Virat Kohli Advises Celebrities: “Identify Yourself with the Startup Before Investing
- ByStartupStory | August 16, 2023
In a recent email interview with ET, former Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli shared valuable insights into the world of celebrity investments in startups. As celebrities increasingly invest in emerging businesses, Kohli stressed the importance of in-depth research and alignment of values before committing to such ventures.
The Crux of the Matter
Kohli emphasized the significance of understanding a startup’s core values, offerings, and proposition before investing. He noted that this crucial decision requires meticulous research and a genuine identification with the brand’s mission. Kohli highlighted that while many brands have successfully capitalized on this trend, its long-term success remains to be seen.
A Booming Trend
In the recent past, several celebrities, including Bollywood stars like Kareena Kapoor Khan, Alia Bhatt, Sourav Ganguly, and Parineeti Chopra, have been venturing into the startup world by acquiring minority stakes in various mid-sized and emerging companies. This trend is seen as a significant boost for startups, particularly those seeking increased visibility and a platform to grow.
Kohli’s Insights
Drawing from his own experience, Kohli explained that the trend of celebrity investments can significantly benefit startups that need an extra push to gain recognition. He acknowledged the positive impact of celebrity association, as brands receive heightened attention through the star’s following on social media platforms.
Notable Investments
Kohli’s personal investments in startups include a diverse range of ventures, such as food and beverage D2C brand Rage Coffee, plant-based meat startup Blue Tribe, fashion startup Universal Sportsbiz, high-performance wellness brand Hyperice, and insurance-tech firm Digit Insurance. These investments reflect Kohli’s commitment to fostering growth and innovation across various sectors.
A Visionary Partnership
Kohli’s recent endorsement deal with French eyewear and prescription lens brand Essilor exemplifies his commitment to aligning with brands that resonate with his values. He noted that Essilor’s focus on transforming the eyewear industry and promoting vision care in India mirrors his own vision of driving positive change.
Financial Insights
Kohli’s significant influence extends to his social media presence, making him one of the highest-paid Instagram celebrities in India. According to a recent report by global social media planning platform Hopper HQ, Kohli charges Rs 8.9 crore per post on Instagram, ranking 14th in the Instagram Richlist of 2023.
In addition to his social media earnings, Kohli earned $31 million through various brand endorsements in 2022 and received $2.9 million in salary, according to a report by global digital content company Sportico. This impressive financial portfolio places him as Asia’s second highest-paid athlete.
A Promising Future
As startups continue to thrive and celebrities explore diverse investment opportunities, Virat Kohli’s insights serve as a guiding light for both investors and startups. By emphasizing the importance of shared values and purpose, Kohli encourages a holistic approach to business partnerships, paving the way for meaningful and impactful collaborations.
In a world where celebrity influence is substantial, Kohli’s wisdom encourages a mindful approach to investment decisions, ultimately benefiting both celebrities and the startup ecosystem.
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