Vodafone Idea’s Record-Breaking FPO in India
Vodafone Idea’s Follow-On Public Offer (FPO) has set a new benchmark as the largest-ever in India, surpassing the previous record held by Yes Bank.
Vodafone Idea FPO Fully Subscribed on Final Day
With an impressive ₹18,000 crore on the line, Vodafone Idea’s FPO was fully subscribed on the closing day. Investors claimed 1,289.8 crore equity shares, as per stock exchange data. Amidst a significant fundraising initiative, Vodafone Idea aims to secure a total of ₹45,000 crore through equity and debt, positioning itself as India’s third-largest telecom operator after Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel.
Investor Confidence in Vodafone Idea FPO
Despite retail investors’ cautious approach, non-institutional investors (NIIs) showed robust interest, subscribing over twice their quota. Qualified institutional buyers (QIBs) also demonstrated confidence, subscribing 1.48 times to the FPO. Retail investors have filled 45 percent of their allotment. Notably, Vodafone Idea raised ₹5,400 crore from anchor investors, with firms like GQG and Fidelity leading the investments. By the end of day 2, the company had amassed over ₹12,000 crore, including the amount from anchor investors.
Previous Record and Current Performance
Before Vodafone Idea’s landmark FPO, Yes Bank’s 2020 offer at ₹15,000 crore was the largest in the Indian stock market.
Investment Decision: Should You Subscribe?
Vodafone FPO GMP Insights
Stock market analysts, as cited by LiveMint, report a grey market premium (GMP) of ₹1.30 per share for the Vodafone FPO.
Expert Opinions on Vodafone Idea’s FPO
“Given the short to medium-term risks such as ongoing losses and subscriber loss due to limited 4G expansion, Vodafone Idea (VIL) is considered a high-risk investment. The future prospects hinge on debt restructuring and enhanced 4G & 5G services. With robust backing, we recommend a ‘subscribe’ for long-term, high-risk investors,” stated Geojit Finance via LiveMint.
“We endorse a ‘Subscribe’ rating for this FPO. Vodafone Idea is a reputable brand with a vast subscriber and enterprise customer base. The offer is attractively priced, offering a reasonable valuation and a discount compared to its current market price,” Marwadi Financial Services advised.
Utilization of FPO Funds by Vodafone Idea
Investment in Network Expansion
Vodafone Idea plans to allocate approximately ₹12,750 crore from the FPO proceeds towards purchasing equipment to expand its network infrastructure. This includes establishing new 4G sites, enhancing existing 4G site capacities, and developing 5G sites.
Spectrum Payment Plans
A significant portion, amounting to ₹2,175.31 crore, is earmarked for deferred spectrum payment obligations.
General Corporate Expenditures
The remaining funds will support various corporate purposes, such as financing working capital needs.
Current Market Position of Vodafone Idea Shares
Vodafone Idea’s share price has been trending downward in recent months. As of today, the shares were trading at ₹12.25, reflecting a 5.04% decrease at 13:34 p.m.