Avendus, India’s leading venture advisor, announces plans to raise a $350 million fund

Avendus, the leading investment bank for venture deals in India, has announced its plans to raise up to $350 million for its new private equity fund, Future Leaders Fund III. This new fund will allow the firm to write larger checks and maintain a significant stake in the startups it supports, according to managing partner Ritesh Chandra.

With a strong track record of being the top venture advisor for startups in India, Avendus has been a key player in over 30 deals last year, including mergers and acquisitions. The firm’s growing private equity unit reflects its ambition to further establish itself in the ecosystem and maximize returns on investments.

Avendus’ success can be attributed to its early focus on the Indian market, while global rivals initially paid less attention to the region. This strategic move allowed Avendus to build strong relationships with India’s tech entrepreneurs, giving them access to high-profile deals like Juspay and Zeta.

The firm’s private equity portfolio includes successful investments in companies like Delhivery, Lenskart, and Licious, delivering substantial returns to its backers. Chandra emphasized the importance of timely exits in the Indian startup ecosystem, where investors often face challenges in realizing returns quickly.

Despite the increasing trend of Indian tech startups going public, Avendus has diversified its exit strategies by selling stakes to late-stage investors, providing an alternative route for generating returns. This approach highlights the firm’s commitment to maximizing returns for its investors and solidifying its position as a key player in India’s investment landscape.