OfBusiness Taps Axis, JPMorgan for 2025 Indian IPO: A Strategic Move

OfBusiness, an Indian B2B e-commerce platform, has selected Axis Bank, JPMorgan, Citi, and Morgan Stanley to manage its planned $1 billion IPO in 2025. This strategic move signals the company's commitment to a successful listing and international expansion. Let's delve into the implications of this decision and its impact on OfBusiness' future.

OfBusiness' choice of Axis, JPMorgan, Citi, and Morgan Stanley reflects a well-thought-out strategy to maximize its market position and valuation. These banks have a proven track record in managing high-profile IPOs in India, including the $2.4 billion IPO of Paytm in 2021 and the $1.2 billion IPO of Zomato in 2021. Their involvement in OfBusiness' IPO demonstrates confidence in the company's growth potential and their ability to navigate the complex Indian capital market.



The global networks and experience of these banks can significantly benefit OfBusiness' international expansion plans. Axis Bank, with its strong presence in India, can provide valuable insights into the local market, while JPMorgan, Citi, and Morgan Stanley bring global expertise, having managed numerous high-profile IPOs worldwide. Their combined networks can help OfBusiness tap into international capital markets, attract foreign investors, and expand its global footprint.

Moreover, the selected banks' relationships with OfBusiness' existing investors, such as SoftBank, could streamline the IPO process. SoftBank has a strong relationship with JPMorgan and Citi, having worked together on numerous deals. Axis Bank brings local expertise to the table, while Morgan Stanley has a history of successful IPOs in India. These banks' familiarity with OfBusiness' investors and the Indian market could lead to a successful listing.



OfBusiness' valuation range of $6 billion to $9 billion is attractive for investors seeking stable, predictable growth. Given the company's strong financials, with a $72.6 million after-tax profit on $2.3 billion revenue in FY2024, and its backing by SoftBank, investors may find the IPO appealing. The company's focus on the manufacturing and construction sectors, which are currently thriving in India, further enhances its investment potential.

Geopolitical tensions and labor market dynamics could impact OfBusiness' IPO and post-IPO performance. Geopolitical instability can deter foreign investment, but India's robust economic growth (currently the world's fastest-growing major economy) could offset this. Labor market dynamics, such as wage inflation, might affect OfBusiness' operational costs, potentially impacting its post-IPO earnings. However, strategic acquisitions and organic growth, as seen with Salesforce, can mitigate these risks.

In conclusion, OfBusiness' decision to hire Axis, JPMorgan, Citi, and Morgan Stanley for its 2025 Indian IPO is a strategic move that aligns with the company's growth plans and international expansion. The selected banks' track record, global networks, and relationships with existing investors position OfBusiness for a successful listing and future growth. As an investor, keeping an eye on OfBusiness' IPO and its post-IPO performance could be a lucrative opportunity.