Convanto

All about Convanto. Convanto is a boutique Investment Banking firm focused on fundraising and consulting small, medium, and large-sized companies. Over the years, it has executed fundraising assignments for numerous Fin-Tech, B2B Tech and direct to consumer start-ups. With a range of services aimed at enabling young start-ups, Convanto works with professionals that help start-ups with services such as Fund Raising, Marketing & Growth Advisory, GTM strategic advisory and value-added services such as building Pitch Decks and Financial Models. #convanto #venturecapital #business #digitalmarketing #pitchdeck #pitchdecktips #startup #investorpitch #smallbusiness #familyoffices #investornetwork #billionaires #businessplans #globalcapitalnetwork #entrepreneurship #enterpreneur #marketresearch #startups #entrepreneur #graphicdesign #funding #venturecapitalist #mentorship #startupmentorship #fundraising #financialmodel #tech #investmentbanking

In this article, we zoom in on OYO's fascinating journey from its meteoric rise to a $10 billion valuation in 2019, through the turbulent years marked by failed IPO attempts, significant layoffs, and financial struggles, to its current position as a company on the path to recovery. Despite facing a series of setbacks, OYO has managed to stabilize its financials and even post its first-ever profit in 2024. We explore the key moments, strategic decisions, and funding rounds that have shaped OYO’s story. The role of promoter buying by founder Ritesh Agarwal, and the continued support from investors, paints a picture of a company with resilience and confidence in its future. As we delve deeper, we analyze what’s next for OYO, especially given the company’s decision to shelve its IPO plans for now. Vandana Tolani

Arya.ag achieved a noteworthy milestone in 2024 by becoming the first agritech startup to secure two funding rounds in the year. This accomplishment was underpinned by an 18% growth in operating revenue, reaching ₹340 crore in FY24, up from ₹288 crore in FY23, and maintaining profitability—a rare feat in the agritech sector. The Noida-based platform connects agri-produce sellers with buyers, offering farmgate storage, financing, and year-round supply solutions for farmers, FPOs, financial institutions, SMEs, and corporate agribusinesses. Its subsidiary Aryadhan adds value through warehouse receipt financing. Storage and warehousing income contributed the lion’s share of revenue at ₹212.8 crore, accounting for 62.64% of the total, with a 7.5% increase. Interest income on loans rose significantly by 27.2% to ₹55.4 crore, and other income added ₹71.5 crore. Including non-operating revenue of ₹13 crore, Arya.ag’s total income stood at ₹352 crore in FY24. On the expense side, the cost of services—its largest expenditure—grew marginally by 3.1% to ₹183.9 crore, representing 55.66% of overall costs. Employee benefit costs rose by 17.1% to ₹50 crore, while finance expenses saw a significant jump of 56.3% to ₹60 crore. Total expenses grew by 16% to ₹330.4 crore from ₹284.6 crore in the previous year. Despite the rise in costs, Arya.ag’s profit more than doubled, climbing 2.5X to ₹19 crore in FY24 from ₹7.6 crore in FY23. The company also reported a strong ROCE of 14.87% and an EBITDA margin of 25.3%, with an expense-to-earning ratio of ₹0.97. Arya.ag’s ability to scale while maintaining profitability reflects its strategic approach in a challenging industry. As it continues to enhance its offerings and secure investor confidence, the company is setting a benchmark for sustainable growth in agritech. Vandana Tolani

Traya’s growth over the past year is a compelling example of what a clear focus on customer needs and efficient execution can achieve. The Mumbai-based health and wellness brand, founded in 2019 to address hair loss through personalized solutions, recorded an impressive 3.8X revenue growth in FY24, reaching ₹236 crore compared to ₹61 crore in FY23. This growth enabled Traya to move from a ₹28 crore loss in FY23 to a ₹9 crore profit in FY24. Product sales were the backbone of Traya’s performance, contributing 99.36% of the total operating revenue, which stood at ₹234.5 crore. The remainder came from courier services and doctor consultation fees. On the expenditure side, marketing and sales accounted for 43% of total costs, doubling to ₹98 crore, while the cost of material procurement surged 3.6X to ₹54 crore. Employee benefits saw a 4X increase to ₹36 crore, and other overheads, including freight, legal, and travel, raised overall expenses by 154% to ₹229 crore. On a unit economics level, the company spent ₹0.97 to earn ₹1, reflecting improved efficiency. Its EBITDA margin rose to 5.04%, and its ROCE improved to 8.7%. Traya ended the fiscal year with ₹159 crore in current assets, including ₹85 crore in cash reserves. Traya has raised approximately ₹96 crore so far, with a significant ₹75 crore infusion from Xponentia Capital in April 2024. Other investors include Fireside Ventures, Kae Capital, and Whiteboard Capital. Its financial turnaround and sustained growth underline its ability to navigate challenges and scale effectively. Traya’s story offers insights into balancing growth and profitability in a dynamic consumer market. Vandana Tolani

