Motilal Oswal Affirms Zomato's Resilience Against ONDC, Maintains 'Buy' Rating

Zomato, one of India’s leading food delivery services, is facing the possibility of competition from the government-backed Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). However, financial services firm Motilal Oswal Securities believes that ONDC does not pose an immediate threat to Zomato, considering its current scale and market dominance.

While ONDC’s entry into the food delivery sector has garnered attention, Motilal Oswal Securities suggests that Zomato’s position remains strong. The brokerage firm emphasizes that for ONDC to become a significant contender in the market, it needs to scale up significantly across various categories.

Motilal Oswal Securities maintains a ‘Buy’ rating on Zomato, indicating their positive outlook on the company’s prospects despite the potential competition from ONDC. The firm highlights the limited evidence of ONDC’s impact on Zomato’s operations, leading to the reaffirmation of their target price and the identification of potential upside for investors.

The emergence of ONDC as a government-backed player in the food delivery services sector has raised questions about the potential disruption it may cause to existing industry leaders like Zomato. However, Motilal Oswal Securities suggests that Zomato’s established market presence, brand recognition, and extensive network provide a strong foundation that can withstand the initial impact of ONDC’s entry.

ONDC, an initiative by the Indian government, aims to create an open and decentralized platform that connects buyers, sellers, and service providers across various sectors, including e-commerce, food delivery, and more. While its entry into the food delivery space signals potential competition, Motilal Oswal Securities emphasizes that ONDC must achieve substantial scale and expand across multiple categories to pose a significant risk to Zomato’s dominant market position.

Zomato, on the other hand, has cemented its position as a leading player in the Indian food delivery market, offering a wide range of restaurant options and convenient delivery services. Its strong brand presence and technological advancements have contributed to its success and customer loyalty.

Motilal Oswal Securities’ analysis and ‘Buy’ rating on Zomato reflect their belief in the company’s ability to navigate the evolving competitive landscape. While the emergence of ONDC may introduce new dynamics to the market, the brokerage firm remains optimistic about Zomato’s resilience and its potential to continue its growth trajectory.

As the food delivery sector in India continues to evolve, competition and innovation are expected to shape the industry landscape. Zomato’s proactive approach, coupled with its extensive network and customer-centric focus, positions the company favorably in the face of potential challenges.

Investors and industry observers will be closely watching the developments surrounding ONDC and its impact on Zomato’s market position. Motilal Oswal Securities’ assessment provides valuable insights into the current landscape and underscores the resilience and potential of Zomato in the face of emerging competition.

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