Ravishankar WS

In 1994, when I completed my MBA, I chose to transition into the finance sector over IT, although, in hindsight, the IT boom has been remarkable. My innate curiosity led me to spend the first 10 years of my career as a research analyst, covering both Indian and international markets. Over my career, I estimate having spent around 50,000 hours as an analyst.  My dedication remains strong, as I continue to wake up at 4:30 am every day, seven days a week, to start on overnight news.

My journey as a research analyst and curiosity-driven thinker laid the groundwork for entrepreneurship. I enjoy working with people, which was instrumental in forming a strong core team at Banyan Tree. Entrepreneurship provided the intellectual independence I always sought.

Starting Banyan Tree Advisors came with its set of challenges. Beyond capital, the ecosystem wasn’t as efficient as it is today, requiring us to spend significant time creating operations and processes. Both Sandeep and I, being research analysts, had to put in extra effort to onboard clients. Within three years, we faced a global financial meltdown, profoundly impacting the investment world. We realized the need to evolve our core investment philosophy as we engaged with real clients and real-world investments.

Persistence was key in overcoming these challenges. Enjoying the journey added an extra push to stay the course. Early clients supported and encouraged us, and gradually, a stable team grew around this central theme.

At Banyan Tree, I’ve found my personal and professional ikigai. Our goal is not just a direction; it’s about finding purpose and staying committed. In an individual’s life journey, various aspects like health, career, family, and friends intersect. We aim to be part of our clients’ journey towards financial freedom by managing investments that strike a balance between conservatism and aggression, ensuring long-term success.

As a research analyst at heart, I’ve spent the last 30 years driven by curiosity. My role extends beyond analysis; as a fund manager, I’m responsible for investment choices. I enjoy meeting clients, understanding their life journeys, and helping them achieve financial freedom. Over the years, I’ve accumulated collective learning from countless client interactions, which I share and cherish. I also serve as the Principal Officer, safeguarding the assets entrusted to us. Additionally, I oversee IT and operations, critical for ensuring client satisfaction.

Thinking about the last 20 years of our journey at Banyan Tree, I’m filled with gratitude for our rapidly evolving India, our trusting clients, committed partners and employees, and our supportive partner ecosystem. Our initial vision for Banyan Tree has evolved, yet the commitment to our process and attention to execution remains steadfast. Presenting a business plan to SEBI every three years has shown that our actual performance aligns with our initial projections.

Looking ahead, I envision Banyan Tree continuing to grow without diluting its core principles. Sincerity to clients, leveraging our strengths, and building a team around these principles will drive our growth and success in the years to come.

My personal belief system is guided by the concept of ikigai, emphasizing understanding one’s purpose in life, contributing to society, and engaging in activities one is good at and enjoys. I believe in focusing on one’s strengths and existing domain as one grows older.

Outside of work, I enjoy playing tennis, going to the gym, walking, and spending dedicated time with family and friends. I also travel regularly to meet new people and expand my perspectives. Additionally, I actively work on building my circle of competence by being involved in creation, not just learning.