A shocking news hits Southeast Asia just recently as Gojek and Grab are said to be discussing a merger. Accordingly, both ride-hailing giants are rivals in the region.
However, upon confirmation, both companies issue different responses from the rumors. Unlike the spreading news, the merger between the two companies remain highly questionable.
Gojek stated that such plans do not exists. Furthermore, the company accused the widespread information to be not accurate.
“There are no plans for any sort of merger, and recent media reports regarding discussions of this nature are not accurate,” said Gojek’s spokesperson.
As for Grab, it has not issued any confirmation regarding the issue. So far, various sources just said that Grab will halt talks due to Gojek’s demand in having at least 50% stake in Indonesia.
In contrast to what Gojek wants, Grab is planning to acquire overall control across the merger in Southeast Asia. Accordingly, this is similar to what Grab did during its 2018 SEA Uber acquisition.
Also Read: Indonesia: Ride-Hailing Gojek and Grab Included in Economy
What If Gojek and Grab Went along with the Merger
Speaking of what would happen if the merger took place, Gojek and Grab might boost up to take even bigger competitors in the business, Uber and Didi Chuxing.
Besides ending the rivalry between them, the Southeast Asian decacorns would generate a more higher value. It, additionally, would ease the investments for the business.
As for now, the archrivals have been competing for years. Grab, which previously owned most of the markets in the region, currently has to combat Gojek’s skyrocketing advancement as it keeps on expanding the business reach to the neighboring countries.
Despite Grab being bigger, Gojek still gives a tough competition. For instance, in Indonesia, both companies are busy burning money to give as many discounts as possible. The reason is simple, to win over users’ preference.
Considering the possible merger, both companies would not have to worry anymore as it would automatically be the biggest ride-hailing services in the region.