Blinkit CEO Albinder Dhindsa led a substantial ESOP (Employee Stock Option) exercise recently, converting seven million shares of Eternal (parent company of Blinkit and Zomato) into equity worth ₹214.51 crore
This move was part of a broader liquidity event—executives at Eternal collectively exercised ESOPs valued at ₹419 crore over two days (July 29–30), with Dhindsa alone accounting for over half of the total
An ESOP exercise allows executives to convert stock options into company shares at pre-agreed “strike prices,” typically lower than current market value. These shares can then be either held or sold, though doing so triggers immediate income tax liabilities
Why It Matters
- Wealth Realization for Leadership
This sizable ESOP exercise reflects growing confidence among Blinkit’s leadership in the company’s long-term prospects. It also underscores the continued importance of stock-based compensation in rewarding and retaining key talent in growth-stage startupsThe Economic Times - Timing Insight
Executives often choose to exercise options when share prices are near highs to maximize value. Eternal’s stock recently closed around ₹300.80, near its seven-month peak, resulting in a company valuation of approximately ₹2.9 lakh crore (US $33 billion) - Significant Industry Signal
In India’s competitive quick-commerce sector, Blinkit’s continued growth and market position are reinforced by such moves. It signals to investors and rivals alike the confidence of top executives in long-term business strategy and performance.
