Virat Kohli’s Startup Play: Brands, Bets, and Big Wins
In the world of sports, Virat Kohli is a household name. The Indian cricketer has been breaking records and setting new benchmarks with his impressive performances on the field. However, what’s lesser known is Kohli’s entrepreneurial spirit, which has led him to invest in a diverse portfolio of startups. In the past few years, he has invested over ₹100 crore in companies like Digit Insurance, MPL, Blue Tribe, Rage Coffee, and Agilitas Sports, across sectors such as fintech, gaming, plant-based foods, and apparel.
Kohli’s foray into startup investing is a strategic move that leverages his brand equity to drive visibility and value for his portfolio companies. By merging his brand with equity, he is able to create a significant portfolio that extends beyond his cricketing career.
The Rise of Digit Insurance
One of Kohli’s most successful investments is in Digit Insurance, a fintech company that offers insurance products to individuals and small businesses. In 2019, Kohli invested ₹50 crore in Digit Insurance, which was then valued at ₹1,500 crore. Post-IPO, Digit Insurance’s stake tripled, making Kohli’s investment worth a significant ₹150 crore.
MPL’s Gaming Empire
Another notable investment is in Mobile Premier League (MPL), a gaming company that offers a range of mobile games. Kohli invested ₹20 crore in MPL, which has since become one of the most popular gaming platforms in the country. In 2022, MPL’s valuation hit a staggering $2.3 billion, making it one of the most valuable gaming companies in India.
Blue Tribe’s Plant-Based Food Revolution
Kohli’s investment in Blue Tribe, a plant-based food company, is a testament to his commitment to healthy living and sustainability. Blue Tribe offers a range of plant-based food products, including vegan cheeses, yogurts, and snacks. Kohli’s investment has helped Blue Tribe expand its reach and product offerings, making it a leading player in the plant-based food space.
Rage Coffee’s Brewing Success
Kohli’s investment in Rage Coffee, a specialty coffee brand, is a nod to his love for good coffee. Rage Coffee offers a range of unique and exotic coffee blends, and Kohli’s investment has helped the company expand its reach and product offerings.
Agilitas Sports: A New Frontier
Kohli’s latest investment is in Agilitas Sports, a sports technology company that offers a range of products and services to athletes and sports teams. Agilitas Sports is a relatively new company, but Kohli’s investment has given it a significant boost, allowing it to expand its operations and product offerings.
The Virat Kohli Startup Empire
Kohli’s startup investments have created a ₹6.7 billion portfolio that extends far beyond his cricketing career. By merging his brand with equity, he is able to drive visibility and value for his portfolio companies, creating a successful entrepreneurial venture that is unmatched in the Indian startup ecosystem.
The Strategic Play
Kohli’s startup investments are a strategic play that leverages his brand equity to drive visibility and value for his portfolio companies. By investing in companies that align with his interests and values, he is able to create a diverse portfolio that extends beyond his cricketing career.
Conclusion
Virat Kohli’s startup investments are a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and strategic thinking. By investing in a diverse range of companies, he is able to create a significant portfolio that extends beyond his cricketing career. As a brand, Kohli is able to drive visibility and value for his portfolio companies, making him a force to be reckoned with in the Indian startup ecosystem.
Source:
https://ascendants.in/business-stories/virat-kohli-startup-investments-empire/