A Year to Remember for Convanto As we bid farewell to 2024, I’m reflecting on a year filled with challenges, growth, and incredible opportunities. This year has been particularly fulfilling for Convanto as we collaborated with entrepreneurs and investors from diverse sectors. Key Highlights- Global Reach- Supported 30 companies across 15 countries in securing funding, spanning sectors like FinTech, EdTech, Consumer, HealthTech, and more. This year also brought opportunities to share insights and stories on platforms like The Knick Knack Show and INNOV-8. Engaging with students and aspiring entrepreneurs at events like the Startup Expo Case Competition at IIT Delhi, Masters' Union Startup Weekend, and Bizmind at MAIMS Delhi reinforced the power of knowledge-sharing and mentorship. Being recognized as a Pioneering Woman Leader in Investment Banking at the Real Bharat Rising Heroes 2024 event by Hema Malini was a humbling moment. It was a testament to the collective effort and relentless drive that fuels Convanto’s journey. The Power of Collaboration This year, collaboration was our cornerstone- ✔️ Partnering with startups to unlock their potential through actionable strategies. ✔️ Guiding ventures amidst challenging fundraising conditions. Here’s what our clients have to say: You can read the testimonials at Convanto 's Testimonials. https://lnkd.in/gtA7g8qd Looking forward to 2025 with hope, ambition, and the promise of continued impact. To all who supported Convanto, thank you for being part of this journey! Let’s connect and explore how we can create more meaningful milestones together. #2024Reflections #StartupEcosystem #Fundraising #Convanto

"As we welcome a new year, Convanto wishes you and your loved ones a 2025 filled with happiness, good health, and fulfillment. May this year bring you moments of joy, comfort, and peace. May you find time to cherish the people and things that matter most to you. As the Bhagavad Gita says: "Karmanye Vadhikaraste, Ma Phaleshu Kadachana" ("You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions." - Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 47) May we remember to focus on our actions and duties, and let the outcomes take care of themselves. From our family to yours, we wish you a happy and prosperous New Year. Warm regards, Convanto"

"As we welcome a new year, Convanto wishes you and your loved ones a 2025 filled with happiness, good health, and fulfillment. May this year bring you moments of joy, comfort, and peace. May you find time to cherish the people and things that matter most to you. As the Bhagavad Gita says: "Karmanye Vadhikaraste, Ma Phaleshu Kadachana" ("You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions." - Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 47) May we remember to focus on our actions and duties, and let the outcomes take care of themselves. From our family to yours, we wish you a happy and prosperous New Year. Warm regards, Convanto"

5 Landmark Mergers & Acquisitions That Defined 2024 As 2024 draws to a close, here’s a look back at five of the most impactful M&A deals that shaped the business landscape this year: Zomato & Blinkit Zomato acquired Blinkit (formerly Grofers) in an all-stock deal valued between $700M–$750M. This strategic move positions Zomato as a leader in quick commerce, combining instant grocery delivery with its food delivery services. Tata Group & Air India Limited Tata Group completed its $2.4B acquisition of Air India, including Rs. 2,700 crore upfront and Rs. 15,300 crore in assumed debt. The subsequent merger with Vistara aims to create a globally competitive aviation powerhouse. Future Group India & Reliance Retail Industries Reliance Industries acquired Future Group’s retail, wholesale, logistics, and warehousing businesses for $3.4B. This acquisition strengthens Reliance Retail’s position as India’s largest retail player. Reliance & Disney+ Hotstar Reliance and Disney merged Disney Star with Reliance’s Viacom18 in an $8.5B deal, creating a joint venture that dominates 85% of India’s streaming market and commands nearly half of television viewership. Mars & Kellanova Mars Incorporated acquired Kellanova for a staggering $35.9B, marking one of the largest global deals of the year and contributing to the resurgence of megadeals worldwide. These deals not only redefined industries but also set the stage for future market dynamics globally and in India. Which of these do you think will have the biggest long-term impact? Vandana Tolani

"Warmest wishes from Convanto this Christmas! May your holiday season be filled with love, laughter, and all your favorite traditions. May your heart be light and your spirit be bright. From our family to yours, we wish you a joyous Christmas! Vandana Tolani

Delhi NCR-based direct-to-consumer (D2C) haircare brand Arata has raised $4 million (approximately INR 34 crore) in a Series A funding round led by Unilever Ventures, with participation from BOLD, the venture capital arm of L'Oréal, and existing investor Skywalker Family Office. Founded in 2018 by Dhruv Bhasin and Dhruv Madhok, Arata has positioned itself as a key player in India’s personal care market, offering haircare solutions specifically designed for Indian hair types. Catering to diverse needs such as hair growth, dandruff treatment, styling, and maintenance for straight, wavy, and curly hair, the brand has achieved significant traction, serving 1.5 million customers annually and growing 3X in the last 12 months to achieve an annual recurring revenue (ARR) of INR 72 crore. Arata plans to utilize the new funds to drive product innovation, enhance consumer research, and expand its distribution network. Currently, its products are available on its website, quick-commerce platforms like Zepto, Blinkit, and Instamart, and e-commerce marketplaces such as Amazon, Nykaa, and Flipkart. The brand competes with established players like WOW Skin Science, Pilgrim, and Mamaearth in the rapidly growing personal care segment. This funding round highlights the growing investor confidence in Arata’s potential to scale and become a leader in India’s haircare market. Pawan Chaturvedi, partner and head of Asia at Unilever Ventures, commented on the deal, saying, "With a strong innovation pipeline and a solid foundation, Arata is poised for greater success in the coming years, and we are excited to be a part of this journey." Arata’s focused approach to addressing Indian haircare needs, coupled with its commitment to innovation and distribution, reflects its ambition to establish itself as a go-to brand for effective and inclusive solutions. What are your thoughts on this milestone and the future of D2C brands in India’s personal care market? Vandana Tolani