1) What is the next big challenge for you?

I am currently in the process of setting up an India dedicated fund, along with my colleagues. I am excited about this opportunity and I believe that we will make a great impact with our unique approach to investing and differentiated investment thesis, as we have done in the past.

2) What do you love most about what you do? How do you keep yourself motivated?

I am an extremely curious person – curious about fundamental concepts, about future trends, about shapers and influencers of society and business. My investing career in that sense is tailor made for me, for it feeds my hungry mind with a myriad of information, deep insights and also gives me access to some of the brightest minds across many industries.

3) Best business advice you’ve ever received or given?

Received – Warren Buffet’s quote has been a great mantra – “It is far better to buy a wonderful company at a fair price than a fair company at a wonderful price.”

Given to entrepreneur – Staying the course is important but stubbornly sticking to one strategy is not. In today’s dynamic business world, it is really important to be finely attuned to business realities, challenges and opportunities. Then, thereafter make the appropriate strategy shifts to stay ahead in the game.

4) Do you see more women breaking the glass ceiling in finance, going ahead? To what extent have things changed?

In India, finance was the first bastion to be broken down by women. Today, and in the future we will see more women entering this segment. More women are educationally qualified than before, more women are opting to stay in their chosen career and there are more opportunities in the finance world. So in this perfect storm, the change to higher women participation is inevitable. 

5) What do you do in your quiet time? Do you have enough time for yourself?

Not much currently, but I love reading, love picking up tidbits on technology on the net and traveling with my husband

6) Your one big fashion indulgence? 

My finger rings!

Author Profile

Bala is the Senior Managing Director at New Enterprise Associates India Pvt. Ltd. since 2008. Her private equity experience has seen the full cycle from nurturing young companies to executing multiple exits including IPO’s, buy-backs, strategic sales, and capital market divestments. Bala is passionate about social development and inclusion.