The Humble Visionary | Nilesh Shah | MD, Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Co.Ltd | Episode 18

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Talk about mutual funds and it is impossible the name Nilesh Shah doesn’t feature in some form or fashion. One of India’s biggest fund managers, Nilesh Shah is perhaps the epitome of the phrase, “from rags to riches”. From barely getting by in the “chawls” of Mumbai to millions in financial assets, Nilesh Shah has seen the highest of highs and the lowest of lows.

Despite losing his father at an early age, Shah never let circumstance determine his destiny. Eager to learn and succeed, he topped his school and college despite coming from a vernacular medium. And he didn’t stop there. Shah went on to become a gold-medalist chartered accountant and a merit-ranking cost accountant.

Shah’s professional career has seen him build an enviable portfolio with a resume featuring ICICI Securities, Franklin Templeton India MF, ICICI Prudential AMC, Axis Capital and finally, Kotak Mahindra AMC where he is Managing Director and Group President.

Though a heavyweight in financial markets, Shah’s calm, humble and reserved demeanour often make it hard for him to stand out in a crowd. That’s not the case when he shares his ideas, thoughts and opinions. No matter who you are, you are bound to take notice. If his commentary on the country’s macro economy doesn’t get you hooked, his witty analogies featuring Bollywood or cricket certainly will.

Away from the markets, Shah is currently a part-time member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister. He is also a part-time member of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI)

A vociferous reader, Shah has also co-authored a book on financial planning called “A Direct Take”. A perfectionist who believes that there is no substitute for hard work, Nilesh Shah is an inspiration to many in the financial world.

We will be back next week with more insights from India’s top leadership.

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