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40% Of TikTok’s India Market Captured By Homegrown Apps

Redseer is a leading advisory firm that has provided insights to over 200 clients in the internet and investment sectors across India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. The document discusses the rapid rise of short-form content in India, driven by increased smartphone usage and a growing demand for personalized entertainment, especially following the ban of TikTok. The report highlights emerging Indian players in this space and emphasizes the need for innovative monetization strategies for sustainable growth.

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Rising amidst cluttered content space Short-form:
About Us RedSeer is a leader in the Internet and new age advisory. Over the last 11 years of its operations we have advised 200+ clients across the breadth of Internet and investment industry in India, Middle East, and South East Asia. Our advisory is differentiated through our high quality IP of market insights and research, which is unparalleled in Industry and helps both corporate and funds make right choices. With more then 200 consultants across 5 offices, we have emerged as the largest home grown regional consulting firm in India. Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space02
Preface Earlier this year, when pandemic hit the nation and globe, life halted grappling with the virus. However, it has started to return to a „New Normal“ with a significant change in our behavior across each touchpoint in our typical day in a life. Digitization, especially on some of the online shopping categories, payments and online content has seen an inflection point driven by a strong push due to lockdown and trust on the internet ecosystem Indians already had a strong need for entertainment, which is still growing with rise in young millennial population and digital penetration. With more than 550Mn smartphone users currently, which is expected to grow to 900Mn+ in next 5 yrs, there‘s a significant whitespace to be created for content players to capture. The rise in the content apps in last 3 to 4 yrs, with a lot of them focused on localized content is a proof of the strong need for entertainment in the market. Shortform, in particular, which has emerged as a breakout category, offering light and instant fun entertainment reached every internet segment in India, and saw good growth until the ban on Chinese Apps. Post ban on TikTok, a huge void was created and ~170Mn shortform users were left searching for options to entertain themselves at low cost. Some of the large Indian content players like Dailyhunt, Times Internet, InMobi, etc. launched their own shortform apps and FB, YouTube also started to offer short-videos in app, considering growth of shortform. New shortform players have been able to offer users a holistic experience to users with quality content creators getting onboarded. As Indian players innovate to offer fresh quality content everyday, shortform engagement is expected to resurge back to Jan and grow more than 4X in next 5 yrs. However, the questions still remains on the monetization front for the players and potential change in dynamics if the ban on TikTok is lifted. In this report, we have tried to decode the Rise-Fall-Rise of shortform space and who has emerged as the new winner post TikTok. Hope, you find it as an insightful read. For any queries or feedback, please feel free to reach ourdirectly to me at anil@ redseer.com. Anil Kumar -Founder and CEO, RedSeer Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space 03
Rising amidst cluttered content space Short-form:
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space 05 1. The big picture Large scale content consumption habits combined with a strong product-market fit makes India ripe for short-form content explosion p.06 p.19 p.28 2. Emergence of Short-form Short-form has emerged as the break-out category in cluttered content space with Indian apps leading the charge 3. Whom to watch out for? While the space is cluttered, with multiple players making noise, there are clear signs of ‘emerging winners’
1. The big picture Large scale content consumption habits combined with a strong product-market fit makes India ripe for short- form content explosion Key themes in this section: 1. India is the second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form entertainment content unfulfilled by OTT and YouTube
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space India has 2nd highest smartphone users globally… 560 40% 2.India 275 Mn 83% 30 Mn 84% 8.Canada 140 Mn 65% 4.Brazil 100 Mn 68% 6.Russia 900 Mn 65% 5.Japan 20 Mn 85% 9. Australia 80 Mn 63% 7.Mexico 100 Mn 1.China 80% 3.United States Smartphone Users, Major countries Mn (FY20) Size of the circle denotes smartphone users Xx% - smartphone penetration Disclaimer: The map is general illustration only, and not intended for any other purposes / references Source(s): Deloitte Mobile Consumer Trend Report, International data corporation, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Why smartphone users are growing in India ? Higher Affordability Avg smartphone costs reducing (less INR 11K) Chinese Players entry Chinese smartphone brands (Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus, etc.) have entered with cheaper smartphones and high value 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 07
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space …which doubled in last 4 yrs – a Thriving Digitization 20 0 150 300 450 600 750 900 1050 20102000 20202016 #ofsmartphoneusers 2014 2025F Internet enabled 2G phones Low cost 3G enabled Smartphones Jio - Affordable 4G LTE Desktop Internet 242 560 940 44 80M n per yr ~500 Mn+ new users in 10 years 1 ~400 M n+ new users in 5 years Smartphone Users, India Mn (FY2000 – FY25F) Notes: Some of the users have also upgraded to newer smartphones Source(s): Expert Interviews, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Key Drivers of Adoption 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 08
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Every 2nd person in India has internet; 45% of internet users used short-form… FY25 F – 1.4 Bn PopulaঞonFY20 – 1.3 Bn Populaঞon 970 760 580 506 404 600 450 275 244 140 10% 11% 16% Access to Internet Total populaঞon with access to internet Acঞve internet Users Uses social media, google,, but doesn’t transact online Online Service Users Transacts for services e.g. banking/recharge, but no products Online Shoppers Atleast one transacঞon on online retail plaorms in a year CAGR (20 -25) 23% 100% ~75% ~23% ~41% 100% ~78% ~42% ~52% Shororm Users Users who use short -video apps like TikTok, JOSH, MX TakaTak ~45% ~60% 16% Internet Users Funnel Mn (FY20 – FY25F) Notes: An internet enabled device could be used by user’s family and hence they are also counted under access to internet Source(s): Expert Interviews, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 09
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space …India’s internet growth capacitated by cheap data costs… Source(s): Cable.co.uk, Ericsson mobility report, Expert Interviews, RedSeer IP 12 9.8 8.58.2 7.5 5.8 5 4.6 IndiaChinaUSAWestern Europe North East Asia Central & Eastern Europe ME & Asia SEA & Oceania 12.55 10.94 8.38 8.00 4.06 1.81 1.39 1.39 1.01 0.81 0.68 0.61 0.52 0.43 0.09 Canada South Korea Switzerland USA Germany Spain UK Nigeria Brazil France Australia China Russia Italy IndiaIndia Data cost vs Data consumption Average cost of 1GB data in Feb 2020 ($) Data Consumption per month per smartphone GB, FY’20 Cheapest data cost in the world Cheap data costs, resulting in highest data consumption per smartphone 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 10
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Notes: 1. Content includes Social media, messaging, Short Form, OTT Video and Audio, YouTube 2. Other Apps includes mobility, Food Delivery, Fin-tech, Ed-Tech, E-Tailing, eB2B, Classifieds, Stay and Travel Source(s): Business Of Apps website, Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis ...resulting into highest content consumption per user... China Canada Russia Australia USA Germany Other Apps Content 288 Min 264 Min 210 Min 210 Min 200 Min 180 Min 145 Min 54% 44% 50% 50% 65% 54% 71% 56% India Avg Time Spent per smartphone user per day Min (FY20) 1/5th of entire day’s time, spent on smartphone in India Why content consumption is high in India ?? High content creation velocity Continuous content created on OTT & shortform New Content Apps launched Last 3 to 4 yrs seen high # of content apps launched Convenient Entertainment Rise in need of entertainment on smartphones 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 11
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space …and growing faster than global rate Source(s): internet world stats, nextweb.com, Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Annual time spent vs growth rate, Online Content Consumption, Top countries Tn Mins China , 10% India, 27% Brazil, -5% USA, 3% Russia , -3% Germany, -1% Canada , -4% Nigeria, 17% Japan , 12% Mexico, 6% Philippines, -8% Turkey, -2% UK, -1% France, 5% Thailand, -2% -15% -10% -5% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 )02’YFot91’YF(tnepSemiTnihtworG Annual Time Spent (FY’20) Tn Mins Leaders Growing push from supply (Apps launched, marketing, content library, licensed content) and consumers moving towards personalized media consumption Lesser annual engagement due to relatively lower number of users in smaller countries 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 12
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Proliferation of content ecosystem; short-form Cruising Source(s): Secondary Research, RedSeer Analysis Audio Short-form growth along with tradiঞonal plaorms launching OTT explosion Smartphone adopঞon & rise of internet + online entertainment Video PlayersintheIndustry ocal ntent SocialLo Con Launch Smartphone Growth Phase Content Explosion Phase Local content 20132006 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Chinese Apps Banned (Jun’20) Evolution of Content players in India 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 13
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Source(s): RedSeer Research, IDIs, RedSeer Analysis Free + bite-size fun unavailable on OTT => Strong need for short-form Large space left indicating strong need-gap for free personalized short-form Only a small part of user needs met by current entertainment channels …but users need…Current Entertainment platforms have…. 1. More Social Circle Updates than entertainment 2. OTT requiring high attention, time and isn’t always fun 3. High internet data and costs needed 4. Kids, Music and education are top YouTube channels 1. Funny media entertainment to relax than socialize 2. Reduced attention span demanding instant fun 3. Low-cost and personalized entertainment 4. Depth of entertainment options 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 14
