Published: October 5, 2026
StartupFeed Quick Take
- Ola Electric founder Bhavish Aggarwal pledged a 4.3% stake to join the rights issue.
- Nykaa added 14 stores, taking its total to 338.
- FinZ Finance agreed to transfer Rs 95.8 Cr in loans to Auxilo Finserve.
The Morning Five for Monday, October 5, 2026: what happened in Indian startups since yesterday.
1. Ola Electric Founder Pledges 4.3% Stake
Ola Electric founder Bhavish Aggarwal used a 4.3% stake as loan security to buy shares in the rights issue. An October 4, 2026 company statement confirms this is his only pledge and solely funds the purchase.
No shares are being sold. A rights issue lets existing shareholders buy new shares; Aggarwal will invest on the same terms.
Who should care: Investors in the electric two-wheeler market should distinguish a founder’s share pledge from a sale.
2. Nykaa Adds 14 Stores in the September 2026 Quarter
Nykaa added 14 net new stores in the September quarter, lifting its network from 324 to 338. The October 4 revenue update expects yearly revenue growth in the high twenties for the quarter ending September 30, 2026.
This is a provisional update. Fashion revenue growth is expected in the early forties, with more than 250 brands added this quarter.
Who should care: Beauty and fashion founders selling through Nykaa should track its wider store network and growing brand list.
3. PhysicsWallah Discloses Rs 95.8 Cr FinZ Loan Deal
Noida-based PhysicsWallah disclosed FinZ Finance Private Limited’s Rs 95.8 Cr loan deal with Auxilo Finserve Private Limited. The October 4 exchange filing dates the agreement to October 3, 2026, and expects completion within 60 days.
The deal follows PhysicsWallah’s earlier plan to shift student loans to outside lenders. Auxilo focuses on education loans.
Who should care: FinZ borrowers and founders studying edtech business models should track the 60-day transition.
That’s all for this morning. See you tomorrow.
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