Levi Strauss & Co has appointed H&R Block president and CEO Jeffrey J Jones II to its board, effective January 21, 2026.
He will serve on the nominating, governance and corporate citizenship committee and the compensation and human capital committee.
Jones brings over 30 years of experience in consumer, retail and technology leadership, strengthening LS&Co’s DTC-focused strategy.

Silver prices hit record highs in India and globally, driven by rate-cut expectations, strong industrial demand, supply deficits and safe-haven flows, with the metal outperforming gold, topping crude oil prices and maintaining a bullish medium-term outlook amid broader macroeconomic shifts

Lucira is set to become a Rs 100 crore brand in three years. The digital-first company is now focusing on physical retail expansion. It plans to open 8 to 10 stores across major Indian cities by FY26. Offline sales currently drive 85 percent of its revenue. The brand has raised Rs 45 crore for growth.

Prices of vark, the edible silver leaf used to garnish mithai, have doubled this year to around Rs 1,400 for 150 sheets, forcing confectionery makers to drop the shimmer from bestsellers like kaju katli and turn to pistachio and saffron toppings. Its demand, meanwhile, has dropped 25-30% from Rakshabandhan through the just-ended wedding season.

CaratLane, backed by Titan, is set to expand its store network by at least 10 outlets by the end of fiscal year 2026. This strategic move aims to reach approximately 370 stores, prioritizing profitable growth.

Columbia Sportswear returns as official uniform sponsor for the US Curling National Team at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, blending technical performance with national pride.
New competition and village wear feature heritage-inspired designs, Omni-Heat Infinity insulation, and 250 stars marking America’s upcoming 250th independence anniversary, with replica jerseys available for fans.

Vera Bradley reported Q3 net revenues of $62.3 million, down from $70.5 million year over year.
Direct revenues fell 5.3 per cent, with comparable sales down 5.8 per cent, while indirect revenues dropped 30.2 per cent.
Gross margin declined to 42.1 per cent, impacted by inventory write-downs and higher duties, despite early progress from its Project Sunshine transformation.

Shapewear brand Underneat has raised USD 6 million in a funding round. It achieved Rs 150 crore in annual recurring revenue and is profitable within eight months of operations. Funds will expand operations and distribution. Fireside Ventures led the investment, recognizing Underneat’s strong market position. The brand’s success is attributed to accessible pricing and digital engagement, boosted by Kusha Kapila’s content.

Canadian outdoor lifestyle brand Roots has reported solid Q3 FY25 results, with sales rising 6.8 per cent to $71.5 million, driven by DTC growth and stronger wholesale demand.
Gross margin improved to 60.8 per cent, while Adjusted EBITDA increased 5.3 per cent to $7.5 million.
Net income stood at $2.3 million, and net debt declined 5.9 per cent, reflecting disciplined execution.

Gold prices have reached a record high of Rs 1,37,600 per 10 grams in New Delhi. This surge follows firm global cues and renewed safe-haven demand. International spot gold also saw a significant rise. Silver prices remained stable. Gold imports saw a dip in November after a substantial increase in October.