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space 1. Need for “Media entertainment” “social”; Current offering is reverse Notes: Analysis Excluding YouTube Source(s): RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Avg MAU and Time Spent, Social Media FY17 to FY20 (Indexed to 100; FY17 =100) Annual Time Spent, Social Media vs Personalized Media Tn Mins (FY19 vs FY20) 142 134 50 70 90 110 130 150 FY20FY17 FY18 FY19 Avg MAU ~230 Mn Time Spent ~2 Tn Mins Avg MAU Traffic and Engagement on Social Media has grown conঞnuously… …but some of the engagement is shi[ed towards personalized media consumpঞon like OTT and Short-form ~330 Mn Time Spent ~2.7 Tn Min Baseline ( 100) 42% 38% 58% 62% FY19 FY20 Personalized Media Social Media 6.1 to 6.3 Tn Mins 6.9 to 7.2 Tn Mins ~4% growth ~20% growth FY17 FY20 13% 11% CAGR 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 15
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space 2. OTT focused on “long-form”, but need is “instant-fun” Notes: 1. Others includes Sports, Kids, cartoon, etc. 2. Top 10 originals Based on the IMDb rating 3. Analysis excluding YouTube Source(s): internet world stats, nextweb.com, Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Time Spent, by categories, Top 5 OTT Video Players Bn Mins (Oct’20) Time Spent on Originals, Top 10 Originals2 Bn Mins (2019 vs 2020) 20% 20% 23% 12% 24% Others DailySoaps Movies TV Series Originals Total : ~130Bn Mins 55 to 65 160 to 180 2019 2020 ~3X (~40 mins) (~35 mins) (X min) – Avg runঞme per episode Though ঞme spent on originals is increasing, it needs focus to watch and is not always fun Most of the consumpঞon comes from originals and movies, which needs high a‚enঞon span 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 16
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space 3. Wide gap b/w “free” “paid” OTT users implies need of low-cost entertainment Notes: Analysis excluding YouTube Source(s): RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis 238 225 10X gap Free Spike in lockdown Apr'20 May'20 Jun'20 Jul'20 Aug'20 Sept'20 gap Paid Users 64 4X Nelix USA Paid Users 15 16 MAU Paid Subscriptions vs Free MAU, OTT Video Mn, 2020 Lower willingness to pay of Indian users compared to USA; Clear need for free personalized entertainment at lower cost What this indicates?? 1. Lower Willingness to Pay for content 2. Need free personalized video content Short-form providing entertaining video content for free and at a lower data consumption Currently only 5% to 7% of the entire MAU are paid subscribers 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 17
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space 4. YouTube’s top 50 channels scarce on entertainment options Top 50 YouTube Channels, by # of subscribers Mn, 2020 Notes: 1. Entertainment Channels are the channels where short films, comedy content or entertaining episodes are shown Source(s): YouTube, RedSeer Analysis -10 10 30 50 70 90 110 130 150 170 T-Series ZeeMusicCompany ShemarooFilmiGaane AajTak ChuChuTVNursery SonyMusicIndia WaveMusic T-SeriesBhakঞSagar TipsOfficial SpeedRecords InfobellsHindi Venus ABPNews ShemarooFilmiGaane CarryMinaঞ ErosNow T-SeriesApnaPunjab CVS3DRhymesKids GaaneSuneAnsune GeetMP3 Rajshri IndiaTV DesiMusicfactory KhandeshiMovies Bollywoodclassics TechnicalGuruji WowKidz BBkiVines ABPNewsChannel Infobells-Tamil Infobells-Telugu JingleToons DSLNews SandeepMaheshwari WWRecordsBhojpuri Goldmines SaregamaMusic SETIndia ZeeTV GoldmineTelefilms YRF ColorsTV UltraBollywood SonySAB AshishChanchlani JKKEntertainment AmitBhadana VenusMovies SonyPAL Round2hell Entertainment Channels1 What this indicates? As top YT channels lack offering personalized entertainment content, Shortform has emerged as a perfect alternative for entertainment. 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 18
2. Emergence of short- form video category Short-form has emerged as the break-out category in cluttered content space with Indian apps leading the charge Key themes in this section: 1. The fastest growing content category and a broader mass appeal 2. Time spent on the category to get back to January levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 years
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Short-form emerged as the fastest growing content category... Source(s): Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis 905 900 1,000 Short -form FY20FY16 600 700 800 900 Short form ~180 Mn YouTube ~150 Mn Short-form ~20 Mn 400 500 600 OTT Video ~222 Mn OTT Video ~100 Mn 170 222 215 100 200 300 Baseline (100) Social Media ~330Mn YouTube ~325Mn Social Media ~200 Mn 100 0 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 ( ) Avg MAU for year– Content Sectors (FY16 to FY20) (indexed to 100) Impact of High growth of short- form Forced market Leaders to launch short videos in 2020 (e.g. FB, YT and IG short videos) 1. The fastest growing content category and a broader mass appeal 20
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space ...and dispersed across segments; Young and Metro highest penetrated Note: 1.Even though Penetration in Metro seems high, but most of the users come from Tier 2+ (around 66%) Source(s): Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Short Form Penetration, by segments % (FY20) Xx Mn – Internet Users reiTytiCyBpuorGegAyB 1 210 Mn 140 Mn 110 Mn 140 Mn 80 Mn 120 Mn 400 Mn Younger age group is the most penetrated, followed by 35+ yrs Tier2+ has seen high tracঞon but Metro is increasing since Apr’20 By SEC Classificaঞon 75 Mn 110 Mn 125 Mn 290 Mn SEC B and C has highest number of short-form users 32% 54% 27% 5% 14 to 25 yrs 26 to 34 yrs 35 to 44 yrs 45+ 40% 25% 30% Metro Tier 1 Tier 2+ 15% 23% 45% 30% SEC A SEC B SEC C SEC DE 1. The fastest growing content category and a broader mass appeal 21
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Source(s): Customer Surveys, Expert Interviews, RedSeer Analysis Depth of fresh new entertaining content everyday prime driver HighlightsStrengthofdriver Conঞnuous Entertainment Fresh Content Everyday Localized reach for creators Reducing A‚enঞon Span New and frequent Hashtag challenges intrigue customers High Quality content as per users interest Some of the hashtags with actors involved and based on recent happenings have seen the highest engagement Content Creators post more than 50Mn posts per day, combined across all plaorms Velocity of content creaঞon is the highest Time taken to create Short form content is lowest Lower income and Long Tail city users geমng a localized reach to users and perceived as a be‚er plaorm for them Short Form doesn’t need users to sঞck for hours like movies / series; start and end anywhere 10-30 second videos gain tracঞon among users. This works well as a‚enঞon span of users is reducing rapidly 55% users like watching video of less than 2minutes. The factor is a driver for short form video apps 1. The fastest growing content category and a broader mass appeal 22
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space TikTok created this unique entertainment need and category… TikTok, MAU Jun’18 to Jun’20 2X MAU growth in 2 yrs 170Mn MAU at peak Source(s): RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis 105 129 138 167 120 140 160 180 Jun’18 Jun’20 75 Mn DAU 85 105 40 60 80 100 Jun'18 Jul'18 Aug'18 Sept'18 Oct'18 Nov'18 Dec'18 Jan'19 Feb'19 Mar'19 Apr'19 May'19 Jun'19 Jul'19 Aug'19 Sept'19 Oct'19 Nov'19 Dec'19 Jan'20 Feb'20 Mar'20 Apr'20 May'20 Jun'20 – Addiঞon of popular influencers – In April, temporary ban due to wrong content put up on plaorm – Advanced content filtraঞon / moderaঞon process – Launch of EduTok – OEM Partnerships with Oppo – Increased hashtag challenges and college events – Lowered App store raঞng - negaঞve Chinese senঞment – Banned in June – Higher spend on markeঞng to increase reach and awareness – Higher focus on content creaঞon tools Jun’18 Jun’19 Jun’20 2. Engagement to get back to Jan levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 yrs 23
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space …which reached at par with OTT Video and higher than audio… Notes: 1. Analysis excluding YouTube 2. This Excludes apps which has short-video as an integrated feature (e.g Instagram Reels, Gaana Hotshots, Sharechat, Helo,etc.) Source(s): Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Total Time spent per month, Content Platforms Bn Mins Key Highlights Short-form growth driven by need for entertainment + high-quality content supplied • Lower data consumption higher entertainment options • Idle time in lockdown enabled more consumption • Some Hashtags like COVID had 100Bn views in just April alone Higher engagement in lockdown for OTT Video • New releases and watching older favorite series / movies on repeat kept the momentum Drop in music listenership • As commute halted, music listenership also nearly halted as majority of OTT Audio cohort usually commutes 192 194 120 165 39 35 Jan'20 Jun'20 OTT Video Shororm OTT Audio 35% -10% TikTok was around 85% - 90% of total shortform time spent in Jun’20 2. Engagement to get back to Jan levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 yrs 24
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space …but left a large void, majority of it yet to get filled Notes: 1. This Excludes apps which has short-video as an integrated feature (e.g Instagram Reels, Gaana Hotshots, Sharechat, Helo,etc.) Source(s): RedSeer Research, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Total Time Spent per month, Short-form Bn Mins Reasons for not shifting to new apps ~40% of TikTok time shifted to Indian Apps 2. Engagement to get back to Jan levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 yrs Some of the users are sঞll unwilling to shi[ from TikTok to new short-form apps 1. Lack of quality content Reason Strength of reason 7% to 10% 4% to 6% 85% to 90% Time Spent - June'20 TikTok Indian Players Chinese Players ~165 Bn Mins Time Spent - Oct'20 ~40% of TikTok opportunity captured by Indian short-form Players ~80 Bn Mins ~67% (55 Bn Mins) 2. Lesser number of posts / library 3. Value Proposiঞon of players 4. Lesser tools for content creaঞon 25
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Resurgence of short-form post ban; Expect exit at Jan levels Note: Analysis excluding YouTube Source(s): RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Time spent per month, Content Platforms Bn Mins (Indexed to 100), Jan 2020 = 100 Jan’ 20 Feb’ 20 Mar’ 20 Sept ‘20 Oct ‘20 Nov ‘20 Dec ‘20 Dec (2020) ~220 Bn mins ~115 Bn Mins Pre-TikTok Ban Recovery post BanJan (2020) Apr’ 20 May’ 20 Jun ‘20 Jul ‘20 Aug ‘20 OTT Video ~192 Bn mins Shororm ~120Bn Mins 134 37 95 114 ~39 Bn mins OTT Audio ~39 Bn mins 102 Growth of OTT Video during IPL Increase in short-form penetration for all Tiers Ban of Chinese Short-form Apps Improving content quality and # of creators on short- form apps Higher push, awareness and content library enhancements 2. Engagement to get back to Jan levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 yrs 26
