Hemendra Kothari

Net Worth

$1.786B

0% (24h)

Hemendra Kothari, a veteran investment banker and philanthropist, is a prominent figure in India's financial landscape. With an estimated net worth of $1.8 billion as of late 2024, Kothari is known for his leadership at DSP Investment Managers, an independent asset management firm. His career, which began in the family business, spans over five decades and includes significant roles in establishing financial services firms and partnerships with major international institutions. Beyond finance, Kothari is passionate about wildlife conservation and has channeled millions of dollars into initiatives to protect India's national parks and endangered species. His great-grandfather was one of the founders of the Bombay Stock Exchange.

The Full Dossier

Early Life and Education

Hemendra Kothari was born in Mumbai, India, on August 25, 1946. He graduated from Sydenham College in Mumbai. Following his father's advice, Kothari initially worked in the textile sector at Morarji Mills, gaining experience before entering the financial industry.

Rise to Success

Kothari's career in finance began in 1969 when he joined the family business, D.S. Purbhoodas & Co.. In 1975, he founded DSP Financial Consultants, which evolved into a major financial services organization. A pivotal moment was the partnership with Merrill Lynch in 1995, which led to the formation of DSP Merrill Lynch Limited. Kothari served as Chairman of DSP Merrill Lynch until 2009, selling his stake in tranches between 2005 and 2009. In 2008, he co-founded DSP BlackRock Mutual Fund with BlackRock but later bought out BlackRock's ownership. He currently chairs DSP Investment Managers.

Key Business Strategies

Key strategies included forming partnerships with foreign institutions like Merrill Lynch, and a focus on long-term growth. Kothari's vision and ability to spot opportunities allowed him to navigate the complexities of the Indian financial market.

Philanthropy

Kothari is deeply involved in philanthropy, particularly through the Wildlife Conservation Trust (WCT) and the Hemendra Kothari Foundation (HKF). The WCT focuses on wildlife protection and community development, working in numerous national parks and sanctuaries across India. The HKF supports education, healthcare, and other initiatives.

Career Timeline

2008

Co-founded DSP BlackRock

Formed a joint venture with BlackRock (later bought out).

2002

Founded Wildlife Conservation Trust

Launched a charitable trust focused on wildlife conservation.

1995

Partnered with Merrill Lynch

Formed DSP Merrill Lynch Limited.

1975

Founded DSP Financial Consultants

Established an investment banking and securities firm, which later became a prominent financial services organization.

1969

Joined D.S. Purbhoodas & Co.

Began his career in the family business of stockbroking.

Philanthropic Impact

Conservation$2.5B

Wildlife Conservation Trust (WCT)

Supports wildlife protection and community development in numerous national parks and sanctuaries across India.

Education, Healthcare, Sanitation, Livelihood, Conservation, Sports and HeritageMillions