Vodafone Idea is set to receive approximately Rs 5,836 crore from Vodafone Group. This comes as part of a revised settlement agreement between the two companies, according to their regulatory filings. The amendment outlines that Vodafone Group promoters will provide Rs 2,307 crore to Vodafone Idea over the next year.
Additionally, Vodafone Group has allocated its 328 crore shares in Vodafone Idea for the benefit of the latter. Vodafone Idea can instruct Vodafone to sell these shares in parts, with any cash proceeds being transferred to Vodafone Idea. As per the amendment agreement, these shares are valued at Rs 3,529 crore.
Contingent Liability Adjustment Mechanism
The Contingent Liability Adjustment Mechanism (CLAM) was established during the 2017 merger of Vodafone India and Idea Cellular. It addresses pre-merger liabilities related to legal, regulatory, tax, and other issues of both entities. Initially, Vodafone’s maximum exposure under CLAM was capped at Rs 8,369 crore.
After accounting for payments already made, this exposure was reduced to Rs 6,394 crore. The deadline for this agreement was extended to December 31, 2025. However, due to amended terms in the Implementation Agreement between the firms, a sum of about Rs 5,836 crore is now due to Vodafone Idea.
Financial Implications and Share Allocation
The revised agreement allows Vodafone Idea to benefit from the earmarked shares held by Vodafone Group. These shares can be sold in one or more tranches as instructed by Vodafone Idea. The cash proceeds from these sales will be transferred directly to Vodafone Idea.
This financial arrangement is crucial for Vodafone Idea as it navigates its current challenges. The funds and potential share sales provide a significant financial boost amid ongoing operational hurdles.
The strategic move by both companies aims to address outstanding liabilities while supporting Vodafone Idea’s financial stability. This development is part of broader efforts to resolve legacy issues stemming from the merger and ensure future viability.
With inputs from PTI