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Source(s): Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Strong fundamentals and product-market fit will grow short-form by 4X Sr. No. Parameter Units FY’20 FY’25F Drivers for Market Growth A Internet Users Mn ~600 ~970 Increase in smartphone sales driven by a rising middle class, more digitalization through tech advancements such as 5G, etc. B % Short-form penetration % 45% 60% Shorter attention spans of Millennials and GenZ, Increased visibility for creators, need for entertainment, Vast vernacular libraries C User Base (A*B) Mn 275 580 D Retention % ~65% ~75% Short curated videos to be the primary source of entertainment (acting as fillers during breaks between daily tasks), Social community through short-form to aid in enhancing retention E MAU (C*D) Mn ~180 ~430 F DAU / MAU % 30% to 35% 40% to 45% High stickiness because of the wide array of content ( Challenges, hashtags, etc), monetization opportunities will aid in enhancing stickiness G Time Spent per DAU Min ~65 ~75 Enhanced tech engine ensures better personalization and content moderation, leading to increased daily engagement H Total Time Spent (E*F*G) Avg Bn Mins/ month ~110 400 to 450 ~4X 2. Engagement to get back to Jan levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 yrs 27
3. Whom to watch out for? While the space is cluttered, with multiple players making noise, there are clear signs of ‘emerging winners’ Key themes in this section: 1. Moats for the winning play Based on learnings from global successful models, we have created a capability framework for identifying ‘emerging winners’ with proven capabilities 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms Basis deep research on multiple aspects including personalization, user feedback and creator feedback- we have created a nuanced view of current experience on the platforms
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space All the global successful players had significant # of users and a robust Tech Engine to earn revenue + offering an ideal platform for creators to reach users Multifold growth in users and monetization for global players… Case Studies, Global Players Global Metrics, CY’19 Player User Base Revenue Key Highlights ~2.5 Bn ~$17 Bn + Strong content quality and social network attracting users; hence becoming one of the top advertising platforms globally ~1.5 Bn ~$18 Bn + High quality of continuous entertaining content creation to grow and retain users. as well as boost ad revenues ~2 Bn ~$15 Bn + Presence of Influencers / creators and a Go-To-Platform for online video watching across any genre; One of the best advertising platforms for local reach Source(s): Company annual reports, RedSeer Analysis 1. Moats for the winning play 29
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space ..defining major moats on users, creators and Tech Stack for winning short-form Moats for winning in short-form Descriptive Note : 1. Un-branded refers to content which is not created by large production houses/ publications but instead by smaller publishers and creators Source(s): RedSeer Analysis 1. Ability to acquire users at scale (+ create delight) Only a few players in Indian content ecosystem who went above 150 Mn MAU in a cost-effective manner 2. Ability to create larger creator network + library Creating “un-branded1 ” content at scale in multiple languages” with strong moderation capability to ensure content safety 3. Ability to offer personalization Driving personal or social recommendations on user feed for large scale user base Ability to monetize at scale Monetization per user has so far been lower compared to global benchmarks and need extensive capabilities (both human capital and tech systems) Moats for winning 1. Moats for the winning play 30
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Platforms with more than 25% awareness considered for further analysis Note : 1. Awareness include Top of the mind recall, aided and unaided awareness Source(s): RedSeer Analysis 1. Indian complete Short- video Apps   (JOSH, Roposo, Moj, MX Takatak, etc.) 2. In App Short-videos   (Instagram Reels, FB shorts, Gaana hotshots, etc.) 3. Chinese Short-Video   (TikTok, Snack Video, etc.) 100% 77% Users Surveyed Aware about shororm 44% 39% shororm JOSH MX TakaTak Plaorms with more than 25% 31% 21% Roposo Moj awareness considered 1 9% 5% Mitron Trell 4%Chingari Considered for analysis 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms Categories of Shortform Apps Descriptive Awareness, Complete Short-Video Apps %, N = 8071 31
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Benchmarked platforms on Personalization, User feedback, Creator feedback Source(s): RedSeer IP Experience benchmarking 1. User saঞsfacঞon Measures the user saঞsfacঞon across different touchpoints and parameters like content library, content quality, etc. 2. Creator saঞsfacঞon Measures the saঞsfacঞon of content creators across parameters like tools offered, reach provided, moderaঞon, etc. 3. Content Personalizaঞon Measures the ability of a plaorm to provide content to its users based on their interests and preferences 8000+ User surveys 200+ Creator Surveys 25+ Devices Analyzed Indicates ability to create delight and acquire users at scale Indicates ability to create large content library and creator network Indicator of strong Tech Stack Engine 33% 33% 34% User Saঞsfacঞon Creator Saঞsfacঞon Content Personalizaঞon 15+ IDIs Research Coverage Parameters Weightages 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 32
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Player with better UX and strong personalization leads the sector Note : 1. Based on parameter weights of 33% each Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis Highlights 1. Leader - JOSH Ability to decode user’s preferences and offers quality content through its wide creator base + higher reach to creators 2. Follower - Roposo Meeting most of the personalization needs of users with sizeable library and creative tools for content creation 3. Nascent - MXTakatak Highest satisfaction with data safety and tools offered to content creators Experience Score, by Parameters Scale 1 to 100, N = 829, 25 devices Indexed value1 (actual Value) PersonalizaঞonCreator Saঞsfacঞon User Saঞsfacঞon Overall ScorePersonalizaঞon 1. Leader 2. Follower 3. Nascent 56 38 40 14 13 8 9 29 23 6 9 23 (18) (26) (70) (23) (29) (69) (41) (38) (86) 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms Overall Experience benchmark 33
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space JOSH has emerged as the new winner Overall Experience Score Scale 1 to 100 1 56 2 40 3 38 What makes JOSH lead? Quality of content creators Extensive content library Decode context content of user preferences Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms Overall Experience benchmark 34
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis User NPS Score, Short-form Players (Q. On a scale of 1-10, how likely are you to recommend the app to your friend; 1- lowest, 10-highest) N = 631 Highlights JOSH A robust Tech Engine and high content quality, leading to higher the retention rates Roposo Content Library is sizeable and App experience has been seamless with faster browsing speeds MX Takatak Rated very high on data safety due to perception of “MX” being safe but low personalization Detractors Neutral Promoter 7% 45% 46% 46% 48% 39% 36% 41% 23% 18% N = 242 N = 210 N = 246 16% 18% JOSH leads on the back of quality content and better app experience 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 1. User Experience benchmark 35
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis User NPS Score, by Parameters, Short-form Players N = 631 What Differentiates leaders? High Quality and # of Content Creators Strong Tech Engine to understand content and context of user preferences Cover most of the categories under different hashtags and a clean interface Strong trust on parent brand Varied strengths of players; JOSH at forefront for content and personalization, MX for safety 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 1. User Experience benchmark Content Quality 0 25 50 75 100 Content Library Personalizaঞon App experience Content Diversity Data Safety 36
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis Detractors Neutral Promoter 10% 13% 10% 42% 45% 54% 48% 42% 36% N = 83 N = 64 N = 83 38% 29% 26% Highlights JOSH • High organic reach to users and the overall app experience to upload videos and get it moderated ( 3 mins to moderate video posted) Roposo • Options of effects and filters received well by creators, but reach is less MX Takatak • Tools offered to create the content and Data safety is perceived higher on MX but reach is less JOSH leading on the back of reach and app experience Creator NPS Score, Short-form Players (Q. On a scale of 1-10, how likely are you to recommend the app to your friend; 1- lowest, 10-highest) N = 198 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 2. Creator Experience benchmark 37
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Roposo and MX lead on “tools” offered, JOSH on “reach” creators get 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 2. Creator Experience benchmark Creator NPS Score, by Parameters, Short-form Players N = 198 What Differentiates leaders? Higher quality of users engage with high quality of video Ease of Content Creation Different themes, icons and effects to edit videos Strong trust on parent brand + Moderation process Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis 0 25 50 75 100 Post Reach App Experience Video Filters Creaঞon Tools Data Safety 38
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Measuring the degree of personalization offered to users 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 3. Personalization benchmark Personalization Framework Parameters Weightage Description 10% Measures the ability of a platform to offer different default content on different devices 40% Measures uniqueness of videos shown based on the language chosen and user’s interest, across different devices 20% Measures platform’s ability to showcase real time unique content across different devices basis user’s interest 30% Measures platform’s ability to show relevant unique content based on “search” and user’s interest, across different devices 1. Default Feed 2. Feed by Language 3. Real Time Feed 4. Feed by Search Research Multiple devices were scanned and analyzed across each parameter to measure personalization 25+ unique devices analyzed 15+ IDIs with users Source(s): RedSeer IP 39
