Flipkart Likely to Be a Historic IPO; IPO Likely in 2025, Aims for $70 Billion Valuation

Walmart-backed Flipkart is reportedly preparing for a massive initial public offering (IPO) in India as early as next year, targeting a valuation between $60 billion and $70 billion. If successful, the listing would become the largest ever by a consumer technology company in Indian stock market history.

The Bengaluru-headquartered e-commerce major is undertaking strategic steps to facilitate this listing, including relocating its holding company from Singapore to India—a move commonly referred to as “reverse flipping”.

Redomiciling to India: A Strategic Move

Flipkart’s board has already approved the decision to shift its holding company to India, and the redomiciling process is expected to be completed within the next 12 to 15 months. The move is intended to smooth the path for a domestic listing, aligning the company’s corporate structure with its operational reality—most of its assets, employees, and customer base are already rooted in India.

An executive close to the development highlighted that investors, including Walmart, will also transition to the Indian entity during this shift, further consolidating Flipkart’s base in its home market.

Read More: When Can Investors Expect Flipkart IPO?

Legal and Market Perspectives on the Relocation

According to a report, being domiciled in India may help Flipkart sidestep regulatory challenges that foreign-held entities typically face when listing on Indian bourses. It also creates a more transparent and locally governed corporate structure, which could be viewed positively by retail and institutional investors alike.

Aligning with SEBI’s Pro-India Tech Outlook

Flipkart’s relocation also comes at a time when India’s market regulator SEBI has shown an increasingly favourable stance towards homegrown tech companies going public. By positioning itself as an Indian success story, Flipkart may not only appeal to domestic investors but also benefit from regulatory goodwill.

The proximity to regulators, domestic capital markets, and Indian retail investors is expected to play a crucial role in supporting its high valuation target.

E-Commerce Giants Battle for Market Share

Flipkart is currently engaged in a fierce battle with other major players in the Indian e-commerce space, including Amazon, Reliance’s JioMart, and the Tata Group. According to a Ficci-Deloitte report, India’s e-commerce market is projected to grow to $325 billion by 2030, fuelled by a 21 per cent compound annual growth rate (CAGR).

A successful IPO could give Flipkart the firepower to further consolidate its market position amidst this high-growth landscape.

Reverse Flipping Gains Momentum Among Indian Startups

Flipkart is not alone in its redomiciling efforts. A growing number of Indian-origin startups that had previously shifted their base abroad are now returning to Indian soil in a trend dubbed “reverse flipping”. This trend is expected to gather further momentum as domestic capital markets mature and regulatory conditions improve.

More than 20 startups are preparing for IPOs in 2025, including notable names like Bluestone, Zepto, Boat, and others. 

Conclusion

Flipkart’s redomiciling marks a significant milestone in its IPO journey and reflects broader trends in India’s startup and tech ecosystem. If the listing goes ahead as planned in 2025, it could redefine benchmarks for consumer tech IPOs in the country and potentially set the tone for other high-growth Indian companies to follow suit.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Shein-Reliance Rethinks Partnership Amid US-China Trade Friction

As per the Economic Times report, rising trade tensions between China and the United States are rippling through global supply chains, and one of the latest partnerships to feel the heat is that between Shein and Reliance Retail. The fast fashion giant is renegotiating its sourcing partnership with Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd (RRVL), a development that reflects the changing geopolitical dynamics shaping business decisions.

Reliance Retail is a part of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL). It is the retail business wing of Reliance Industries. 

The Trump-era tariff hike of 145% on Chinese goods, still in effect, has pushed Chinese authorities to reinforce domestic manufacturing and restrict outward production migration. This policy shift directly challenges Shein’s original plans to position India as a major manufacturing base.

Shein’s India Vision Faces Headwinds

Shein re-entered the Indian market in 2024 after being banned in 2020 amidst India’s crackdown on Chinese-origin apps. This return came through a strategic partnership with Reliance Retail, allowing Shein to launch a standalone app hosted on Indian servers, with a strong focus on local data storage and compliance.

Beyond retail presence, the agreement envisioned transforming India into a global export hub for Shein’s products. A core part of this ambition was the mobilisation of over 25,000 Indian MSMEs in the apparel manufacturing space, with Shein pledging access to technology and resources. However, the recent turn of events suggests that these plans may be scaled down significantly.

