India Equity Partners may buyout BJN, Sagar Ratna

India Equity Partners may buyout BJN, Sagar Ratna - New York-based India Equity Partners (IEP) is holding talks to acquire controlling stakes in BJN Group, which operates a chain of fine-dining restaurants under multiple brands, and Sagar Ratna, another large chain serving South Indian delicacies and operating mainly in the national capital region (NCR). The PE firm has roped in former Dominos Pizza and DLF Retail chief executive Arvind Nair to lead acquisitions. Each of these transactions, if clinched, would be worth anywhere between USD 40 to USD 60 million. (Times of India)

Just Dial may sell stake to a Malaysian conglomerate - Just Dial Pvt Ltd, a local search firm with pan-India presence, is understood to be close to striking a strategic deal with a Malaysian conglomerate picking up stake in the company. Global venture capital firm SAIF Partners may exit in this deal, if the investment from the Malaysian company materialises. Just Dial had raised its first round of venture capital funding of Rs 50 crore from SAIF Partners in 2006. Other investors include New-York based hedge fund Tiger Global and Sequoia Capital India. It is also understood that Just Dial is exploring a Rs 700 crore public offer in due course. (Business Standard)

Bharti will eye consolidation in India - Mobile phone operator Bharti will look for opportunities within India as the sector consolidates, Singapore Telecommunications CEO Chua Sock Koong said on Thursday. SingTel owns around 32% of Bharti and Chua sits on Bharti's board. (Reuters)

ADB to set up USD 250 guarantee fund for MFIs - India