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Source(s): Consumer Research, IDIs, RedSeer Analysis, RedSeer IP Highlights 1. JOSH • Ability to decode user‘s preferences • Offers unique content (feed) based on preference of language and category / genre searched by each user 2. Roposo • Slightly lower degree of personalization when it offers similar feed to every user during an active session 3. Nascent • MX continuously offers new content in an active session but lags on understanding the language context and search Personalization Score Scale 1 to 100, N = 26 devices for each App Feed by Language Real ঞme Feed Changes Feed by Search Default Feed Overall Score 80 100 100 80 90 70 80 8050 5070 100 86 70 69 JOSH Won; has deeper understanding of users interest and preferences 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 3. Personalization benchmark 40
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Roposo and MX had similar content for ~50% of devices, while JOSH had unique personalized videos ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE Device 1 Device 3 Device 2 Device 4 Device 1 Device 3 Device 2 Device 4 Device 1 Device 3 Device 2 Device 4 All the devices had different unique videos based on user’s interest 50% of videos were same across different devices 3 / 4 devices had same video; only 25% were unique JOSH Roposo MX Takatak Source(s): Consumer Survey, Device Analysis, RedSeer Analysis 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 3. Personalization benchmark 41
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Based on User feedback, JOSH, Roposo and MX Takatak have demonstrated capabilities for high growth Notes: 1. While US players like Facebook/ YouTube have also been active in this space launching in-app features like Youtube Shorts/ Facebook Short Videos, Instagram Reels, we have not considered them for this comparison 2. There are some Chinese players still active in this space in India, but those have not been considered due to regulatory uncertainty Source(s): Expert Interviews, RedSeer Analysis Player Analysis, by Moats Descriptive MOAT JOSH Roposo MX Takatak Moj Chingari Mitron Trell 1. Ability to acquire users at scale (+ create delight) High awareness, Well funded and already proven company with 300+ users on parent company - Dailyhunt Oldest player, backed by In-Mobi group+ Glance App (primarily B2B tech space) App by established content player (Times Group) and hence understands users in content in depth Slower growth in MAU compared to the industry • User Base is growing but at a slower pace • Tech Engine is still getting enhanced to offer personalization and new content. Yet to prove tech capability • Lesser user base, so might take relatively higher time to monetize at scale. 2. Ability to create a large creator network and content library Onboarded most of the famous influencers and has demonstrated high content creation velocity Older player in the ecosystem and has been creating content with some well-known local influencers Experienced in creating content for users through its umbrella of other content Apps Relatively lesser satisfaction on video content on ShareChat itself 3. Ability to offer personalization Strong Tech Stack with existing Dailyhunt App experience + proven moderation of content on JOSH to have personalization In-Mobi and glance have been able to decipher user behaviors and have targeted reach through personalization Monetary capabilities to enhance already existing tech capabilities Already invested in improving Tech and data server capabilities to have better Tech Engine 4. Ability to monetize at scale High retention and increasing, organic userbase growing continuously Existing monetization channel + InMobi has been deeper views on internet users to target them with right ads Parent company is already well versed (in Gaana MX player) with user monetizing techniques Lower monetization for the MAUs on ShareChat; So, capability not proven 42
Player Profile
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Player Analysis: Roposo Founded November 2014 Parent Company InMobi Sessions / DAU 3-4 MAU 60-65 Mn Time Spent / DAU 18-20 Min Roposo is one of the oldest short-form apps present in India. Launched even before Jio or TikTok came into play, it offers an extensive library of content across 11 languages and has more than 100Mn downloads on App store DAU 12-14 Mn 44
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Player Analysis: Josh Founded July 2020 Parent Company Daily Hunt Sessions / DAU 2.5-3 MAU 70-75 Mn Time Spent / DAU 20-25 Min One of the first platform to be launched immediately after the ban on Chinese Short-form apps, JOSH has been the most agile to grow its app through multiple new feature additions, high quality content creators and product upgrades in a short span. It has been rated one of the highest on play store with 4.3 rating DAU 30-35 Mn 45
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Player Analysis: MX Takatak Founded July 2020 Parent Company MXP Media India Sessions / DAU 3-3.5 MAU 55-60 Mn Time Spent / DAU 22-24 Min MX Takatak launched, just after the ban, carries the brand tag of MX Player along with it. In a short time, it has been able to garner high quality creators and also building a clean app interface for users. It can be accessed both in MX Player App or separately as well and comes in 10+ languages DAU 20-25 Mn 46
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Player Analysis: Moj Founded June 2020 Parent Company Sharechat Sessions / DAU 3.5-4 MAU 38-42 Mn Time Spent / DAU 30-35 Min Moj is a short-form app launched by ShareChat. With the already existing expertise of ShareChat app, Moj app has been able to engage the users quite significantly and is one of the highest in the industry. It comes in more than 15 languages, and offers great quality of tools to its creators. DAU 7-8 Mn 47
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Glossary Internet Users Unique users in India who have access to internet and use it atleast once a year Short-form Apps Apps which offer only short videos in their App and doesn’t include text, images, songs, etc. SEC Socio-Economic classification Virality Time Spent per post per month Metros Top eigMumbaiht cities by population in India : Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi/ NCR, Hyderabad, Kolkata,, and Pune Tier 1 cities Tier 1 cities are non-metro cities with population of more than 1 million Tier 2 cities Tier 2 cities are cities with population between half a million to 1 million Tier 3+ Tier 3+ cities are cities/ villages with population of less than half a million 48
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space Anil Kumar Founder and CEO Anil Kumar is the founder of RedSeer Consulting. He has been part of engagements in Internet, Private Equity, Retail CPG and Healthcare among others and specializes in growth and investment strategies. His consulting approaches leverages Data IP, sector expertise and the client’s core hypotheses. He holds a B.Tech from IIT-Delhi. He can be reached at anil@redseer.com Mughil M Business Analyst Mughil is a Business Analyst at Redseer. He has experience in industry landscaping in sectors such as content, healthcare, and CPG in India. He has developed deep understanding of the key metrics and industry growth drivers in these sectors. He is a Delhi Technological Univeristy alumnus. He can be reached at mughil@redseerconsulting.com Ujjwal Chaudhry Associate Partner Ujjwal heads the „benchmarks“ practice at RedSeer. He brings 10+ years of experience in Consulting and internet sectors, with focus on growth strategy, Due Diligences, Market assessment, Portfolio Strategy, and has helped large corporates in entering and launching new products. He holds a B.Tech from IIT, Delhi. He can be reached at ujjwal@redseerconsulting.com Nikhil Dalal Senior Consultant Nikhil leads the content and FinTech practice at RedSeer. He has 4+ yrs of experience working in internet sectors across consulting, growth strategy, Go To Market and Competitive benchmarking. He holds MBA from IIM, Ranchi He can be reached at nikhildalal@redseerconsulting.com Srishti Pratap Associate Consultant Srishti is an Associate Consultant at RedSeer and has a diverse experience of 4 years holding expertise in FMCG, Content and Retail sector and internet sectors. She brings in experience in Business Strategy and Business-Tech Services. She holds a B.Tech in Information Technology from GGSIP University, Delhi. She can be reached at srishti@redseerconsulting. Team Introductions 49
Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space50 Disclaimer Copyright © RedSeer Management Consulting Private Limited (“RedSeer”). All rights reserved. While we have made every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this report has been obtained from reliable sources, all data and information provided in this report is intended solely for information purposes and general guidance on matters of interest for the personal use of the reader, who shall accept full responsibility for its use. RedSeer does and seeks to do business with companies covered in its research reports. As a result, readers should be aware that RedSeer may have a conflict of interest that could affect the objectivity of the report. All information in this report is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, of the results obtained from the use of this information, and without warranty of any kind, express or implied, including, but not limited to warranties of performance, merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Given the changing nature of laws and the inherent hazards of electronic communication, there may be delays, omissions or inaccuracies in the information contained in this report. Accordingly, the information in this report is provided with the understanding that the authors herein are not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, tax, or other professional advice or services. As such, it should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional advisers. This report cannot be sold for consideration, within or outside India, without the express written permission of RedSeer. In no event shall RedSeer or its partners, employees or agents, be liable to you or anyone else for any decision made or action taken in reliance on the information in this report or for any errors, omissions, or delays in the content of this report or any losses, injuries, or damages including any incidental or any consequential, special or similar loss or damages, arising out of, or in connection with the use of this report.
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40% Of TikTok’s India Market Captured By Homegrown Apps

  • 1.
  • 2.
