Morgan Stanley initiates coverage on Meesho with an Equal-Weight (EW) rating and a target price of Rs 169, reflecting a balanced risk-reward profile as the company scales rapidly within India's value-focused e-commerce space. Meesho has emerged as a leading player in low-cost, high-frequency online retail, targeting price-sensitive consumers across Tier‑2+ regions, where the competitive intensity remains relatively limited compared to premium e-commerce categories.
The brokerage suggests that Meesho is well‑positioned to remain one of the fastest-growing companies in India's goods retail ecosystem, supported by its asset-light model, strong supply-side aggregation, and consistent improvements in customer retention. Morgan Stanley forecasts a 26% NMV (Net Merchandise Value) CAGR over FY26–28, driven by deeper penetration of fashion, beauty, and personal care, and general merchandise categories. Further efficiencies in logistics and continued seller onboarding are expected to reinforce scale benefits and improve unit economics over the medium term. However, near-term risks persist.
On the downside, Morgan Stanley flags two key concerns: Deceleration in NMV growth in 2H FY26, potentially due to seasonal softness or intensified competition. Higher adjusted EBITDA losses in the second half as the company reinvests aggressively in customer acquisition and expands fulfillment capabilities.
On the upside, the brokerage notes meaningful optionality:
NMV growth could surprise positively, aided by faster execution in smaller cities and stronger traction in non-fashion categories. Earlier-than-expected break-even on adjusted EBITDA, driven by improved take rates, better ad monetization, and logistics efficiencies.
Overall, Morgan Stanley sees Meesho as a structurally strong player in value e-commerce, with significant long-term growth potential but near-term profitability challenges that justify the EW stance.
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