Nazara Technologies sets sights on global gaming dominance with $100m investment strategy
In a bold move that underscores its ambition to become a global powerhouse in the gaming and esports sector, Nazara Technologies Limited (NSE: NAZARA) has announced plans to allocate US$100 million (~INR 830 cr) towards mergers and acquisitions (M&A) over the next 24 months. This strategic pledge follows a successful fundraise of Rs. 760 crore (~$90 million) through a preferential allotment, attracting investment from notable entities like Nikhil Kamath, ICICI Prudential MF, and Plutus Wealth Management, among others. Nazara’s initiative signals a significant commitment to enhancing its footprint on the global stage and catalyzing its evolution into a leading gaming platform worldwide.
With its eyes set on identifying and seizing burgeoning opportunities within the gaming, esports, and adtech arenas, Nazara Technologies is keen on investing in established gaming IP’s/studios that are making strides in cutting-edge technologies such as web3, Virtual Reality (VR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Nitish Mittersain, Jt. MD & CEO of Nazara Technologies, emphasized the company’s successful track record with its ‘acquire and scale’ strategy, highlighting the post-acquisition growth of entities like Kiddopia, Nodwin Gaming, and Sportskeeda. Mittersain noted, “Our unique decentralized model allows these businesses to operate autonomously by strong management and provides us with significant bandwidth to scale the platform we have created. The $100 million pledge will further boost this opportunity for us in that direction.”
Nazara’s strategic focus is not just on global gaming studios but also on tapping into the vast potential of India’s 500 million gamers, alongside the lucrative North American market. As an active participant in the gaming ecosystem, Nazara Technologies boasts an impressive portfolio of gaming and esports brands with a presence in India, the US, and other global markets. This includes Nodwin Gaming in the esports space, Sportskeeda and Pro Football Network in the sports media space, and gamified early learning products like Kiddopia and Animal Jam, which are leaders in their respective segments.
The investment strategy unveiled by Nazara Technologies marks a significant step toward reshaping the global gaming landscape. By leveraging mergers and acquisitions, Nazara aims to solidify its position as an eminent player in the digital gaming and esports industry, fostering innovation and connectivity across the globe. This ambitious move is poised to accelerate the company’s growth, enhancing its offerings and reach in the rapidly evolving gaming sector.