Dutch global investor Prosus is in advanced talks to infuse ₹1,750 crore (about $200 million) into Indian ride-hailing startup Rapido, as it looks to significantly increase its ownership stake. This potential investment underscores Prosus’s growing confidence in Rapido’s rapid scale-up in mobility and diversified revenue lines. Storyboard18
Background: Strong Growth Trajectory
Rapido has demonstrated impressive performance, doubling its valuation from $1.1 billion in December 2024 to a current negotiation range of $2.5–$2.7 billion. This valuation surge reflects its growing dominance alongside expansions into new verticals like food delivery.
Previously, in February 2025, Prosus already injected ₹250 crore (~$30 million) into Rapido as part of its Series E extension, acquiring roughly 2.9% stake.
Motivations Behind the Deal
- Outpacing Competitors: Rapido’s growth has exceeded that of Uber and Ola in key metrics including ride volume and gross order value.
- Diversification into Food Delivery: Its strategic entry into new verticals like quick commerce and food services has expanded its revenue base and investor appeal.
- Investor Realignment: Concurrently, Swiggy—a partial owner in Rapido—is planning a full exit of its 12% stake (~₹2,500 crore), potentially clearing room for Prosus to consolidate its position.
Strategic Significance
This major infusion aligns with Prosus’s broader India investment strategy. Its CEO, Fabricio Bloisi, has highlighted India as a core market, with past bets yielding strong returns—notably Swiggy’s IPO—and continues to back high-growth tech platforms like Rapido.
Future Outlook
If finalized, this would be one of Prosus’s largest single-country investments and a milestone in India’s mobility startup ecosystem. Rapido’s valuation doubling and expansion ambitions underpin strong investor confidence. Also, with Swiggy’s impending exit and growth momentum intact, Prosus is poised to take on a more controlling stake in a fast-rising industry player.
