Nikhil Kamath, Co-Founder of Zerodha, Invests in Collective Artists Network

Nikhil Kamath, the co-founder of Zerodha, has recently invested in Collective Artists Network, a talent management and new media company led by Vijay Subramaniam. This investment is a secondary transaction, paving the way for a ‘5X’ return thanks to a strategic exit for InMobi’s Glance, which had invested in Collective in 2021.

Collective Artists Network, known for its comprehensive approach to the media landscape, extends its services into talent management, creator tech, production, creative strategy, influencer marketing, youth marketing, sports sponsorship and consulting, and media distribution. With this investment, the company aims to redefine creator-led new media businesses and ensure a wide-reaching impact in today’s dynamic media environment.

Earlier this year, Collective collaborated with Gruhas, a venture backed by Nikhil Kamath, to launch the ‘Gruhas Collective Consumer Fund (GCCF)’. This fund is designed to support consumer-focused enterprises by attracting external investments and providing financial backing, mentorship, and operational assistance, thereby enhancing marketing efficiency and building strong brand identities for portfolio companies.

Nikhil Kamath expressed his enthusiasm for investing in Collective’s vision, stating, “I’ve witnessed the company’s evolution over the last couple of years and I’ve known Vijay closely. I believe in his vision of transforming this space. We share a similar outlook towards the India story. I look forward to being part of this journey wherein Collective challenges the status quo and aims to redefine the media landscape and the creator ecosystem.”

Vijay Subramaniam, Founder and Group CEO of Collective Artists Network, emphasized the strategic significance of Kamath’s investment. “Nikhil’s investment is not merely a financial endorsement; it symbolizes the trust and synergy we’ve cultivated over the years. I have been clear since the onset that we need to institutionalize our space which has largely been unorganized. This vision will ensure we provide shareholder value and set new benchmarks in media, tech, and entertainment.”

Subramaniam also expressed gratitude to Glance for their valuable partnership, noting that Kamath’s involvement validates the trust placed in Collective. “Nikhil and I have known each other for the past few years, and during this time, we’ve come to share the belief that India is moving toward the center of the world. Media and entertainment will play a significant role in the country’s growth story,” he added.

Collective Artists Network has made significant strides in popular culture, undertaking projects such as Big Bang.Social, Collective Creative Labs, M19, and strategic acquisitions like Under 25 Universe.