Explanation:

• Indian edtech startup Byju’s confirmed that it has acquired Aakash Educational Service Limited (AESL) in a deal valued at nearly $1 billion.
• Byju’s, which is India’s most valued edtech startup, has acquired Blackstone-backed AESL for over $900 million in a cash and stock deal.
• The acquisition will help Byju’s expanded its presence in the test prep segment and also in advancing its physical presence. 
• Aakash Educational Services will function independently after the acquisition, and it will be led by founders JC Chaudhry and Aakash Chaudhry.