Full Control, Full Power: Network18 Acquires Lokmat Media in Rs 25 Crore Masterstroke

Image Source: Moneycontrol

Network18 Media & Investments has acquired the entire stake of Lokmat Media in IBN Lokmat News for Rs 25 crore, making the Marathi news channel a wholly owned subsidiary. This strategic move bolsters Network18's regional dominance and complements its strong portfolio in India’s diverse news markets.

Network18 Media & Investments Ltd has taken a significant step in consolidating its leadership in the regional media space with the acquisition of the entire stake of Lokmat Media Private Limited in IBN Lokmat News Private Limited for Rs 25 crore. This acquisition, approved by Network18’s board on October 15, 2025, includes equity shares, preference shares, and a debenture held by Lokmat Media.

The deal marks the transformation of IBN Lokmat—the legal entity behind Marathi news channel News18 Lokmat—into a wholly owned subsidiary of Network18, solidifying Network18’s foothold in the Marathi news segment and expanding its regional news portfolio. The channel, originally launched in 2008 as a joint venture, was rebranded from IBN Lokmat to News18 Lokmat in 2017 as part of Network18's brand refresh effort.

Key highlights of the transaction and its significance include:

Network18 acquires 86.25 million equity shares, 22.55 million preference shares, and 1 debenture from Lokmat Media, gaining full operational control of IBN Lokmat.
Acquisition valued at Rs 25 crore in an all-cash, arm’s length transaction independently valued by Ernst & Young.
News18 Lokmat has demonstrated consistent revenue growth over recent years, with operating revenues rising to Rs 36.5 crore in FY 2024-25.
This strategic acquisition enhances Network18’s position as the largest TV news network in India, with a portfolio of 20 channels including 14 regional language channels.
The move is expected to strengthen Network18’s reach in the Marathi-speaking market, allowing greater synergy across TV and digital news platforms.
Chairman Adil Zainulbhai emphasized that the acquisition complements Network18’s mission to be the premier news destination nationwide by expanding their multi-lingual bouquet.
Network18’s rising viewership, particularly in regional markets, underscores the company’s robust growth despite challenges in the broader advertising landscape.

By fully integrating News18 Lokmat, Network18 is poised to leverage its regional leadership further and tap into expansive opportunities driven by government initiatives to boost consumer demand and digital content growth.

This acquisition completes by the end of October 2025 and is positioned to consolidate Network18’s status as a dominant player in India’s dynamic media and news industry.

Sources: BestMediaInfo, Scanx Trade, Business Standard, Moneycontrol, TipRanks

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