    About Us RedSeer isa leader in the Internet and new age advisory. Over the last 11 years of its operations we have advised 200+ clients across the breadth of Internet and investment industry in India, Middle East, and South East Asia. Our advisory is differentiated through our high quality IP of market insights and research, which is unparalleled in Industry and helps both corporate and funds make right choices. With more then 200 consultants across 5 offices, we have emerged as the largest home grown regional consulting firm in India. Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space02
  • 3.
    Preface Earlier this year,when pandemic hit the nation and globe, life halted grappling with the virus. However, it has started to return to a „New Normal“ with a significant change in our behavior across each touchpoint in our typical day in a life. Digitization, especially on some of the online shopping categories, payments and online content has seen an inflection point driven by a strong push due to lockdown and trust on the internet ecosystem Indians already had a strong need for entertainment, which is still growing with rise in young millennial population and digital penetration. With more than 550Mn smartphone users currently, which is expected to grow to 900Mn+ in next 5 yrs, there‘s a significant whitespace to be created for content players to capture. The rise in the content apps in last 3 to 4 yrs, with a lot of them focused on localized content is a proof of the strong need for entertainment in the market. Shortform, in particular, which has emerged as a breakout category, offering light and instant fun entertainment reached every internet segment in India, and saw good growth until the ban on Chinese Apps. Post ban on TikTok, a huge void was created and ~170Mn shortform users were left searching for options to entertain themselves at low cost. Some of the large Indian content players like Dailyhunt, Times Internet, InMobi, etc. launched their own shortform apps and FB, YouTube also started to offer short-videos in app, considering growth of shortform. New shortform players have been able to offer users a holistic experience to users with quality content creators getting onboarded. As Indian players innovate to offer fresh quality content everyday, shortform engagement is expected to resurge back to Jan and grow more than 4X in next 5 yrs. However, the questions still remains on the monetization front for the players and potential change in dynamics if the ban on TikTok is lifted. In this report, we have tried to decode the Rise-Fall-Rise of shortform space and who has emerged as the new winner post TikTok. Hope, you find it as an insightful read. For any queries or feedback, please feel free to reach ourdirectly to me at anil@ redseer.com. Anil Kumar -Founder and CEO, RedSeer Short-form: Rising amidst cluttered content space 03
  • 4.
  • 5.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space 05 1. The big picture Large scale content consumption habits combined with a strong product-market fit makes India ripe for short-form content explosion p.06 p.19 p.28 2. Emergence of Short-form Short-form has emerged as the break-out category in cluttered content space with Indian apps leading the charge 3. Whom to watch out for? While the space is cluttered, with multiple players making noise, there are clear signs of ‘emerging winners’
  • 6.
    1. The bigpicture Large scale content consumption habits combined with a strong product-market fit makes India ripe for short- form content explosion Key themes in this section: 1. India is the second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form entertainment content unfulfilled by OTT and YouTube
  • 7.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space India has 2nd highest smartphone users globally… 560 40% 2.India 275 Mn 83% 30 Mn 84% 8.Canada 140 Mn 65% 4.Brazil 100 Mn 68% 6.Russia 900 Mn 65% 5.Japan 20 Mn 85% 9. Australia 80 Mn 63% 7.Mexico 100 Mn 1.China 80% 3.United States Smartphone Users, Major countries Mn (FY20) Size of the circle denotes smartphone users Xx% - smartphone penetration Disclaimer: The map is general illustration only, and not intended for any other purposes / references Source(s): Deloitte Mobile Consumer Trend Report, International data corporation, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Why smartphone users are growing in India ? Higher Affordability Avg smartphone costs reducing (less INR 11K) Chinese Players entry Chinese smartphone brands (Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus, etc.) have entered with cheaper smartphones and high value 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 07
  • 8.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space …which doubled in last 4 yrs – a Thriving Digitization 20 0 150 300 450 600 750 900 1050 20102000 20202016 #ofsmartphoneusers 2014 2025F Internet enabled 2G phones Low cost 3G enabled Smartphones Jio - Affordable 4G LTE Desktop Internet 242 560 940 44 80M n per yr ~500 Mn+ new users in 10 years 1 ~400 M n+ new users in 5 years Smartphone Users, India Mn (FY2000 – FY25F) Notes: Some of the users have also upgraded to newer smartphones Source(s): Expert Interviews, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Key Drivers of Adoption 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 08
  • 9.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Every 2nd person in India has internet; 45% of internet users used short-form… FY25 F – 1.4 Bn PopulaঞonFY20 – 1.3 Bn Populaঞon 970 760 580 506 404 600 450 275 244 140 10% 11% 16% Access to Internet Total populaঞon with access to internet Acঞve internet Users Uses social media, google,, but doesn’t transact online Online Service Users Transacts for services e.g. banking/recharge, but no products Online Shoppers Atleast one transacঞon on online retail plaorms in a year CAGR (20 -25) 23% 100% ~75% ~23% ~41% 100% ~78% ~42% ~52% Shororm Users Users who use short -video apps like TikTok, JOSH, MX TakaTak ~45% ~60% 16% Internet Users Funnel Mn (FY20 – FY25F) Notes: An internet enabled device could be used by user’s family and hence they are also counted under access to internet Source(s): Expert Interviews, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 09
  • 10.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space …India’s internet growth capacitated by cheap data costs… Source(s): Cable.co.uk, Ericsson mobility report, Expert Interviews, RedSeer IP 12 9.8 8.58.2 7.5 5.8 5 4.6 IndiaChinaUSAWestern Europe North East Asia Central & Eastern Europe ME & Asia SEA & Oceania 12.55 10.94 8.38 8.00 4.06 1.81 1.39 1.39 1.01 0.81 0.68 0.61 0.52 0.43 0.09 Canada South Korea Switzerland USA Germany Spain UK Nigeria Brazil France Australia China Russia Italy IndiaIndia Data cost vs Data consumption Average cost of 1GB data in Feb 2020 ($) Data Consumption per month per smartphone GB, FY’20 Cheapest data cost in the world Cheap data costs, resulting in highest data consumption per smartphone 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 10
  • 11.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Notes: 1. Content includes Social media, messaging, Short Form, OTT Video and Audio, YouTube 2. Other Apps includes mobility, Food Delivery, Fin-tech, Ed-Tech, E-Tailing, eB2B, Classifieds, Stay and Travel Source(s): Business Of Apps website, Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis ...resulting into highest content consumption per user... China Canada Russia Australia USA Germany Other Apps Content 288 Min 264 Min 210 Min 210 Min 200 Min 180 Min 145 Min 54% 44% 50% 50% 65% 54% 71% 56% India Avg Time Spent per smartphone user per day Min (FY20) 1/5th of entire day’s time, spent on smartphone in India Why content consumption is high in India ?? High content creation velocity Continuous content created on OTT & shortform New Content Apps launched Last 3 to 4 yrs seen high # of content apps launched Convenient Entertainment Rise in need of entertainment on smartphones 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 11
  • 12.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space …and growing faster than global rate Source(s): internet world stats, nextweb.com, Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Annual time spent vs growth rate, Online Content Consumption, Top countries Tn Mins China , 10% India, 27% Brazil, -5% USA, 3% Russia , -3% Germany, -1% Canada , -4% Nigeria, 17% Japan , 12% Mexico, 6% Philippines, -8% Turkey, -2% UK, -1% France, 5% Thailand, -2% -15% -10% -5% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 )02’YFot91’YF(tnepSemiTnihtworG Annual Time Spent (FY’20) Tn Mins Leaders Growing push from supply (Apps launched, marketing, content library, licensed content) and consumers moving towards personalized media consumption Lesser annual engagement due to relatively lower number of users in smaller countries 1. Second largest and fast-growing content consumption market 12
  • 13.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Proliferation of content ecosystem; short-form Cruising Source(s): Secondary Research, RedSeer Analysis Audio Short-form growth along with tradiঞonal plaorms launching OTT explosion Smartphone adopঞon & rise of internet + online entertainment Video PlayersintheIndustry ocal ntent SocialLo Con Launch Smartphone Growth Phase Content Explosion Phase Local content 20132006 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Chinese Apps Banned (Jun’20) Evolution of Content players in India 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 13
  • 14.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Source(s): RedSeer Research, IDIs, RedSeer Analysis Free + bite-size fun unavailable on OTT => Strong need for short-form Large space left indicating strong need-gap for free personalized short-form Only a small part of user needs met by current entertainment channels …but users need…Current Entertainment platforms have…. 1. More Social Circle Updates than entertainment 2. OTT requiring high attention, time and isn’t always fun 3. High internet data and costs needed 4. Kids, Music and education are top YouTube channels 1. Funny media entertainment to relax than socialize 2. Reduced attention span demanding instant fun 3. Low-cost and personalized entertainment 4. Depth of entertainment options 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 14
  • 15.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space 1. Need for “Media entertainment” “social”; Current offering is reverse Notes: Analysis Excluding YouTube Source(s): RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Avg MAU and Time Spent, Social Media FY17 to FY20 (Indexed to 100; FY17 =100) Annual Time Spent, Social Media vs Personalized Media Tn Mins (FY19 vs FY20) 142 134 50 70 90 110 130 150 FY20FY17 FY18 FY19 Avg MAU ~230 Mn Time Spent ~2 Tn Mins Avg MAU Traffic and Engagement on Social Media has grown conঞnuously… …but some of the engagement is shi[ed towards personalized media consumpঞon like OTT and Short-form ~330 Mn Time Spent ~2.7 Tn Min Baseline ( 100) 42% 38% 58% 62% FY19 FY20 Personalized Media Social Media 6.1 to 6.3 Tn Mins 6.9 to 7.2 Tn Mins ~4% growth ~20% growth FY17 FY20 13% 11% CAGR 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 15
