Analysis, guides and explainers on India's unlisted market — from IPO pipelines to ESOP liquidity.
<p>Waaree Energies Ltd, a significant player in India's solar PV module manufacturing industry, stands out with an impressive installed production capacity of 12 GW as of June 30, 2023. Recently, the company achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the coveted Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification for its advanced glass-to-backsheet TOPCon modules, featuring an impressive power rating of up to 625 Wp.</p> <p>This notable certification, falling under the "Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules (Si wafer based)" category, reaffirms Waaree Energies' steadfast commitment to maintaining stringent quality standards and delivering solar solutions renowned for their reliability and integration of the latest technological advancements.</p> <p>The acquisition of the BIS certification not only underscores the company's unwavering pursuit of excellence but also solidifies its position as a distinguished competitor in the fiercely competitive global renewable energy sector. It enhances the credibility of Waaree Energies' products, establishing the company as a trusted leader in both domestic and international solar markets.</p>
<p>The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has unveiled an exciting collaboration with the Government of Goa to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with insights into leveraging the Initial Public Offering (IPO) mechanism on its renowned platform.</p> <p>This strategic partnership between NSE and the Goa government is poised to revolutionize the landscape for MSMEs by providing them with invaluable resources and guidance. Through a series of meticulously planned initiatives, including seminars, workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions, NSE, in tandem with the Goa government, aims to equip corporates across the state with the requisite knowledge and tools to navigate the fundraising landscape on the NSE Emerge platform seamlessly.</p> <p>Mauvin Godinho, the Minister of Transport, Industries, Panchayat, Protocol, Government of Goa, underscored the significance of MSMEs embracing the opportunity to list on the NSE Emerge platform. He emphasized how this move would not only open up an additional avenue for capital raising but also enhance the credibility and visibility of these enterprises on a national scale.</p> <p>Sriram Krishnan, the Chief Business Development Officer of NSE, reiterated the platform's commitment to fostering efficient capital raising and bolstering visibility for MSMEs through the avenue of stock exchange listing. This strategic collaboration exemplifies NSE's dedication to empowering businesses and fostering a conducive ecosystem for growth and innovation.</p> <p>As of now, the NSE Emerge platform proudly hosts 428 companies representing various sectors. Collectively, these companies have successfully raised over Rs 9,050 crore, reflecting the platform's robust support for entrepreneurship and capital formation. The impressive total market capitalization of approximately Rs 1.25 trillion underscores the significant value and potential inherent in the NSE Emerge platform for MSMEs nationwide.</p> <p>In conclusion, the partnership between NSE and the Goa government heralds a new era of opportunity and growth for MSMEs, paving the way for enhanced access to capital markets and greater visibility on a national scale. Through collaborative efforts and strategic initiatives, NSE remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and driving economic prosperity across the nation.</p>
<p>Kirin Holdings, a prominent Japanese beverage conglomerate, has announced its intention to invest Rs 205 crore to acquire an additional minority stake in B9 Beverages, the company behind the popular craft beer brand Bira 91 and the owner of Beer Cafe, a chain of pubs. This investment, facilitated through the purchase of fresh shares, will increase Kirin Holdings' ownership stake in B9 Beverages.</p> <p>Simultaneously, an American investor is poised to inject $25 million into B9 Beverages, augmenting the total fresh investments to $50 million, valuing the company at $600 million before the influx of funds.</p> <p>The allocated capital will be utilized by B9 Beverages to bolster its brewery infrastructure, expand its global retail footprint, and enhance the presence of Bira 91's Taproom pubs, as outlined in reports.