17 February 2024 – Carlyle, the American private equity giant, is reportedly engaged in discussions with Blackstone regarding the potential sale of its 25% stake in Nxtra Data, the data arm of Bharti Airtel. The talks, if successful, would value Bharti Airtel’s data business at Rs 10,000 crore. Carlyle acquired its stake in Nxtra for $235 million in 2020, and this move follows its recent exits from YES Bank, Delhivery, and Piramal Pharma.
In the latest development, Carlyle is in talks with Blackstone to divest its 25% stake in Nxtra Data, the data-focused subsidiary of Bharti Airtel. This potential deal follows Carlyle’s strategic exits in the current financial year, emphasizing its dynamic investment approach.
About Carlyle:
Carlyle, a global private equity player, has been actively involved in diverse sectors, showcasing its investment versatility. The firm’s strategic moves in the financial year include exits from YES Bank, Delhivery, and Piramal Pharma.
Carlyle’s acquisition of Nxtra Data’s stake in 2020 for $235 million marked its foray into Bharti Airtel’s data business. The reported discussions with Blackstone signal Carlyle’s ongoing portfolio evaluation and its strategic alignment with emerging market trends.
The potential sale of Carlyle’s stake in Nxtra Data would have significant financial implications, not only for Carlyle but also for Bharti Airtel. The valuation of Rs 10,000 crore underscores the robustness of Bharti Airtel’s data arm in the competitive landscape.
Conclusion:
Carlyle’s exploration of a stake sale in Nxtra Data reflects the dynamic nature of the private equity landscape and the continual reassessment of investment portfolios. If the talks with Blackstone materialize, it could reshape the ownership structure of Bharti Airtel’s data business and contribute to the evolving narrative of strategic investments and exits in the Indian market.
