Info Edge (India) Ltd
NSE:NAUKRI
Info Edge (India) Ltd
Info Edge (India) Ltd. has carved a unique niche in India's digital landscape, evolving as a cornerstone of the internet-driven economy. Founded in 1995 by Sanjeev Bikhchandani, the company started its journey with Naukri.com, a recruitment portal that quickly became the country's largest online job website. This venture was fueled by the burgeoning service sector and the growing need for a reliable platform to bridge job seekers and employers. Over the years, Info Edge expanded its portfolio beyond recruitment, mirroring the needs of a fast-evolving digital economy. It ventured into real estate with 99acres.com and matrimonial services through Jeevansathi.com, each platform tailored to address specific life-stage requirements, thus creating robust revenue streams through subscriptions, advertisements, and value-added services.
The strategic brilliance of Info Edge lies not just in its diversified web offerings but also in its investment acumen. It recognized early the potential in emerging startups, with a noteworthy stake in Zomato, a leading food delivery service, and PolicyBazaar, an online insurance aggregator. These investments point to Info Edge’s dual approach to revenue generation: operational profits from core business units and strategic gains from its investment portfolio. The success of this strategy has cemented its position as an orchestrator of both internet service portals and a venture capital firm, adeptly navigating the digital transformation tide in India. Through this dynamic synergy, Info Edge has managed to craft a business model that leverages its pioneering roots in the digital realm while continuously cultivating new growth horizons.
Info Edge (India) Ltd. has carved a unique niche in India's digital landscape, evolving as a cornerstone of the internet-driven economy. Founded in 1995 by Sanjeev Bikhchandani, the company started its journey with Naukri.com, a recruitment portal that quickly became the country's largest online job website. This venture was fueled by the burgeoning service sector and the growing need for a reliable platform to bridge job seekers and employers. Over the years, Info Edge expanded its portfolio beyond recruitment, mirroring the needs of a fast-evolving digital economy. It ventured into real estate with 99acres.com and matrimonial services through Jeevansathi.com, each platform tailored to address specific life-stage requirements, thus creating robust revenue streams through subscriptions, advertisements, and value-added services.
The strategic brilliance of Info Edge lies not just in its diversified web offerings but also in its investment acumen. It recognized early the potential in emerging startups, with a noteworthy stake in Zomato, a leading food delivery service, and PolicyBazaar, an online insurance aggregator. These investments point to Info Edge’s dual approach to revenue generation: operational profits from core business units and strategic gains from its investment portfolio. The success of this strategy has cemented its position as an orchestrator of both internet service portals and a venture capital firm, adeptly navigating the digital transformation tide in India. Through this dynamic synergy, Info Edge has managed to craft a business model that leverages its pioneering roots in the digital realm while continuously cultivating new growth horizons.
Revenue Growth: Info Edge reported stand-alone Q3 FY '26 revenue of INR 765 crores, up 14% year-on-year.
Profitability: Operating profit grew 13% YoY to INR 297 crores, with an improved operating margin of 39% in Q3.
Dividend Policy: The Board increased the dividend payout ratio to up to 65% of PAT from last year's 39%, with a second interim dividend of INR 2.4 per share declared.
Recruitment: Recruitment billings grew by 11% YoY and revenue by 14% YoY; mid-segment hiring remains under pressure while premium and value segments see robust demand.
Real Estate & Matchmaking: Real estate and matchmaking (Jeevansathi + Aisle) segments delivered strong billings growth but continue to operate near breakeven or at a loss.
AI Initiatives: AI adoption is increasing, with over 100 clients using the new AI-REX platform and significant integration of AI across segments, especially recruitment.
Market Dynamics: Management notes macroeconomic headwinds, especially in non-IT and mid-level hiring, but sees continued strength in premium and value segments.
Guidance & Outlook: No explicit change in guidance, but management remains cautious due to market uncertainty and continues to invest in growth and technology.
