Strides Brings in Ascent Capital to Drive Next Phase of Growth for Pivot Path

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Strides Pharma Science Limited (BSE: 532531, NSE: STAR) has announced a strategic investment in its subsidiary, Pivot Path Private Limited, by a consortium led by Ascent Capital, with participation from Vintage Classic. The transaction values Pivot Path at approximately ₹2,300 million on a post-money basis and marks a significant milestone in Strides’ strategy of building and scaling high-growth businesses.

Under the transaction, Strides will realise around ₹1,000 million while retaining an equity stake of approximately 20% in Pivot Path. The investment also includes a ₹500 million primary capital infusion that will support the company’s expansion plans, technology development and global growth initiatives.

Pivot Path was incubated within Arco Lab Private Limited, Strides’ Global Capability Centre, where it developed specialised capabilities in life sciences consulting, digital transformation, quality and compliance, and technology-enabled operational services. As demand from pharmaceutical and life sciences companies expanded, the business evolved into an independent platform serving customers across global markets.

To support its next phase of growth and provide greater access to external capital, the business was carved out into Pivot Path through a Scheme of Arrangement approved by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in May 2026. Following completion of the transaction, Pivot Path will be classified as an associate company of Strides.

The investment was completed based on an independent valuation conducted by a SEBI-registered merchant banker, reflecting Pivot Path’s established customer relationships, differentiated capabilities and long-term growth prospects. During FY26, the carved-out business reported revenue of ₹1,447 million, including services provided to Strides, and EBITDA of ₹169 million, demonstrating a profitable operating model and a strong growth trajectory.

Commenting on the development, Badree Komandur, Managing Director and Group CEO, Strides, said, “Pivot Path represents our ability to identify, nurture and scale businesses with significant market potential. This partnership provides the company with capital and strategic support to accelerate growth while enabling Strides to unlock value and continue participating in its future success. We are pleased to welcome Ascent Capital and its investor consortium as long-term partners.”

Raja Kumar, Managing Director and Founder, Ascent Capital, said, “Pivot Path combines deep pharmaceutical domain expertise with advanced technology capabilities, creating a differentiated platform for global life sciences customers. We look forward to working with the management team to accelerate innovation, strengthen digital capabilities, and expand the company’s presence in international markets.”

Pivot Path delivers technology-enabled consulting, digital transformation and operational solutions for the pharmaceutical and manufacturing sectors, leveraging artificial intelligence, analytics and domain expertise to address complex industry challenges. The company is focused on helping customers improve compliance, enhance operational efficiency and accelerate digital adoption across the life sciences value chain.