India's tech start-ups fire up public markets amid valuation concerns

India’s tech start-ups fire up public markets amid valuation concerns

India’s startup scene continues to thrive, evident from the recent IPO of Lenskart, an eyewear company that raised $821 million. The IPO was sold out within hours, highlighting the strong demand for such offerings, despite concerns about high valuations in the marketplace. Founded by a judge from Shark Tank India, Lenskart had a fluctuating market debut on November 10, 2025.

Following Lenskart, another major listing is anticipated with Groww, the largest retail brokerage in India, attracting 17 times the demand compared to available shares. Meanwhile, Pine Labs, a fintech unicorn, plans to list later in the week, joining the wave of startups tapping into public markets. This ongoing trend follows a revitalization in the Indian IPO landscape, characterized by a diversity of tech firms entering the stock market, from home service platforms like Urban Company to ed-tech entities such as Physics Wallah.

This surge in IPO activity has prompted questions regarding the sustainability of high valuations and the long-term profitability for new investors entering the market. Experts indicate this growth is indicative of a maturing startup ecosystem transitioning from a previously tight funding climate. While first-time retail investors face uncertainty regarding returns, many early-stage investors see potential exits.

The data reveals a notable increase in IPOs this year, with 43 startups listed by early November, marking a substantial rise since 2023. An increasing number of investors, including retail participants and institutions, are contributing to this vibrant IPO market. However, concerns persist over the possibility of inflated prices, which could adversely affect new entrants.

As small businesses prioritize sustainable growth and profitability over aggressive expansion, indicators show fewer startups are shutting down compared to previous years. The private equity landscape remains challenging but has adjusted to seek quality ventures rather than quantity. Recent regulatory changes, like the removal of an angel tax, aim to enhance investor confidence and could influence future trends in startup IPO volumes.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crklp1y81keo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss

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