</p> <p>India's beer market has demonstrated significant growth, reaching Rs. 41,407 crore in 2023, with projections indicating sales could soar to Rs. 78,120 crore by 2032. B9 Beverages recorded a revenue of Rs. 824 crore for the fiscal year ending March 2023, marking a 14.6 percent upsurge from the previous fiscal year. Since its inception in 2015, B9 Beverages has been offering a variety of craft, lager, and strong beers under brands like Bira White, Gold, and Boom. Operating in 24 countries with six breweries, B9 Beverages has attracted investments from notable entities such as Sequoia Capital and Belgium’s Sofina.</p> <p>In the past 15 months, Kirin Holdings and Japan’s MUFG Bank have collectively injected $80 million into B9 Beverages. In December 2023, reports surfaced indicating B9 Beverages' intentions to raise Rs 400 crore in fresh funding from existing and new investors.</p> <p>B9 Beverages made strategic acquisitions, including the takeover of Beer Cafe chain in October 2022 through an all-stock deal, establishing it as a wholly-owned subsidiary, and the acquisition of brewery company Kamakhya Beer & Bottling in a share-swap deal. These acquisitions underscore B9 Beverages' commitment to expanding its market presence and enhancing its product portfolio.</p> <p>Kirin Holdings' investment in B9 Beverages underscores global interest in India's expanding beer market. B9 Beverages, known for its craft beer brand Bira 91, aligns with consumer preferences for premium and diverse offerings. The investment will fuel B9 Beverages' expansion plans, including brewery infrastructure, distribution, and Bira 91's Taproom pubs, enhancing brand loyalty. Strategic acquisitions like the Beer Cafe chain and Kamakhya Beer & Bottling strengthen B9 Beverages' market presence and product range. This reflects optimism in India's beer industry growth, emphasizing partnerships and investments as key drivers of its evolution.</p>
<p>The Cochin International Airport Ltd, celebrated for its solar-powered operations, partners with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) to establish a Green Hydrogen plant on-site, marking a significant stride towards sustainable aviation. This collaboration emphasizes their commitment to environmental responsibility and aims to pioneer renewable energy adoption in aviation with the world's first Green Hydrogen facility at an airport. Green hydrogen, derived from water using renewable energy, aligns seamlessly with CIAL and BPCL's vision of a zero-carbon future for aviation.</p> <p>CIAL's leadership in renewable energy, boasting a 50 MW installed capacity, showcases its dedication to sustainability. This partnership with BPCL further cements CIAL's position as a leader in green aviation initiatives. Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), BPCL will lead the establishment of the Green Hydrogen plant and fueling station, leveraging their expertise to ensure its success. This collaboration highlights both entities' commitment to environmental stewardship and technological progress, driving towards a future of zero-carbon aviation.</p> <p>Mr. S. Suhas, Managing Director of CIAL, emphasizes the collaboration's role in advancing sustainable aviation and reducing carbon emissions through innovation. Similarly, Mr. G. Krishnakumar, Chairman & Managing Director of BPCL, reaffirms the company's dedication to innovation and sustainability. By pioneering the world's first Green Hydrogen plant at an airport, CIAL and BPCL set a significant milestone for the aviation industry, inspiring others to follow suit. This initiative not only demonstrates technological innovation but also highlights the impact of collaboration in fostering positive change towards a greener aviation future.</p>
<p>Le Travenues Technology, the parent entity behind ixigo, is gearing up for its IPO with impressive financial figures, reporting a notable surge in profits. Within the first nine months of the financial year 2024, the company recorded a substantial profit of INR 65.7 Cr, marking a significant increase from the INR 23.3 Cr profit posted for the entire FY23. Notably, the company had previously incurred a loss of INR 21 Cr in FY22.</p> <p>During the initial nine months of FY24, the Delhi NCR-based startup witnessed robust operating revenue, amounting to INR 491 Cr. This follows a successful FY23, where ixigo's sales totaled INR 501.2 Cr, reflecting an impressive 32% growth from the INR 379.5 Cr reported in FY22.</p> <p>As a key player in the travel aggregation sector, ixigo primarily generates revenue through various travel and related services. This includes earning income from convenience fees associated with the reservation of rail, airline, and bus tickets, as well as revenue from advertising services.