Info Edge, the parent company of Naukri.com, has been named India’s most successful venture investor. The company, led by Sanjeev Bikhchandani, has invested a total of Rs 3,959.16 crore across various platforms over the last 15 years, with a fair market value of several times that amount. Its investments in Zomato and Policybazaar, made between 2011 and 2015, are currently worth around Rs 53,000 crore.
Info Edge’s journey as a financial investor began in 2007, and it has gone through four distinct phases. The first phase, from 2007 to 2012, saw investments in Zomato and Policybazaar, which have been breakout successes. The second phase, from 2012 to 2015, was a period of caution, while the third phase, from 2016 to 2019, saw investments in companies like Adda247 and Shipsy.
The company has backed a total of 111 companies, including men’s grooming brand Ustra, B2B ecommerce platform Shopkirana, and travel tech platform ixigo. Its investments have yielded an estimated 36% gross IRR across all vintages. Info Edge’s success as a venture investor has cemented its reputation as a standout player in India’s startup ecosystem.
Bikhchandani, often referred to as India’s Warren Buffett, founded Info Edge in 1995. The company operates across various sectors, including recruitment, real estate, matrimony, and education. Its investments in Zomato and Policybazaar have been particularly successful, with the value of its shareholding in Zomato worth around Rs 38,350 crore and in Policybazaar worth Rs 15,133 crore.
Info Edge’s success as a venture investor can be attributed to its long-term approach and its ability to identify promising startups. The company has set up a venture capital fund, Info Edge Venture Fund, to invest in early-stage startups. Its investments have not only yielded significant returns but have also helped to establish India’s startup ecosystem as a major player in the global market.