Adani likely to win Jaiprakash Associates insolvency race, beat Vedanta

Core Viewpoint - Adani Enterprises Ltd is positioned to become the highest bidder for Jaiprakash Associates Ltd (JAL) in the ongoing insolvency process, offering a more favorable payment structure compared to Vedanta Group's bid [1][4]. Bid Evaluation - In early September, Vedanta Group initially emerged as the highest bidder with an offer of Rs 12,505 crore in net present value (NPV) [2]. - The committee of creditors (CoC) evaluated the bids and scored Adani Enterprises Ltd's resolution plan as the highest, followed by Dalmia Cement (Bharat) and Vedanta Ltd [4]. - The CoC is expected to vote on the resolution plan in the next two weeks [4]. Payment Structures - Adani Group proposes to make payments to lenders within two years, while Vedanta's offer includes back-ended payments over five years [5]. - Dalmia Cement's payment plans are contingent upon a Supreme Court judgment regarding a pending matter with the development authority YEIDA [5]. Promoters' Involvement - The former promoters of JAL submitted a last-minute offer to settle with lenders but did not provide a clear source of funds, which is typically seen as an attempt to disrupt the resolution process [6]. Company Background - JAL has diverse business interests, including real estate, cement manufacturing, hospitality, and engineering & construction, and was admitted into the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) on June 3, 2024 [7]. - The company faced insolvency after defaulting on loan payments, with financial creditors claiming around Rs 60,000 crore [8]. Business Operations - JAL's major projects include Jaypee Greens in Greater Noida and Jaypee International Sports City near the upcoming Jewar International Airport [11]. - The company operates four cement plants in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, although these plants are currently non-operational [12]. - Financial stress has impacted JAL's various business operations, including significant engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) projects [13].