  • 16.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space 2. OTT focused on “long-form”, but need is “instant-fun” Notes: 1. Others includes Sports, Kids, cartoon, etc. 2. Top 10 originals Based on the IMDb rating 3. Analysis excluding YouTube Source(s): internet world stats, nextweb.com, Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Time Spent, by categories, Top 5 OTT Video Players Bn Mins (Oct’20) Time Spent on Originals, Top 10 Originals2 Bn Mins (2019 vs 2020) 20% 20% 23% 12% 24% Others DailySoaps Movies TV Series Originals Total : ~130Bn Mins 55 to 65 160 to 180 2019 2020 ~3X (~40 mins) (~35 mins) (X min) – Avg runঞme per episode Though ঞme spent on originals is increasing, it needs focus to watch and is not always fun Most of the consumpঞon comes from originals and movies, which needs high a‚enঞon span 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 16
  • 17.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space 3. Wide gap b/w “free” “paid” OTT users implies need of low-cost entertainment Notes: Analysis excluding YouTube Source(s): RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis 238 225 10X gap Free Spike in lockdown Apr'20 May'20 Jun'20 Jul'20 Aug'20 Sept'20 gap Paid Users 64 4X Nelix USA Paid Users 15 16 MAU Paid Subscriptions vs Free MAU, OTT Video Mn, 2020 Lower willingness to pay of Indian users compared to USA; Clear need for free personalized entertainment at lower cost What this indicates?? 1. Lower Willingness to Pay for content 2. Need free personalized video content Short-form providing entertaining video content for free and at a lower data consumption Currently only 5% to 7% of the entire MAU are paid subscribers 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 17
  • 18.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space 4. YouTube’s top 50 channels scarce on entertainment options Top 50 YouTube Channels, by # of subscribers Mn, 2020 Notes: 1. Entertainment Channels are the channels where short films, comedy content or entertaining episodes are shown Source(s): YouTube, RedSeer Analysis -10 10 30 50 70 90 110 130 150 170 T-Series ZeeMusicCompany ShemarooFilmiGaane AajTak ChuChuTVNursery SonyMusicIndia WaveMusic T-SeriesBhakঞSagar TipsOfficial SpeedRecords InfobellsHindi Venus ABPNews ShemarooFilmiGaane CarryMinaঞ ErosNow T-SeriesApnaPunjab CVS3DRhymesKids GaaneSuneAnsune GeetMP3 Rajshri IndiaTV DesiMusicfactory KhandeshiMovies Bollywoodclassics TechnicalGuruji WowKidz BBkiVines ABPNewsChannel Infobells-Tamil Infobells-Telugu JingleToons DSLNews SandeepMaheshwari WWRecordsBhojpuri Goldmines SaregamaMusic SETIndia ZeeTV GoldmineTelefilms YRF ColorsTV UltraBollywood SonySAB AshishChanchlani JKKEntertainment AmitBhadana VenusMovies SonyPAL Round2hell Entertainment Channels1 What this indicates? As top YT channels lack offering personalized entertainment content, Shortform has emerged as a perfect alternative for entertainment. 2. Strong need-gap for free personalized short-form content 18
  • 19.
    2. Emergence ofshort- form video category Short-form has emerged as the break-out category in cluttered content space with Indian apps leading the charge Key themes in this section: 1. The fastest growing content category and a broader mass appeal 2. Time spent on the category to get back to January levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 years
  • 20.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Short-form emerged as the fastest growing content category... Source(s): Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis 905 900 1,000 Short -form FY20FY16 600 700 800 900 Short form ~180 Mn YouTube ~150 Mn Short-form ~20 Mn 400 500 600 OTT Video ~222 Mn OTT Video ~100 Mn 170 222 215 100 200 300 Baseline (100) Social Media ~330Mn YouTube ~325Mn Social Media ~200 Mn 100 0 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 ( ) Avg MAU for year– Content Sectors (FY16 to FY20) (indexed to 100) Impact of High growth of short- form Forced market Leaders to launch short videos in 2020 (e.g. FB, YT and IG short videos) 1. The fastest growing content category and a broader mass appeal 20
  • 21.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space ...and dispersed across segments; Young and Metro highest penetrated Note: 1.Even though Penetration in Metro seems high, but most of the users come from Tier 2+ (around 66%) Source(s): Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Short Form Penetration, by segments % (FY20) Xx Mn – Internet Users reiTytiCyBpuorGegAyB 1 210 Mn 140 Mn 110 Mn 140 Mn 80 Mn 120 Mn 400 Mn Younger age group is the most penetrated, followed by 35+ yrs Tier2+ has seen high tracঞon but Metro is increasing since Apr’20 By SEC Classificaঞon 75 Mn 110 Mn 125 Mn 290 Mn SEC B and C has highest number of short-form users 32% 54% 27% 5% 14 to 25 yrs 26 to 34 yrs 35 to 44 yrs 45+ 40% 25% 30% Metro Tier 1 Tier 2+ 15% 23% 45% 30% SEC A SEC B SEC C SEC DE 1. The fastest growing content category and a broader mass appeal 21
  • 22.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Source(s): Customer Surveys, Expert Interviews, RedSeer Analysis Depth of fresh new entertaining content everyday prime driver HighlightsStrengthofdriver Conঞnuous Entertainment Fresh Content Everyday Localized reach for creators Reducing A‚enঞon Span New and frequent Hashtag challenges intrigue customers High Quality content as per users interest Some of the hashtags with actors involved and based on recent happenings have seen the highest engagement Content Creators post more than 50Mn posts per day, combined across all plaorms Velocity of content creaঞon is the highest Time taken to create Short form content is lowest Lower income and Long Tail city users geমng a localized reach to users and perceived as a be‚er plaorm for them Short Form doesn’t need users to sঞck for hours like movies / series; start and end anywhere 10-30 second videos gain tracঞon among users. This works well as a‚enঞon span of users is reducing rapidly 55% users like watching video of less than 2minutes. The factor is a driver for short form video apps 1. The fastest growing content category and a broader mass appeal 22
  • 23.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space TikTok created this unique entertainment need and category… TikTok, MAU Jun’18 to Jun’20 2X MAU growth in 2 yrs 170Mn MAU at peak Source(s): RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis 105 129 138 167 120 140 160 180 Jun’18 Jun’20 75 Mn DAU 85 105 40 60 80 100 Jun'18 Jul'18 Aug'18 Sept'18 Oct'18 Nov'18 Dec'18 Jan'19 Feb'19 Mar'19 Apr'19 May'19 Jun'19 Jul'19 Aug'19 Sept'19 Oct'19 Nov'19 Dec'19 Jan'20 Feb'20 Mar'20 Apr'20 May'20 Jun'20 – Addiঞon of popular influencers – In April, temporary ban due to wrong content put up on plaorm – Advanced content filtraঞon / moderaঞon process – Launch of EduTok – OEM Partnerships with Oppo – Increased hashtag challenges and college events – Lowered App store raঞng - negaঞve Chinese senঞment – Banned in June – Higher spend on markeঞng to increase reach and awareness – Higher focus on content creaঞon tools Jun’18 Jun’19 Jun’20 2. Engagement to get back to Jan levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 yrs 23
  • 24.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space …which reached at par with OTT Video and higher than audio… Notes: 1. Analysis excluding YouTube 2. This Excludes apps which has short-video as an integrated feature (e.g Instagram Reels, Gaana Hotshots, Sharechat, Helo,etc.) Source(s): Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Total Time spent per month, Content Platforms Bn Mins Key Highlights Short-form growth driven by need for entertainment + high-quality content supplied • Lower data consumption higher entertainment options • Idle time in lockdown enabled more consumption • Some Hashtags like COVID had 100Bn views in just April alone Higher engagement in lockdown for OTT Video • New releases and watching older favorite series / movies on repeat kept the momentum Drop in music listenership • As commute halted, music listenership also nearly halted as majority of OTT Audio cohort usually commutes 192 194 120 165 39 35 Jan'20 Jun'20 OTT Video Shororm OTT Audio 35% -10% TikTok was around 85% - 90% of total shortform time spent in Jun’20 2. Engagement to get back to Jan levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 yrs 24
  • 25.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space …but left a large void, majority of it yet to get filled Notes: 1. This Excludes apps which has short-video as an integrated feature (e.g Instagram Reels, Gaana Hotshots, Sharechat, Helo,etc.) Source(s): RedSeer Research, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Total Time Spent per month, Short-form Bn Mins Reasons for not shifting to new apps ~40% of TikTok time shifted to Indian Apps 2. Engagement to get back to Jan levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 yrs Some of the users are sঞll unwilling to shi[ from TikTok to new short-form apps 1. Lack of quality content Reason Strength of reason 7% to 10% 4% to 6% 85% to 90% Time Spent - June'20 TikTok Indian Players Chinese Players ~165 Bn Mins Time Spent - Oct'20 ~40% of TikTok opportunity captured by Indian short-form Players ~80 Bn Mins ~67% (55 Bn Mins) 2. Lesser number of posts / library 3. Value Proposiঞon of players 4. Lesser tools for content creaঞon 25
  • 26.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Resurgence of short-form post ban; Expect exit at Jan levels Note: Analysis excluding YouTube Source(s): RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Time spent per month, Content Platforms Bn Mins (Indexed to 100), Jan 2020 = 100 Jan’ 20 Feb’ 20 Mar’ 20 Sept ‘20 Oct ‘20 Nov ‘20 Dec ‘20 Dec (2020) ~220 Bn mins ~115 Bn Mins Pre-TikTok Ban Recovery post BanJan (2020) Apr’ 20 May’ 20 Jun ‘20 Jul ‘20 Aug ‘20 OTT Video ~192 Bn mins Shororm ~120Bn Mins 134 37 95 114 ~39 Bn mins OTT Audio ~39 Bn mins 102 Growth of OTT Video during IPL Increase in short-form penetration for all Tiers Ban of Chinese Short-form Apps Improving content quality and # of creators on short- form apps Higher push, awareness and content library enhancements 2. Engagement to get back to Jan levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 yrs 26
  • 27.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Source(s): Expert Discussions, RedSeer IP, RedSeer Analysis Strong fundamentals and product-market fit will grow short-form by 4X Sr. No. Parameter Units FY’20 FY’25F Drivers for Market Growth A Internet Users Mn ~600 ~970 Increase in smartphone sales driven by a rising middle class, more digitalization through tech advancements such as 5G, etc. B % Short-form penetration % 45% 60% Shorter attention spans of Millennials and GenZ, Increased visibility for creators, need for entertainment, Vast vernacular libraries C User Base (A*B) Mn 275 580 D Retention % ~65% ~75% Short curated videos to be the primary source of entertainment (acting as fillers during breaks between daily tasks), Social community through short-form to aid in enhancing retention E MAU (C*D) Mn ~180 ~430 F DAU / MAU % 30% to 35% 40% to 45% High stickiness because of the wide array of content ( Challenges, hashtags, etc), monetization opportunities will aid in enhancing stickiness G Time Spent per DAU Min ~65 ~75 Enhanced tech engine ensures better personalization and content moderation, leading to increased daily engagement H Total Time Spent (E*F*G) Avg Bn Mins/ month ~110 400 to 450 ~4X 2. Engagement to get back to Jan levels, expected to grow exponentially in 5 yrs 27
  • 28.
