Closing off 2025...

As 2025 draws to a close, I'm reflecting on an incredible year.

Twenty-five years ago, I started in sales, never imagining the journey would take me from telecom to gaming, from establishing EA's first studio in India to working with brands like Nike, Microsoft, Warner Brothers and of course Bally's - across multiple continents. This year reminded me why I love this work: the relationships, the learning, and helping people solve real problems.

What 2025 Taught Me

The conversation around AI / ML and outsourcing shifted from "if" to "how fast can we move?" The smartest companies are building dedicated AI and ML capabilities in India—not for cost savings, but for survival and competitive advantage.

I've spent months on the ground in India, and the transformation is breathtaking. Teams that built basic websites five years ago now create AI and ML systems that Fortune 500 companies depend on. The talent, the hunger to innovate, the scale of what's possible—it's all there.

What Made Me Grateful

Working with companies across North America, helping them navigate India partnerships, connecting incredible talent with amazing opportunities—every successful partnership, every client who says "this changed everything for us"—that's what keeps me going.

I'm grateful for the clients who trusted me, the teams in India who continue to prove excellence knows no borders, and my family who puts up with constant travel and dinner table strategy sessions.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The companies that blend AI and ML capabilities with global talent will definitely lead the pack in the coming months and years. After setting up studios across gaming, creative services, animation, software development / data engineering and AI , I've seen what works. I'm excited to help more companies make that leap. But beyond business goals, I'm most excited about the connections yet to be made and the problems we'll solve together.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays to you and yours. Take time to be with the people who matter. Disconnect. Eat too much. Laugh with family and friends.

Here's to a prosperous, healthy, and incredible 2026. Let's make it count.

With gratitude,

Baldy Rakhra

www.Baldy.ca | www.AmaanAdvisors.com