Key Cities Driving GCC Launches and Real Estate Demand in India in 2025
Explore the latest Global Capability Centers (GCCs) launched in India, focusing on key cities like Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Gurugram. Learn how these centers are fueling commercial real estate demand and driving technological innovation.
GccsReal EstateIndiaTech TalentBusiness GrowthReal Estate NewsNov 20, 2025
1. Vanguard
Vanguard, one of the world’s largest investment management firms, opened its first GCC in Hyderabad on November 4, 2025. The company, known for its index and mutual funds, ETFs, and retirement services, manages assets in the $10+ trillion range. The Hyderabad center, located in temporary offices at Sattva Knowledge Park, aims to hire talent in AI, cloud, engineering, and data analytics. Vanguard’s decision to set up in Hyderabad is driven by the city’s robust tech ecosystem, infrastructure, and policy support.
2. Sonoco Products Company
Sonoco Products Company, a global packaging solutions firm, inaugurated its permanent GCC facility in Hyderabad on November 18, 2025. With a market cap of around $3.9-4 billion, Sonoco has already established an IT performance hub in the city earlier in the year. The GCC will focus on building digital, analytics, and automation capabilities, leveraging local tech talent to drive global digital transformation and operational efficiency.
3. Deepwatch
Deepwatch, a US-based cybersecurity firm, opened its first GCC in Bengaluru on November 19, 2025. The company specializes in managed detection and response (MDR) and security operations, with a growing focus on AI-driven cyber capabilities. The decision to locate in Bengaluru was driven by the city’s unmatched pool of AI, cloud, and cybersecurity engineering talent, which is not as readily available in the US.
4. The Standard
The Standard, a leading US financial services firm, launched its GCC in Bengaluru and Pune in October 2025. The company offers insurance, retirement, and investment products and services. While the exact market cap is not disclosed, The Standard aims to scale its tech and operations for global services, hiring engineering and product talent to support global technology transformation.
5. Carlsberg Group
Denmark-based brewery Carlsberg Group opened its first GCC in Gurugram in September 2025, followed by another center in Hyderabad the next day. With a market cap of $15-17 billion, Carlsberg’s GCC focuses on tech, managed services, and automation to support global operations. The company chose India to centralize IT and managed services, accelerate digital transformation, and execute a local investment and production growth strategy.
6. Rolls Royce
Luxury automobile and aerospace manufacturer Rolls Royce inaugurated its GCC in Bengaluru on September 17, 2025. The company plans to double its sourcing and has a presence of over 3,000 employees in India. Bengaluru, known as one of the world’s top three aerospace cities for attracting foreign investments, offers access to highly skilled engineers and a robust innovation ecosystem. Large and Medium Industries Minister MB Patil highlighted that this initiative has contributed to Bengaluru’s status as a global aerospace investment hub.
7. McDonald’s
McDonald’s, the global fast-food giant, inaugurated its first GCC in Hyderabad in October 2025. The center will focus on enhancing the company’s digital capabilities and operational efficiency. Hyderabad’s strong talent pool and supportive business environment were key factors in McDonald’s decision to set up the GCC in the city.
These GCC launches not only highlight the growing importance of India in the global business landscape but also underscore the role of key cities in driving commercial real estate demand and technological innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Global Capability Center (GCC)?
A Global Capability Center (GCC) is a strategic business unit set up by multinational corporations in a different country to leverage local talent, reduce costs, and enhance global operations. GCCs often focus on technology, research and development, and other critical business functions.
Which cities in India are seeing the most GCC launches?
Cities like Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Gurugram are seeing the most GCC launches due to their robust tech ecosystems, skilled talent pools, and supportive business environments.
What are the primary reasons companies set up GCCs in India?
The primary reasons include access to highly skilled and cost-effective talent, favorable government policies, and the ability to drive innovation and global operations from a strategic location.
How do GCCs impact the local real estate market?
GCCs significantly boost the local real estate market by increasing demand for office spaces, residential areas, and related infrastructure. This leads to economic growth and development in the region.
Which sectors are most likely to benefit from GCCs in India?
Sectors such as technology, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing are most likely to benefit from the establishment of GCCs in India, as these centers often focus on advanced technologies and operational efficiencies.
Related News Articles
Hyderabad Property Market Plummets: Housing Sales Drop by 49%
Hyderabad's real estate sector is facing a significant downturn, with housing sales plummeting by 49%. The city's property market is now in a more dire state than previously believed, raising concerns among developers and home buyers alike.
Raymond’s Strategic Expansion: Wadala Joint Development Agreement Boosts Real Estate Portfolio
Raymond Realty East Limited has signed a Joint Development Agreement for a prestigious residential project in Wadala, Mumbai, marking a significant step in the company’s real estate expansion.
Hyderabad CREDAI Leaders Appointed to Key National Real Estate Roles, Boosting City's Prestige
Hyderabad's real estate sector has gained significant national recognition with the appointment of key CREDAI leaders to influential positions. These appointments are expected to elevate the city's real estate market and attract more investment.