Waiting in the wings: Is the time and IPO strategy right for GoAir?

Strong fundamentals, including low crude oil prices, stable air-travel demand, and a range-bound rupee, analysts believe, make a strong case for the airline's expansion

The management of Wadia-group controlled GoAir is in a huddle these days, finalising its plan to raise about Rs 1,500-Rs 2,000 crore through an initial public offer (IPO). While the idea may not be new, for the airline has been toying with it at least since 2015, it has gathered momentum at a time when the Indian aviation sector is dealing with tepid growth in air travel and volatile crude oil prices.

Further, investors’ sentiment has also taken a hit in the past two months. Consider this: the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex had gained around 10 per cent between January and