PhonePe, Flipkart, Zepto, Oyo Defer Dalal Street Debut as Conflict Chills Appetite

New-age startups are stalling IPO plans amid the US-Iran flare-up and tepid markets. Just 20 mainboard IPOs raised under Rs 20,000 crore YTD versus Rs 27,000 crore from six new-age listings prior. SEBI has extended IPO approval validity by six months, giving issuers room to wait out volatility.

— Filed Mon, 25 May, 2026, 04:55 IST · Source Times of India · Business · Updated

Indian startups including PhonePe, Flipkart, Zepto and Oyo are delaying IPO plans amid US-Iran conflict and weak markets. Only 20 mainboard IPOs raised under Rs 20,000 crore this year; SEBI extended IPO approval validity by six months.

Why this matters

PhonePe's IPO deferral aligns with a broader retreat by new-age startups including Flipkart, Zepto and Oyo, signaling that geopolitical shocks are reshaping listing timelines despite SEBI's extended approval window.

Retail-company signals steady at 1,051 over 90 days, reflecting consistent activity despite IPO deferrals.