Read More: Shein Returns to India: Now Available on Reliance’s New App

Beijing’s Manufacturing Retention Strategy

In response to US tariffs, China has implemented countermeasures, including a 125% tariff on US imports, while also tightening its control over domestic industries. These developments reflect Beijing’s broader aim to protect its status as the world’s manufacturing powerhouse.

While the US has extended a 90-day suspension on some tariffs, such as the 26% duty on Indian goods, the relief has not been applied to Chinese products. In this tense environment, Beijing remains cautious about losing production influence to other countries, particularly India, which was emerging as a strong contender in Shein’s diversification strategy.

Shein’s Profitability Challenges and IPO Pressure

Shein’s supply chain issues come at a time when the company is navigating a turbulent business landscape. Its net profit dropped by nearly 40 per cent to $1 billion in 2024, despite revenue growing 19 per cent to $38 billion. The valuation, once a staggering $100 billion in 2022, fell to $66 billion in 2023. Now, reports suggest Shein might settle for a valuation as low as $30 billion ahead of its much-anticipated IPO.

After shelving its New York listing due to political opposition, Shein has secured approval from the London Stock Exchange. This move marks a crucial step forward, though it also raises questions about how the company will position itself in a more geopolitically cautious investment climate.

India’s Fast Fashion Potential Remains Strong

Despite current uncertainties, India continues to present a significant opportunity for fast fashion brands. According to Redseer Strategy Consultants, the Indian fast fashion market is projected to expand fivefold—from $10 billion in FY24 to $50 billion by FY31. For Shein, which now operates from Singapore but still leans heavily on Chinese production, India was expected to be a key strategic node in its global footprint.

Other Chinese brands like Oppo, Vivo, and Realme, although firmly embedded in the Indian market, have retained their primary production bases in China. Shein’s initial intent to break that mould by shifting production to India now appears less feasible in light of mounting diplomatic pressures and trade complexities.

Conclusion

The Shein-Reliance partnership, once seen as a template for global collaboration in a post-China manufacturing world, is now being re-evaluated. As diplomatic frictions between superpowers reshape the trade landscape, companies like Shein are being forced to recalibrate their expansion blueprints, underscoring the tightrope multinationals must walk in a highly politicised economic environment.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Block Deal: Vodafone Idea Sees ₹823 Crore Equity Change Hands, Share Price Slides 4.6%

On Friday, April 25, shares of Vodafone Idea Ltd. opened with gains following a large trade executed at the opening bell. Despite the promising start, the sentiment turned negative as the session progressed, with the stock falling by 4.6% by 1:44 PM.

Block Deal Details: ₹823 Crore Worth of Shares Traded

According to exchange data, a block deal involving 103 crore shares—or 1.44% of Vodafone Idea’s outstanding equity—took place in 10 transactions. The shares changed hands at an average price of ₹7.98, translating to a total deal value of approximately ₹823 crore. The identities of the buyer and seller involved in the transaction have not yet been disclosed.

Government Holding Rises After Spectrum Dues Conversion

In a significant move earlier this year, Vodafone Idea converted spectrum dues worth over ₹36,000 crore into equity. This action increased the Government of India’s stake in the telecom company to 48.99%, making it the largest shareholder in the struggling operator.

Read More: Vodafone Idea Share Price in Focus as Telco Seeks DoT Nod for Equity Swap

Declining Subscriber Base Raises Concerns

Despite attempts at stabilisation, the company continues to face challenges. As per data released by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), Vodafone Idea lost 13.4 lakh users in January 2025, adding to its ongoing subscriber attrition.

Retail and Mutual Fund Participation Grows

Interestingly, retail investor interest in Vodafone Idea remains strong. At the end of the March quarter, 59.06 lakh retail shareholders—defined as those with authorised capital investments of up to ₹2 lakh—held equity in the firm.

Domestic mutual funds also showed increased confidence, with 32 schemes collectively owning a 4.5% stake as of March, up from 28 funds holding 3.6% in December 2024.

Conclusion 

The market’s initial optimism, possibly driven by expectations around the block deal. The stock’s dip after early gains underscores ongoing investor caution amid a sell-off in the markets. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Hindalco Delivers 10,000 Aluminium Battery Enclosures to Mahindra from Chakan EV Facility

Hindalco Industries Ltd., the metals flagship of the Aditya Birla Group, has taken a significant step into the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem by delivering 10,000 aluminium battery enclosures for Mahindra’s next-generation electric SUVs – the BE 6 and XUV 9e. This milestone coincides with the unveiling of Hindalco’s advanced EV component manufacturing plant in Chakan, Maharashtra, a key automotive hub in India.

