In a significant legal development, private equity firm Blackstone-backed Singapore VII Topco has withdrawn its legal petition against Akash AoA Amendments before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). The dispute revolved around the proposed changes to Akash’s Articles of Association (AoA), a move that Singapore Topco previously argued would dilute minority shareholders’ rights while strengthening Manipal Education’s control over the company.
This withdrawal removes a major legal obstacle for Akash, allowing the Byju’s-owned subsidiary to proceed with internal restructuring, raise capital, and modify its governance policies. The move comes at a time when Byju’s is facing a $1.2 billion debt crisis, and control over Akash is seen as crucial to its financial strategy. The latest development suggests that Singapore Topco and Akash may have reached an out-of-court settlement, or alternative resolution mechanisms may be in play.
This article takes a closer look at Akash Educational Services, its financial background, the nature of the dispute, and its broader implications for the startup ecosystem in India.
1. Akash Educational Services: Business Model, Revenue, and Funding
1.1 Akash’s Working Model and Services
Akash Educational Services is a leading name in India’s test-prep industry, offering coaching for medical and engineering entrance exams like NEET and JEE. The company operates through offline centers, digital learning platforms, and hybrid models, catering to students across the country.
1.2 Revenue Model and Growth
Akash generates revenue through student enrollments, online courses, and test series. The company has experienced exponential growth due to the increasing demand for competitive exam coaching in India. Subscription-based digital courses and classroom-based learning are two primary revenue streams, supplemented by tie-ups with schools and institutions.
1.3 Founding and Funding Background
Founded by J.C. Chaudhry in 1988, Akash grew into a trusted education brand before being acquired by Byju’s in 2021 for $940 million. The deal was structured with 70% cash and 30% equity, with Blackstone and the Chaudhry family being key stakeholders. However, disputes over governance and shareholder rights led to legal complications, culminating in the latest legal battle.
2. The Legal Dispute Over Akash AoA Amendments
2.1 The Core Issue Behind the Legal Battle
Singapore Topco, a Blackstone entity holding a 6.97% stake in Akash, filed a plea opposing Akash’s AoA Amendments . The concern was that these changes would disproportionately favor Manipal Education, which had acquired a 40% stake in January 2024, while reducing the rights of minority shareholders.
2.2 NCLT’s Initial Ruling and Its Impact
In November 2024, Singapore Topco obtained an NCLT stay on the AoA amendments, preventing Byju’s from making governance changes that could impact Akash’s ownership structure. The lenders feared that Byju’s might use Akash’s assets or cash flow to manage its own financial obligations.
2.3 Singapore Topco’s Withdrawal and Its Implications
The withdrawal of the plea suggests that the parties may have reached a settlement or alternative dispute resolution. This move paves the way for Byju’s to proceed with governance changes, potentially monetizing Akash to navigate its ongoing debt crisis.
3. The Larger Impact on Byju’s and the EdTech Ecosystem
3.1 Byju’s Financial Troubles and Its Dependency on Akash
Byju’s, once a leading edtech giant, is currently dealing with a $1.2 billion debt crisis. With investor trust eroding and cash flow concerns escalating, controlling Akash is crucial for Byju’s survival. The ability to modify Akash’s governance structure enables Byju’s to explore funding options and potential asset monetization.
3.2 Market Implications and Investor Sentiment
The legal battle highlighted the challenges faced by edtech firms in corporate governance and investor relations. With the dispute resolved, investor confidence in Akash’s future stability may improve, potentially attracting new investment.
4. Learnings for Startups and Entrepreneurs
4.1 Corporate Governance is Crucial
This case underscores the importance of transparent and well-structured corporate governance. Startups should ensure that shareholder agreements and AoAs are drafted to prevent disputes.
4.2 Investor Relations Need Strategic Handling
Managing investor expectations and relationships is vital. Startups should engage in proactive communication with investors to avoid legal roadblocks.
4.3 Legal Clarity in Funding Agreements
Startups must ensure that funding agreements and ownership structures are legally sound to prevent governance disputes that can impact business growth.
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