<br />Ixigo's expenditure for the first nine months of FY24 totaled INR 475.4 Cr, a slight decrease compared to the entirety of FY23, where the startup's expenditure amounted to INR 484.2 Cr. Ixigo's advertising expenses witnessed an increase, with the company allocating INR 117.7 Cr for advertising in the initial nine months of FY24, up from the INR 93.1 Cr spent in FY23.</p> <p>Founded in 2007 by Aloke Bajpai and Rajnish Kumar, ixigo has carved a niche for itself by aggregating and comparing real-time travel information, prices, and availability across flights, trains, buses, cabs, hotels, packages, and destinations.</p> <p>In a recent development, ixigo has refiled its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with SEBI, signaling its intent to go public. The IPO will include a fresh issue of INR 120 Cr and an offer for sale component of 6.66 Cr equity shares.</p> <p>Shareholders, including SAIF Partners India (now Elevation Capital), Peak XV Partners, Micromax Informatics, and cofounders Aloke Bajpai and Rajnish Kumar, will divest their shares in the IPO.</p> <p>While the company had previously filed a DRHP for an INR 1,600 Cr IPO in 2021, the plans were deferred due to adverse market conditions characterized by volatility and a funding slowdown, impacting capital availability and affecting new-age tech stocks.</p>
<p>Le Travenues Technology Limited, parent Company of Ixigo, has filed its DRHP to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for an initial public offering (IPO).</p> <p><br />The submission, filed on February 14, outlines Ixigo's ambition to raise ₹120 Crore through a combination of fresh share issuance and an offer for sale (OFS) of upto 66,677,674 equity shares. Axis Capital, DAM Capital Advisors, and JM Financial have been entrusted as the lead merchant bankers for the offering, accentuating the significance and potential of the endeavor.</p> <p>Ixigo's decision to revisit its IPO plans follows a prior attempt in August 2021, which was deferred due to adverse macroeconomic conditions. The resurgence of these plans underscores the company's confidence in its growth trajectory and the enduring potential of India's travel market.</p> <p> <strong>Business Model </strong></p> <p>Established in 2007 by Aloke Bajpai and Rajnish Kumar, Ixigo has cemented its position as a frontrunner in AI-driven travel aggregation. Through innovative technology solutions, the platform streamlines the travel booking process for Indian consumers, facilitating seamless planning, booking, and management across diverse transportation and accommodation options.</p> <p> <strong>Objective of IPO </strong></p> <p>The primary objective behind the IPO is to secure funds vital for Ixigo's growth agenda. The earmarked allocation includes ₹45 Crore for bolstering working capital, ₹25.8 Crore for fortifying cloud infrastructure and technology, and the remainder for strategic acquisitions, initiatives, and general corporate endeavors. This allocation underscores Ixigo's strategic focus on enhancing its technological prowess and expanding its market footprint.</p> <p> <strong>Shareholding Pattern</strong> </p> <p>Ixigo's shareholding structure reflects a diverse consortium of stakeholders, with prominent entities like SAIF Partners India IV, Peak XV, and Micromax Informatics holding substantial interests. SAIF Partners leads the pack with a commanding 23.40% stake, followed closely by Peak XV with 15.68%. Co-founders Aloke Bajpai and Rajnish Kumar collectively retain a 16.67% ownership stake, reaffirming their steadfast commitment to Ixigo's prosperity.</p> <p> <strong>Financials </strong></p> <p>Le Travenues Technology's financial performance serves as a testament to the company's robust growth trajectory and potential. In FY23, the firm reported a consolidated net profit of ₹23.4 Crore, marking a notable turnaround from previous losses. Revenue surged to ₹501.25 Crore, underscoring the resilience and profitability of Ixigo's business model. Moreover, the company recorded a net profit of ₹65.7 Crore for the nine-month period ending December FY24, further underscoring its momentum and resilience in a dynamic market landscape.</p>
