UGRO Capital’s ₹400 Crore Rights Offering to Drive Growth in MSME Finance
Empowering Shareholders and Strengthening Growth in India’s MSME Finance Landscape
Introduction
UGRO Capital, a leading DataTech-driven non-banking financial company (NBFC) focused on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), has unveiled plans for a significant capital infusion through a rights issue. The company aims to raise ₹400 crore by issuing new equity shares at ₹162 apiece, directly offering its existing shareholders the opportunity to participate in its next phase of growth. This move follows a robust fiscal year and a recent preferential issuance of ₹915 crore in compulsorily convertible debentures (CCDs), further solidifying UGRO’s financial foundation.
The Rights Issue: Structure and Rationale
Shareholder-Centric Approach
For every 189 shares owned, shareholders are entitled to purchase 50 new shares at ₹162 each. This pro-rata mechanism ensures that all public shareholders can maintain their stake and avoid dilution as the company expands its operations.
Pricing and Market Context
The issue price of ₹162 per share is notably below the recent market price, which stood at ₹177.45 on the Bombay Stock Exchange at the time of announcement. This pricing strategy is intended to make the offering attractive and accessible, reinforcing the company’s commitment to equitable participation and inclusive growth.
Key Dates and Process
Record and Subscription Periods
The subscription window will open on June 13 and close on June 20, 2025, with the possibility of an extension by up to 30 days if needed. This timeline provides shareholders with a clear and fair opportunity to participate in the capital raise.
Strategic Imperatives Behind the Fundraise
Scaling Up MSME Lending
UGRO Capital’s primary objective is to accelerate its lending to India’s underserved MSME sector. The company has been consistently adding ₹3,000 crore to its assets under management (AUM) annually, reflecting strong demand for its tailored credit solutions. The fresh capital from the rights issue will enable UGRO to further scale its asset book and expand its national footprint.
Strengthening DataTech Edge
As a DataTech-driven NBFC, UGRO Capital leverages advanced analytics and digital platforms to assess creditworthiness and streamline loan disbursement. The capital injection will fund continued technology upgrades, improving both operational performance and customer satisfaction.
Institutional Confidence and Management Commitment
Backing from Global and Domestic Investors
The rights issue has already attracted strong commitments from both institutional and internal stakeholders. Significantly, IFU has committed ₹150 cr, with UGRO’s promoters, promoter group, and employees together pledging ₹34 cr.
This robust backing underscores the confidence that both external and internal investors have in UGRO’s growth strategy.
Management’s Vision
Shachindra Nath, Founder and Managing Director of UGRO Capital, highlighted that this fundraising is crucial for sustaining the company’s expansion trajectory.
By offering shareholders the same price as institutional investors, UGRO is ensuring that all stakeholders can participate in the company’s future success.
Financial Performance and Growth Trajectory
Record Growth in FY25
UGRO Capital’s financial results for fiscal year 2024–25 highlight a period of remarkable expansion. The company’s AUM surged to ₹12,003 crore, while its profit before tax more than doubled to ₹203 crore. This performance reflects both the strength of its business model and the growing demand for MSME finance in India.
Healthy Capital Adequacy
Despite rapid growth, UGRO has maintained a healthy capital adequacy ratio, ensuring that it remains well-positioned to meet regulatory requirements and continue its expansion. The rights issue will further bolster this ratio, providing additional headroom for future lending.
The Broader Impact on India’s MSME Sector
Addressing the Credit Gap
India’s MSME sector is widely recognized as the backbone of the economy, yet it continues to face a significant credit gap. UGRO Capital’s focus on leveraging technology to serve this segment is helping to bridge this gap, enabling more small businesses to access timely and affordable finance.
Supporting Economic Recovery and Job Creation
By expanding its lending capacity, UGRO Capital is contributing to broader economic recovery and job creation. MSMEs play a critical role in employment generation, and improved access to finance can unlock their potential to drive inclusive growth.
Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Ambitions
Market Share Targets
UGRO Capital aims to secure a 1% share of India’s MSME lending market within the next three years.
Achieving this target will require continued investment in technology, talent, and distribution networks—all of which will be supported by the proceeds from the rights issue.
Innovation and Partnerships
The company is also exploring new partnerships and innovative product offerings to further differentiate itself in the competitive NBFC landscape. By staying at the forefront of DataTech and customer-centric solutions, UGRO aims to solidify its position as a leader in MSME finance.
Conclusion
UGRO Capital’s ₹400 crore rights issue represents a significant milestone in the company’s growth trajectory.
By empowering existing shareholders to participate in its growth, UGRO is reinforcing its commitment to inclusive finance and sustainable expansion. The strong backing from institutional and internal investors, coupled with robust financial performance and a clear strategic vision, positions UGRO Capital for continued success in India’s dynamic MSME lending market.
The image added is for representation purposes only