The share price of Hindalco Industries was down by 1.17% as of 12:36 PM. 

A Strategic ₹500-Crore Investment in Chakan

The Chakan facility represents Hindalco’s strategic entry into EV component manufacturing. With a capital investment of ₹500 crore, the plant spans 5 acres and currently has an annual production capacity of 80,000 battery enclosures. Plans are underway to double this capacity to 160,000 units. As of now, over 3,000 Mahindra EVs equipped with these enclosures are already on Indian roads.

Designed for Performance and Sustainability

The battery enclosures developed in collaboration with Mahindra offer up to 40% weight reduction compared to conventional steel designs. This translates to an estimated 8–10% improvement in driving range. Additionally, the aluminium used is low-carbon, aligning with global sustainability benchmarks. These enclosures also offer better crash resistance and thermal management, addressing key safety and performance criteria in EV design.

Empowering Women in Manufacturing

One of the notable aspects of the Chakan facility is its commitment to inclusivity. Nearly all machine operators at the plant are women, highlighting Hindalco’s efforts to break gender barriers in the manufacturing sector. The plant is expected to generate up to 1,000 jobs, contributing to both economic development and social inclusion.

Scaling Beyond Mahindra: Targeting Global OEMs

While the current partnership is with Mahindra, Hindalco aims to expand its offerings to other Indian and international automotive manufacturers (OEMs). Future product lines are likely to include structural and crash-relevant aluminium components for both EVs and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Supporting India’s EV Vision and ‘Make in India’ Drive

This development underscores a broader shift in India’s EV landscape towards localisation and import substitution. By establishing indigenous high-performance aluminium component manufacturing, Hindalco is positioning itself at the centre of India’s clean mobility transition. The move also dovetails with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, further strengthening the domestic EV value chain.

Conclusion

Hindalco, a $26 billion global metals major, continues to expand its footprint across the aluminium and copper value chain. The company has been ranked the world’s most sustainable aluminium company by the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for 5 consecutive years. This latest move into EV components reinforces its long-term focus on sustainable, innovative solutions.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Paras Defence to Announce Stock Split, Dividend and Results on April 30; Watch Out!

Paras Defence & Space Technologies Limited (PDSTL) is a leading Indian company engaged in designing, developing, and manufacturing specialised products and solutions for the defence and space sectors. Its expertise spans three domains—optics, heavy engineering, and electronics.

The company operates two state-of-the-art manufacturing units located in Ambernath (Thane) and Nerul (Navi Mumbai). Its clientele includes prestigious government organisations such as ISRO’s Laboratory for Electro Optics Systems (LEOS), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), and Instruments Research and Development Establishment (IRDE), a DRDO unit. It also supplies to private players like FFS Industries and SEC Industries.

Key Board Meeting Scheduled on April 30

The Board of Directors of Paras Defence is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, to deliberate on significant corporate matters. The agenda includes:

Audited Financial Results

Approval of the Standalone and Consolidated Audited Financial Results for the quarter and financial year ended March 31, 2025.

Stock Split Consideration

A proposal to sub-divide (split) the existing equity shares of the company will be reviewed, in accordance with Section 61 of the Companies Act, 2013. This move, if approved, could enhance share liquidity and affordability.

Read More: Stock Split: Types, Advantages and Disadvantages

First-Ever Dividend

The board will also consider and recommend a dividend on equity shares for FY25. This would be the first dividend announcement in the company’s history, marking a noteworthy milestone in its financial journey.

Share Price Reaction

Ahead of this crucial board meeting, Paras Defence’s share price was down 3.61% as of 10:48 AM on April 25, 2025. However, on a broader timeline, the stock has gained 8% in April so far. 

Conclusion 

While no decisions have yet been confirmed, the outcomes from the board meeting could have implications for the company’s future direction:

  • The FY25 results will be closely analysed to gauge performance across its defence and space verticals.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Air India in Talks to Acquire 10 Boeing 737 MAX Jets Rejected by China

In the midst of ongoing trade hostilities between the world’s 2 largest economies, the United States and China, Boeing has encountered a fresh setback. Several Chinese customers have declined to accept delivery of 737 MAX aircraft, citing steep tariffs that have made imports increasingly unviable. With duties exceeding 100% imposed by both nations, Boeing is now looking to redirect these undelivered jets to alternative buyers.

