Private equity funds have grown popular in India as a way to give businesses a boost and create value. These funds collect money from wealthy investors and institutions. With this capital, they buy stakes in private companies to make profits.
Private equity funds in India aim to improve these companies. The funds also help businesses become more valuable before selling their shares for a higher return. In this blog, we will shed light on the overview, types, and possibilities of private equity funds in India.
What are private equity funds?
Private equity funds are pools of money raised to buy shares in companies that are not listed on public stock exchanges. These investments usually come from accredited investors who meet certain financial standards. They invest in private equity despite knowing the involvement of high risks here.
These private equity funds in India often have a set time frame. During this timeframe, the investors put money into these funds, improve, and eventually sell their shares in companies.
The process is different from traditional investing. Private equity funds in India are active in managing and improving the companies they invest in. It is because this is utilized to increase their value over a few years. The companies usually follow a cycle here:
- raise capital >
- invest in companies >
- grow these businesses >
- then exit by selling the company’s shares >
- and repeat.
Why PE funds are growing in India
India has become a breeding ground for private equity funds. There are three simple reasons behind this, which is its:
- Young population,
- Growing middle class, and
- A fast-expanding economy.
Private equity funds in India focus on the industries experiencing high growth in the country. These include the technology sectors, healthcare, and infrastructure. However, investing in private companies carries a higher risk than investing in public companies. This is mainly because private companies don’t offer easy options for selling shares.
However, with higher risk comes the chance for higher returns. If you invest in a private company, it will eventually help you in staying competitive. Not only that, they help firms improve their processes, expand, and compete better in the market.
Types of private equity funds in India
In India, private equity funds are also becoming specialised. Some funds focus on specific industries or even regions. For example, you can find some funds that only invest in real estate or infrastructure. This is because the funds can mould their investing assets to the needs of the Indian market.
Private equity funds in India fall into three main categories based on where a company stands in its growth journey:
Venture capital funds
These funds focus on young companies with high growth potential. Often, these private equity funds in India invest in technological sectors or life sciences industries. Since startups usually have a limited history, venture capital comes with higher risk. But it also brings high rewards if the company succeeds in the market.
Growth capital funds
Growth capital funds invest in established companies looking for expansion. These companies already have a proven and designated business model, but they need more funding to reach new markets or grow their operations. Growth funds provide the financial support they need to scale up.
Buyout funds
Buyout funds invest in mature companies that may need restructuring or operational improvements. Buyout firms often buy a controlling stake that gives them influence over the business. Later, the funds are used to reduce costs and improve performance to make the company more profitable.
How do PE funds operate?
Private equity firms manage these funds. They charge fees to cover management costs and share in profits. Investors commit large sums, which remain invested for several years.
The private equity firm, or the fund’s manager, uses the capital to buy stakes in private companies. These firms then work to improve operations and raise profitability. Ultimately, they sell their shares for a profit.
Wrapping up
Private equity plays a strong role in India’s economy. It helps create jobs and stimulates multiple sectors, such as real estate, tech, and infrastructure.
With reforms and an open market, private equity funds in India can continue to grow. For correspondent investors and companies, these funds offer a promising path to wealth growth and success.
FAQs
- Can individuals with lower net worth invest in private equity funds in India?
Generally, private equity funds are open to accredited investors only, as they require substantial capital and carry higher stakes.
- How do PE funds choose companies to invest in?
PE funds assess a company’s growth potential, industry position, and financial health before investing for optimal returns.
- Are private equity returns taxed differently in India?
Yes. Returns from private equity funds in India are subject to capital gains tax. It varies depending on the holding period and fund type.
