Baring Private Equity Partners India Limited

Private equity in India for more than a quarter of a century is the record claimed by this firm, the Indian arm of an international private equity group. It says it has been investing in the country since 1998 and describes its aim as partnering with companies to build outstanding businesses.

Investment approach

The firm describes itself as a long-term investor that tries to invest ahead of market trends in order to earn superior risk-adjusted returns. Its method is top-down: macro-economic fundamentals point it to attractive sectors, and it then works to become the preferred partner of the best companies in those sectors through constant industry contact and a deal origination engine. Its site reports that 90 percent of its investments sit in six key sectors, and it contrasts a market return of 13 percent with a return of 28 percent for the fund over 26 years, with no borrowing behind the returns.

Support after the investment

The value it adds is set out in four strands. Strategic initiatives cover entry into new markets, finding and managing acquisitions and refining strategy. Organisation building includes drawing on its network to recruit senior management. Functional expertise gives portfolio companies a panel of industry experts in finance, human resources and law, and introductions to customers. Corporate governance means making sure a working board sets the processes that protect shareholders.

Sectors and holdings

The partners who lead the practice divide the sectors between them. One covers real estate, retail, media, logistics and telecom. Another leads automotive, technology, manufacturing and media, and has recommended investments in office parks, clean technology and online services. A consumer goods team also works with the partners.

Leadership background

The firm's senior partners come from international banking and have chaired the boards of listed and unlisted companies in India and abroad.

Baring Private Equity Partners India Limited is the Indian arm of Baring Private Equity Partners International. The material on its site centres on the partners who lead its investment practice.

Products and services

• Private equity investment: capital across the structure of companies, in listed and private businesses.
• Sector coverage: real estate, retail, media, logistics and telecom, plus auto, technology and manufacturing.
• Board involvement: senior partners have chaired boards of Indian and overseas companies.

Who it serves

Indian businesses. Investments named include RMZ Corp, Vardhman Textiles, Redington, Esskay Finance, Marico, Embassy Office Parks, Lohum CleanTech and Matrimony.

Key facts

• Based in: India
• Parent: Baring Private Equity Partners International
• Managing Partner: Rahul Bhasin