All roads lead to India (and will for decades)

India is rapidly emerging as a global investment powerhouse, and at SuperVenture, Raiyaan Shingati, Partner, Transition Venture Capital and Rajeev Kalambi, General Partner, Cactus Partners, shared their perspectives on why the country is at the forefront of opportunity in private markets and climate investing.

India’s venture ecosystem

Rajeev highlighted India’s remarkable economic growth, with the country on track to become the fourth-largest economy in the world. India’s venture ecosystem is already the third largest globally, trailing only the US and China. This growth is fueled by a maturing capital market, the rise of family offices, and a burgeoning middle class.

• For Rajeev, the key to unlocking India’s potential lies in a hands-on approach. He urged investors to "dip their toes" into the market by allocating small amounts across diverse funds to gain firsthand experience. "You can’t sit in Europe and read reports to understand India," he said. "You have to be on the ground."

Catalyzing climate solutions in India

Raiyann brought a different perspective, focusing on India’s unique approach to climate investing. Unlike Western markets, where climate solutions often prioritize emissions offsets, India’s strategy is driven by energy security and financial returns. Raiyann emphasized that for climate solutions to succeed in India, they must make economic sense for consumers.

• "India is resource-constrained," Raiyann explained. "We can’t afford to pay extra for the sake of climate. Solutions must be efficient and affordable to drive adoption."
• He also highlighted the importance of region-specific solutions, noting that challenges like cooling in India differ significantly from heating issues in the West. Raiyann called for foundational technologies tailored to local needs, supported by government incentives and catalytic investments.

The road ahead

Both Rajeev and Raiyann agree that India offers unparalleled opportunities for investors. Whether it’s the rapid growth of its venture ecosystem or the innovative approaches to climate challenges, India is a market that demands attention. However, success requires a deep understanding of local dynamics and a willingness to adapt strategies to fit the unique needs of the region.

As Rajeev put it, "If you want to make alpha, India is the place to be." And as Raiyann demonstrated, the path to sustainability in India is not just about saving the planet - it’s about creating scalable, profitable solutions that work for everyone. India’s journey is just beginning, and for those willing to invest in its future, the rewards could be transformative.