Air India Steps Into the Picture

According to sources cited by Reuters, TATA Group-backed Air India is exploring the possibility of acquiring around 10 of these 737 MAX aircraft. While discussions are said to be in early stages, one person familiar with the matter noted that, should the deal go through, these jets could be added to Air India’s fleet by the end of the year.

This move could align well with the airline’s broader growth strategy, particularly as it faces constraints due to delays in the delivery of new aircraft from both Boeing and Airbus.

Not the First Time: A History with White Tail Jets

The concept of acquiring “white tail” aircraft—jets originally built for one customer but sold to another—is not new to the Tata Group-owned airline. Air India Express, its low-cost arm, has previously accepted such aircraft into its fleet. This practice allows airlines to bypass long delivery queues and quickly expand their operational capacity.

Read More: India Mulls 10% Cap on Chinese Equity in Electronics JVs

Configuration Differences May Influence Pricing

One potential challenge lies in the configuration of the aircraft. Since the jets were initially designed to meet Chinese carrier requirements, some modifications may be needed to align with Air India’s fleet standards. Sources suggest that these differences could play a significant role in the pricing negotiations, as any required retrofitting or cabin redesign would come at a cost.

Conclusion

Air India has been vocal about the setbacks caused by global aircraft delivery delays. Last month, CEO Campbell Wilson described the airline as a “victim of circumstance”, pointing to bottlenecks faced by manufacturers. Acquiring these ready-to-fly jets could offer a timely and much-needed boost to the airline’s fleet modernisation and expansion plans.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Titagarh Share Price in Focus as ₹24,000 Crore Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Production Line Inaugurated

In a major development for the Indian rail manufacturing ecosystem, Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), in collaboration with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), has inaugurated a dedicated production line for the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains at its cutting-edge Uttarpara facility in Kolkata.

The launch took place in the presence of senior leadership, including Mr Umesh Chowdhary, Vice Chairman & Managing Director of TRSL, and Ms Bani Varma, Director at BHEL, underscoring the public-private synergy at play.

The new production line at Uttarpara for Vande Bharat Sleeper trains marks a bold leap under Aatmanirbhar Bharat, even as the stock dips 2.90%.

₹24,000 Crore Contract Backed by 35-Year Maintenance Commitment

The production line stems from a significant Indian Railways contract to the TRSL-BHEL consortium for 80 Vande Bharat Sleeper train sets, alongside a 35-year maintenance agreement. The total project value stands at a robust ₹24,000 crore, making it a flagship initiative under the Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat programmes.

India’s First Indigenous Sleeper High-Speed Train

The sleeper version of Vande Bharat introduces a new chapter in India’s intercity mobility. Key highlights of this indigenous marvel include:

  • Semi high-speed travel for long-distance routes

  • Fully Indian design with cutting-edge safety

  • Smart onboard systems and modern interiors

  • Energy-efficient and passenger-friendly operations

The prototype is expected to roll out in the next calendar year, signifying the dawn of a new travel experience in Indian Railways.

Read More: Why Railway Stocks Are Rising High?

World-Class Manufacturing: Aluminium & Steel Coaches Under One Roof

The Uttarpara facility is now among India’s most advanced rail coach factories, equipped with Industry 4.0 technology and robotic assembly lines. It is currently the only site in the country producing both stainless steel and aluminium coaches under one roof.

Its annual capacity of 300 coaches is being expanded to 850 coaches per year, in response to growing demand from Indian Railways.

Statement from Titagarh’s Leadership

Mr. Umesh Chowdhary, Vice Chairman & Managing Director of Titagarh Rail Systems, said, “This is a proud moment for the Titagarh Rail Systems- BHEL teams. The Vande Bharat Sleeper project is a shining example of what can be achieved when the public and private sectors come together with a shared vision, and strive towards a truly Aatmanirbhar Bharat. This production line reflects our commitment to building future-ready mobility solutions and contributing meaningfully to the vision of a more connected and self-reliant India.” 

About Titagarh Rail Systems Limited

TRSL is a diversified mobility solutions provider with a strong presence in India and Italy. It manufactures:

  • Semi high-speed trains

  • Metro coaches

  • Freight wagons (including specialised designs)

  • Passenger coaches and propulsion systems

Conclusion

The company continues to play a central role in the modernisation of India’s transport infrastructure, contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Big Relief for EPFO Members: Auto Withdrawal Limit May Increase to ₹5 Lakh; Know Tax on Withdrawal

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to introduce a significant reform that could dramatically improve access to provident fund savings for its members. According to a Moneycontrol report, the Central Board of Trustees (CBT) is expected to approve the proposal to raise the auto-settlement limit for advance claims (ASAC) from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh in its upcoming meeting.