    3. Whom towatch out for? While the space is cluttered, with multiple players making noise, there are clear signs of ‘emerging winners’ Key themes in this section: 1. Moats for the winning play Based on learnings from global successful models, we have created a capability framework for identifying ‘emerging winners’ with proven capabilities 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms Basis deep research on multiple aspects including personalization, user feedback and creator feedback- we have created a nuanced view of current experience on the platforms
  • 29.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space All the global successful players had significant # of users and a robust Tech Engine to earn revenue + offering an ideal platform for creators to reach users Multifold growth in users and monetization for global players… Case Studies, Global Players Global Metrics, CY’19 Player User Base Revenue Key Highlights ~2.5 Bn ~$17 Bn + Strong content quality and social network attracting users; hence becoming one of the top advertising platforms globally ~1.5 Bn ~$18 Bn + High quality of continuous entertaining content creation to grow and retain users. as well as boost ad revenues ~2 Bn ~$15 Bn + Presence of Influencers / creators and a Go-To-Platform for online video watching across any genre; One of the best advertising platforms for local reach Source(s): Company annual reports, RedSeer Analysis 1. Moats for the winning play 29
  • 30.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space ..defining major moats on users, creators and Tech Stack for winning short-form Moats for winning in short-form Descriptive Note : 1. Un-branded refers to content which is not created by large production houses/ publications but instead by smaller publishers and creators Source(s): RedSeer Analysis 1. Ability to acquire users at scale (+ create delight) Only a few players in Indian content ecosystem who went above 150 Mn MAU in a cost-effective manner 2. Ability to create larger creator network + library Creating “un-branded1 ” content at scale in multiple languages” with strong moderation capability to ensure content safety 3. Ability to offer personalization Driving personal or social recommendations on user feed for large scale user base Ability to monetize at scale Monetization per user has so far been lower compared to global benchmarks and need extensive capabilities (both human capital and tech systems) Moats for winning 1. Moats for the winning play 30
  • 31.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Platforms with more than 25% awareness considered for further analysis Note : 1. Awareness include Top of the mind recall, aided and unaided awareness Source(s): RedSeer Analysis 1. Indian complete Short- video Apps   (JOSH, Roposo, Moj, MX Takatak, etc.) 2. In App Short-videos   (Instagram Reels, FB shorts, Gaana hotshots, etc.) 3. Chinese Short-Video   (TikTok, Snack Video, etc.) 100% 77% Users Surveyed Aware about shororm 44% 39% shororm JOSH MX TakaTak Plaorms with more than 25% 31% 21% Roposo Moj awareness considered 1 9% 5% Mitron Trell 4%Chingari Considered for analysis 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms Categories of Shortform Apps Descriptive Awareness, Complete Short-Video Apps %, N = 8071 31
  • 32.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Benchmarked platforms on Personalization, User feedback, Creator feedback Source(s): RedSeer IP Experience benchmarking 1. User saঞsfacঞon Measures the user saঞsfacঞon across different touchpoints and parameters like content library, content quality, etc. 2. Creator saঞsfacঞon Measures the saঞsfacঞon of content creators across parameters like tools offered, reach provided, moderaঞon, etc. 3. Content Personalizaঞon Measures the ability of a plaorm to provide content to its users based on their interests and preferences 8000+ User surveys 200+ Creator Surveys 25+ Devices Analyzed Indicates ability to create delight and acquire users at scale Indicates ability to create large content library and creator network Indicator of strong Tech Stack Engine 33% 33% 34% User Saঞsfacঞon Creator Saঞsfacঞon Content Personalizaঞon 15+ IDIs Research Coverage Parameters Weightages 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 32
  • 33.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Player with better UX and strong personalization leads the sector Note : 1. Based on parameter weights of 33% each Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis Highlights 1. Leader - JOSH Ability to decode user’s preferences and offers quality content through its wide creator base + higher reach to creators 2. Follower - Roposo Meeting most of the personalization needs of users with sizeable library and creative tools for content creation 3. Nascent - MXTakatak Highest satisfaction with data safety and tools offered to content creators Experience Score, by Parameters Scale 1 to 100, N = 829, 25 devices Indexed value1 (actual Value) PersonalizaঞonCreator Saঞsfacঞon User Saঞsfacঞon Overall ScorePersonalizaঞon 1. Leader 2. Follower 3. Nascent 56 38 40 14 13 8 9 29 23 6 9 23 (18) (26) (70) (23) (29) (69) (41) (38) (86) 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms Overall Experience benchmark 33
  • 34.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space JOSH has emerged as the new winner Overall Experience Score Scale 1 to 100 1 56 2 40 3 38 What makes JOSH lead? Quality of content creators Extensive content library Decode context content of user preferences Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms Overall Experience benchmark 34
  • 35.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis User NPS Score, Short-form Players (Q. On a scale of 1-10, how likely are you to recommend the app to your friend; 1- lowest, 10-highest) N = 631 Highlights JOSH A robust Tech Engine and high content quality, leading to higher the retention rates Roposo Content Library is sizeable and App experience has been seamless with faster browsing speeds MX Takatak Rated very high on data safety due to perception of “MX” being safe but low personalization Detractors Neutral Promoter 7% 45% 46% 46% 48% 39% 36% 41% 23% 18% N = 242 N = 210 N = 246 16% 18% JOSH leads on the back of quality content and better app experience 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 1. User Experience benchmark 35
  • 36.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis User NPS Score, by Parameters, Short-form Players N = 631 What Differentiates leaders? High Quality and # of Content Creators Strong Tech Engine to understand content and context of user preferences Cover most of the categories under different hashtags and a clean interface Strong trust on parent brand Varied strengths of players; JOSH at forefront for content and personalization, MX for safety 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 1. User Experience benchmark Content Quality 0 25 50 75 100 Content Library Personalizaঞon App experience Content Diversity Data Safety 36
  • 37.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis Detractors Neutral Promoter 10% 13% 10% 42% 45% 54% 48% 42% 36% N = 83 N = 64 N = 83 38% 29% 26% Highlights JOSH • High organic reach to users and the overall app experience to upload videos and get it moderated ( 3 mins to moderate video posted) Roposo • Options of effects and filters received well by creators, but reach is less MX Takatak • Tools offered to create the content and Data safety is perceived higher on MX but reach is less JOSH leading on the back of reach and app experience Creator NPS Score, Short-form Players (Q. On a scale of 1-10, how likely are you to recommend the app to your friend; 1- lowest, 10-highest) N = 198 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 2. Creator Experience benchmark 37
  • 38.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Roposo and MX lead on “tools” offered, JOSH on “reach” creators get 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 2. Creator Experience benchmark Creator NPS Score, by Parameters, Short-form Players N = 198 What Differentiates leaders? Higher quality of users engage with high quality of video Ease of Content Creation Different themes, icons and effects to edit videos Strong trust on parent brand + Moderation process Source(s): Consumer Survey, RedSeer Analysis 0 25 50 75 100 Post Reach App Experience Video Filters Creaঞon Tools Data Safety 38
  • 39.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Measuring the degree of personalization offered to users 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 3. Personalization benchmark Personalization Framework Parameters Weightage Description 10% Measures the ability of a platform to offer different default content on different devices 40% Measures uniqueness of videos shown based on the language chosen and user’s interest, across different devices 20% Measures platform’s ability to showcase real time unique content across different devices basis user’s interest 30% Measures platform’s ability to show relevant unique content based on “search” and user’s interest, across different devices 1. Default Feed 2. Feed by Language 3. Real Time Feed 4. Feed by Search Research Multiple devices were scanned and analyzed across each parameter to measure personalization 25+ unique devices analyzed 15+ IDIs with users Source(s): RedSeer IP 39
  • 40.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Source(s): Consumer Research, IDIs, RedSeer Analysis, RedSeer IP Highlights 1. JOSH • Ability to decode user‘s preferences • Offers unique content (feed) based on preference of language and category / genre searched by each user 2. Roposo • Slightly lower degree of personalization when it offers similar feed to every user during an active session 3. Nascent • MX continuously offers new content in an active session but lags on understanding the language context and search Personalization Score Scale 1 to 100, N = 26 devices for each App Feed by Language Real ঞme Feed Changes Feed by Search Default Feed Overall Score 80 100 100 80 90 70 80 8050 5070 100 86 70 69 JOSH Won; has deeper understanding of users interest and preferences 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 3. Personalization benchmark 40
