Zepto beat Instamart. It still couldn't beat the market
Aug 4, 2026 · 14m
Summary
This episode examines Zepto’s delayed IPO amid a cooling Indian market and skepticism from mutual funds. Despite rapid growth, investors question the quick-commerce model’s sustainability due to high cash burn and intense competition. The host contrasts Zepto’s pure-play struggles with rivals like Zomato and Swiggy, which offset losses with profitable food delivery. Ultimately, Zepto faces pressure to prove profitability before relisting.
Topics discussed
Zepto's ambitious IPO plans and rapid growth metrics
Mutual funds reject Zepto, leading to IPO delay
Host introduction and weak 2026 IPO market context
Investor skepticism and cooling quick commerce growth
Why Zepto cannot be benchmarked against Zomato or Swiggy
Zepto's rising costs, cash burn, and intense competition
Zepto's cost-cutting measures and future outlook
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