Internet giant Info Edge has announced its complete acquisition of the upskilling platform Coding Ninjas in an all-cash deal valued at ₹39.9 crore. This strategic transaction will see the edtech startup become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Naukri.com parent company. The move is designed to integrate educational services directly with Info Edge's core recruitment business, enhancing its ecosystem for professionals.
Details of the Acquisition
The agreement involves Info Edge purchasing the remaining 45.36% stake from the founders of Coding Ninjas, thereby securing 100% ownership. The transaction values each of the 74,741 shares at ₹5,340.23, finalizing a multi-year investment journey. This move solidifies the platform's integration into Info Edge's corporate structure and long-term strategy.
The deal is structured with a multi-tranche payment schedule to be completed over several years. An initial 25% of the consideration will be paid upon closing, with the rest disbursed in three equal installments between 2027 and 2029. The cofounders of Coding Ninjas will remain with the company as employees, ensuring leadership continuity during the transition.
Strategic Rationale and Synergies
The primary driver for this acquisition is the potential for significant business synergies between Naukri.com and Coding Ninjas. By combining a leading job portal with a specialized coding education platform, Info Edge aims to create a comprehensive career development ecosystem. This integration will provide job seekers with direct access to vital upskilling opportunities.
A key objective is to leverage Coding Ninjas' expertise to develop and launch mini-AI courses for Naukri's vast user base. This initiative directly addresses the surging demand for artificial intelligence skills in the modern workforce. Ultimately, the synergy is projected to unlock new growth avenues and enhance profitability for the edtech platform.
A Long-Standing Partnership
Info Edge's partnership with Coding Ninjas dates back to 2020, when it led the startup's Series A funding round with a $5.2 million investment. This initial backing marked a significant vote of confidence in the edtech platform's model and vision. The relationship has since evolved from a strategic investment to a full-fledged acquisition.
The company progressively increased its stake over the years, reaching a majority 51% ownership in 2022 after a further infusion of ₹135.4 crore. This was achieved through a mix of primary and secondary share purchases, demonstrating a deepening commitment. This gradual increase in ownership has now culminated in the decision for a complete buyout.
Financial Performance and Broader Investments
According to recent filings, Coding Ninjas reported a turnover of ₹97.4 crore for the fiscal year 2026, alongside a net loss of ₹13.4 crore. These financial metrics provide insight into the platform's current scale as it becomes part of Info Edge. The acquisition is expected to provide the resources needed to steer the company toward profitability.
Alongside this acquisition, Info Edge's board approved an additional commitment of up to ₹180 crore to its B8 Fund I. This venture fund focuses on investing in growth-stage, tech-enabled Indian companies, reinforcing the company's broader strategy. This dual announcement underscores Info Edge's active role as both an operator and an investor in India's tech landscape.
The full acquisition of Coding Ninjas marks a pivotal moment for Info Edge, transforming a strategic investment into a core operational asset. By merging recruitment with education, the company is positioning itself to meet the evolving demands of the technology job market. This move not only strengthens its Naukri platform but also solidifies its commitment to building a holistic career ecosystem.