ChrysCapital

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Overview

ChrysCapital is a prominent private equity firm headquartered in Port Louis, Mauritius, with operational bases in India, specifically New Delhi and Mumbai. Founded in 1999 by Ashish Dhawan and Raj Kondur, ChrysCapital has become one of India’s leading private equity firms, managing assets worth around USD 5 billion across nine funds. The firm specializes in growth capital investments and has invested in various sectors such as financial services, healthcare, technology, and consumer goods. ChrysCapital has built a reputation for its strategic investments in high-growth sectors and continues to support its portfolio companies through strategic initiatives.

Recent Developments

  • In November 2024, ChrysCapital participated in a funding round for HealthKart, an omnichannel nutrition platform, investing part of a USD 153 million round aimed at expanding the company's market presence and supporting an employee ESOP buyback program. Source
  • In August 2024, ChrysCapital exited Eris Lifesciences by selling its 7.27% stake for approximately INR 1,187 crore, reflecting the firm's strategy to realize returns from long-term investments. Source
  • The firm was part of a consortium in June 2023 that acquired a 90% stake in HDFC Credila Financial Services, signaling a significant move into the education finance sector. This transaction was valued at approximately INR 9,552 crore. Source
  • In April 2024, ChrysCapital closed a USD 700 million continuation fund to maintain its stake in the National Stock Exchange of India, which underscores its commitment to long-term strategic investments in leading Indian financial market infrastructure. Source
  • ChrysCapital also recently invested USD 100 million in Lenskart, as part of its strategy to expand into the consumer technology sector, reflecting the growing demand for eyewear retail in India and abroad. Source

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding Date1999
HeadquartersPort Louis, Mauritius
FoundersAshish Dhawan, Raj Kondur
RevenueN/A
ProfitsN/A
Key InvestorsHarbourVest Partners, LGT Capital Partners, Pantheon Ventures
IndustryPrivate Equity
Number of EmployeesUndisclosed

Early History

ChrysCapital was established in 1999 by Ashish Dhawan and Raj Kondur, forged from a vision to capitalize on the burgeoning opportunities within the rapidly evolving Indian market. Initially, the firm concentrated on the technology and financial services sectors, recognizing early the potential for growth in these areas. Over the years, ChrysCapital expanded its horizon by forming investment strategies that included business services, healthcare, and consumer industries. The foundation of its successful trajectory was laid through strategic investments in high-performing Indian entities and robust fund management practices that attracted global institutional investors.

Company Profile and Achievements

ChrysCapital’s business model is underpinned by its focus on growth capital, where it engages in both minority and control investments across sectors such as financial services, pharma, health care, and technology services. The firm has garnered a strong reputation for its ability to deliver high returns for its investors. Some key achievements include:

  • Successful Exits: ChrysCapital has realized significant returns through exits, like the sale of its stake in Eris Lifesciences and Lenskart.
  • Strategic Acquisitions: The acquisition of ProHance Analytics marked ChrysCapital's foray into the SaaS sector, a move that aligns with its strategy of broadening its investment portfolio to include next-gen technology sectors.
  • Sector Leadership: The acquisition of significant stakes in leading Indian companies such as HDFC Credila and the maintenance of a strategic stake in the NSE underline its influence in the Indian financial market.
  • Fundraising Prowess: ChrysCapital has excelled in fundraising activities, successfully closing several funds that enable continued investment in promising ventures.

Current Operations and Market Position

ChrysCapital is currently one of India’s most established private equity firms, recognized for its strategic investments in diverse sectors. The firm has continued to adapt to market changes, focusing on high-growth sectors like healthcare and technology. It has developed deep expertise in managing the intricacies of Indian market dynamics while leveraging global investment strategies. ChrysCapital’s impact is evident in its involvement in high-profile deals that shape the growth narratives of its portfolio companies, thereby sustaining its position as a leader in the Indian private equity landscape. Its strategic partnerships with global investors further position it competitively on the international stage.

Conclusion

ChrysCapital’s trajectory in the Indian private equity landscape demonstrates its profound impact and strategic acumen in fostering and extracting value from high-growth companies. By aligning its investment strategies with emerging market trends and sectors, the firm has successfully maintained its influence in the dynamic market environment. Looking forward, ChrysCapital’s commitment to supporting innovative enterprises positions it well to continue influencing and investing in the Indian economic growth narrative, potentially expanding its investments geographically and sectorally.

References

  1. ChrysCapital and Motilal Oswal investment in HealthKart
  2. ChrysCapital exits stake in Eris Lifesciences
  3. ChrysCapital and EQT acquisition of HDFC Credila
  4. ChrysCapital $700 million continuation fund
  5. Lenskart $100 million funding from ChrysCapital