French banking major Societe Generale acquired 3.2 million shares of Paytm’s parent One97 Communications Ltd at ₹1,305 apiece in a bulk deal on the NSE. The transaction underscores rising institutional confidence in Paytm, following recent exits by Antfin and a reshaped shareholder base aligned with regulatory norms.
Societe Generale steps into Paytm with bulk purchase
Societe Generale has made a significant entry into Paytm through a bulk deal, purchasing 3.2 million shares valued at over ₹4,176 crore. The deal comes amid heightened activity in Paytm’s counter, with Antfin (Netherlands) Holding BV recently exiting its 5.84% stake, eliminating Chinese ownership from the fintech major.
Market analysts view Societe Generale’s move as a vote of confidence in Paytm’s long-term prospects, particularly as the company sharpens focus on profitability, regulatory compliance, and expanding its digital financial services ecosystem. The acquisition also reflects growing global institutional appetite for Indian fintech stocks, which are increasingly seen as key drivers of financial inclusion and digital payments growth.
Major takeaways
-
Societe Generale buys 3.2 million Paytm shares via NSE bulk deal
-
Purchase price: ₹1,305 per share, total value over ₹4,176 crore
-
Antfin’s exit reshaped Paytm’s cap table, removing Chinese ownership
-
Institutional interest signals confidence in Paytm’s profitability and compliance strategy
-
Indian fintech sector continues to attract global investors
Sources: The Economic Times, Angel One