
'Search is a global phenomenon...'
Q&A with Vibhor Mehra, principal partner of SAIF (Soft Bank Asia Infrastructure Fund), a US based company, which has invested in Just Dial.
What do you consider before investing in a company?
We consider a multitude of factors, most important being viability of the business model, long term growth potential with external fund infusion, industry and competitive positioning, as well as the capability and passion of the management team.
What convinced you of Just Dial's success?
Just Dial fared extremely well on all the above parameters. Mani had, over the years, single-handedly created this unique business model. We felt that oiling the business with funds would scale the company to a new growth orbit.
Are you satisfied with your investment and the market's growth?
The company has continued to demonstrate strong financial and operating performance, and has consolidated its near monopoly position in the telephonic search space. In addition, it has launched and acquired leadership position in new search channels - web, sms, mobile etc.
Where do you see Just Dial five years from now?
In five years, I see Just Dial expanding its offerings horizontally (more customers) as well as vertically (more value addition for each customer). I would see just dial servicing five times the number of customers it does today, and providing them a much more enriched and fulfilling search experience.
What are Just Dial's global opportunities?
Search is a global phenomenon and the need is universal. India is typically the toughest market for a business to achieve viability, and given its successful track record, we're confident that Just Dial can successfully replicate the model in other countries as well.

‘Keep constant watch’: India amid Chinese breach report

‘Will provide 200 million doses to India for first phase’: Gavi deputy CEO

‘Infodemic on side effects has created anxiety’: Dr. Randeep Guleria

‘Want emergency fund, insurance for cabbies’: Vijay N

SC hints at avoiding cases with concurrent decisions

India's daily tally of new Covid cases less than 10,000 first time since June 9

Farmers' protest: SC refuses to step in on Republic Day tractor rally

580 adverse events reported in three days of vaccination

Covid-19 vaccination drive hit by hesitancy hurdle

Probe purported chats between Arnab Goswami and Partho Dasgupta: MVA partners
- The NCP demanded a joint parliamentary committee probe into the leaked WhatsApp chats, the Congress sought a probe under the Official Secrets Act and the Shiv Sena said demanded action against Arnab Goswami for breach of internal security.

MVA gains, but BJP may emerge as largest party in Maha panchayat polls

Govt assesses supply of Covid-19 vaccines to neighbours, developing countries
- Several countries have either signed agreements or are in talks with Serum Institute or Bharat Biotech, including Bangladesh, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Morocco.

Travel portals expecting better year; long-weekends likely to provide traction
- Long weekends around Republic Day, Good Friday, Holi, Janmashtami, Dussehra and Christmas are expected to see significant interest from travellers.

In probe against Khalistanis, NIA examines people linked to farmers’ protests
- NIA officials said that most of the people who appeared before the agency in the last few days, have been examined as “witnesses”.

Cold wave claims lives of two nomad children in Kashmir
- The family of nomads had been living in a ramshackle shed covered with tarpaulin and polythene in a forest area of Devsar in Kulgam district.