Ant Group's Significant Stake Reduction in Paytm: A Turn Toward Indian Ownership

Ant Group has reduced its stake in One97 Communications, the parent company of Paytm, by selling a 4% stake for Rs 2,103 crore. This move further decreases its holdings and shifts ownership dynamics towards Indian ownership, highlighted by past transactions transferring shares to Paytm's founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma.

In a notable move, Chinese fintech powerhouse Ant Group has sold 4% of its stake in One97 Communications, the parent company of Paytm, for Rs 2,103 crore. Conducted via open market transactions, the sale signals a strategic reshuffling of ownership, edging Paytm closer to becoming predominantly Indian-owned.

The divestment was executed by Ant Group through its affiliate, Antfin Netherlands Holding BV, as documented by the Bombay Stock Exchange. Over 2.55 crore shares were offloaded at prices ranging between Rs 823.30 and Rs 826.04 per share. Concurrently, Goldman Sachs acquired a 0.59% stake, adding another layer to the unfolding financial narrative surrounding Paytm.

Ant Group's move is part of a broader trend, following previous sales and transfers of shares, including a significant handover to Paytm CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma. These actions mark a pivotal transition in Paytm's ownership structure, from Chinese-dominant to a more India-centric ownership model.

(With inputs from agencies.)