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Bain Capital to Buy 46% of Manappuram Finance in a $1 Bn Deal, Reshaping India’s Gold Loan Market

Bain Capital to Buy 46% of Manappuram Finance in a $1 Bn Deal, Reshaping India’s Gold Loan Market
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In a significant move within the financial sector, American private equity firm Bain Capital is on the verge of acquiring a controlling stake in Kerala-based non-banking financial company (NBFC) Manappuram Finance. This potential $1 billion deal is poised to reshape the landscape of India’s gold loan market.

The preferential allotment of shares is expected to be priced at a 12.5-15% premium to the current market price. Meanwhile, the secondary share sale will be executed at a higher premium, estimated at 22.5-25% over Friday’s closing price. The blended price for the transaction is projected to be in the range of ₹237-240 per share. Economic Times

Market Response

The news of the deal has positively impacted Manappuram Finance’s stock performance. Shares surged by nearly 2% on the NSE and 4% on the BSE on February 24, 2025, reaching a high of ₹209.  Source: BSE/NSE

image 19
Source: NSE

Current Shareholding and MCap

Discussions between Bain Capital and Manappuram Finance commenced in November 2024, focusing on Bain acquiring a substantial portion of the promoter’s stake. The promoter group, led by Managing Director and CEO V.P. Nandakumar, currently holds 35.25% of the company’s shares. With Manappuram’s market capitalization recorded at approximately ₹17,000 crore (based on a share price of ₹200.85 as of February 21, 2025), this transaction represents a significant investment.

Manappuram Finance Ltd Financial Highlights

Market Cap as of 24th Feb 2025Promoter Group SharePublic ShareCMPROCE %ROE%
₹17,393 Crore35.2%64.8₹20513.820.6
Source: Economic Times/Screener

Manappuram’s AUM Growth and Business Shift

Manappuram Finance’s consolidated assets under management (AUM) rose by 9.5% year-on-year, reaching ₹44,217 crore by the end of December. However, on a sequential basis, AUM declined by 3.3%, primarily due to regulatory restrictions on expanding its subsidiary, Asirvad Micro Finance.

Gold Loan Segment Drives Growth

The company’s core gold loan business continued to expand, registering an 18.8% year-on-year growth to ₹24,504 crore. This segment now accounts for 55.4% of Manappuram’s total AUM, reaffirming its stronghold in the gold loan market.

Asset Under Management (Q3FY25)
Gold LoansMFIVEFMSMEOnlending
55%21%12%7%4%
Economic Times

Challenges in the Microfinance Sector

Asirvad Microfinance, like many of its peers in the microfinance sector, remains under financial stress. Manappuram’s management has indicated a strategic shift towards secured lending to mitigate risks and ensure stability in the company’s financial portfolio.

Key Details of Bain Capital-Manappuram Deal 

    Structure of the Agreement

    The deal between Bain Capital and Manappuram Finance involves an infusion of fresh capital through a preferential allotment and a secondary share sale by the promoters. This transaction is expected to significantly increase Bain Capital’s stake in the company, potentially up to 46%. Economic Times

    Regulatory Green Signal

    The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) recent decision to lift restrictions on Manappuram Finance’s subsidiary, Asirvad Micro Finance, is a crucial factor facilitating this deal. This regulatory clearance, granted a month ago, strengthens Manappuram’s position and makes the transaction more viable.

    Expected Management Changes

    Bain Capital will likely introduce management changes as part of the acquisition. A new CEO is expected to be appointed, and there will be an initial phase of joint operations to ensure a smooth transition.

    Implications for Shareholding and Control

    Post-transaction, Bain Capital could emerge as the largest shareholder in Manappuram Finance, potentially holding up to 46% of the company’s shares after an open offer. This significant stake would grant Bain substantial influence over the company’s strategic decisions and operations.

    Regulatory Considerations

    A notable development preceding this deal is the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) decision to lift restrictions on Manappuram’s subsidiary, Asirvad Micro Finance, in January 2025. This regulatory clearance enhances the attractiveness of Manappuram Finance as an investment opportunity, potentially facilitating smoother transaction proceedings.

    Potential Management Changes

    With Bain Capital poised to acquire a controlling stake, changes in Manappuram’s management structure are anticipated. Industry insiders suggest the appointment of a new CEO to lead the company, with an initial phase of joint operations to ensure a seamless transition and integration of Bain’s strategic vision.

    Conclusion

    The impending acquisition of Manappuram Finance by Bain Capital marks a significant milestone in India’s financial sector. This strategic investment underscores the growing appeal of India’s gold loan market to global investors and signals potential shifts in the competitive dynamics of the NBFC landscape. As the deal approaches finalization, stakeholders and industry observers will keenly monitor its execution and subsequent impact on the market.

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    FAQ

    1. What is the core of the deal between Bain Capital and Manappuram Finance?

      Bain Capital is nearing a deal to acquire a significant stake, potentially 46%, in Manappuram Finance. This involves a roughly $1 billion investment, combining fresh capital and a secondary share sale by existing promoters. This move aims to reshape Manappuram’s position in India’s gold loan market.

    2. How might Bain Capital’s investment impact Manappuram Finance’s management?

      The deal is expected to bring management changes. There is reporting indicating that there will be a new CEO, and that there will be initial joint operational changes. This indicates that Bain Capital will have a large influence on the company’s future direction.

    3. What significance does this deal hold for India’s gold loan market?

      This major investment by Bain Capital signifies growing investor confidence in India’s gold loan sector. It could lead to increased competition, innovation, and potentially broader access to gold-backed financing for consumers.

    4. Why is Bain Capital interested in investing in Manappuram Finance?

      Bain Capital likely sees strong growth potential in India’s gold loan market. Manappuram Finance, as a major player, offers a valuable platform for expansion. This investment aligns with Bain Capital’s strategy of investing in promising financial services businesses.

    5. What are the potential future implications of this large investment?

      The investment could trigger further consolidation within the gold loan industry. Manappuram Finance may expand its reach, enhance its technology, and diversify its product offerings. This could create a more dynamic and competitive market.

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    I’m Archana R. Chettiar, an experienced content creator with
    an affinity for writing on personal finance and other financial content. I
    love to write on equity investing, retirement, managing money, and more.

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