People are craving comfort. Amid what can feel like a state of constant crisis – a layering of traumatic societal events – it can sometimes seem like we’ve lost a sense of scale and cohesion. In the face of this, the desire to retreat into nostalgia is more seductive than ever.

Once a signifier of luxury or novelty, custom products and services are now within reach of the everyday consumer, thanks to the rise of artificial intelligence, algorithm-led platforms, and the COVID-era digitisation boom. Today, everyone wants to be the main character of their brand experience.

In the turbulent economic environment, money is losing its value. Consumers are reevaluating their spending across sectors. With a looming crisis of trust in financial institutions, how are people managing their budgets? And how can brands navigate the complex relationship between value and cost?

Indian streetwear label Huemn has tapped seventh-generation perfumer Ola Originals to launch its debut fragrance, Pheromones. It’s speaking to people’s shifting attitudes toward sexual expression in a largely conservative culture by marrying sex positivity with an homage to Indian perfumery.

India’s culinary landscape is evolving from traditional dining to immersive experiences that engage all the senses, fueled by urbanisation and the spending power of experience-hungry youth. Diners there crave regional delicacies, micro-cuisine journeys, and interactive environments.

Despite inflation, Diwali e-commerce is booming as people look for convenience while shopping. Shoppers also prioritise community-driven discovery and brand trust, embracing tech innovations like VR and AR. How can brands leverage hyper-regional content and use tech to enhance intimacy?

Gen Zers are more cautious about spending than generations before them. Still, they will travel to the ends of the planet as long as there is a promise of a unique, customised, and memorable experience. If luxury brands can give up outdated notions, they may tap into a new loyal customer base.