  • 41.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Roposo and MX had similar content for ~50% of devices, while JOSH had unique personalized videos ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE Device 1 Device 3 Device 2 Device 4 Device 1 Device 3 Device 2 Device 4 Device 1 Device 3 Device 2 Device 4 All the devices had different unique videos based on user’s interest 50% of videos were same across different devices 3 / 4 devices had same video; only 25% were unique JOSH Roposo MX Takatak Source(s): Consumer Survey, Device Analysis, RedSeer Analysis 2. Experience on ‘emerging winners’ platforms 3. Personalization benchmark 41
  • 42.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Based on User feedback, JOSH, Roposo and MX Takatak have demonstrated capabilities for high growth Notes: 1. While US players like Facebook/ YouTube have also been active in this space launching in-app features like Youtube Shorts/ Facebook Short Videos, Instagram Reels, we have not considered them for this comparison 2. There are some Chinese players still active in this space in India, but those have not been considered due to regulatory uncertainty Source(s): Expert Interviews, RedSeer Analysis Player Analysis, by Moats Descriptive MOAT JOSH Roposo MX Takatak Moj Chingari Mitron Trell 1. Ability to acquire users at scale (+ create delight) High awareness, Well funded and already proven company with 300+ users on parent company - Dailyhunt Oldest player, backed by In-Mobi group+ Glance App (primarily B2B tech space) App by established content player (Times Group) and hence understands users in content in depth Slower growth in MAU compared to the industry • User Base is growing but at a slower pace • Tech Engine is still getting enhanced to offer personalization and new content. Yet to prove tech capability • Lesser user base, so might take relatively higher time to monetize at scale. 2. Ability to create a large creator network and content library Onboarded most of the famous influencers and has demonstrated high content creation velocity Older player in the ecosystem and has been creating content with some well-known local influencers Experienced in creating content for users through its umbrella of other content Apps Relatively lesser satisfaction on video content on ShareChat itself 3. Ability to offer personalization Strong Tech Stack with existing Dailyhunt App experience + proven moderation of content on JOSH to have personalization In-Mobi and glance have been able to decipher user behaviors and have targeted reach through personalization Monetary capabilities to enhance already existing tech capabilities Already invested in improving Tech and data server capabilities to have better Tech Engine 4. Ability to monetize at scale High retention and increasing, organic userbase growing continuously Existing monetization channel + InMobi has been deeper views on internet users to target them with right ads Parent company is already well versed (in Gaana MX player) with user monetizing techniques Lower monetization for the MAUs on ShareChat; So, capability not proven 42
  • 43.
  • 44.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Player Analysis: Roposo Founded November 2014 Parent Company InMobi Sessions / DAU 3-4 MAU 60-65 Mn Time Spent / DAU 18-20 Min Roposo is one of the oldest short-form apps present in India. Launched even before Jio or TikTok came into play, it offers an extensive library of content across 11 languages and has more than 100Mn downloads on App store DAU 12-14 Mn 44
  • 45.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Player Analysis: Josh Founded July 2020 Parent Company Daily Hunt Sessions / DAU 2.5-3 MAU 70-75 Mn Time Spent / DAU 20-25 Min One of the first platform to be launched immediately after the ban on Chinese Short-form apps, JOSH has been the most agile to grow its app through multiple new feature additions, high quality content creators and product upgrades in a short span. It has been rated one of the highest on play store with 4.3 rating DAU 30-35 Mn 45
  • 46.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Player Analysis: MX Takatak Founded July 2020 Parent Company MXP Media India Sessions / DAU 3-3.5 MAU 55-60 Mn Time Spent / DAU 22-24 Min MX Takatak launched, just after the ban, carries the brand tag of MX Player along with it. In a short time, it has been able to garner high quality creators and also building a clean app interface for users. It can be accessed both in MX Player App or separately as well and comes in 10+ languages DAU 20-25 Mn 46
  • 47.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Player Analysis: Moj Founded June 2020 Parent Company Sharechat Sessions / DAU 3.5-4 MAU 38-42 Mn Time Spent / DAU 30-35 Min Moj is a short-form app launched by ShareChat. With the already existing expertise of ShareChat app, Moj app has been able to engage the users quite significantly and is one of the highest in the industry. It comes in more than 15 languages, and offers great quality of tools to its creators. DAU 7-8 Mn 47
  • 48.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Glossary Internet Users Unique users in India who have access to internet and use it atleast once a year Short-form Apps Apps which offer only short videos in their App and doesn’t include text, images, songs, etc. SEC Socio-Economic classification Virality Time Spent per post per month Metros Top eigMumbaiht cities by population in India : Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi/ NCR, Hyderabad, Kolkata,, and Pune Tier 1 cities Tier 1 cities are non-metro cities with population of more than 1 million Tier 2 cities Tier 2 cities are cities with population between half a million to 1 million Tier 3+ Tier 3+ cities are cities/ villages with population of less than half a million 48
  • 49.
    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space Anil Kumar Founder and CEO Anil Kumar is the founder of RedSeer Consulting. He has been part of engagements in Internet, Private Equity, Retail CPG and Healthcare among others and specializes in growth and investment strategies. His consulting approaches leverages Data IP, sector expertise and the client’s core hypotheses. He holds a B.Tech from IIT-Delhi. He can be reached at anil@redseer.com Mughil M Business Analyst Mughil is a Business Analyst at Redseer. He has experience in industry landscaping in sectors such as content, healthcare, and CPG in India. He has developed deep understanding of the key metrics and industry growth drivers in these sectors. He is a Delhi Technological Univeristy alumnus. He can be reached at mughil@redseerconsulting.com Ujjwal Chaudhry Associate Partner Ujjwal heads the „benchmarks“ practice at RedSeer. He brings 10+ years of experience in Consulting and internet sectors, with focus on growth strategy, Due Diligences, Market assessment, Portfolio Strategy, and has helped large corporates in entering and launching new products. He holds a B.Tech from IIT, Delhi. He can be reached at ujjwal@redseerconsulting.com Nikhil Dalal Senior Consultant Nikhil leads the content and FinTech practice at RedSeer. He has 4+ yrs of experience working in internet sectors across consulting, growth strategy, Go To Market and Competitive benchmarking. He holds MBA from IIM, Ranchi He can be reached at nikhildalal@redseerconsulting.com Srishti Pratap Associate Consultant Srishti is an Associate Consultant at RedSeer and has a diverse experience of 4 years holding expertise in FMCG, Content and Retail sector and internet sectors. She brings in experience in Business Strategy and Business-Tech Services. She holds a B.Tech in Information Technology from GGSIP University, Delhi. She can be reached at srishti@redseerconsulting. Team Introductions 49
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    Short-form: Rising amidstcluttered content space50 Disclaimer Copyright © RedSeer Management Consulting Private Limited (“RedSeer”). All rights reserved. While we have made every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this report has been obtained from reliable sources, all data and information provided in this report is intended solely for information purposes and general guidance on matters of interest for the personal use of the reader, who shall accept full responsibility for its use. RedSeer does and seeks to do business with companies covered in its research reports. As a result, readers should be aware that RedSeer may have a conflict of interest that could affect the objectivity of the report. All information in this report is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, of the results obtained from the use of this information, and without warranty of any kind, express or implied, including, but not limited to warranties of performance, merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Given the changing nature of laws and the inherent hazards of electronic communication, there may be delays, omissions or inaccuracies in the information contained in this report. Accordingly, the information in this report is provided with the understanding that the authors herein are not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, tax, or other professional advice or services. As such, it should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional advisers. This report cannot be sold for consideration, within or outside India, without the express written permission of RedSeer. In no event shall RedSeer or its partners, employees or agents, be liable to you or anyone else for any decision made or action taken in reliance on the information in this report or for any errors, omissions, or delays in the content of this report or any losses, injuries, or damages including any incidental or any consequential, special or similar loss or damages, arising out of, or in connection with the use of this report.
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