<p>Reports indicate that Oyo Hotel & Homes, founded by Ritesh Agarwal, is currently in the process of withdrawing its initial public offering (IPO) draft application from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi). </p> <p>Sources cited in The Economic Times suggest that discussions regarding the withdrawal of the application have been ongoing, with stakeholders being informed, and the action is believed to be imminent. However, Oyo is reportedly planning to raise fresh capital from private market investors within the next six to eight months.</p> <p>Despite these reports, Oyo has denied the claims, stating that the information is inaccurate and has not been officially confirmed.</p> <p>Following the return of Oyo's first public offer filing by Sebi in January 2023, the company was required to revise and update the draft red herring prospectus (DRHP). Sebi asked for updates to various sections of the DRHP, including risk factors, key performance indicators (KPIs), outstanding litigations, and basis for valuation. Subsequently, Oyo made a confidential pre-filing with Sebi for a smaller-sized IPO, with potential plans for a listing closer to Diwali last year.</p> <p>It's noteworthy that Founder Ritesh Agarwal holds a 33 percent stake in the company, while Japanese multinational investment holding company SoftBank owns 46 percent.</p>
<p>n a regulatory showdown, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has dealt a significant blow to the National Stock Exchange (NSE) by rejecting its settlement application concerning alleged irregularities in its co-location (colo) facility. This development marks another chapter in the protracted saga of the co-location controversy, highlighting the persistent legal battles and regulatory scrutiny engulfing India's premier stock exchange.</p> <p>The roots of the dispute trace back to 2015 when a whistleblower's letter prompted Sebi to probe allegations of unfair access granted to select high-frequency traders and brokers within NSE's co-location infrastructure. Subsequent investigations unveiled a web of suspicions surrounding preferential treatment, particularly concerning OPG Securities, a Delhi-based brokerage.</p> <p>The recent rejection of NSE's settlement plea by Sebi underscores the gravity of the accusations and the regulator's unwavering stance on accountability. Despite the exchange's efforts to resolve the matter through the consent mechanism, Sebi's decision signals a determination to pursue disciplinary action, potentially culminating in a regulatory order.</p> <p>Central to the controversy is the allegation of collusion between NSE officials and OPG Securities, implicating the exchange's integrity and regulatory compliance. The question of connivance hangs in the balance, with Sebi asserting the presence of sufficient evidence to establish a nexus, while the exchange contends the absence of conclusive proof.</p> <p>The legal battle has witnessed twists and turns, with the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) playing a pivotal role in adjudicating disputed orders. While SAT set aside Sebi's disgorgement order of Rs 625 crore against NSE in January 2023, it allowed further inquiry into allegations of collusion with OPG Securities, setting the stage for continued legal wrangling.</p> <p>In December 2023, SAT's ruling quashing Sebi's penalties against NSE and former executives in the 'dark fibre' case provided a glimmer of hope for the embattled exchange. However, pending litigations, including governance issues and conflicts of interest, loom large, presenting hurdles to NSE's much-anticipated initial public offering (IPO).</p>
<p>Oyo, spearheaded by Ritesh Agarwal, has announced its expansion into the sports hospitality sector, marking a strategic departure from its traditional focus on hospitality and travel. With a deliberate aim to cater to the diverse needs of large-scale sports gatherings, the company has meticulously selected 100 hotels across 12 key cities, including Delhi, Chennai, and Bangalore, to offer bespoke hospitality solutions. This initiative seeks to provide athletes and officials participating in various sports competitions with comprehensive accommodation options.</p> <p>Distinguishing itself through a steadfast commitment to serving a wide clientele, Oyo's sports hospitality initiative ensures a spectrum of lodging choices, ranging from economical to luxurious accommodations. To effectively address the specific requirements of sports teams and large groups, the company is poised to introduce specialized packages and streamline group booking processes.</p> <p>Building upon its proven track record, Oyo has already demonstrated its capabilities by successfully providing services to over 10 major sports events in 2023, including prestigious tournaments like the Khelo India Youth Games and the 36th National Games.