Ex-SoftBank Executive’s Son Secures $150M for India Fund

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Rohan Misra, son of former SoftBank Vision Fund CEO Rajeev Misra, has made a notable entry into the startup investment sector with his own India fund, Gravity Holdings. Based in London, the fund has raised approximately $150 million to back Indian technology startups. The Economic Times reports that Rohan secured capital primarily from domestic family offices, tech sector founders, and senior executives.

On Wednesday, Gravity Holdings made its first major investment in software-as-a-service (SaaS) firm Darwinbox. This investment aligns with Rohan’s previous experience at TCV, a firm that had already backed Darwinbox. Gravity Holdings’ entry comes amid a wave of venture fund executives launching funds in the $200-$500 million range, underscoring the growing interest in India’s booming tech sector.

Meanwhile, Rajeev Misra continues to expand his financial influence through One Investment Management (OneIM), which is reportedly in talks to invest in the Shapoorji Group. This deal, worth $3.3 billion, is backed by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s Royal Group and the UAE’s sovereign wealth fund, Mubadala Investment Co.

1. Introduction to Gravity Holdings and Its Working Model

Rohan Misra’s Gravity Holdings operates as a venture capital (VC) firm with a primary focus on Indian technology startups. The fund’s strategy revolves around identifying high-growth startups in emerging tech sectors such as artificial intelligence, SaaS, fintech, and deep tech. By leveraging his background at TCV, Rohan aims to provide not only financial backing but also strategic mentorship to founders.

2. Revenue Model of Gravity Holdings

Gravity Holdings generates revenue through equity investments in early-stage and growth-stage startups. The India fund acquires equity stakes in promising companies, profiting from long-term capital appreciation, follow-on investments, and potential exits via mergers, acquisitions, or IPOs. By focusing on high-value investments, Gravity Holdings ensures sustainable returns for its investors.

3. Funding Background and Investor Base

The $150 million raised by Gravity Holdings has been sourced from a mix of domestic family offices, seasoned tech founders, and senior executives. This investor composition signals strong confidence in the Indian startup ecosystem. Rohan has actively engaged with potential investors, holding several rounds of discussions before finalizing the India fund.

4. Key Investment: Darwinbox

Gravity Holdings’ inaugural investment in Darwinbox marks a strategic move into the SaaS sector. Darwinbox, a leading HR tech platform, has been expanding rapidly, offering AI-powered HR solutions to enterprises. Given Rohan’s previous stint at TCV, which had already invested in Darwinbox, this investment showcases a calculated and informed approach to startup backing.

5. Broader Market Trends in India-Focused Funds

Venture capital interest in Indian tech startups has surged, with multiple executives launching independent funds. Industry veterans like Shailesh Lakhani and Piyush Gupta are rolling out deep-tech and secondary-focused funds, respectively. This trend highlights the maturing Indian startup ecosystem, attracting global and domestic investments alike.

6. Rajeev Misra’s Expanding Influence

While Rohan forges his path in startup investments, his father Rajeev Misra continues to dominate global financial markets. One Investment Management (OneIM), Rajeev’s firm, is negotiating a $3.3 billion deal with the Shapoorji Group. OneIM is backed by heavyweight investors such as Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s Royal Group and Mubadala Investment Co., solidifying its presence in global financial markets.

7. Learning for Startups and Entrepreneurs

Rohan Misra’s journey offers key takeaways for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. First, securing investments requires extensive networking and credibility, as demonstrated by Rohan’s ability to attract prominent backers. Second, strategic investments in familiar domains, like Rohan’s decision to back Darwinbox, reduce risk and enhance portfolio growth. Lastly, market trends indicate that India-focused funds are gaining traction, emphasizing the importance of tapping into emerging opportunities in technology and venture capital.

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