Gaming firm Nazara Technologies is raising Rs 900 crore (approximately $108 million) in a new funding round led by SBI Mutual Fund. The round also saw participation from Juno Moneta Finsol, Think India Opportunities Fund, Discovery Global, and other prominent investors.

Funding Round Details

Nazara’s board has approved a resolution to issue 94,31,294 equity shares at an issue price of Rs 954.27 per share. This move will raise Rs 900 crore ($108 million) for the company. The information was disclosed in a filing with the National Stock Exchange (NSE).

The funding round was led by SBI Mutual Fund, which contributed Rs 220 crore to the total. Other major investors include Juno Moneta Finsol and Think India Opportunities Fund, both of which contributed Rs 150 crore each. Notably, Caratlane co-founders Siddharth and Mithun Sacheti also participated, investing Rs 155 crore. Additional funds came from Discovery Global, Cohesion MK, Chartered Finance, Ratnabali Investment, Meenakshi Mercantiles, and Aamara Capital.

The issuance of shares is pending shareholder approval, with a meeting scheduled for October 12 to finalize the preferential allotment.

Strategic Expansion: Nazara Increases Stake in Sportskeeda

In addition to the funding round, Nazara Technologies has made a significant strategic move by increasing its stake in Absolute Sports, the parent company of Sportskeeda. The company has acquired an additional 19.35% stake for Rs 145.47 crore. Out of this, Rs 72.73 crore will be paid in cash, and the remaining amount will be settled through a share swap of Nazara’s equity.

With this acquisition, Nazara now holds a 91.03% stake in Absolute Sports, further solidifying its control over Sportskeeda, a leading sports media platform. This acquisition is a part of Nazara’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the sports content and gaming sector.

Over the past few months, Absolute Sports has been expanding its portfolio by acquiring assets such as SoapCentral.com and DeltiasGaming, which enhances its position in the sports and gaming media industry.

Nazara’s Market Performance

The funding round and strategic acquisition have boosted investor confidence in Nazara. The company’s stock reached its 52-week high at Rs 1,098 today and ended the trading day at Rs 1,095. This surge in stock price highlights Nazara’s strong market position and growth prospects.

As of September 18, Nazara Technologies’ market capitalization stands at Rs 8,381 crore, according to estimates by Entrackr. The company’s continued growth in both gaming and sports media, along with the fresh influx of capital, positions Nazara as a leading player in India’s gaming ecosystem.

Conclusion

Nazara Technologies’ successful Rs 900 crore ($108 million) funding round, led by SBI Mutual Fund, underscores its strong standing in the gaming industry. Alongside this, its increased stake in Sportskeeda’s parent company, Absolute Sports, further strengthens its foothold in the sports content market. With a robust investor lineup and strategic acquisitions, Nazara is poised for continued growth and expansion in the competitive world of gaming and sports media.