K Srinivas is the managing partner at BTS Investment Advisors...
How big is the private equity industry in India?
India received close to $10 billion in private equity in 2007, with a major portion coming in as growth capital (funding that comes in when the company has taken off).
What is the outlook like?
In the first 10 weeks of 2008, the volume of private equity deals in India is down by 47 per cent from the same period of last year. However, deal activity is expected to pick up in the next two to six months following the severe decline in capital markets. With Indian promoters increasingly understanding private equity, and the long-term growth story of India, this sector continues to look good over a long-term timeframe.
What skills are needed for youngsters looking to enter the field?
They include a basic financial understanding along with an ability to quickly grasp various business models.
What are the opportunities to work abroad?
Currently, India is in a growth phase and investments will mainly be concentrated in the Indian Ocean region. However, with increasing responsibilities, employees will be required to travel abroad as part of the fund-raising process.