In the ever-evolving landscape of the digital economy, Info Edge India has emerged as a beacon of resilience and adaptability over the past five years. The company's diverse portfolio and formidable market presence have allowed it to navigate the vicissitudes of economic fluctuations with remarkable efficacy. As Hitesh Oberoi, MD & CEO, eloquently states, “Our strategic investments and commitment to innovation have fortified our leadership position in online recruitment and have propelled our expansion into new verticals.”
This remarkable journey has seen Info Edge reinforce its dominance in the online recruitment arena while also leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance its service offerings. The company’s standalone business has witnessed impressive growth, with net revenues achieving a healthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.0 per cent, rising from Rs 1,272.7 crore in FY20 to Rs 2,381.0 crore in FY24. Simultaneously, operating profits rose at 25.2 per cent CAGR, rising from Rs 354.7 crore in FY20 to Rs 871.2 crore in FY24. These figures highlight Info Edge’s commendable recovery following the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, which had initially impacted revenue and profits during FY21.
Despite a moderation in growth momentum over the past year, Info Edge’s core recruitment business has maintained steady financial performance. The company’s non-recruitment segments, including 99acres, Jeevansathi, and Shiksha, have achieved impressive revenue growth while simultaneously reducing operating losses and cash burn significantly. “Our strategic agility and responsiveness to market needs are evident in our performance,” Oberoi emphasises. In FY24, revenue from operations increased 10.3 per cent, reaching Rs 2,381.0 crore, while billings grew 5.5 per cent to Rs 2,495.9 crore.
Resilience and Innovation
Info Edge continues to generate robust cash flows from its core operations, with cash from operations increasing by 9.3 per cent to Rs 1,134.7 crore in FY24. This healthy cash generation allows the company to reinvest in enhancing its offerings, recalibrating strategies, and developing new business ventures—an essential approach for thriving in competitive and rapidly changing markets.
The company’s performance also translates into strong returns for its stakeholders. Earnings per share (EPS) surged 20.3 per cent to Rs 65.90 in FY24, underlining Info Edge’s robust financial health and commitment to delivering value. With a solid market capitalisation and a proactive strategy, Info Edge India stands poised to navigate the future, embracing innovation while reinforcing its leadership in the industry.
Expanding Horizons
Info Edge is strategically focused on establishing a robust framework to penetrate deeper into the vast hinterlands of India. The company recognises the significance of a dual approach that combines cutting-edge technology with a dedicated on-ground sales team to enhance market reach and complement its online presence.
As of 31 March 2024, Info Edge has successfully established 83 branch offices across 67 cities in India. This extensive network is bolstered by a committed workforce of 3,387 professionals engaged in sales, servicing, and client-facing roles. This substantial investment in human resources reflects the company’s ambition to serve a broader market effectively and foster deeper engagement in India’s heartland.
By prioritising the expansion of its on-ground sales team, Info Edge aims to enhance its presence in underserved regions, ensuring that its unique and competitive offerings reach a diverse audience. This strategic initiative not only positions the company for sustainable growth but also aligns with its mission to cater to the evolving needs of its clients across the country.
