Post by : Badri Ariffin

Bajaj Housing Finance's stock experienced a decline of more than 9% on December 2 following significant block transactions involving approximately 22 crore shares shortly after trading commenced. The shares dipped to Rs 95, marking their lowest point since the company's debut in September 2024.

In multiple large trades, around 21.77 crore shares changed hands at an average price of Rs 95.39, resulting in transaction values nearing Rs 2,077 crore. This unexpected influx of shares resulted in a reduction of almost Rs 7,000 crore from the company's market capitalization, which fell from Rs 87,148 crore on December 1 to Rs 80,224 crore by 9:46 am the following day. Sources suggest that promoter Bajaj Finance was likely among the sellers during these transactions.

The stock's significant drop came just a day after the company announced that Bajaj Finance plans to divest up to 2 percent stake, equating to 16.66 crore shares, to ensure compliance with minimum public shareholding regulations. This sale is scheduled to occur in one or multiple tranches between December 2 and February 2026.

As reported for the July–September quarter of FY26, Bajaj Finance held a commanding 88.70 percent stake, while the rest is owned by public shareholders. A report from CNBC-Awaaz indicated a base sale price of Rs 95 per share for this intended sale, suggesting a discount of over 9% from the most recent closing price. A 60-day lock-in period for the block deal shares is also anticipated.

This slump in share prices represents a dramatic reversal from the stock's display last September, which saw it debut at Rs 150, a remarkable 114% premium over its Rs 70 IPO price. Even with a fall exceeding 36% from its listing level, the stock remains approximately 36% above its IPO price.

The sudden influx of shares, the discounted pricing, and the plans for promoter stake sales collectively prompted a swift market response, keeping the stock under pressure throughout the trading session.

#Global News #Share Market #Stocks