This move is aimed at further reducing dependence on manual verification processes, enabling swifter access to funds, especially in cases of emergencies or immediate personal financial needs.

Read More: EPFO 3.0 Set to Launch by May-June: Will It Ease Withdrawal Challenges? 

From ₹50,000 to ₹5 Lakh: The Evolution of Auto-Settlement

In May 2024, the EPFO had already raised the ASAC limit from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh. This led to a noticeable impact on member experience, as auto-settled claims more than doubled, from approximately 9 million in FY24 to about 20 million in FY25.

Building on this momentum, the proposed hike to ₹5 lakh signals a broader push towards digital automation and ease-of-living reforms under the EPFO’s administrative goals.

No More Waiting: Faster Access to Provident Fund

Currently, any EPFO withdrawal request above ₹1 lakh requires manual verification. This often involves physical visits to EPFO offices and longer processing times, especially in urgent cases such as medical emergencies, education fees, or home repairs.

With the proposed auto-settlement limit increase to ₹5 lakh, such claims could soon be processed instantly and electronically, eliminating the cumbersome approval process and offering timely relief to members.

UPI and ATM Withdrawals on the Horizon

Apart from enhancing the ASAC limit, the CBT is also expected to consider the implementation of new withdrawal mechanisms, including UPI and ATM-based access to EPFO funds. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has reportedly developed the framework that would support such seamless digital transactions.

If approved, this would represent a major leap in aligning the EPFO with India’s growing digital payments ecosystem, making provident fund management far more accessible for the average member.

How are EPF Withdrawals Taxed?

EPF withdrawals are taxed depending on how long you have worked and the reason for the withdrawal. The tax rules vary depending on whether the withdrawal is made before or after 5 years of continuous service, and whether it is due to reasons beyond your control. Here’s a simple breakdown of when tax is applicable and when it isn’t:

  • Withdrawal below ₹50,000 before 5 years of service

    • No TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) is applied.

    • However, if you fall under the taxable income bracket, you must declare this amount in your income tax return.

  1. Withdrawal above ₹50,000 before 5 years of service

    • TDS at 10% is applicable if you provide your PAN.

    • No TDS will be deducted if you submit Form 15G or 15H (subject to eligibility).

  2. Withdrawal after completing 5 years of continuous service

    • No TDS is deducted.

    • The amount is fully exempt from tax, so you don’t need to declare it in your tax return.

  3. Transferring EPF from one job to another

    • No TDS is applicable.

    • This is not treated as a withdrawal, so it’s not taxable and need not be reported in your income tax return.

  4. Withdrawal before 5 years, but due to specific reasons

    • If your employment ends due to ill health, business closure, or any reason beyond your control, there is no TDS.

    • The withdrawal is not taxable, and you are not required to report it in your tax return.

Conclusion 

These upcoming changes underscore a clear shift towards a more member-centric and technology-driven approach by the EPFO. For millions of salaried Indians, especially those in urgent need of funds, the increased auto-settlement limit could offer quicker and more convenient access to their hard-earned savings.

While official approval is awaited, the intent and direction of these policy enhancements reflect a broader commitment to digitisation, transparency, and efficiency within the social security framework.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Marriott Hotel Operator Prestige Hospitality Files DRHP; ₹1,000-Crore Stake Sale by Prestige Estates on Cards

Prestige Hospitality Ventures Ltd., a subsidiary of Prestige Estates Projects Ltd., has filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with the market regulator for a proposed initial public offering (IPO) of up to ₹2,700 crore. This Bengaluru-based company, known for its association with premium hospitality brands, aims to use the public issue to restructure its finances and expand operations.

The proposed IPO will comprise a fresh issue of equity shares worth ₹1,700 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of ₹1,000 crore by its parent company, Prestige Estates. Additionally, the company may consider a pre-IPO placement of up to ₹340 crore before filing the red herring prospectus with the Registrar of Companies.

Breakdown of IPO Utilisation

From the fresh issue proceeds, Prestige Hospitality intends to allocate approximately ₹1,120 crore towards the repayment and prepayment of certain outstanding borrowings. These borrowings are currently held by the company and its subsidiaries—Sai Chakra Hotels Pvt. Ltd. and Northland Holding Co. The remainder of the funds raised will be directed towards inorganic growth initiatives and general corporate purposes.

