Info Edge (India), the parent company of Naukri.com, has secured board approval to invest up to INR 1,000 crore in IE Venture Investment Fund III. This move aligns with the company’s long-term financial strategy, focused on external investments with scalable potential. The contribution, either directly or through subsidiaries, awaits approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and the company’s shareholders.
IE Venture Investment Fund III is an upcoming scheme under Karkardooma Trust, a SEBI-registered Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF). The fund is designed to support tech-driven startups in India, reinforcing Info Edge’s investment model, which blends direct corporate investments with structured venture funding.
Partnership with Temasek and Fund Size
Info Edge’s venture funds operate in collaboration with Temasek, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund. Both firms have previously committed equal capital, indicating that the new fund may exceed INR 2,000 crore. This marks Info Edge’s third AIF, strengthening its early-stage investment portfolio.
Investment Strategy and Portfolio
the company has deployed over INR 2,000 crore across 120+ Indian startups. Its venture funds allocate 40%–50% for initial startup investments, with the remainder reserved for follow-on funding.
Key investments include:
- Zomato: An early stake was acquired for INR 4.7 crore. Subsequent investments led to an 18.6% holding at its 2021 IPO, generating over INR 3,000 crore in returns.
- Policybazaar, ShopKirana, Gramophone, DotPe, Adda247, NoBroker, Univariety: These startups have received backing from Info Edge’s venture funds.
Despite setbacks such as write-offs in 4B Networks and ShopKirana, Info Edge remains committed to venture capital.
Financial Performance and Stock Impact
For Q3 FY25, Info Edge posted a 141% YoY rise in consolidated net profit to INR 288.41 crore. Revenue grew 15% YoY to INR 722.39 crore, driven by:
- 99acres (real estate): 17.6% growth, benefiting from a real estate recovery.
- Shiksha (education services): 15.8% growth, fueled by higher student engagement.
- Jeevansathi (matrimonial services): Stabilization after previous declines.
Naukri.com, the company’s core business, saw a slower 6.9% YoY growth, highlighting Info Edge’s diversification beyond recruitment. The company also announced a 1:5 stock split.
Future Plans
Info Edge follows a structured AIF cycle, launching a new fund every 3–4 years. The latest fund will support early-stage startups, reinforcing its role in India’s digital economy. With a strong track record in venture investments, the company continues to expand its footprint in the startup ecosystem.
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