Global sports tech and media company Minute Media has acquired VideoVerse, an Indian AI startup known for its sports video highlight tool Magnifi. While some reports suggested the deal was for ₹2,500 crore, multiple credible sources, including TechCrunch and Moneycontrol, state that the acquisition value is actually between USD 200-250 million, significantly lower than ₹2,500 crore. This marks Minute Media’s biggest acquisition to date, underlining its strategy to deepen its AI-powered video capabilities.
Key Facts About the Acquisition
- VideoVerse, founded in 2016 by Vinayak Shrivastav, Saket Dandotia, and Alok Patil, specializes in tools for automatic detection of key sports moments and real-time short-form highlight generation.
- Its flagship product Magnifi uses AI (computer vision, ML, NLP) to analyze video/audio cues, generate metadata, subtitles, thumbnails, etc., and help broadcasters, sports leagues, and publishers publish clips quickly.
- Minute Media intends to integrate VideoVerse’s tech into its video stack — enhancing content creation, distribution, and monetization for its brands and partners.
Deal Value: What We Do Know
- Deal size not officially disclosed by Minute Media or VideoVerse. Moneycontrol
- Multiple sources estimate the acquisition amount as US$200–$250 million.
- No credible evidence or reporting confirms a ₹2,500 crore (~USD 300+ million depending on exchange rate) figure. Thus, ₹2,500 cr appears to be speculative or inaccurate.
Why This Acquisition Matters
- Biggest acquisition for Minute Media: CEO Asaf Peled notes this is the largest deal in the company’s 14-year history.
- Strengthens AI video capabilities: VideoVerse’s Magnifi platform adds more autonomy in highlighting, editing, and automating workflows — critical for fast-paced sports content.
- Global reach + stronger monetization: Through this acquisition, existing clients of VideoVerse will get access to Minute Media’s broader distribution and monetization network.
What to Watch Going Forward
- Whether Minute Media or VideoVerse respond publicly to the ₹2,500 crore claim or correct it.
- How VideoVerse’s team (employees, tech) integrates with Minute Media’s platforms (STN Video, etc.).
- Impact on Indian AI / sports-tech market: Early investor exits, returns, and further acquisitions may follow.
Conclusion
While Minute Media has acquired VideoVerse in one of its largest deals ever, the actual reported price is US$200-250 million, not ₹2,500 crore. This deal continues the trend of media and sports tech companies investing in AI tools to accelerate content creation, especially for video highlights and short-form content.