The proceeds from the OFS will be transferred directly to Prestige Estates Projects Ltd., which holds a 100% stake in the hospitality arm at the time of DRHP filing.

Read More: Upcoming IPO 2025 | IPO Watch List – Mainline and SME.

A Key Player in India’s Premium Hospitality Sector

Prestige Hospitality Ventures is positioned as an asset owner and developer of hospitality properties across the luxury, upscale, and upper midscale segments. The company has entered into strategic operating arrangements with internationally renowned hospitality chains, most notably Marriott International.

Its operating portfolio features brands such as St. Regis, JW Marriott, and Sheraton. The company also has partnerships with Hilton Worldwide’s Conrad and Banyan Group’s Angsana Resorts. These associations underline Prestige Hospitality’s focus on managing high-end assets in India’s growing hotel market.

Portfolio Snapshot: Present and Future Developments

As of December 2024, Prestige Hospitality’s portfolio consisted of 7 operational assets totalling 1,445 keys, all located in Bengaluru. The company also has three ongoing developments that are expected to add 951 rooms, with projects located in both Bengaluru and Delhi.

Looking ahead, the company has announced nine upcoming hospitality projects that are projected to contribute an additional 1,558 keys to its overall inventory, reflecting its continued emphasis on expansion and strategic growth in prime urban centres.

Conclusion

The filing of the DRHP and the forthcoming IPO mark a significant financial event for both Prestige Hospitality Ventures and Prestige Estates Projects. While the former seeks capital to manage liabilities and scale operations, the latter is looking to partially monetise its investment in the hospitality arm.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

NRI Deposits See Strong 23% Growth Till February FY25: RBI

Non-resident Indian (NRI) deposit inflows witnessed a significant rise of 23% during the first eleven months of FY25, according to the latest data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). From April 2024 to February 2025, NRIs parked ₹1,24,388 crore (US$ 14.55 billion) in Indian deposit accounts, compared to ₹1,00,878 crore (US$ 11.8 billion) during the same period a year ago.

At the end of February 2025, the total outstanding NRI deposits stood at ₹13,70,661 crore (US$ 160.33 billion). However, on a month-on-month basis, the figure slightly declined from ₹13,78,184 crore (US$ 161.21 billion) in January 2025, reflecting a dip of ₹7,463.28 crore (US$ 873 million).

FCNR (B) Deposits Lead the Inflows

Among the three key deposit types—Foreign Currency Non-Resident (FCNR-B), Non-Resident External (NRE), and Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO)—FCNR (B) deposits recorded the highest inflows in this period. Between April 2024 and February 2025, these deposits received ₹57,706 crore (US$ 6.75 billion), up from ₹47,276 crore (US$ 5.53 billion) a year earlier.

The outstanding amount in FCNR (B) accounts reached ₹2,77,757 crore (US$ 32.49 billion) by the end of February. These accounts, denominated in freely convertible foreign currencies, offer NRIs a hedge against currency risk, as funds are insulated from rupee depreciation over the tenure of 1 to 5 years.

Read More: RBI Data: India’s Net FDI Drops to $1.5 Billion in Apr-Feb Due to Increased Outflows

NRE Deposits Also Witness Strong Uptick

NRE deposits also posted robust inflows, totalling ₹34,281 crore (US$ 4.01 billion) during the period under review. This was a notable jump from ₹22,484 crore (US$ 2.63 billion) recorded in the same period last year. The outstanding balance in NRE accounts stood at ₹8,37,204 crore (US$ 97.93 billion) by February-end.

NRE deposits allow NRIs to remit foreign earnings into Indian rupee accounts, with full repatriability and tax exemptions on both interest and principal.

NRO Deposits Maintain Steady Presence

While NRO deposits did not see a significant rise in inflows compared to FCNR and NRE accounts, the outstanding balance remained strong at ₹2,55,615 crore (US$ 29.9 billion) as of December 2024. These accounts typically serve NRIs with income generated within India, such as rent, dividends, or pension payments.

Conclusion 

The sharp uptick in NRI deposit inflows suggests renewed confidence among non-residents in India’s financial ecosystem, potentially driven by favourable interest rate differentials, a stable macroeconomic environment, and robust banking infrastructure.

While the RBI data does not elaborate on the reasons for the increase, market watchers believe foreign currency safety, tax benefits, and growing rupee stability could be influencing this renewed interest in India-based deposits.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.