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At 44, birthday boy Dhoni's risk-taking continues beyond cricket — a sneak peak into his investments

At 44, birthday boy Dhoni's risk-taking continues beyond cricket — a sneak peak into his investments

Economic Times07-07-2025
On his 44th birthday, MS Dhoni's investment portfolio reflects his risk-taking mindset, backing new-age startups in EVs, fintech, drones, and alt proteins through ventures like BluSmart, Khatabook, and Garuda Aerospace.
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1) BluSmart
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2) Khatabook
3) Cars24
4) Garuda Aerospace
5) Centricity
6) Rigi
7) EMotorad
8) Shaka Harry
9) 7Ink Brews
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10) Tagda Raho
11) Run Adam
Widely regarded as India's most successful cricket captain ever, birthday boy Mahendra Singh Dhoni's penchant for risk taking is replicated in his investment choices as well. A Tracxn data on Dhoni's portfolio shows his preference for emerging sectors like electric vehicles, fintech, drone tech and alternative proteins.Dhoni turns 44 today.Dhoni has put his money in companies such as BluSmart, Khatabook, cars24.com , Centricity, rigi.club, EMotorad, Shaka Harry, 7Ink Brews, Tagda Raho and Run Adam. The above themes remain a buzzword and in stock market parlance are referred to as new-age themes . None of the stocks are listed on Indian stock exchanges, so far.BluSmart provides an all-electric ride-hailing platform and is a Series A company (start-up). The company offers an EV-based cab service allowing users to book intracity rides via an app. The company has raised $167.6 million with a valuation of $336.7 million (Feb 2025). Notable investors include Survam Partners and Mayfield.Khatabook provides an app for kirana stores to manage payments, send reminders, and handle invoices. It has raised $186.6 million with a valuation of $600 million (Aug 2021). Key investors include Y Combinator and Surge.Cars24 helps users buy, sell, and finance used and new cars, offering vehicle valuation and related services. It has raised $1.08 billion with a valuation of Rs 3.23 billion (Feb 2022). Major investors include Exor and KCK Global.Garuda Aerospace builds drones for agriculture, surveillance, disaster management, and more. It has raised $49.3 million with a valuation of $259 million (Jun 2025).Centricity offers a SaaS-based investment management suite for independent financial advisors. The company has raised $24 million with a valuation of $116 crore (Oct 2024). Investors include Burman Family Holdings and Paramark Ventures.Rigi enables creators to launch and monetize online courses and groups, letting them earn from their social followings. It has raised $25 million with a valuation of $59 million (Sep 2024). Investors include Elevation Capital, Accel, Stellaris Venture Partners, and Titan Capital.EMotorad develops e-bikes with lithium-ion batteries and digital displays, targeting both urban commuters and recreational riders. It has raised$25.9 million, with a valuation of $51 million (Sep 2024). Investors include Green Frontier Capital and LetsVenture.Shaka Harry creates vegan meat substitutes like nuggets, kebabs, and stuffed parathas. The company has raised $2.6 million, with a valuation of Rs $12.4 million (Jun 2023). Backers include Better Bite and Blue Horizon.7Ink Brews offers craft beers and food products with a focus on premium culinary experiences. It has raised $7.4 million, with a valuation of Rs 38.5 million (Nov 2021). Key investors include BNP Paribas and Valam Industries.Tagda Raho offers patented, adjustable workout gear for home and travel-friendly fitness. It has raised $105,000, with a valuation of $4,99,922 (Dec 2023).Run Adam connects athletes, coaches, and fans, offering features like finding training sessions and booking sports events.
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