</p> <p>Highlighting its commitment to inclusivity, Oyo has announced plans to provide specialized services for differently-abled athletes, forging partnerships with events such as the Khelo India Para Games and the Sardar Patel National Divyang Cricket Tournament to ensure comprehensive support for all participants.</p> <p>Pankaj Kumar, Oyo's Head of Government and Sports Hospitality Business, articulates the company's objective of fostering an environment conducive to athletes' focus on training and competition.</p> <p>In addition to lodging provisions, Oyo aims to collaborate with external partners to offer a diverse range of dining options tailored to the nutritional needs and preferences of athletes and attendees. Moreover, the company is committed to extending transportation services within its campuses and establishing control rooms at event locations to ensure seamless operations and provide round-the-clock emergency support.</p>
<p>OYO, the renowned hospitality and travel technology giant, has embarked on a strategic journey aimed at expediting its Initial Public Offering (IPO) approval process. Recently, senior executives of the company engaged in discussions with representatives of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), highlighting OYO's remarkable strides in both financial performance and debt management.</p> <p>Reports from credible sources such as The Economic Times and Bloomberg shed light on OYO's proactive approach, revealing that company officials briefed SEBI on pivotal developments, including a significant partial prepayment of $200 million towards its outstanding Term Loan B (TLB). This proactive measure, coupled with OYO's unwavering commitment to promptly address SEBI's inquiries, underscores the company's steadfast determination to surmount regulatory challenges and position itself favorably in the capital markets.</p> <p>Founder and CEO Ritesh Agarwal shared promising financial updates during a recent town hall, revealing that OYO achieved a noteworthy net profit of approximately ₹30 crore in the third quarter of FY24, marking a substantial upswing from the preceding quarter. Agarwal attributed this positive trajectory to bolstered patron confidence, enhanced customer experience initiatives, and diligent cost optimization measures, resulting in a commendable 15% reduction in operating costs compared to the same period last year.</p> <p>OYO's proactive stance on debt reduction has garnered commendation from esteemed global credit rating agencies such as Moody's and Fitch, who lauded the company's decision to repurchase its outstanding debt as a prudent move. Notably, OYO had previously prepaid a substantial ₹1,620 crore of debt through a meticulous buyback process, showcasing its proactive debt management strategy.</p> <p>Looking ahead, OYO remains bullish on its prospects, with Agarwal projecting a sustained uptick in Profit After Tax (PAT) in the forthcoming quarters. The company sets its sights on achieving an adjusted EBITDA of ₹1,000 crore in FY24, surpassing initial projections of ₹800 crore. Moody's upward revision of OYO's adjusted EBITDA estimate underscores confidence in the company's robust financial outlook.</p> <p>Beyond financial milestones, OYO's ambitious expansion endeavors have attracted considerable investor interest. Reports hint at discussions with Malaysian sovereign wealth fund Khazanah Nasional Berhad, potentially leading a $400 million funding round. Supported by Softbank Group Corp, OYO seeks to bolster its expansion efforts and expedite debt reduction initiatives, with Avendus Capital Pvt. steering the fundraising endeavors.</p> <p>As OYO charts its course through regulatory channels and fortifies its financial standing, the company remains poised for sustained growth and market expansion within the dynamic hospitality and travel technology sector. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and prudent financial stewardship, OYO is primed to seize emerging opportunities and deliver enduring value to its stakeholders in the foreseeable future.</p>
