ITC Hotels, the recently spun-off hospitality division of ITC, made a strong debut in the stock market on January 29th, achieving a market valuation of INR 36,139 crore. This milestone positions ITC Hotels as the second most valuable hotel stock in India, surpassing East India Hotels (EIH), the Oberoi Group’s hospitality arm.
The standalone listing reflects ITC Hotels’ growing prominence in India’s thriving hospitality sector. Shares of ITC Hotels closed at INR 174 on the NSE, with trading volumes worth INR 439 crore. Meanwhile, ITC Limited, which retains a 40% stake in ITC Hotels, recorded a marginal dip of 0.51%, closing at INR 433 on the NSE and maintaining its market capitalization at INR 5.42 trillion.
ITC Hotels now ranks just behind Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), the parent company of Taj Hotels, which remains the market leader with a valuation of ₹1.11 trillion. This shift underscores ITC Hotels’ growing influence in a competitive market dominated by legacy players.
ITC Hotels plans to open 200 new properties over the next five years, signaling an aggressive growth strategy aimed at catering to India’s rising demand for both luxury and mid-market accommodations. With a robust pipeline that includes the premium ITC Hotels, mid-market Fortune Hotels, and economy chain Welcomhotels, the company aims to capture diverse segments of travelers.
The separate listing of ITC Hotels reflects broader trends in India’s hospitality industry, where strategic spin-offs and expansions are unlocking new value. As domestic and international tourism continue to grow, major hotel players like ITC Hotels are positioning themselves to capitalize on increasing demand for high-quality accommodations and innovative guest experiences.
ITC Hotels’ strong entry into the listed space not only boosts investor confidence but also emphasizes the evolving dynamics of India’s hospitality landscape. With its focus on sustainability, luxury, and diversified offerings, ITC Hotels is poised to challenge established competitors and further solidify its market position in the years to come.