Peak XV Partners, one of India’s leading venture capital firms, is undergoing a major leadership shift as Shailesh Lakhani and Abheek Anand step down from their roles. Both were Managing Directors at the firm and played key roles in investing in successful startups across India and Southeast Asia.
While Lakhani and Anand are leaving their full-time investment roles, they will continue to hold board positions in some of the companies they previously backed. Their departure follows a series of leadership changes at Peak XV since its split from Sequoia Capital in 2023.
Shailesh Lakhani: 17-Year Journey at Peak XV
Shailesh Lakhani joined the firm in 2007, when India’s startup ecosystem was still developing. Over 17.5 years, he became one of the most influential investors in the country, helping Peak XV secure high returns on its investments.
One of his most notable deals was Minimalist, a skincare brand that recently got acquired by Hindustan Unilever. He also played a crucial role in supporting companies like Ixigo, Healthkart, Truecaller, Zetwerk, and Capillary Technologies. Among them, Zetwerk and Capillary Technologies are preparing for IPO listings, showing the success of his investment strategies.
Reflecting on his journey, Lakhani shared on social media that stepping down was a difficult decision, but he felt it was the right time. He expressed gratitude for witnessing the growth of India’s startup ecosystem from its early days to becoming one of the most vibrant in the world.
Abheek Anand: Focus on Southeast Asia and AI
Abheek Anand, another key leader at Peak XV, was instrumental in driving the firm’s investments in Southeast Asia and the technology sector. His investment strategy focused on supporting innovative startups in emerging markets.
Unlike Lakhani, who concentrated on Indian startups, Anand was more involved in Southeast Asian investments, helping the firm expand its presence in the region. He has now decided to return to being a founder and plans to focus on AI-driven transformation, a growing sector with immense potential.
Leadership Changes at Peak XV
The departure of Lakhani and Anand is part of a broader leadership reshuffle at Peak XV since its split from Sequoia Capital in 2023. Other recent exits include Piyush Gupta, a former Managing Director, and Anandamoy Roychowdhary, a partner in Surge, Peak XV’s early-stage investment program.
The firm remains a leading investor in India and Southeast Asia, but these changes mark a significant shift in its leadership structure. As the company moves forward, it will be interesting to see how it adapts to the evolving venture capital landscape and continues to support startups.
Peak XV: Future in Venture Capital
With new leadership emerging, Peak XV is expected to maintain its focus on technology, healthcare, and emerging startups. Despite these leadership exits, the firm still has a strong investment team and remains a major player in the startup ecosystem.
As India’s venture capital industry continues to grow, Peak XV’s role will be crucial in shaping the next wave of successful startups. While Lakhani and Anand leave behind a legacy of smart investments and successful exits, their departure opens the door for new leaders to take the firm forward.
