VideoVerse's $250M Minute Media Deal Collapses Amid Fraud Allegations

In September 2025, VideoVerse, an Indian startup specializing in AI-driven video clipping, was set to be acquired by Minute Media for $250 million. However, the acquisition has collapsed due to allegations of fraud and forged signatures. Founder Vinayak Shrivastav faces numerous legal challenges, with investors and creditors asserting they are owed funds. Minute Media ended its agreement in May, pointing to major inconsistencies in VideoVerse's claims. Bluestone Capital, which supported VideoVerse in 2023, has filed a lawsuit for fraud, while a creditor is pursuing $64 million from a loan taken shortly after the acquisition. Former COO Sabya Das accuses Shrivastav of forging his signature on loan and share-repurchase contracts. VideoVerse's main product, Magnifi, attracted clients such as the Indian Premier League and FIFA+. In October, Shrivastav secured a $55 million structured loan from Lingotto, which now alleges critical documents were falsified. Lingotto expected a $4 million payment on March 31, which was not received, leading to Shrivastav's exit as CEO by late April. Multiple lawsuits are currently active in Delaware Chancery Court, with Shrivastav's latest known residence on the Palm Jumeirah islands in Dubai.