Top startup and tech stories this week
Welcome to ETtech Unwrapped
Year in Review: Startup Inc's IPO Spree
Eight internet startups joined the IPO bandwagon this year, unlocking a staggering Rs 8,500 crore for employees. However, this paled in comparison to the massive wealth amassed by founders and promoters.
Year in Review: EV Funding Slumps
India's EV sector, once a darling of investors, faced a funding drop from $808 million in 2022 to $586 million in 2024. Investors demand profitability and unit economics, leaving companies on edge.
Year in Review: Strong Startup Exits
Indian startups made their mark in 2024, with investors cashing in on secondary transactions, IPOs, and block deals worth over $5 billion. The exit party is expected to continue in 2025.
Year in Review: Startup Closures Mount
Amid the success stories, numerous startups closed shop in 2024. From edtech to fintech, unsustainable business models and funding droughts took their toll.
Year in Review: Zepto and Quick Commerce Boom
Zepto's rapid growth has fueled the quick commerce industry, transforming how consumers get their daily essentials.
Year in Review: Zomato's Milestones and Controversies
Zomato had a multifaceted year, achieving profitability milestones while navigating controversies and intense competition.
Year in Review: Startup Ecosystem's Scandals
Allegations of financial mismanagement, corporate governance issues, and data privacy breaches marred the reputation of India's startup ecosystem in 2024.
Year in Review: Startup Milestones by the Numbers
As of December 2024, India's startup ecosystem boasted over 1.6 million jobs and 1.57 lakh recognized startups, with over 73,000 featuring at least one woman director.
Other Top Stories
Tata Sons May Delay Ecommerce Funding
Tata Digital may not receive additional funding until mid-2025, forcing it to rely on internal sources and debt.
Cloud Kitchen Startups Trim Losses
India's cloud kitchen industry posted revenue growth and reduced losses in FY24, thanks to cost-cutting measures.
Ola Electric Loses Top Executives
Ola's CTO and CMO have resigned, adding to the recent exodus of senior leadership.
AppDynamics Founder Expands Presence in India
Jyoti Bansal plans to hire 600 more employees in India for his ventures, Harness and Traceable.
Coforge and Cigniti Merge
The two companies are preparing terms for a merger proposal to be presented to shareholders.
Oyo Acquires G6 Hospitality for $525 Million
Oyo's acquisition brings 1,500 franchised hotels in the US and Canada under its wing.
Women Break Glass Ceilings in India's Tech Industry
Google's appointment of Preeti Lobana as its India head symbolizes a growing trend of women taking leadership roles in technology.
IT Industry to Increase Hiring
India's IT sector is expected to add up to 12% to its workforce in FY26, despite a contracting headcount in FY24.