According to Bloomberg, a total of 184 firms have taken the plunge into the world of public trading in the South Asian nation, setting a new record. This impressive tally surpasses the annual IPO counts of any previous year. The icing on the cake is that this momentum is showing no signs of slowing down. In October alone, 30 companies commenced trading in India, leaving global financial hubs like the US, China, and Hong Kong trailing in their wake.
Bullish Markets: India’s Unstoppable Rise
India’s equity markets have been riding high on a wave of unprecedented success. The SENSEX, the benchmark index of the Bombay Stock Exchange, reached historical peaks earlier this year, defying expectations despite the backdrop of the highest interest rates since 2018. What’s more, India’s economy has been flourishing, and corporate earnings have been on an upward trajectory.
This stellar performance has made India an attractive destination for investors worldwide. It’s no coincidence that India’s IPO fever has been stoked by the cooling of investor sentiment in China, thanks to its slowing economic growth. Many investors have been recalibrating their compasses towards India, eagerly seeking new opportunities in this dynamic market.
Clouds on the Horizon: Political Uncertainties and Economic Challenges
While India’s IPO scene paints a rosy picture, there are cautionary voices amid the chorus of cheers. Analysts, including those at Jefferies and DBS, have raised concerns about the looming political risks. The upcoming elections in India are casting a shadow of uncertainty, potentially influencing market dynamics. As politics and markets often dance a delicate waltz, political stability is a key factor that investors closely monitor.
In addition to political challenges, India’s IPO euphoria encountered a reality check when some leading companies reported disappointing earnings. This triggered a market selloff, compounded by external factors such as concerns over the Israel-Hamas conflict and the possibility of prolonged high-interest rates in the US. These headwinds created a challenging environment for riskier assets, including Indian equities.
Beyond the Numbers: Proceeds vs. Popularity
Despite the record-breaking number of IPOs in India, it’s important to note that the total proceeds from these listings have dropped by 15% year-on-year, totalling $4.9 billion. This reveals an interesting paradox – while there’s a surge in the number of companies going public, the capital raised through these IPOs doesn’t mirror this growth.
Furthermore, some high-profile IPOs from the previous year, such as Life Insurance Corporation of India (LICI) and the delivery startup Delhivery Ltd. (DELHIVER), have disappointed investors. LICI and Delhivery have seen their share prices decline by 36% and 17%, respectively. These instances serve as stark reminders that in the world of IPOs, success is never guaranteed, and investors should tread cautiously.
Mixed Prospects: Gazing into the IPO Crystal Ball
The outlook for new IPOs in India is a mixed bag. While there’s undoubtedly a strong appetite for fresh offerings, exemplified by Cello World Ltd.’s IPO, which was nearly 39 times oversubscribed, some companies are opting for a cautious approach. Honasa Consumer Ltd., the owner of personal-care brands, recently downsized its IPO, signalling a prudent stance.
Upcoming Major IPO
Tata Technologies plans to launch its IPO in late November 2023, offering 95,708,984 shares. The Grey Market Premium (GMP) stands at approximately Rs 250 per share, hinting at a promising market debut. Tata Motors will divest a 10% stake in Tata Technologies. This IPO is highly anticipated, focusing on electric vehicles, and marks Tata Group’s first IPO since Tata Consultancy Services’ listing in 2004, with the launch date pending confirmation, following SEBI’s approval.
Check: Upcoming IPO in November
In conclusion, India’s IPO market is ablaze with activity, setting records and attracting global attention. However, it’s imperative to remain vigilant about potential political risks, external economic factors, and the actual proceeds from these offerings. The Indian IPO landscape is a dynamic and ever-evolving terrain, offering both opportunities and challenges for investors and companies alike.
