Mumbai, India – January 28, 2025: Authum Investment & Infrastructure Limited (NSE: AIIL, BSE: 539177) has officially acquired 11.25 crore equity shares of NITCO Limited, amounting to a 49.3% stake. This acquisition was executed through a debt-to-equity conversion, making NITCO an associate company of Authum.
Key Highlights of the Acquisition:
- Stake Acquired: 49.3% (11.25 crore shares).
- Acquisition Method: Conversion of unsustainable debt into equity.
- Debt Converted: ₹1,037.81 crore owed by NITCO to Authum.
- Business Impact: NITCO's debt restructuring plan aims to revive its operations and drive future growth.
Rationale Behind the Acquisition
Authum Investment acquired 97% of NITCO's total debt from JM Financial Asset Reconstruction Company Limited in April 2024. The restructuring plan includes:- Debt restructuring to ease financial burden.
- Expansion into real estate development and construction.
- Issuance of fresh capital to support business revival.
- Acquisition of additional real estate assets.
Regulatory & Shareholder Approvals
- NITCO shareholders approved the allotment at an EGM held on November 15, 2024.
- BSE and NSE granted in-principle approvals on January 15 & 16, 2025, respectively.
About NITCO Limited
- Industry: Ceramic tiles, vitrified tiles, marble processing, and real estate development.
- Founded: July 25, 1966.
- Presence: India.
- Financial Performance:
- FY 2023-24 Turnover: ₹327.83 crore.
- FY 2022-23 Turnover: ₹386.17 crore.
- FY 2021-22 Turnover: ₹416.12 crore.
- Net Worth (as of March 31, 2024): ₹(-502.21) crore.
Management Commentary
Amit Dangi, Whole-Time Director, Authum Investment, stated:"This acquisition aligns with our strategic intent to revitalize NITCO, leveraging its market position and expanding into real estate. The debt restructuring will ensure operational efficiency and long-term profitability.".
Investor Takeaways & Market Outlook
- Authum's acquisition provides NITCO with a crucial financial lifeline.
- Strategic shift towards real estate and construction aims to enhance revenue streams.
- Potential recovery in NITCO's stock performance post-restructuring.