Jio Financial, Zomato to join Nifty50 by March-end

190

In a significant development, Jio Financial Services and Zomato are set to join the Nifty50 index by March 28, 2025. This inclusion marks a milestone for these companies as they replace Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) and Britannia Industries. The decision is based on the six-month average free-float market capitalization, which shows that both Jio Financial and Zomato have outperformed the smallest constituents in the Nifty50 universe. The move is expected to bring substantial inflows, with Zomato likely to receive $702 million and Jio Financial around $404 million in passive investments. This change also affects the Nifty Next 50 index, where Swiggy, Zomato’s competitor, will make its debut. The reshuffle reflects the broader shift in Indian stock markets, favoring consumer internet and fintech firms.

1. Understanding the Business Models of Jio Financial and Zomato

1.1 Jio Financial Services

Jio Financial Services, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries, focuses on digital lending, insurance, and wealth management. Launched after its demerger from Reliance Industries in 2023, the company aims to revolutionize India’s fintech sector. It leverages Reliance’s extensive ecosystem, including Jio’s telecom network and retail businesses, to offer seamless financial products. Revenue Model: Jio Financial earns from digital lending fees, interest on loans, investment advisory charges, and insurance premiums. Funding and Background: Backed by Reliance, Jio Financial has attracted large institutional investors.

1.2 Zomato

Founded by Deepinder Goyal in 2008, Zomato started as a restaurant discovery platform and evolved into a dominant food delivery and restaurant aggregator. Revenue Model: Zomato earns from food delivery commissions, advertising, subscription plans like Zomato Gold, and hyperpure services for restaurant supply chains. Funding and Growth: The company was listed on the BSE Sensex in 2024, marking its rise as a tech unicorn.

2. Why Jio Financial and Zomato Are Entering Nifty50

2.1 Market Capitalization and Eligibility

The National Stock Exchange (NSE) selects companies for Nifty50 based on a structured framework. One key requirement is that the new entrant must have a six-month average free-float market capitalization of at least 1.5 times that of the smallest constituent.

• Zomato’s market cap: ₹1,69,837 crore
• Jio Financial’s market cap: ₹1,04,387 crore
• BPCL’s market cap: ₹60,928 crore
• Britannia’s market cap: ₹64,151 crore

Clearly, both Zomato and Jio Financial surpass the minimum threshold, making them eligible for inclusion.

2.2 Impact on Stock Market and Investors

With their inclusion, Nifty50 is likely to witness an increase in trading activity. Passive funds and ETFs tracking Nifty50 will have to rebalance their portfolios, which could lead to higher stock demand and price movements.

• Zomato could attract $702 million in passive inflows.
• Jio Financial could receive $404 million in passive investments.

This reshuffle also reflects the increasing influence of new-age tech and fintech companies in the Indian economy.

3. Historical Context and Industry Trends

3.1 Zomato’s Journey in Indian Markets

Zomato has consistently expanded its offerings beyond food delivery, acquiring Blinkit for quick commerce and venturing into restaurant supplies. It was the first new-age tech company to enter BSE Sensex in 2024.

3.2 Jio Financial’s Emergence as a Fintech Powerhouse

Jio Financial was demerged from Reliance Industries in 2023, with a strong push into digital lending and payment solutions. It has positioned itself as a competitor to Bajaj Finance, Paytm, and other NBFCs in India.

3.3 Shift Towards Tech and Consumer Internet Stocks

India’s stock market is seeing a shift, where consumer tech and fintech companies are gaining prominence. Swiggy’s entry into the Nifty Next 50 and Paytm’s transition to the Nifty Midcap 50 highlight this trend.

4. Future Implications for Startups and Market Trends

• More digital-first companies may enter Nifty50 in the future.
• Passive funds and ETFs will continue influencing stock price movements.
• Startups looking for IPOs can take cues from Zomato and Jio Financial’s market performance.
• Traditional sectors like oil and FMCG may see reduced weightage in indices over time.

5. Learning for Startups and Entrepreneurs

1. Scale Matters: A company’s market cap determines its index inclusion.
2. Diversification is Key: Zomato expanded into quick commerce and restaurant supplies to drive revenue.
3. Strategic Backing Helps: Jio Financial benefits from Reliance’s ecosystem and funding.
4. Tech-Driven Growth Wins: New-age digital businesses are gaining traction in Indian stock markets.
5. Index Inclusion Boosts Investor Confidence: Entry into Nifty50 increases stock credibility and institutional interest.

6. About The Startups News

When it comes to startup ecosystem growth, latest funding news, and industry insights, The Startups News is a go-to platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts. We provide real-time updates on venture capital trends, IPO developments, and emerging business opportunities. Whether you are looking for funding announcements, business expansion tips, or startup policy updates, we ensure you stay ahead in the competitive startup landscape. Follow us for the latest on Nifty50 and beyond!