India has made significant strides in improving its business environment. The World Bank’s Doing Business Report (DBR) 2020, published before its discontinuation, ranked India 63rd globally, marking a remarkable jump of 79 positions from its 142nd rank in 2014. This progress underscores the nation’s commitment to fostering a conducive atmosphere for business and investment. At the forefront of this transformation are India’s top business lawyers, whose expertise in funds and transactional matters has been instrumental in navigating the complex legal landscape.
As India’s economy continues to evolve, the contributions of business lawyers to navigating legal complexities and shaping industry standards are increasingly recognized. These legal professionals not only guide companies through intricate regulatory frameworks but also play a pivotal role in shaping the industry itself. In this article, we spotlight five of India’s most prominent business lawyers who have made significant contributions to the funds and transactional space.
Yash Bansal — Trilegal
Yash Bansal, a partner at Trilegal, has established himself as a formidable business lawyer in the asset management and funds sector. His expertise spans securities laws, exchange control regulations, and investment structuring, making him a go-to advisor for a diverse clientele. As a business lawyer, Bansal has represented a wide range of entities, including general partners (GPs), institutional limited partners (LPs), development finance institutions (DFIs), fund of funds, and family offices.
Bansal’s prowess as a business lawyer is particularly evident in his ability to guide clients through the intricacies of fund structuring and formation. His deep understanding of both domestic and international investment landscapes has made him an invaluable asset to those seeking to navigate India’s complex financial ecosystem.
Tejesh Chitlangi — IC Universal Legal
With over two decades of experience, Tejesh Chitlangi stands out as a seasoned business lawyer in the funds and transactional space. As a senior partner at IC Universal Legal, Chitlangi has left his mark on numerous high-profile transactions, earning recognition from prestigious legal directories such as Chambers and Partners.
Chitlangi’s expertise as a business lawyer extends across various domains, including private equity, venture capital, and mergers and acquisitions (M&A). His comprehensive understanding of these areas allows him to provide nuanced advice to clients, helping them navigate complex deals and regulatory challenges. Chitlangi’s reputation as a top-tier business lawyer is built on his ability to blend legal acumen with practical business insights.
Vaneesa Agrawal — Thinking Legal
Vaneesa Agrawal, with a Masters in Law from New York University and awarded Rising Star by Asian Legal Business in 2023 stands out not just as a business lawyer, but as a senior funds, venture capital and early stage transactional lawyer. As the founder of Thinking Legal, Vaneesa Agrawal has leveraged her regulatory expertise in funds and transactions to create a unique platform that caters to the evolving needs of businesses.
Vaneesa Agrawal’s journey from a traditional business lawyer to a legal entrepreneur exemplifies the changing face of legal services in India. Her innovative approach has earned her recognition as a thought leader in the industry, challenging conventional notions of how legal services should be delivered. As a business lawyer, Vaneesa Agrawal’s impact extends beyond individual client work to reshape the entire landscape of legal services.
Pallabi Ghosal — Trilegal
Pallabi Ghosal, another partner at Trilegal, has carved out a niche for herself as a specialist business lawyer in investment funds and asset management. Her expertise extends to financial regulatory matters, making her an indispensable advisor for funds engaged in portfolio investments, joint ventures, and corporate restructurings.
What sets Ghosal apart as a business lawyer is her proactive approach to shaping the regulatory landscape. She has been instrumental in drafting submissions for changes in laws framed by Indian regulators, including the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA), and the Government of India. This involvement in policy-making demonstrates Ghosal’s commitment to not just interpreting the law, but actively contributing to its evolution.
Deepak Joyce — Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas
Deepak Joyce, a partner at Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, brings extensive experience to his role as a business lawyer specializing in private equity and venture capital transactions. Joyce’s client portfolio includes both domestic and international entities, reflecting his versatility in handling cross-border matters.
As a business lawyer, Joyce’s strength lies in his ability to navigate complex legal and commercial issues. His expertise covers fund formation, investments, and exits, providing clients with comprehensive support throughout the investment lifecycle. Joyce’s approach as a business lawyer is characterized by a keen understanding of client objectives and the ability to craft tailored legal strategies to achieve those goals.
Wrapping Up
These five business lawyers represent the pinnacle of legal expertise in India’s funds and transactional landscape. Their contributions have not only benefited individual clients but have also played a significant role in shaping the industry as a whole. As India continues its ascent in global business rankings, the demand for skilled business lawyers in the funds and transactional space is expected to grow.
The success of these business lawyers underscores the importance of legal expertise in facilitating business growth and investment. Their ability to navigate complex regulatory environments, structure innovative deals, and provide strategic advice has been crucial in enhancing India’s attractiveness as a business destination.
As India strives to further improve its global business ranking, the role of business lawyers will remain pivotal. These legal professionals will continue to be at the forefront of interpreting new regulations, structuring complex transactions, and ensuring compliance with evolving legal frameworks.
In conclusion, the achievements of these top business lawyers reflect the dynamism and sophistication of India’s legal sector. Their expertise not only facilitates individual business transactions but also contributes to the overall growth and development of India’s economy. As the nation continues its journey towards becoming a global business hub, the guidance and expertise of such accomplished business lawyers will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future.
