improves their mood, health, and overall daily behavior. This article explains how exercise helps and how dog daycare and dog boarding support this. Simple daily steps can lead to a longer, healthier life for your dog.

1. Stronger Bodies Start with Simple Daily Walks

Regular walks help keep your dog’s body in good working shape. Exercise builds strong muscles and keeps joints moving smoothly. It also supports heart health and keeps the lungs working well. Dogs that stay active are less likely to face long-term illness. Daily activity also helps the stomach and system stay balanced. Dog daycare is a smart way to help your dog stay fit.

2. A Calm Mind Needs Daily Fun and Movement
Mental health in dogs is just as important as physical strength. Without movement, dogs may feel nervous, bored, or full of extra energy. They might bark too much, bite things, or behave badly at home. Exercise helps release that energy and makes the mind feel calm. Dog daycare gives playful games and new tasks that support good behavior. Fresh sights and smells also help improve your dog’s mental well-being.

3. Benefits of Using Daycare for Daily Dog Activity
Dog daycare gives a safe space where dogs can move and play. It breaks boredom and fills the day with positive activities. Trained staff lead games that improve both health and behavior. Dogs also learn to mix with others and develop better habits. Each day includes walks, games, and relaxing in a peaceful space. Dog daycare is a great choice to keep your dog active daily.

4. Why Dog Boarding Is Useful When Owners Travel
Dog boarding helps keep your dog active when you're not at home. They get meals, rest, play, and exercise in a caring setting. These centers offer walks, games, and chances to meet other dogs. Boarding routines give comfort and reduce stress while you’re away. A set schedule helps your dog feel calm and stay healthy. Dog boarding keeps your dog safe, social, and active during travel.

5. Great Exercises for Dogs of All Types and Ages
All dogs need regular movement, whether they’re young or older. Walking, running, and playing fetch are safe and fun for many. Puzzle toys can also keep both brain and body working well. Short training sessions improve focus and teach better control. Dog daycare includes activities matched to your dog’s breed and age. Dog boarding follows a plan that fits each dog’s special needs.

6. When a Dog May Need More Daily Exercise
If your dog acts too excited, it may need more movement. Other signs include chewing things, barking a lot, or walking around often. Some dogs sleep too much when they feel bored or low-energy. A healthy dog plays, listens well, and rests calmly after activity. Dog daycare staff notice changes and guide your dog in the right way. Dog boarding teams also watch for behavior changes and share daily updates.

7. Making a Steady Routine for Your Dog’s Best Life
Give your dog a daily plan with food, walks, and playtime. Try to spend at least 30 minutes each day on movement. Dog daycare can follow this schedule while adding safe group play. Dog boarding staff continues your dog’s routine when you’re away. These places help keep your dog well-trained, happy, and balanced. Doing the same things daily builds healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Conclusion
Daily exercise keeps your dog healthy, happy, and full of life. It also builds strong habits and improves the bond with your dog. Dog daycare and dog boarding help keep dogs active and well-behaved. They give safe spaces with trained staff, walks, and social fun. A strong routine and movement each day lead to a better life. Start today and give your dog the energy, care, and joy it needs.