Delivery Hero Finalizes Talabat IPO at Peak Price, Attracting Strong Investor Demand

Delivery Hero SE, the German food delivery giant, has set the final price for Talabat Holding plc's initial public offering (IPO) at the top of the range, indicating robust investor demand for the Middle East and North Africa's leading on-demand delivery platform. The final price of AED 1.60 (circa USD 0.44) per share reflects the strong appetite for Talabat's shares, with 20% of the company's equity, totaling 4.657 billion shares, being offered to investors.

The final IPO price of AED 1.60 per share was largely influenced by the guidance from advising banks. These banks, in consultation with Delivery Hero, determined the price range of AED 1.55 to AED 1.65, with the final price falling at the top of this range. This suggests that the advising banks' insights and recommendations played a significant role in the pricing decision, indicating a strong demand and positive outlook for Talabat's IPO.

Delivery Hero's strategic goal of retaining a long-term majority indirect ownership position in Talabat was a significant factor in setting the final IPO price at the top of the range. By offering 20% of Talabat's shares to investors, Delivery Hero aimed to generate gross proceeds of circa USD 2.0 billion without diluting its majority stake. This strategic move allowed Delivery Hero to capitalize on Talabat's growth potential while preserving its control over the company.

Talabat's IPO comes at a time of favorable economic conditions and geopolitical stability in the MENA region. The region's high urbanization, growing population, and rising online penetration in food and grocery segments have driven Talabat's growth, with over 6 million active customers, 65,000 active partners, and 119,000 active riders. Talabat's robust financial profile, with AED 19.8 billion GMV, AED 1.3 billion Adjusted EBITDA, and AED 1.3 billion Adjusted Free Cash Flow, further bolstered investor confidence.

The final IPO price of AED 1.60 per share raised gross proceeds of approximately AED 7.5 billion (circa USD 2.0 billion). This represents a 10% increase from the initial projected gross proceeds of around USD 1.8 billion. The strong investor demand for Talabat's shares indicates the company's attractiveness in the regional market and its potential for future growth.

The implied valuation of Talabat based on the final IPO price is around 5.7x EV/EBITDA, which is in line with its regional peers and the broader market. This valuation reflects investors' confidence in Talabat's growth prospects and its ability to capitalize on the region's favorable socioeconomic conditions.

Delivery Hero's ownership stake in Talabat remains significant despite the IPO. The company retains a long-term majority indirect ownership position, enabling it to maintain strategic control over Talabat and invest in its growth. The IPO proceeds will also bolster Delivery Hero's financial position, allowing it to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the region.



In conclusion, Delivery Hero's finalization of Talabat's IPO price at the top of the range reflects strong investor demand for the leading on-demand delivery platform in the MENA region. The final price of AED 1.60 per share indicates a bullish outlook on Talabat's growth prospects and the region's favorable economic conditions. Delivery Hero's strategic goal of retaining a majority ownership position in Talabat, combined with the company's robust financial profile, has attracted investors and set the stage for attractive returns. As Talabat begins trading on the Dubai Financial Market, investors will be keen to monitor the company's progress and capitalize on its growth potential.