<p>In a recent town hall meeting, OYO's Founder & CEO, Ritesh Agarwal, shared positive updates regarding the company's financial performance. He revealed that OYO achieved a twofold sequential growth in Profit After Tax (PAT) to ₹30 crore in Q3 FY24, indicating a promising trend for future profitability. Agarwal attributed this growth to various factors, including increased patron confidence, improved customer experience, and favorable market conditions conducive to sustained expansion.</p> <p>Agarwal also highlighted OYO's strong financial achievements, such as reaching an adjusted EBITDA of ₹750 crore in FY23. He further announced the company's ambitious target to surpass ₹1,000 crore in adjusted EBITDA for FY24, surpassing the earlier projection of ₹800 crore. Additionally, OYO successfully prepaid ₹1,620 crore in debt through a buyback process, signaling its commitment to financial stability and prudent management of its obligations.</p> <p>Moreover, Agarwal emphasized OYO's operational profitability in FY23, underscoring the company's ability to generate sustainable earnings. He also mentioned strategic initiatives aimed at optimizing operating costs, reflecting OYO's focus on efficiency and profitability enhancement. Furthermore, Agarwal highlighted the company's efforts to expand its hotel network, with a notable 27% increase in the number of hotels on its platform over the past year.</p> <p>Overall, Agarwal's updates during the town hall meeting paint a picture of OYO as a resilient and growth-oriented company, with a clear strategy for achieving continued success in the hospitality and travel-tech industry.</p>
<p>The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has released its financial results for Q3FY24 and the nine months ended December 2023. In Q3FY24, NSE recorded a net consolidated profit of Rs.1,975 crore, marking an 8% year-on-year increase. The total consolidated operating revenue also saw a significant rise of 25% year-on-year, reaching Rs.3,517 crore.</p> <p>Total expenses for the period amounted to Rs.1,369 crores, marking a substantial year-on-year increase of 98% compared to Rs.693 crores in the previous year. Cash expenses constituted the majority, totaling Rs.1,256 crores, showing a significant rise from Rs.599 crores in the previous year. This surge in expenses was primarily attributed to additional contributions to the core SGF as desired by SEBI, amounting to Rs.556 crores, along with regulatory fees amounting to Rs.127 crores.</p> <p>The operating EBITDA, excluding the additional contribution to the core SGF as desired by SEBI, stood at 80%, totaling Rs.2,817 crores, compared to 79% at Rs.2,225 crores in the previous year. However, with the additional contribution, the operating EBITDA decreased to 64%, amounting to Rs.2,261 crores.</p> <p>Other notable financial metrics include a share of profit from associates amounting to Rs.30 crores, profit on the sale of investments totaling Rs.81 crores, and an effect of discontinued operations of Rs.(37) crores. Despite the increase in expenses, the profit after tax for the period stood at 51%, totaling Rs.1,975 crores, compared to 59% at Rs.1,826 crores in the previous year. Additionally, the earnings per share were reported at Rs.39.90.</p> <p><strong>NSE Unlisted Shares 9MFY24 Consolidated Results </strong></p> <p>The total revenue for the period amounted to Rs.11,272 crores, showing a notable year-on-year increase of 25% compared to Rs.8,992 crores in the previous year.</p> <p>Operating revenue reached Rs.10,155 crores, marking a 21% year-on-year increase from Rs.8,403 crores in the previous year. Operating revenue accounted for 90% of the total revenue.<br />Total expenses surged to Rs.3,645 crores, reflecting a substantial year-on-year increase of 101% compared to Rs.1,815 crores in the previous year. Among these expenses, cash expenses stood at Rs.3,322 crores, compared to Rs.1,533 crores in the previous year.</p> <p>The significant increase in total expenses was primarily attributed to additional contributions to the Core SGF as desired by SEBI, amounting to Rs.1,167 crores, along with regulatory fees totaling Rs.367 crores.</p> <p>Operating EBITDA, excluding the additional contribution to the Core SGF as desired by SEBI, stood at 79%, totaling Rs.8,001 crores, compared to 82% at Rs.6,870 crores in the previous year. However, including the additional contribution, the operating EBITDA decreased to 67%, amounting to Rs.6,834 crores.</p> <p>Other notable financial metrics include a share of profit from associates amounting to Rs.78 crores, profit on the sale of investments totaling Rs.81 crores, and an effect of discontinued operations of Rs.(88) crores. Despite the increase in expenses, the profit after tax for the period stood at 52%, totaling Rs.5,818 crores, compared to 59% at Rs.5,289 crores in the previous year. Additionally, the earnings per share were reported at Rs.117.54.</p>
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