- Astrotalk became India's latest unicorn at a $1 billion valuation after an employee stock buyback
- The buyback was funded from operational profits, not fresh capital from investors
- Founded in 2017, Astrotalk expanded from astrology to broader spiritual and commerce services
Astrotalk has become India's latest unicorm after the Noida-based startup completed an employee stock buyback at a $1 billion valuation, giving more than 100 employees an opportunity to sell part of their vested shares.
The milestone is notable because the company is funding the liquidity programme from profits generated through its operations, rather than raising fresh capital from investors. Astrotalk has not revealed the total amount involved in the ESOP buyback.
The transaction gives employees a chance to realise the value of their stock holdings as the company expands its business beyond its original astrology offering.
Founded in 2017, Astrotalk has built its business around online astrology services and has since moved into wider spiritual and commerce-related categories.
Also Read: Astrotalk Goes Global, With Stars Aligned For Rs 2,000 Crore Goal And IPO
The company reported Rs 1,176 crore in revenue during FY25, while its profit before tax stood at Rs 285 crore. Astrotalk said its current revenue run rate has now crossed Rs 2,500 crore.
The company has placed profitability at the centre of its expansion strategy. Its latest employee liquidity event reflects that approach, with internal earnings being used to provide an exit opportunity to staff.
“The milestone is especially rewarding” because the buyback is being funded from profits, co-founder and CEO Puneet Gupta said.
Astrotalk has raised capital from Left Lane Capital and Elev8 Venture Partners. Left Lane Capital invested $20 million in February 2024 and put another $14 million into the company four months later.
Also Read: Bootstrapped Ai.tech Is The Fastest Riser As Tech Companies Dominate Hurun List
The latest valuation gives existing employees a tangible opportunity to benefit from the company's growth without waiting for a public listing or acquisition.
Co-founder Anmol Jain said the buyback is also intended to strengthen the company's ownership culture and encourage employees to participate in its next phase.
Essential Business Intelligence, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice, Daily Fuel, Gold and Silver Prices and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.