Another Mixed Week For New-Age Tech Stocks — Paytm Spirals Downward, RateGain Top Gainer
The landscape of Indian new-age tech stocks exhibited a divergent trend this past week, even as the broader markets found a footing amidst positive global and domestic signals. Amidst this, the Sensex and Nifty50 edged closer to their peak performance, rallying by 1.16% and 1.2% respectively.
Observing the dynamics within the tech sector, out of 19 companies tracked, 11 experienced a dip in their stock values, ranging from a modest 0.1% to a stark 19%, with Paytm capturing headlines for its downward spiral. Other companies that faced a decline included ideaForge, DroneAcharya, Yatra, Nazara, and PB Fintech.
Conversely, the week wasn’t all doom and gloom for the tech industry. Eight companies saw their fortunes rise, with RateGain leading the pack. This surge was largely attributed to a significant partnership announcement, improving its distribution capabilities. Close on its heels, Zomato enjoyed almost a 5% uptick, culminating in a 52-week high. Not to be outdone, Delhivery, Mamaearth, IndiaMart, Tracxn Technologies, Nykaa, and CarTrade Technologies also registered gains, albeit to a varying extent.
Experts attribute the broader market recovery to several factors. Vinod Nair of Geojit Financial Services pointed to India’s narrowing trade deficit and positive global market sentiments fueled by an expected surge in China’s consumption demand post-New Year holidays as key drivers. Siddhartha Khemka of Motilal Oswal, meanwhile, highlighted potential pre-election rallies, buoyed by optimistic poll surveys, as a factor that could bolster market sentiment even further.
Delving into individual performances, Paytm’s continued complications with its Payments Bank have led to an unprecedented low in its share prices, hitting a new record low three times this week. However, a slight rebound was observed on the final trading day, following some positive developments.
On another front, Yatra Online posted an encouraging financial report, showcasing a transition from loss to profit. Despite this, the company’s stock experienced a volatile week, ultimately closing with a modest decline.
Nazara Technologies made headlines with its strategic acquisition of Ninja Global FZCO, aiming to expand its footprint in the Middle East and Turkey. This move, part of an aggressive acquisition strategy, seemed to have a muted impact on its stock performance, which saw a slight decline over the week.
In sum, the week painted a mixed picture for India’s new-age tech stocks. While some companies like Paytm faced significant challenges, others like RateGain and Zomato showed resilience and growth, underscoring the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the tech industry. As global and domestic factors continue to influence market sentiments, the path ahead for these tech giants remains a narrative of cautious optimism intertwined with strategic maneuvering.
